On Saturday night, Bridgestone Arena played host to one of rocks most theatrical acts, as Swedish heavyweights Ghost brought their 2025 Skeletour to Nashville. In a city known its country charm Ghost delivered a tightly choreographed, visually stunning performance that felt more like a ritual than a traditional rock show.
Touring behind their latest album Skeletá, frontman Tobias Forge, performing in his current incarnation as Papa Emeritus V, led the band through a setlist that seamlessly blended new material with fan favorite staples. Opening with “Peacefield” and explosive “Lachryma,” the band wasted no time establishing the night’s dramatic tone.
The set spanned the group’s full discography, including standout performances of “Cirice,” “He Is,” “Mummy Dust,” and “Rats.” Their live arrangements showcased the continued evolution toward stadium-ready songwriting without sacrificing their dark theatricality. Forge’s stage presence remains one of Ghost’s most potent assets. With his signature charisma and tongue-in-cheek monologues, he balanced occult overtones with humor and accessibility. Between songs, his playful banter and subtle digs at religious orthodoxy drew laughter and cheers from the crowd, many of whom arrived in costume or corpse paint.
Ghost’s decision to enforce a phone-free policy using Yondr pouches may have seemed controversial at first, but in execution, it fostered a rare sense of presence. Without screens in sight, the audience was immersed entirely in the moment, a rarity today. By the time the encore rolled around featuring “Mary on a Cross,” “Dance Macabre,” and a triumphant “Square Hammer” the crowd was on its feet, singing along with the fervor of true believers. For longtime fans and first time attendees alike, Ghost’s Nashville performance was a reminder that rock can still be larger than life.
With several U.S. dates still ahead, and selling out fast the Skeletour continues to bring its uniquely immersive, phone-free experience to arenas across the country. Whether you’re a longtime follower or a curious newcomer, Ghost’s live ritual remains one of the most captivating spectacles in modern rock. To catch a ritual near you click here.
Photos By: BrittMae
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