Mike Rathke

REal Zombies! Oh Heaven!

Available 12.27.24

"Real Zombies! Oh Heaven!" is a bold, narrative-driven, ten-track concept album that delves deep into the perilous world of false teachers, set against the backdrop of a small rural Kansas town in the early 1900s. Inspired by New Testament warnings of wolves in sheep's clothing (Matthew 7:15, Acts 20:29) and parallels with the story of Naboth’s vineyard (1 Kings 21), the album unfolds the chilling tale of Nick Pickle, a charismatic but corrupt bishop who arrives in town, quickly gaining a massive following. Nick builds an empire of wealth and influence through his charm and deceit while concealing a dark and sinister side (Pyrite Cosmic Dreams).

The album’s storyline is steeped in biblical allusion. As the narrative progresses, listeners are taken on a journey of spiritual deception, betrayal, and ultimate reckoning. Suzy Jezebela Rodriguez (a name that evokes the infamous biblical queen Jezebel and the title of the album’s second track) is Nick’s willful accomplice, sharing in the exploitation and corruption that ultimately leads to their downfall.

As Nick and Suzy’s influence grows, they become untouchable figures, seemingly beyond reproach. However, their world crumbles when a thirteen-year-old girl, the daughter of Naboth and victim of Nick’s abuses, rises and shoots the false teacher, putting an end to his deception (The Sycamore Trees).

The final track delivers a powerful postscript (Time to Kill), urging listeners to examine their own hearts and confront the reality that judgment “begins in the house of the Lord.”

At its core, "Real Zombies! Oh Heaven!" is a profound meditation on the dangers of spiritual deception. The album challenges listeners to reflect on their faith, reminding them that, outside of the redemptive work of Christ, we are all "walking dead," in need of resurrection and spiritual awakening.