Ghost performing at the Moody Center in Austin, Texas

Ghost performing during the Skeletour World Tour 2025 at the Moody Center in Austin, Texas on August 14, 2025, with Tobias Forge and A Group of Nameless Ghouls. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)

From their humble and mysterious beginnings in Linköping, Sweden, Ghost has evolved from an anonymous occult rock act into a global arena-rock phenomenon. The band's career has been defined by a unique blend of heavy metal riffs, catchy pop-rock hooks, and a constantly unfolding narrative centered on a succession of demonic anti-Popes. Each album cycle introduces a new leader, a new theatrical costume, and a new chapter in the lore of the Clergy.

This ritualistic progression has captivated a legion of fans, known as the "Children of the Ghost," who are drawn not only to the music but to the immersive, darkly comedic storytelling. The band's live shows are renowned for their high-production spectacle, blending Satanic imagery with a surprisingly endearing, almost vaudevillian, stage presence. This combination has earned them critical acclaim and a fiercely loyal following that spans the globe.

The newest chapter in Ghost's saga is here, led by the enigmatic Papa V Perpetua. With the release of their latest album, Skeletá, the band has presented what many are calling their most introspective and deeply personal work to date. The album moves away from the grand, empire-building themes of their previous records and delves inward, exploring themes of guilt, identity, and faith with a surprising level of emotional depth. Musically, it’s a masterclass in arena rock and glam metal, full of massive hooks and a sonic landscape that is both polished and powerful. Tracks like the lead single “Satanized” and the fan-favorite "Lachryma" showcase a band at the peak of its powers, unafraid to blend the bombastic with the vulnerable.

The "Skeletour World Tour 2025" is a testament to the band’s ambition. Having already sold out massive arenas and performed at iconic venues, this tour is Ghost’s most ambitious live ritual yet. The Clergy has been meticulous in crafting a phone-free experience, a bold move that encourages fans to be fully present and immersed in the spectacle. This isn't just a concert; it's a full-fledged communion between the band and its flock. The elaborate staging and theatricality promise to be a visual feast, perfectly complementing the introspective yet grand sound of the new album.

As Papa V Perpetua leads the charge, Ghost continues to prove that they are more than just a band in masks. They are a cultural institution that has created a world of its own, and the "Skeletour" is the biggest, boldest invitation to join that world yet.

Fan reviews:

Ghost killed it! The production was absolutely astounding, and not having your phone made the experience that much better. Phone pouches was a smooth process, loved having the merch table outside, security was quick and efficient, overall everything was very well planned out. Great experience and an even greater show.

Ghost knocked it out of the park with banger after banger from across their discography. A return to Monstrance Clock as a closer was a fun and welcome change from the previous tour, and hearing Per Áspera and Elizabeth live were special treats. Set design, lighting and effects were all on point and Papa sounds better than ever in a half-mask. Sparkly, spooky, satanic, everything I wanted.

The show was amazing from start to finish. Everything from Peacefield to Square hammer. The view, the sound, the scenery, the lightning. I loved the fire show and fireworks, the way the band interacts with the people is mind blowing, even though I was not as close I still felt as though I was right there in the pit. The merch quality is great, and the line was so fast even if we were a lot in line. After show the venue emptied quickly with no trouble at all! The fans were just as amazing, I got to take pictures with some of them and they were all wonderful. Overall, I think it was an amazing experience, even for children. No doubt a safe place to enjoy with family and friends. If you are looking for a place to enjoy and have fun at, I 100% recommend a Ghost concert!

Fantastic and a total experience. The show was fire. Wonderful stage performance and music. The lighting was executive and super cool. The staff were very kind and helpful. The phone-bag company was very efficient and kind and quick. Everything was streamline to try and tried to be as hassle free as possible.

It was one of the best shows I’ve been to in several years awesome music, excellent theatrics, and engagement with the crowd and going old school by having the no cell phone rule is the only way to go! I can’t wait till they come around again!

Truly amazing! Other than Rammstein, and it's right there with them, that was the best concert I've ever seen in the 40 years I've been going to see live concerts. Truly an amazing experience. This was my third Ghost ritual to attend. Can't wait for the next one.

Ghost rocks! Papa was in fine form, and the ghouls were spot on. Incredible performance, theatrical and fun. Everyone had a good time.

Setlist for the show at the Moody Center