Tobias Forge of Ghost Declares Rock is Alive and Well Ahead of New Album Release

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. The Resurgence of Rock
4. Learning from History
5. Looking Ahead
6. Conclusion
7. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Tobias Forge of Ghost asserts that the idea of "rock is dead" is a myth, citing the band's success and resurgence within the genre.
• The band will release their sixth studio album, Skeletá, on April 25, featuring the lead single "Satanized" and introducing Forge's new persona, Papa Perpetua.
• Forge emphasizes the potential for new rock bands to achieve greatness, referencing bands like Sleep Token and Rammstein.
• Ghost's ambitions include staging massive performances, drawing inspiration from iconic tours such as The Rolling Stones’ Steel Wheels.

Introduction

In a world constantly debating the vitality of rock music, Tobias Forge, the enigmatic frontman of the Swedish band Ghost, staunchly defends the genre’s pulse. “For the last decade, there’s been this ongoing chatter in the music business – especially in the rock business – of ‘rock is dead’ or ‘no new bands can become big,’” Forge remarked in a recent interview. He argues that bands like Ghost, along with contemporaries, are living proof that rock is not only alive but thriving. With the upcoming release of Skeletá, Ghost aims to remind the music world of its potential through fresh sounds and spectacular performances.

As the band prepares for the release of their sixth studio album, which promises to push boundaries and challenge the notion of what rock can be, we delve deeper into Forge's thoughts on the state of rock music today, examining historical influences, future ambitions, and the ways in which Ghost seeks to make its mark.

The Resurgence of Rock

The narrative that "rock is dead" has followed the genre for years, often intensified by shifting consumer preferences towards pop and hip-hop. However, Forge’s comments underscore a contradiction: there are still avenues for rock musicians to succeed and grow. Ghost's trajectory exemplifies that a blend of theatricality, innovative sound, and unforgettable live performances can attract a diverse audience.

A New Album and Identity

Ghost's new album Skeletá is set for release on April 25, 2025. This album comes with heightened expectations, especially as it introduces Forge's new character, Papa Perpetua, which is anticipated to resonate with fans and potentially attract new listeners. The lead single "Satanized" is described as anthemic and showcases Ghost's evolving sound.

This new persona reflects a broader evolution in Muse. “It’s about maintaining an element of surprise and plays into the lore that Ghost has established,” Forge explained. The band's lore—which intertwines with its musical offerings—has been a part of their charm, crafting a unique narrative that differentiates them from other hard rock bands.

Supporting the Rock Revival

In the face of skepticism, Forge points to the success of newer rock acts, such as Sleep Token and the burgeoning popularity of veteran bands like Rammstein. His observation is critical: “You can become a bigger band,” he asserts, indicating that the rock genre is not a relic but a living, breathing entity capable of evolution and re-invention.

Rammstein serves as an exemplary model; their transition from a respected arena act to a stadium-filling sensation demonstrates the potential for growth and increased audience engagement. As Forge noted, “...they decided to do a stadium tour and... went from 15,000 people every night to 55,000, three nights in a row!”

Learning from History

To understand the current state of rock, it's essential to look at its influences. Forge recalls his fascination with stage production ignited during The Rolling Stones' Steel Wheels tour. His early punk influences coupled with a penchant for grandiosity in performance art underline a continual evolution in his artistic expression.

“Back in the day, rock was about spectacle,” said Forge, reminiscing about his childhood observations of massive concerts. “I’ve always been obsessed with that idea of being behind that turmoil that comes in and disrupts a city.” This philosophy informs his approach to Ghost's live shows—immersive experiences that elevate rock from mere music to a fully realized artistic performance.

The Power of Live Music

As Ghost gears up for their extensive UK and US tour set to begin in mid-April, the importance of live music in rock’s revival is paramount. Forge understands the transformative power of live events. He noted that while recorded music holds its own merit, the communal experience of live performances generates an energy that resonates deeply with audiences.

Each concert serves as a testament to the unique relationship between fans and performers, an interaction that breathes life into the lyrics and music. "I want to bring something to town that people can feel, not just hear," he said, conveying the depth of his commitment to creating a memorable experience for attendees.

Looking Ahead

With their sixth studio album on the horizon and an extensive tour planned, Ghost aims to reshape perceptions of rock music. Forge's drive to push boundaries and embrace creativity while upholding rock's rich heritage plays a vital role in the band's identity. He commented on the future of rock and what it means to be part of a genre with a storied past, proclaiming, “I’m not saying that you can become a new AC/DC, but we are living proof that you still can do it.”

Touring: A Shared Experience

Ghost's upcoming tour will not just be a platform for promoting their new album; it aims to foster a deeper connection between the band and its audience. The integration of theatrical elements, elaborate staging, and interactive performances exemplifies their commitment to experience-driven concerts.

This philosophy connects with a larger trend wherein artists are increasingly focusing on live experiences rather than solely on streaming success. The atmosphere of shared enthusiasm creates a lasting bond between performers and fans, further proving Forge’s point that rock is indeed not dead.

Conclusion

Tobias Forge's insistence that “rock is alive and well” underscores a fundamental shift within the music world. In the face of overwhelming digital influence and evolving tastes, Ghost stands at the forefront, ready to challenge and redefine what it means to be a rock band today.

As the anticipation for Skeletá builds, it’s clear that Ghost is not just another name in the rock arena; they are a resounding call for a new era of rock music, inviting all to embrace its continuation. Rock isn’t merely a genre—it’s a phenomenon that thrives on creativity, performance, and passion.

FAQ

What is Ghost's new album about?

Ghost's upcoming album Skeletá introduces new elements and characters, notably the persona of Papa Perpetua, while exploring the evolution of the band's sound and thematic content.

When will Ghost's new album be released?

Skeletá is set to be released on April 25, 2025.

What is the lead single from the new album?

The lead single from Skeletá is titled "Satanized," which has been described as anthemic.

How does Ghost challenge the notion that "rock is dead"?

Tobias Forge argues that the success of Ghost and other contemporary rock acts demonstrates that rock music is thriving and that new bands can achieve mainstream success.

What influence has Rammstein had on Ghost?

Forge cites Rammstein as an example of a band that transitioned from an arena act to a stadium-filling phenomenon, underscoring the potential for growth in the rock genre.

Where can fans see Ghost perform?

Ghost is embarking on a tour across the UK, Europe, and the US starting from Manchester's AO Arena on April 15, 2025. Tickets and further dates are available through their official channels.