Review: “Feels Like Gold” - Mirador
“Feels Like Gold” is the first official release from ‘Mirador’ - A new venture from Greta Van Fleet’s Jake Kiszka and Ida Mae’s Chris Turpin, joined by bassist/keyboardist Nick Pini and drummer Mikey Sorbello.
The band’s identity is interesting, with deep roots in blues, classic rock ‘n roll, early folk, and traditional folklore. Their sound is almost otherworldly, blending their impeccable musicianship with mythology and ancient tunes.
The band shares about the new single, “‘Feels Like Gold’ is set against the backdrop of conquest and imperialism, in an era marked by global friction and war. The song weaves together themes of cultural collision, the relentless pursuit of riches, and the complexities of history. Yet, amidst the darkness of war and dogged determination for expansion, it offers a message of hope for a unified world and an understanding beyond violence.”
Amanda Laferriere
The world got to know Mirador when the band opened for Greta Van Fleet on their 2024 tour. It was a trial by fire, playing their very first shows together in front of stadiums. Not to mention the new musical venture for Kiskza, who is now a vocalist of the band alongside Turpin, taking a role that is quite different from his lead guitar space in Greta Van Fleet.
Directly after the tour, the band rolled right into the Savannah, GA studios with Dave Cobb [Christ Stapleton, Brandi Carlile, Rival Sons].
They ended up producing the album live in just about two weeks.
The band creates rumbling guitars, iconic riffs, and unwavering choruses. The music is all-consuming, the wall of gritty sound almost feels like it engulfs you into the world of mirador. Chris and Jake’s voices meld together beautifully, their powerful cries really being able to strike you in your heart.
I feel as though the world of Mirador is so easily understood because of how well all the band members understand each other to an almost molecular level, and how well they all personally engulf the feeling of Mirador.
My only gripe is the production. I feel as though they nailed the gritty, live sound they were going for, but the vocals are quite as clear as I would like. It almost sounds a little muddy, with noticeable reverb.
I love a good gritty feel and something that doesn’t feel perfect or staged, but gritty production rides a fine line; This single crosses the line just ever so slightly, with it feeling very muddy.
Overall, this is an exciting new venture in today’s rock ‘n roll that needs to be watched closely. Already blues-rock royalty, Turpin and Kiszka created a beautiful world within their new music that is so entertaining to explore.
Mirador’s self-titled album is set to release September 19.
Listen to “Feels Like Gold” everywhere you can stream music.
Find information about Mirador’s upcoming tour here.
Written by Shaughnessy Hoefer