Self Wiki – Ghost Riff Riders

 

Ghost Riff Riders is an American genre-defying metal band formed in the early 2020s, known for their powerful blend of groove, heavy, symphonic, and progressive metal. The band has evolved over the years to incorporate elements of country, folk, and even gothic ballads, with their music focusing on themes of love, life, light, darkness, and the supernatural. Unafraid to experiment, Ghost Riff Riders are beloved by fans for their raw sound, captivating live performances, and authentic storytelling.

Are the ghost riff riders a real band? If you ask Google AI it will say no – based on the logic that the band named “Ghost” does not have riff riders in it’s name. AI is dumb. No Seriously – here is a screenshot of what Google thinks of us. What a bunch of bull shit!


The name actually comes from us wanting to add a supernatural flare to our band, our music and our overall theme as a group of people that drink too much – watch too much SUPERNATURAL on repeat and wanted a spooky band name. RIFF is the nickname of our band leader – and he rides fucking motorbikes for relaxation in his down time. So KISS IT Google AI. You are wrong. If Google AI was a person we could sue for defamation of our good name. The funny thing is right underneath that shit – 

Band Members

  • Ryder “Riff” Mason (Lead Guitarist, Band Leader) – Known for his wild, intricate riffs and calm leadership. Ryder is married to Luna and shares a deep personal and creative connection with her, which influences many of the band’s supernatural-themed songs.
  • Vera “Venom” Carter (Lead Vocalist) – A powerhouse vocalist with a voice that can “summon storms.” Vera is married to Sam and is known for her fierce onstage presence and dynamic range.
  • Jaxon “The Beast” Kane (Drummer) – A towering drummer whose thunderous beats are the backbone of the band’s sound. Jaxon is currently single and often described as the heart of their groove-heavy sound.
  • Izzy “Blaze” Rodriguez (Bassist) – Known for his lightning-fast fingers and cool, collected demeanor onstage. Engaged to Tina “Raven” Rose.
  • Nikki “Hex” Hart (Keyboardist) – The band’s eerie melody master, adding haunting textures to their sound with her gothic-inspired keyboard work. Engaged to “Hammer” Joe K.
  • Luna “Moonscar” Mason (Backing Vocals, Occult Influence) – Ryder’s wife and creative muse. Luna’s love for the supernatural and the occult is woven into the band’s thematic elements.
  • Tina “Raven” Rose (Backup Vocals, Superfan) – The band’s biggest fan-turned-backup singer, known for her gothic style and fierce loyalty. Engaged to Izzy Rodriguez.
  • “Hammer” Joe Kingston (Roadie, Muscle, Country Singer) – The band’s muscle and occasional country singer. Joe is known for keeping the crew in line and ready to haul gear—or throw a punch when needed. Goes by Joe K or Joe Hammer to prevent issues with using his full name or cause issues with the other Joe out there. 
  • Sam “Wrench” Nolan Carter (Producer, Tech Genius) – Married to Vera. Sam is the band’s technical mastermind, responsible for keeping their equipment in top shape and rigging up supernatural gear (Special Effects) when needed.

Musical Style and Themes

Ghost Riff Riders have always experimented with genre. At their core, they are a groove metal band with influences of heavy and symphonic metal, but their willingness to shift genres—from metal to country and back—has defined their sound. The band’s themes frequently explore:

  • Love and Devotion: Ryder and Luna’s relationship is often at the center of their storytelling, with themes of love transcending life and death.
  • Supernatural Battles: Songs like “Riders of the Storm” and “Breaking Through the Veil” depict epic struggles between light and dark forces.
  • Hope and Healing: Albums like “Breaking Chains, Mending Hearts” focus on spreading light and hope through music.

Key Albums

To date, the band has self-released over 90 albums, and hundreds of songs – some of their most notable releases include:

  • Ryder Rides Again (2024) – The band’s latest concept album, telling Ryder’s journey from death and back, driven by the power of love and supernatural music.
  • Luna Grey – A symphonic metal exploration of love and transformation, featuring lush imagery of lavender fields.
  • Silent War – An anthem for rising from the ashes, this self-produced album marked the band’s transition to independence.
  • Evil – A philosophical exploration of life, death, and choice, blending power and progressive metal styles.
  • RAGE – A political, social and personal shout against the darkness that is the world today.

The Metal Knights Book Series

In 2024, the band made a bold creative pivot by releasing their first novel, Metal Knights, as a companion to their music. The book, written by Ryder Mason and Graham McMurtry, explores supernatural and mythic themes featured in their albums. Alongside the book, the band gave away an entire album’s worth of songs inspired by the novel.

The band is currently working on a sequel, set to release in the coming months. They have chosen to focus on this novel format instead of pursuing traditional illustrated comic book or earbook offerings that many bands are exploring.

Independent Studio: The Riffuge

After parting ways with a major record label due to unresolved tour issues with Sirens of Sacrifice, Ghost Riff Riders made the decision to go fully independent. They transformed an old hotel in South Dallas into their own recording studio, The Riffuge. More than just a studio, it is a creative space for unsigned and struggling artists to collaborate, record, and produce their music on their own terms.

Philosophy and Outreach

Ghost Riff Riders remain committed to sharing their music with fans, frequently releasing new songs and albums on major streaming platforms like Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Music. They embrace a DIY approach, focusing on authenticity over polish, which has resonated with fans worldwide. The band continues to host underground concerts, including their recent limited venue – Christmas show in Dallas.

For more updates, concert dates, and new album releases, fans can visit the band’s official website at grrband.com.

External Links

  • Official Website
  • Spotify Profile
  • YouTube Channel
  • Merchandise
    Ghost Riff Riders is a heavy metal / supernatural adventure in an immersive experience. The band’s music is more than just sound—it’s the soundtrack to a thrilling series that follows the band on a journey, battling dark forces, uncovering ancient secrets, and facing unimaginable challenges. Each song reflects the emotions and trials of the band as they navigate their intense, supernatural world. “Metal Knights,” is available on Kindle, Fans of dark fantasy, paranormal mysteries, and heavy metal will find it a must-read. https://a.co/d/7oLTKQh (Full early Albums only) The Ghost Riff Riders is a fictional band created for a rock opera concept, generated music bringing the novel to life. Get your copy of “Metal Knights” on Kindle and let the music guide you through their world. Links
  • Official Websiteghostriffriders.com
  • X.comx.com/ghostriffriders
  • Spotifyspoti.fi/4az5pHf
  • Amazon Musicamzn.to/4hebfAp
  • Apple Musicapple.co/40zZUmX
    Amazon Music: https://amzn.to/4hebfAp
    Apple: https://apple.co/40zZUmX

samcarter@grrband.com