Ghost have officially kicked off their highly anticipated Skeleta World Tour 2025 with a spectacular concert at the AO Arena in Manchester, England. This event marks the beginning of a new chapter for the band, coinciding with the upcoming release of their latest album, Skeleta, set to hit shelves on April 25, 2025.
The concert was a blend of old favorites and exciting new tracks, showcasing the band's diverse catalog. The setlist featured several songs from Skeleta, including the set opener "Peacefield," the current single "Lachryma," and last month's release "Satanized." Fans were also treated to the live debuts of two tracks: "The Future Is a Foreign Land" and "Darkness At The Heart Of My Love," both of which were well-received by the audience.
In addition to the new material, Ghost delighted fans by resurrecting some classic hits. Notably, "Majesty" and "Monstrance Clock" made their return to the stage after long absences, with the former last played in 2019 and the latter not performed since the band's North American tour that same year. The setlist also included fan-favorites like "Spirit" and "Ritual," ensuring a nostalgic experience for long-time followers of the band.
While some fans expressed disappointment at the limited representation of tracks from their previous albums, particularly Impera and Opus Eponymous, the overall reception of the setlist was overwhelmingly positive. The concert was described as a "dreamy" experience for Ghost fans, as it encompassed various eras of the band's music, including tracks from their critically acclaimed album Meliora.
According to reports, the concert was not just about the music; it also featured a unique phone-free policy aimed at enhancing the live experience. Fans were required to secure their phones in Yondr pouches, allowing them to maintain possession without the distractions of recording or texting during the performance. This policy has been praised by Ghost's frontman, Tobias Forge, who noted, "I have never seen a crowd interact the way that they did since I was in a club band. They were the best shows I’ve ever done with Ghost, just because I didn’t have to see those fucking mobile phones.”
The excitement surrounding the Skeleta album is palpable, as it is heralded as Ghost's most unflinchingly introspective work to date. The album features ten tracks that delve into personal and emotional themes, contrasting sharply with the broader societal observations of previous albums like Impera, which explored the rise and fall of empires, and Prequelle, which addressed the impact of pandemics.
As the band embarks on this extensive tour, they will continue to engage with fans across Europe and North America. The UK leg of the tour will see Ghost performing in Glasgow, London, and Birmingham, before heading to mainland Europe for shows in Belgium, Germany, France, and several other countries starting April 22, 2025. The North American leg is set to kick off in July, with dates scheduled in major cities including Baltimore, Atlanta, and New York.
With the release of Skeleta just around the corner and the tour already making waves, Ghost is poised to solidify their place in the rock landscape once again. The anticipation for the new album is high, especially given the success of their previous work, Impera, which topped charts globally and earned the band their first RIAA-certified platinum single with "Mary on a Cross." Additionally, Impera was recognized at the American Music Awards and the iHeart Radio Music Awards, further establishing Ghost as a formidable force in the music industry.
The concert at AO Arena was not just a performance; it was a celebration of Ghost’s evolution as a band and a testament to their enduring appeal. As fans eagerly await the new album, the Skeleta World Tour promises to be an unforgettable journey through the band's rich musical history.
For those unable to attend the Manchester show, the setlist has been shared widely, allowing fans to relive the experience through social media and music platforms. Ghost's ability to blend theatrical elements with hard-hitting rock has always set them apart, and this tour is no exception.
As the band continues their journey on this world tour, they invite fans to join them in what promises to be a remarkable celebration of music, creativity, and connection. With the release of Skeleta just a week away, the excitement is sure to build, making this an unforgettable moment in Ghost's storied career.
