MO LOWDA & THE HUMBLE: TAILING THE GHOST
Album Review: Tailing the Ghost – Mo Lowda & the Humble
Let’s be honest, keeping up with new music isn’t easy. As a music enthusiast myself, I’m constantly discovering new artists, but sometimes the most obvious ones slip through the cracks. I would’ve never known about Mo Lowda & the Humble if it weren’t for my buddy Jonah putting me on to their newest album, Tailing The Ghost. And honestly? I feel a little silly, it turns out they’re a local Philadelphia band that’s been around for over a decade.
So let’s talk about this band. Because just like Jonah did for me, I’m here to do you the same favor: I’m putting you on.
Back in 2013, Mo Lowda & the Humble dropped their debut album Curse the Weather, a gritty, blues-rock project centered on personal struggle, nostalgia, and uncertainty. Fast forward to now, and Tailing the Ghost showcases just how far they’ve evolved. The sound is layered and exploratory alt-rock meets psychedelic surf with a modern, introspective edge. Even more impressive? The band self-produced the album while on the road, recording in locations from Joshua Tree to lakeside cabins.
The journey begins with “Fitzroy,” a track that immediately drew me in. I closed my eyes and imagined walking into an empty concert hall, gradually approaching the stage as the band soundchecks. Flawless, focused, and already locked in. It feels like your own personal live show, and from that moment, I was hooked.
Next up is “Canary,” which picks up the story seamlessly. The drums pull you in, while the beachy guitars transport you straight to the coast, wind in your hair. Lyrically, it speaks to the ache of being lost and the yearning to be taken in, a search for belonging that feels deeply human.
The fan-favorite seems to be “The Painter,” and I totally get why. The metaphor is brilliant, comparing the subject to paint drying, as if they’re a canvas staring back at themselves, battling self-doubt and anxiety. The line “Patience, it’s a hell of a drug. But nobody has enough,” really stuck with me. It felt like a reminder that with enough time, even the most chaotic moments settle, and only then can you begin again. I love when artists leave those messages for us to uncover on our own.
Some other tracks I found myself circling back to were “7.31,” “25 Years,” and “Postman.” Each brings a vibrant energy, like a late-90s rock resurgence with a polished modern twist. But honestly? Every song on this album flows effortlessly. You could throw it on with friends in the background, and it would soundtrack your night without demanding too much, but it rewards a deeper listen, too.
And then there’s the closer: “Tailing the Ghost.” It’s the perfect wind-down. Delicate and haunted at the start, it slowly builds into a wash of ambient fuzz and emotional release. It doesn’t end with a bang or a sob, it ends with something quieter, more reflective. Like a question that doesn’t need an answer. The album as a whole is full of those: distant echoes, unfinished thoughts, and melodies that linger long after the final note.
This is one of those records I know I’ll be coming back to throughout the year. And now that I’ve discovered Mo Lowda & the Humble, I’m excited to dive deeper into their discography.
So don’t worry, you’re not late to the party. If anything, you’re right on time. The band hits the road again this September, wrapping the tour in their hometown of Philadelphia. Hope to see you there.
Written By Dylan Sheridan
Photos by Jonah van Bemmelen
