On April 15, 2025, the multi-platinum occult rock group Ghost kicked off their highly anticipated "Skeletá" world tour at the AO Arena in Manchester, UK. This performance marked a significant moment for the band, not only as their first live show since 2023 but also as the debut of their new frontman, Tobias Forge, also known as Papa V Perpetua. The concert was notable for its strict "phone-free experience" policy, which aimed to enhance audience engagement and create a more immersive atmosphere.
Fans who attended the opening night were treated to a spectacular 21-song setlist that featured a mix of classic hits and new material. The show began with the world premiere of "Peacefield," the unreleased opening track from their upcoming sixth studio album, "Skeletá," which is set to be released on April 25, 2025. Following this, the band performed the live debut of their latest single, "Lachryma," which had been released just days prior on April 11.
Throughout the evening, Ghost showcased a blend of new songs and long-forgotten classics. The setlist included the live premieres of several tracks from the new album, such as "Satanized" and "Umbra." Additionally, the band performed beloved tracks like "Spirit," "Majesty," and "Monstrance Clock" for the first time since 2019. The performance also featured the live debut of "Darkness at the Heart of My Love," a song from their previous album, "Impera." The setlist was a testament to Ghost's commitment to both honoring their past and embracing their future.
In total, seven songs from their 2015 album "Meliora" were performed, including fan favorites like "Circle" and "From the Pinnacle to the Pit." Ghost concluded the concert with a rousing three-song encore that included "Mary on a Cross," "Dance Macabre," and "Square Hammer," leaving the audience exhilarated.
The production for the "Skeletá" tour is ambitious, with reports indicating that it requires no fewer than 20 trucks to transport the elaborate stage setup. Each venue must accommodate additional power supplies to handle the demands of the show. According to critics, the visuals are nothing short of spectacular, with a setup that changes for nearly every song, creating a unique atmosphere for the audience.
During the concert, Forge's performance as Papa V Perpetua was met with enthusiasm. His commanding presence and engaging style have been described as a "Satanized version of The Phantom of the Opera," showcasing a blend of theatricality and rock star charisma. The absence of lengthy banter between songs has also been noted as a positive change, allowing the music to take center stage.
Despite initial concerns regarding the "no phones" policy, many fans found that it enhanced their concert experience. The absence of distractions allowed attendees to fully immerse themselves in the performance, creating a sense of collective energy within the venue. Critics have praised this approach, suggesting that it adds to the overall vibe of the concert.
As Ghost embarks on their extensive world tour, they will continue to perform throughout Europe until late May 2025, before heading to North America for a series of shows that will last until August. The tour includes stops in major cities such as London, Madrid, Berlin, and Paris, as well as several locations across the United States, including Philadelphia, Kansas City, and Austin.
The excitement surrounding the "Skeletá" tour is palpable, especially with the upcoming release of the new album. In a recent interview, Forge expressed his desire for the new record to offer a different perspective, stating, "I wanted to make a record that was based on introspection." He described the album as "10 songs of hopefully healing joy," indicating a shift in focus from the socially reflective themes of their previous work.
As the band prepares for their next performances, anticipation continues to build among fans eager to hear more from "Skeletá." The successful launch of the tour in Manchester has set a high bar for the upcoming shows, and Ghost seems poised to solidify their place in metal history with this new chapter.
With a mix of new material and classic favorites, the "Skeletá" world tour promises to be a memorable experience for fans. Ghost's ability to innovate while staying true to their roots is what keeps audiences coming back for more. As they continue their journey across the globe, one thing is clear: Ghost is not just a band; they are a phenomenon.
