Mixed Signals Chase New Horizons on Reflective Rock Anthem “Ghosts”
Mixed Signals are an alternative rock band from Ayr, Scotland, formed in early 2024 out of a spontaneous charity gig that quickly turned into something more serious. Frontman Ben Gardiner pulled in university friends James Armstrong and Leon Calder as a last-minute backing band over a few pints, and the natural chemistry between them made it clear the project wasn’t just a one-off. What started informally on stage soon became a proper band built on instinct, friendship, and a shared sense that the sound they were making was worth developing.
The name comes from a The Night Café track that stuck during those early days, fitting the slightly uncertain but emotionally charged energy of their music. Their sound pulls from a wide mix of influences—from the melodic drive of Inhaler and emotional punch of Biffy Clyro and Wunderhorse to the atmospheric scale of Radiohead, Muse, and Snow Patrol, with hints of Oasis swagger and Foo Fighters grit. At its core, though, it’s defined by their chemistry: Ben’s honest, relatable vocals, James’ cinematic guitar work, and Leon’s melodic, driving basslines that give everything its lift and momentum.
Their new single, “Ghosts,” feels like a natural next step for Mixed Signals, both musically and emotionally. Written in Glasgow during a session between Ben Gardiner and Elizabeth Elektra, the track came out of honest conversation and leans into a sense of restlessness that builds when small-town life starts to feel repetitive. It captures that moment where familiar routines begin to blur together and you start questioning whether comfort is actually holding you back rather than keeping you grounded.
Lyrically, “Ghosts” explores the tension between staying where things feel safe and the urge to move forward into something unknown. The “ghosts” in the song represent the things that linger—past versions of yourself, old relationships, and habits that are hard to fully shake. At its core, it’s about recognising when your environment is no longer helping you grow and making the difficult decision to step away from it. Like much of their writing, it sits in the emotional push and pull of young adulthood, where relationships and life changes can swing between heartbreak and hope in the same breath.
Make sure you check out “Ghosts” on Spotify below!
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Mixed Signals
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Who am I? Just some guy who decided to start writing on the Internet years ago and now operates his own brand and site. Owner/Operator of Modern Neon Media, I make all kinds of niche content to suit my interests at the time. DIY Enthusiast, Brewmaster extraordinaire, and avid freak for geek culture. Follow on my socials for a more “on” version of me.
