Sunday night, Ghost transformed San Diego’s Viejas Arena into a cathedral of rock, delivering a performance that was equal parts theatrical spectacle and musical triumph. As part of their Skeletour World Tour 2025, the band showcased their latest album, Skeletá, alongside fan-favorite classics, creating a killer setlist that was both fresh and nostalgic.
From the moment Papa V Perpetua and the Nameless Ghouls took the stage, the energy in the room was sheer fire. Fans, many dressed in face paint, robes, and even full papal regalia, celebrated the band’s unique blend of heavy metal and dark, satirical pageantry. Ghost didn’t just play a concert; they orchestrated a Sunday night ritual that left the capacity crowd in complete and total awe.
Sunday’s ritual opened with the haunting strains of “Peacefield,” the first track from Skeletá, immediately immersing the audience in Ghost’s dark and atmospheric world. The band followed with “Lachryma,” another new track that showcased their ability to blend haunting melodies with heavy riffs. The crowd erupted as the band transitioned into “Spirit,” a fan-favorite from Meliora, with Papa V Perpetua commanding the stage like a true rock-and-roll messiah.
As a long-time fan, two songs stood out as personal highlights of the evening: “Cirice” and “He Is.” “Cirice” was a masterclass in musical storytelling, with its haunting guitar intro giving way to a powerful, almost operatic performance. The way Papa V Perpetua delivered the song’s emotional weight was nothing short of mesmerizing, and the crowd’s energy during the chorus was electric.
“He Is” provided a poignant contrast to the heavier tracks, with Papa V Perpetua leading the crowd in a heartfelt singalong that turned the arena into a sea of swaying lights. This acoustic moment was deeply moving, showcasing the band’s ability to connect on an emotional level while maintaining their theatrical flair. It was a moment of unity and emotion that underscored why Ghost has such a devoted following.
The Nameless Ghouls (8 in total) were in top form, delivering tight, precise performances that brought the band’s intricate compositions to life. The dual guitar work on “Rats” was particularly impressive, rivaling any guitarist duo in the business today. Everyone (and I mean everyone) was out of their seats on this one, signing every note to perfection alongside Papa V Perpetua.
Ghost’s setlist was a masterclass in balancing new material with beloved classics. Tracks from Skeletá, such as “Satanized” and “Umbra,” fit seamlessly alongside older hits like “Per Aspera ad Inferi” and “Year Zero.” The band’s ability to weave together songs from across their discography created a dynamic and engaging experience for fans.
The encore was a triumphant conclusion to the night. It began with the viral sensation “Mary on a Cross,” which had the entire arena singing along. The energy reached its peak with “Dance Macabre,” a track that turned the venue into a full-blown dance party. Finally, the band closed with “Square Hammer,” leaving the crowd in a state of euphoria as the nearly two-hour show finally came to a triumphant end.
Ghost’s ability to blur the line between concert and theater was on full display throughout the night. Papa V Perpetua frequently addressed the crowd, mixing humor with reverence in a way that only he can. At one point, he jokingly chastised the audience for not being loud enough, prompting an ear-splitting roar that echoed through the arena.
And the production, wow… It was nothing short of spectacular. The stage was adorned with towering stained-glass windows depicting the band’s iconic imagery, and the lighting design was a masterclass in mood-setting, shifting seamlessly from eerie blues to fiery reds. Pyrotechnics punctuated key moments, adding an extra layer of drama to songs like “Faith” and “Ritual.”
Ghost’s performance at Viejas Arena was more than just a concert—it was an experience, a ritual, and a celebration of everything that makes this band one of the most unique acts in rock today. Their Skeletour World Tour 2025 is a must-see, and Skeletá proves that Ghost continues to evolve while staying true to their theatrical roots.
As a long-time fan, seeing “Cirice” and “He Is” performed live was a deeply personal and truly unforgettable experience. These songs, alongside the rest of the setlist, reminded me why Ghost has remained one of my favorite bands for so many years. Sunday was a true rock and roll ritual that pulled no punches—it was simply brilliant. And if you’ve never seen Ghost live, now is the time to change that. Don’t miss your chance to witness the magic for yourself—you’ll leave a true believer.
