Ghost
Ghost is one of the most important newcomers to the world of heavy rock in the past 20 years. Hailing from Sweden, the band rose to prominence thanks to its unique combination of theatrical performances, occult symbolism, and remarkably accessible rock songs. For the first few years, the band members' identities were carefully kept secret. The singer was initially referred to as Papa Emeritus, while his bandmates were known as "nameless ghouls." Eventually, it was revealed that Ghost was the brainchild of Tobias Forge, known for his work with the Swedish death metal band Repugnant.
The band was founded in Linköping in 2006 by Tobias Forge, inspired by heavy guitar riffs he was looking for a good home for. In the years that followed, the small-scale project expanded into a theatrical band, where he took on the persona of a devilish cardinal, accompanied by masked musicians in monk's robes. It was a concept that proved hugely successful, partly because he managed to combine a melancholic atmosphere with catchy songs.
Their debut album, Opus Eponymous (2010), was released on the British cult label Rise Above, owned by Lee Dorrian, formerly the singer of Cathedral. It was widely regarded as one of the rock albums of the year. In 2011, Ghost toured successfully as the opening act for the metal band Paradise Lost. The success of the first album and the tours was so great that the band was able to switch to a sub-label of music giant Universal Music for their next album, where Infestissumam (2013) was released.
Ghost regularly surprises with their cover choices, such as I'm A Marionette by fellow countryman ABBA during this period. Without sacrificing the band's old, dark charms, Ghost's sound becomes more accessible on the albums that follow: Meliora (2015), Prequelle (2018) – featuring the singles "Rats" and "Dance Macabre" – and Impera (2022). In just a few years, Ghost grew from a refined bedroom project to an international stadium act, and their albums were showered with music awards, including Grammys. The unique atmosphere of Ghost's performances is perfectly captured on the concert film and live album Rite Here Rite Now (2024). The success story continues in early 2025 with the album Skeletá, while the frontman has already adopted a new persona. For the time being, he will strut across the stages as Papa V Perpetua.
