‘Meeting The Master’, The first look into Greta Van Fleet’s new era

After wrapping up their ‘Dreams in Gold Tour’ in March, Greta Van Fleet has released a new single titled ‘Meeting The Master’. From Frankenmuth, Michigan, Josh Kiszka (vocals), Jake Kiszka (guitar), Sam Kiszka (bass, keys), and Danny Wagner (drums) formed their rock band back in 2012. After several tours, winning a Grammy, releasing an EP, and two studio albums, Greta Van Fleet has announced their newest album Starcatcher. The ten track album is set to drop on July 21. 

‘Meeting the Master’ is the first look into the new album and era. During one of their last shows on their most recent tour, they debuted the song for the very first time. After introducing the song, the entire audience fell silent, all that could be heard was Josh’s delicate angelic voice echoing throughout the arena backed by the acoustic guitar. Following that performance, the band teased the release of the song on social media, posting audio clips and a pre save link.

The song unfolds slowly, offering a light, airy, mystical feel with the acoustic guitar and Sam on the keys. Josh begins with his melodic, dreamy voice, he sings “What a day to meet the master / I’ve been waiting for so long”. Half way through it launches into Josh belting out the lyrics “And I’m taken by the madness / And the tripping and the touching”, creating a striking effect, pairing up flawlessly with the dramatic instrumental. Jake slices through on the electric guitar followed by Danny thumping on the drums. Closing out the song, it slows down again, Josh presenting the melodic, soft vocals again.

Greta Van Fleet's previous album is titled The Battle At Gardens Gate, with the theme of conflict within the world. Fans think Starcatcher is continuing the story being told, diving into the theme of death and the afterlife. One theory is “the master” is the hooded figure that has been seen on the band's merchandise and that we've “passed through the gardens gates” to this hooded figure. Josh sings “Final day to meet the master / It’s my time to go home”, which backs up the fan theories. 

Presave Starcatcher on streaming platforms and catch Greta Van Fleet this summer at music festivals.

(Cover photo by Blake Crandall)