Ghost’s ‘Skeletá’ Album Review: A Deep, Introspective Journey by Tobias Forge

Explore Ghost's transformative new album 'Skeletá' which strikes a balance between raw emotion and stunning musicality, marking a new chapter for the band.

A Journey Through Change

Since their emergence in the metal scene back in 2010, Ghost has experienced a remarkable transformation. They started from grassroots beginnings, gaining traction by uploading music to MySpace, to now boasting over 700 million streams for their 2019 single, 'Mary On A Cross.' With countless fans captivated by their complex lore, the band has evolved significantly over the years, transitioning from the underground sounds of 'Opus Eponymous' to the grandiosity of 'Impera' in 2022. As they approach their sixth album, this evolution feels more intentional than ever.

Shifting Focus with 'Skeletá'

Founder Tobias Forge, who now assumes the role of Papa Perpetua, has expressed his desire to shift away from the overarching themes of religious hierarchies that have characterized previous Ghost albums. Instead, he now turns inward, focusing on the rawest forms of human emotion. The result? 'Skeletá', an album that not only showcases Ghost's signature sound but also highlights some of their most intriguing material to date.

A Bold New Direction

While 'Skeletá' retains the essential elements of a classic Ghost track—thunderous riffs, clever double entendres, and anthemic choruses—this album makes a bold departure from their usual lyrical and sonic approach. The differences are especially pronounced in tracks like 'Cenotaph' and 'Umbra'. The former leans into a light pop flair, whereas the latter nods to glam rock reminiscent of Def Leppard. Both tracks stand out for their nuanced instrumentals and a refreshing rejection of the band's well-established sounds, proving that even after nearly two decades, they're willing to explore new territories.

As Forge recently articulated, authenticity in the metal scene is often seen through the lens of an artist's ability to stick to one sound. If that’s the case, then 'Skeletá' stands defiantly against that notion. With more confidence than ever, Forge blends genres while maintaining an unmistakably Ghost essence.

Tracks That Resonate

While some tracks seem to lean too heavily on familiar tropes—such as the somewhat hollow 'Missilia Amori' with its cheeky line: “You show me yours, I’ll show you mine/ Love rockets”—the majority of the album’s tracklist grows in charm with each listen. Be it the hopeful yearning in opener 'Peacefield', the exploration of self-deceit in the riff-heavy 'Lachryma', or the introspective ballad 'Excelsis', 'Skeletá' doesn’t depend on past hits like 'Dance Macabre' or 'Mary On A Cross'. Instead, it asks for patience and offers deeper meanings for those willing to let it unfurl.

Even if it doesn't boast the catchy hooks of earlier albums, this latest offering provides something more profound. Through an intricate exploration of genres and a newfound emotional depth, it's clear that 'Skeletá' was crafted with a fresh perspective, heralding the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Ghost.

Album Details

• Release Date: April 25, 2025
• Record Label: Loma Vista

FAQs

• What is the theme of Ghost’s new album 'Skeletá'? The album focuses on raw human emotions and an introspective look at personal experiences, deviating from the larger themes of religion and hierarchy.
• When was 'Skeletá' released? 'Skeletá' was released on April 25, 2025.
• What musical styles are present in 'Skeletá'? The album showcases a mix of genres, including pop-flair and glam rock, while still retaining Ghost's signature sound.
• Are there any standout tracks on the album? Yes! Tracks like 'Cenotaph', 'Lachryma', and 'Excelsis' have been highlighted for their unique styles and emotional depth.
• How does 'Skeletá' compare to previous Ghost albums? While it may not have the instant hooks of earlier albums, 'Skeletá' offers a deeper exploration of themes and genre blending, marking a significant evolution in Ghost's music.

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