Chief Ghoul is in touch with the blues. It takes just a few seconds of listening to the first track off of Damned, a rousing number called “Train,” which pairs singer Lee Miles’ spirited vocals with rollicking guitars and drums, for that to become clear.

The entire ten track album captures Chief Ghoul’s dynamism: “When I Get Loud” highlights the darkness, both in songwriting and vibes; “Bitter Taste” shows off a reverb-y, rockin’ side; “Let Me In” uncovers Chief Ghoul's yearning, Americana tinges. 

Listen to Damned before its official release exclusively on Myspace and read our interview with Miles on how bourbon and a top-notch recording engineer made the record what it is below.

Why did you call the record Damned? 

"I'll be damned and so will you, should you be so lucky to be the one that I choose." Who doesn't want to get lucky?

What was the songwriting process like? 

I smoked. I drank... Bourbon to be exact. Then I just channel it all out of my lungs and guitar.

How did you make this record different from the past three? 

It's the second time I've recorded with Nick Layman here in Louisville, and the first time I've done a full-length with him. I can't say enough good stuff about his overall skill at engineering and his ear for music in general. He's as passionate about it as I am so I think that just naturally comes out in the final product.

Do you have a favorite song on the album? 

It's hard to say, but it's probably "When I Get Loud." I'd been toying with the main progression for a long time, so I had an idea of what I wanted it to sound like in the end. I think we got as close to what I wanted as possible, which is an amazing feeling.