Ghost

Led by charismatic Tobias Forge - who seems to never stop pouring with new ideas for theatrical performance - Ghost feels like they emerged straight out of glamorous, gothic dreamworld. Ghost - mysterious and catchy - has carved out in the minds of the fans their satanic empire where darkness meets pop perfection.

Ghost, founded in Sweden in 2006, didn't just start a band - they launched an entire folklore and mythology. At the center is their enigmatic leader, originally known as Papa Emeritus (and now Papa V Perpetua), backed by a group of masked musicians called the Nameless Ghouls. It makes their presence not only intriguing, but also elevates them into dark fantasy about the dark minions of the Devil himself.

Their music is composed of heavy riffs, melodies that reach deep to catch our spine, and catchy choruses, which are best heard accompanied by summoning spirits [ try that, they really arrive ]. Tracks like "Cirice," "Square Hammer," and "Call Me Little Sunshine" turned people into devotees of the band and Papa can count souls already in his devilish basket.

Ghost’s image is soaked in religious and occult symbolism - the robes they wear, skull face paint, inverted crosses. But Ghost isn’t another devil-worshipping band, which popullate the metal [ especially black metal ] scene. It’s pure fun, pure catchiness - and surprisingly light dark masses. They sound like Queen and ABBA had a beautiful goth baby... raised by Behemoth.

Ghost is theatrical, it's campy, it’s joyful - and it hits so hard because their lyrics speak about freedom, rebellion, and not falling under the rule of false idols.

Each Ghost era feels like stepping into a new set. From the vintage horror vibes of Opus Eponymous to the glam rock sound of Prequelle and the 80s power of Impera, the band constantly evolves without losing their dark magic.

And every new Papa transformation is basically a major event for the fandom. With Perpetua coming alongside with Skeletá, I feel like entering a new chapter of my life.

Seeing Ghost live is like attending a rock concert and a bizarre religious ceremony all together. Elaborate entourage, costume changes, dramatic sermons - all build a delicious scene which is as evil as it’s joyful.

Ghost isn’t just a band - they’re an experience. They’re for the dreamers, the misfits, people who like splendid shining glittering darkness.

Their constant changes are making my dark heart sing. From mysterious, ritualistic Papa I, Papa II - a bit grander, a bit more glorious, through real rock star Papa III, and growing child of glam rock Copia - until Papa IV and now V - they make us follow a delightful horror movie - with additional campy touch.

And I am ready for whatever they choose next.

Ghost eras:
Opus Eponymous - the purest, creepiest version of early Ghost. We wait for the Antichrist.
Infestissumam - baroque, sexy. Antichrist is here.
Meliora - darker, heavier, apocalyptic.
Prequelle - hit after hit, plague themes.
Impera - polished, powerful, glamorous.
Skeletá - darker again, delicious, nostalgic.