Ghost | Skeletá | Loma Vista Recording

 

Ghost is a Swedish band formed in 2006 and led by the enigmatic Tobias Forge, who performs under the identity of a character called Papa Emeritus, with the backing of masked musicians known as the Nameless Ghouls. The group rose through underground circles with a blend of hard rock, heavy metal, and theatrical imagery inspired by classic horror and religious satire. Their early works gained attention for combining retro influences with a distinct stage persona, eventually transforming Ghost into a globally recognized arena act. Over the years, they evolved from doom-laced beginnings to embrace more accessible styles, gaining major chart success with albums such as “Meliora” (2015), “Prequelle” (2018), and “Impera” (2022). With “Skeletá”, Ghost reaches what many fans may regard as their creative and artistic peak.

Released during the most eventful year in the band's career to date, “Skeletá” arrives following massive international attention, widespread touring, and the successful theatrical release of their concert film “Rite Here Rite Now”. The album is the first to feature Papa V Perpetua, a new character in the band's evolving narrative, and includes production handled by Forge under the pseudonym Gene Walker. The studio and supporting musicians, both returning collaborators and fresh contributors, deliver a consistently unified experience with a high level of attention to atmosphere, tone, and melodic balance.

Musically, “Skeletá” balances Ghost’s familiar approach—memorable hooks, layered vocals, and sweeping choruses—with darker and more solemn songwriting. The overall direction leans into dramatic and spiritual themes while never abandoning the band's well-known melodic structure. Compared to previous albums, there is less flamboyance and more restraint in the arrangements. The instrumentation feels focused, with careful layering of synthesizers, guitars, and choir sections that enrich the sound without overcomplicating it.

The production is tight and full-bodied, giving space to both quieter moments and sweeping crescendos. The album avoids overreaching or relying too heavily on past formulas. While Ghost’s signature sound remains intact, the tone is more serious, introspective, and emotional in delivery. The vocal presence of Papa V Perpetua is clear and effective, maintaining consistency across the runtime.

Lyrically, the album explores themes of identity, failure, spiritual doubt, and emotional distance. It presents these ideas with clarity and without theatrical exaggeration. The choruses are well-built, often supported by layers of choral vocals that amplify the mood. Some passages lean into Latin references and religious overtones, consistent with the band’s established thematic territory, but the emotional context feels more grounded and personal this time.

Across the ten tracks, there is a smooth flow from one to the next. Except for the final song, “Excelsis,” which takes a more expansive and experimental turn, the rest of the album maintains a high standard of quality. Songs like “Peacefield,” “Satanized,” “Marks Of The Evil One,” “Umbra,” or “Guiding Lights” deliver precision, structure, and atmosphere that align with the album’s tone. Ghost does not drift into excess or rely on filler content. The runtime of just under 47 minutes is well calculated.

“Skeletá” does not attempt to disrupt the formula Ghost has cultivated over the last decade, but it strengthens their discography with confidence and maturity. It is arguably their most focused and complete release so far. With strong performances, precise production, and a clearly shaped vision, it will likely be considered among the year’s most important rock releases.

Score: 9.2/10