Musician and paranormal investigator Jay Hollis talks to Spooky Isles about bringing ghost stories to life in The Ghost’s Companion, a hauntingly atmospheric album inspired by classic supernatural tales
Music and the supernatural have always shared a mysterious bond, and for musician, writer and paranormal investigator Jay Hollis, that connection has taken on a life of its own.
His debut album, The Ghost’s Companion, performed under the name Millionth Chance, is a haunting tribute to a childhood book that shaped his love for ghost stories.
In a recent interview with Spooky Isles Podcast, Jay delved into the eerie origins of his album, his experiences as a paranormal investigator, and his deep fascination with the unknown.
Jay Hollis and The Ghost’s Companion
Every ghost story lover has that one book that lingers in their mind long after childhood, and for Jay, it was The Ghost’s Companion, an anthology of chilling tales edited by Peter Haining. First published in the 1970s through the Puffin Book Club, the collection introduced young readers to classic ghost stories by M.R. James, Algernon Blackwood, O. Henry, and others.
“It had such a profound effect on me,” Jay recalled. “I started reading it when I was about ten, and it made me a lifelong fan of ghost stories.”
Inspired by the book, Jay originally set out to write just one song, The Boy Who Drew Cats, based on a tale within the collection. But one song soon turned into four, and before he knew it, he had an entire album’s worth of spectral storytelling.
Like many artists, Jay found solace in music during the COVID-19 lockdown. “At the weekends, I’d just be recording. I was revisiting old songs and writing new ones,” he explained. What started as an EP quickly grew into a full-length album as he continued composing tracks inspired by the ghost stories that had fascinated him for decades.
One of the standout tracks, Made of Smoke, was loosely based on Fritz Leiber’s Smoke Ghost. However, instead of a direct retelling, Jay reimagined the story as a commentary on climate change. This ability to blend classic horror themes with contemporary issues adds a unique depth to the album.
Given his background in paranormal investigation, one might wonder if Jay encountered anything supernatural while creating The Ghost’s Companion. Surprisingly, he said no — at least, not while writing or recording. However, his experience as an investigator has provided him with a deep respect for the unknown.
“The reality of ghost hunting is very different from what you see on TV,” he noted. “Most of the time, it’s just sitting in a dark room, waiting for something to happen.”
His sceptical yet open-minded approach to the paranormal mirrors his approach to music — he seeks authenticity, whether in ghostly encounters or in song writing. He is particularly wary of modern ghost-hunting gadgets like spirit boxes and instead prefers traditional investigative methods, relying on observation and careful note-taking.
Beyond the album, Jay has also written Haunted Enfield, an exploration of the supernatural history of his hometown. He continues to research and write about hauntings, including an upcoming book on paranormal activity in the London Borough of Barnet.
His dedication to the paranormal and his passion for music have combined to create a truly unique listening experience with The Ghost’s Companion. Whether you’re a fan of eerie folklore, ghostly ballads, or simply enjoy music with a dark twist, Jay Hollis’ album offers a beautifully haunting journey.
Where to Listen to The Ghost’s Companion
The Ghost’s Companion is available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Tidal, and Amazon Music. For those who prefer something tangible, Jay also offers CDs through his Bandcamp page. While vinyl isn’t available yet, it’s something he hopes to produce in the future.
So, if you’re looking for music that sends a shiver down your spine, look no further than The Ghost’s Companion—an album where folklore, ghostly legends, and melody intertwine to create something truly otherworldly.
You can listen to Spooky Isles’ podcast interview with Jay Hollis here or below on Youtube!
Watch Jay Hollis Interview on Spooky Isles
So, what do you think? Have you experienced anything strange? Let us know in the comments below!