My First Time Hearing GHOST. Vocal ANALYSIS of "Mary On A Cross" Live version!

[@Faine44]

The fact that she had no idea that Tobias is wearing a full mask really speaks to the quality of the maker.

[@jkacircus]

I was thinking the same thing. It took me a long time to actually realize it was a mask instead of face paint. I believe it was the He Is music video where I finally noticed it.

[@Ryliarc]

@@jkacircus i always knew something was off, the lack of facial expressions, the mouth barely moving, but it also took me a pretty long time to realise lol

[@m_greenemusic62]

Tobias and papa has a different facial structure so that is what told me it was a mask.

[@Talon18136]

Also to sing under that mask

[@zachh6868]

It took me until this comment to realize that

[@SlugCult718]

Tobias Forge has stated that he wants Ghost to sound like this amazing band from the seventies, that went unnoticed and is only now being discovered.

[@kit975]

He's doing a damn good job. Until my brother got into the band and told me about them, I legitimately thought they were as someone not in that bubble. Yet. Okay maybe I'm in it a little bit.

[@aldotorres5249]

This is exactly what I thought when I discovered them. I do not look up albums, or videos, nothing, so when I was exposed to Rats and Square Hammer I swore this had to be at least 3 decades old.

[@SDXStudio]

Yep, they more or less nail it. One of my favorite things to do back in the early Napster/Limewire/Torrent days were to download albums that sounded like they were made in 1986, and try to guess the year they were produced. Eventually my friends and I would make a game of it. Every few months or so, we'd get together and play some select tracks from a band (usually from one album, to get the full scope of it) and try to guess the year, album title, and name of the band. We continued this for quite a few years. Eventually it got ruined, given that the internet and KZbin became so powerful it became really easy to find that kind of information. But after so much time I knew I found a band that would stump them. I originally played the cover of Here Comes the Sun and a few others and they guessed 1979-1983.

[@MNJK1010]

Didn’t go unnoticed.. that was the first thing I said when I heard them. I was highly disappointed. Was ready to hear “Slipknot” then they start playing “Journey”.

[@MrPenguin930]

Which band?

[@glagglegums]

tobias forge the singer is actually wearing a mask too! the papa character with the skull paint is actually a full face mask! so they’re all wearing masks on stage, it’s hard to tell that the papa masks are actually masks sometimes because they just look like makeup! the different papas of the lore have drastically different looks and facial structure and it’s incredibly impressive! it’s my favorite band of all time, with the lore and the amazing music and the execution, it’s all so amazing, comforting, and refreshing!!

[@ashesfromashes4129]

@@djangorestraind596 Nope, it really *is* a mask, with the facepaint done over it!

[@lillymacias1848]

@@djangorestraind596 it is actually a mask ever since the first papa it been a mask! tobias has said in interviews he had to change his way of singing because it’s hard to sing with it on. if you keep up with the lore there has been 3 other papas before the one you are seeing in the video. this is all tobias in diffrent masks. this keeps the illusion of diffrent people but keeps the same sound :)

[@panicnow14]

​@@djangorestraind596 they are all masks if you look closely enough, just reeeeeally convincing. Look up Papa 1 and look up the greyland film "walter" mask, that's what it was, but painted up like corpse paint. They are super lifelike at a distance though

[@Chris-gb3ir]

@@djangorestraind596 it’s a mask, made by Immortal Masks. They confirmed it. At the M&G it’s obvious that it’s a full face mask.

[@aaronheath5896]

@@djangorestraind596 it is a mask lol. Look it up.

[@jenvirch2211]

This band will take youndown the rabbit hole and you'll never be the same

[@tjultra3985]

Lol FR

[@MarinaBonadio]

no fr tho because I am going down this rabbit hole now and it's insane

[@hullksmash]

My daughter introduced me to Ghost, and I've never been the same since. They don't try to fit, they just are, and because of that they're awesome.

[@nastydrow8722]

He is a PAINFULLY charismatic front man. Seeing them live really is a treat.

[@BetweenTwoForks]

Facts. Seeing them live is a whole experience. Their albums are great, but their performance live, is phenomenal!

[@jezmerritt]

You're absolutely right! You can see it practically bleeding off of him... that's HIS stage, we're just along for the ride! 😁

[@gamefreak2065]

Can't wait to see them again. 3 times in 2 years! Live is an amazing show.

[@iaintbeendroppingnoeavessir]

​@@gamefreak2065 lucky!!!

[@stephenwells2464]

Not doing anything crazy just totally owning it. Maybe a clichéd comparison but reminds me of Freddie Mercury.

[@mayamelina6]

I hope she eventually does one of their more “rock/metal” songs! This song was done in a 60s style to go along with the lore. Would love to see Cirice, Square Hammer, Ritual, He Is, or Rats to start. So many great songs to choose from. One is not enough. Also, they are phenomenal in concert. The theatrics, the story, the music are top notch.

[@DSOImager]

Agreed. When I saw this in my feed I figured she was reacting to Cirice. Hopefully she'll do that one or one of the others you mentioned.

[@definitelyJulie]

They are absolutely stunning to watch live! Some of the best concerts I've ever been to.

[@SCSO30]

@@definitelyJulie true, he is wickedly talented.

[@eastcoastoverseer]

Call Me Little Sunshine would be great too!

[@nunpho]

What is the story/lore?

[@jscandlesmelts]

The audience also plays a part as backup singers, seeing it live in person is insane

[@pilgrimspromise1132]

Surprised she thought of jack Skellington when he seems to be channeling The Joker

[@jb111082]

@@pilgrimspromise1132 Or The Comedian from The Watchmen.

[@sixtytonangel]

Right. When Elizabeth said she could definitely hear some backup vocals, I said "It's the crowd!"

[@Amelia-ck8pn]

The fact you can clearly hear Swiss’ backup vocals- so clean. ✨

[@ellabella6099]

In love 😍

[@saltymystic]

He's one of the few singers where I understand every word he sings.

[@Dustpuma1]

That's because hes not metal at all dude hes like goth pop

[@chromewizard6421]

@@Dustpuma1 which is really funny, cause he was previously the vocalist for a death metal band

[@timthompson9246]

Metal heads who are disappointed because he doesn’t sound like Cookie Monster…their loss.

[@dragula131]

​@@timthompson9246personally I don't consider growling into a microphone music but that's my personal opinion on it. But Ghost I fuckin love

[@orange5485]

Bros dissing the metal community

[@singingfan]

For the vocal standpoint, Tobias also wears a prosthetic mask, which he has said in interviews effects how he has to modify his singing because it puts limitations on how he can move his face. If you truly want to hear him sing heavy death metal, listen to one of his former bands called Repugnant. Or listen to Ghost “Mummy Dust” like I mentioned in chat. Or “From the Pinnacle to the Pit” especially live. One of the goals Tobias has is to challenge what the genre of metal means. It’s all on purpose. That’s why you’re hearing all sorts of influences of other sounds and bands and decades. Tobias is from Sweden so he’s got a lot of Swedish melodic death metal influences. EDIT: listen to plenty of other songs of theirs to gets better feel for the band. Their type of metal is melodic. Metal is a very wide range of sound. There’s so many great songs. I highly suggest listening to more of Ghost!

[@hawaii2k]

You'll hear his voice very well in the "BBC sessions". Doubt he's wearing a mask there. Ghoulettes are also quite high up in the mix, which is another plus.

[@martinjohansson203]

Yup, melo death and Abba runs in my and every swede around the world veins. I think Tobias got a ton of Abba tho

[@Thonik76]

Hella yes repugnant

[@wes_ley177]

@@martinjohansson203 i was just about to comment this! mans loves his ABBA 😂😂

[@cornbredx]

Ya, I appreciate that he tries to push the boundaries of his sound. It's really what keeps him interesting for me since i find the whole Euro Black/Death Metal scene to be very bland. Just my personal opinion, but I like what he does because he doesn't stick so strictly to convention like a lot of those bands do.

[@I_wanna_go_home603]

The backing vocals are live too! Two of the people in masks playing in the background are singing! The male one is done by Swiss (one of the ghouls) and Cumulus (one of the ghoulettes). They have a wide range of songs, including heavy songs like Mummy Dust but they have softer songs like Darkness at the Heart of My Love as well. The lead singer (Tobias Forge, but he’s known as Copia or Papa Emeritus IV) likes variety for sure and doesn’t like to be contained to one thing. Best band and hope you keep reacting to them! Side note: the ghouls (male) names are Swiss, Aether, Rain, Sodo/Dew, and Mountain and the ghoulettes (female) are named Cumulus, Cirrus, and Sunshine (I don’t know if Sunshine was in this performance as she’s newer).

[@Spider8itchy]

Those are actually fan names! From the first two eras the ghouls were called alpha, omega, ect Terzo only called his ghouls "ghouls" And I'm fairly sure sodo was called Sodo live on stage by cardi

[@TKID-17105]

In this configuration as filmed ( no longer current ) you have the following backing singers- 3 Ghoulettes (Cumulus, Cirrus, and Sunshine) most on keyboards, as well as Aether (rhythm guitar), Rain (Bass), and Swiss (multi- aka baritone guitar/percussion/acoustic guitar) Aether is no longer a member, Rain is currently NOT mic'ed for backing vocals and one of the ghoulettes (Sunshine, IIRC) was busy with a play/musical and has now been replaced with a very small backup singer nicknamed Aurora who does not currently appear to play any instruments and just provides backing vocals.

[@mercollimojica2573]

Interesting info, thanks.

[@KoilVonDee]

@@TKID-17105 Alpha, Omega, Water, Fire and Air

[@KoilVonDee]

not to us old schoolers. you weren't around in the BC days.

[@sharman5598]

I’ve heard their genre described as “Scooby-Doom” and I always felt like it really fit 😂

[@journeyofgreen3958]

I like that! I also like "Bubblegum Black Metal".

[@scottlapier4797]

Or "the love child of Abba and Black Sabbath"

[@jamiebrown1737]

Omg with the new video…scooby doom is it!!

[@mediamonarchyplus]

lololol thank you

[@DaBase333]

HAHAHA. That's my favorite thus far.

[@noahsmith4148]

Seeing Ghost live is like going to a heavy metal church revival.

[@malindawickham6504]

I can only imagine! I’m seeing them for the first time in August and I’m so excited.

[@GetOfflineGetGood]

I saw them on Halloween in 2016 and it was a life changing religious experience

[@ComanderRilldo]

saw them twice, I agree wholeheartedly

[@sakidafrancis6319]

I wish KZbin can add a laughter reaction to the comments section cos I'm laughing out right now😂😂😂

[@absolutetuber]

seeing them live is one of the best experiences ever, I saw them last year. their sound system/setup is phenomenal. you can hear every guitar, every note, every lyric. its not just a mash of sound that leaves your ears ringing. yes, some people like that. but I think ghost's music isn't about blowing out your eardrums. its an experience!!

[@ratsalad178]

the ghoulettes and one of the ghouls provide backing vocals - they have such incredible voices

[@_DESAULNIERS_]

Two of the ghouls actually! Both Aether (rhythm guitar) and Swiss (Multi ghoul)

[@ratsalad178]

oh wow, I had no idea aether does backing vocals!

[@skildude]

This version of the masks has an open front to allow their lower face to be exposed

[@rsmith6366]

Tobias also has a bit of a reverb going on his mike to bolster his sound. So he's kind of also backing up himself too.

[@Locormus2]

​@@rsmith6366 Yes, but backing vocals typically don't match the lead vocalist, but use harmony to layer the leads vocals - or sing secondary lines altogether.

[@jjohnson6001]

I find it so impressive how clear he sings with that mask on. I saw them live last week for Re-Imperatour and it was THE BEST concert I've ever been to, by far. Thy are all so talented.

[@superbeefus]

We saw them at the beginning of August. I was kinda ambivalent on Ghost, like ok. I mostly went to see Amon Amarth. But since then I've barely listened to anything but ghost. I guess I'm a convert now!

[@JEST3R_]

I saw the Nashville show from Re-Imperatour. It was FANTASTIC

[@mikespam8271]

That's a mask ? Wow I had no idea

[@anthonysolis4163]

It's not makeup??? 🤔

[@scottlapier4797]

Same, the show was fantastic and all the band members looked like they were having a blast

[@PsychoticFruitfly]

their sound crew deserves a medal, or at least a raise.

[@sunepimchen3209]

Been a fan for almost 9 years n I'm in tears... seeing them reaching these heights....Ghost forever..

[@devinkerr5474]

I bounced off them a few times and every day I'm so sad that this music could have graced me years earlier

[@littlewigglemonster7691]

Here with yah ❤!

[@frlolz]

If you have Ghost you have everything 😭🙌🏻

[@nykterion7]

Yes, 10year fan here since they were still an underground band, I know exactly what you mean!!!

[@sunepimchen3209]

@@nykterion7 sometimes I go back n listen to their first demo tapes...

[@ChildrenofMyAvengedH]

Their range is amazing, they can go from “heavier” stuff (Mummy Dust, Year Zero) to a mellow ballad (He Is, Darkness At The Heart Of My Love), and everything in between! Check them out!

[@rsmith6366]

I showed my mum Darkness at the Heart of my Love and she thought it was actually Simon and Garfunkel at first. She asked "Why have I never heard this before?".

[@TheGravityAxe]

I love Year Zero.

[@Broccoli_Highkicks]

Year Zero has to be experienced live, with thousands of people belting out the chorus; it makes Satanic black metal bands everywhere seethe will jealousy 😅

[@yeahiguess2345]

Year Zero is a blast to drive to

[@HannesHenkelmann]

Imho Faith is Ghost at their heaviest

[@TheLongHairedFellow]

I would suggest Cirice for your next listen from the band. Specifically the music video, that way you don't get any interference from his mask. Incredibly powerful song with powerful lyrics and is the song that earned them a Grammy for Best Metal Performance in 2015.

[@pimzaeVT]

tobias becomes an even more impressive singing musician when you realize that he sings while in a mask while doing these live concerts, which is just a whole other level of amazing and talented. I couldn't imagine how hot and sweaty everyone must be wearing those masks while singing and playing instruments.

[@ellabella6099]

❤❤

[@lucasimmons075]

I remember when Ghost was just starting everyone said he couldn't sing live. Turns out it was just the worse quality masks messing limiting him. He clearly has no problem singing these days

[@WeAreTheInsurgents]

In their "lore", this song and another song (Kiss the Go Goat) were released as a 50th anniversary of an EP they released in the 60s (despite being released in 2019), so the two songs are heavily 60s inspired. Tobias Forge has also been known as Papa Emeritus I, II, III and is currently Papa Emeritus IV, but they act like they're different characters as each one usually bears a slightly different design. It's very campy and I love it.

[@LiquidRasta]

don't forget his alter character of Cardinal Copia! lol

[@jwilson2793]

@@LiquidRasta oh man, don’t open that can of worms in the lore 😂 the illegitimate son if Nihil

[@Spider8itchy]

​@@jwilson2793 it's so funny to me 😭 Isn't the cannon lore that nihil had the dirty with sister imperator and had a illegitimate son (who was papa IV?)

[@jwilson2793]

@@Spider8itchy yep! Revealed in the Kiss the Go-Goat music video, and in the latest Chapters, both Sister and IV stop themselves from calling each other mom and son

[@slitheen3]

Many of their songs also give me a gospel vibe, as another prong of their parody of religion. I grew up in a church singing gospels so I REALLY enjoy and appreciate how they blend it with metal and all their other inspirations. Kinda impressive to me how a Swedish band can evoke the same feelings that my small-town rural church worship songs

[@billh4802]

He has incredible stage presence. He completly owns the audience.

[@ellabella6099]

He does and his interaction with his audience too is brilliant 🤩

[@thanksmr.obvious6427]

influenced by Freddie Mercury for sure

[@Kramerica962]

For the last couple of albums Ghost added a lot more band members then they used to have. Their keyboardist, who is a woman, does a lot of backing vocals on their newer material and it's added a lot to the band as a whole. She is such a fantastic new addition. As far as their following goes they are definitely more popular now than they've ever been. Their first few albums were very slept on and it was a small amount of us following them. The first time I saw them live during their first album they were playing very small rooms and bars. Compare that to now and they are selling out huge theaters, arenas and even headlining festivals. They have a wide range of fans though. You'll see everything from pop fans to die hard metal heads at their shows and there are always a large amount of people in full costume in the crowd. A lot of fans are very die hard and go all the way with their fandom. Ghosts first album was closer to metal than any of their others but ever since the first album they've leaned more into the melodic rock/pop music. If you want to hear them play something akin to metal I'd suggest listening to anything off their first album. It's actually a huge argument that takes place among their fans and detractors. More die hard metal fans get offended at people saying Ghost is "metal" and it's led to a small portion of the metal community to absolutely hate Ghost. Personally I think people get a little too hung up on the genres and what they mean but that's just me. Music is music and if you enjoy it then just enjoy it without worrying about what genre it is.

[@kinatan968]

Hard agree. If the music is good why does it matter what genre it is and since Tobias loves having variety instead of being boxed in a specific genre, we can expect different sounds from their future albums. I also found it annoying when people claimed that ghost music has change significantly with prequelle as if the jump from opus and infestisummam isn't dramatic as well. The point is each album will always have different sound from one another & that's where their appeal lies.

[@MonakalizasArt]

Yeah I've given up trying to give people an idea of my music taste based on genre. My everyday playlist has anyone from Five Finger Death Punch to P!nk to Hamilton. I just like things with heart, with feel and something thats catchy! Ghost ticks all that for me

[@k.Storelvmo]

Please please PLEASE do more Ghost! You'll be suprised at how big their arsenal to pull off diffrent musical genres is! This whole album was more of a 70's rock, satanic panic vibe!

[@digitalsmithy]

but FOR THE LOVE OF GOD listen to studio version, these music channels blow my mind when they do first listens to live versions. No. Just NO.

[@lexslate2476]

Seven Inches of Satanic Panic, specifically!

[@spyd3r666]

@@lexslate2476 Spillways

[@lexslate2476]

@@spyd3r666 That's a very good song.

[@kimmokoolwtf]

​@@digitalsmithy I think in this one the idea was to react to live version, to analyze Tobias' "live" voice.

[@MattKrogmeier]

Tickled you're doing your first Ghost song! One thing I'll offer is that any live videos you watch, you have to keep in mind that the singer is wearing a latex mask, and imparting a fake Italian accent at times. The other thing about this song in particular...it's part of Ghost "lore" - It's meant to sound like it was made in the 60's as part of their mythology. Is Ghost metal? That question divides the fan base (and metal purists) a lot. They can go from heavy and hard, to middle-of-the-road rock, to ballads. I've seen them live 5 times (fans call the concerts "rituals" - a moniker that came about based on a song of that title ("Ritual") from their first album.) I can go on and on and on...Ghost is one of my favorite musical discoveries in the past 20 years. Looking forward to your analysis!

[@nunpho]

Are you sure this one is a mask? I thought it was paint because you can see it going into his hairline. What's the fake Italian accent about?

[@juliaa9531]

@@nunpho It’s always a mask. The Hair is with the mask so it’s not his real hair.

[@henrikvidin]

​@Nunpho Papa Emeritus IV, which is the carnation of this papa, came from Cardinal Copia, who is Italian. Tobias Forge (singer/madtermind) is from Sweden, so it's sometimes a fake Italian accent.

[@aichnas]

​@frozensky86 It is! All the Papas over the are the same singer wearing different masks!

[@MattKrogmeier]

@@nunpho As others have said, yes, it's a mask. Full head, latex mask. He looks strikingly different without the mask. Good example (with a different era mask) is a live performance titled "Ghost BC - Ritual Live Studio" here on YT. You can see his real mouth in some of the close up shots in that video.

[@phrike7588]

The main reason, i believe, why they're getting so popular is the fact that Tobias is a fan of ABBA and you can hear a lot of ABBAs structures and sound in their songs. And no matter what you think of ABBA, they knew (know) how to make music. They even made a cover of ABBAs "I’m a Marionette." So they're pretty much a combination between ABBA and 70s-80s metal. Also, now you have to listen to their song "Cirise" that won them a Grammy :).

[@greenstuffbuffer]

Yep... Metal smushed with ABBA

[@mikaellyckinger9578]

Tobias has grown up hearing ABBA every where. But the band he's a huge fan of is Toto and I hear more of that in Ghost.

[@jimstewart8122]

I have no evidence of this, but I'm convinced ABBA have greatly influenced a lot of Swedish hard rock and metal. It's just so melodic. From soft rock bands like Treat, H.E.A.T, and Eclipse to heavier stuff like Opeth, the music is just saturated in melody.

[@abrahamedelstein4806]

Every Swede is a fan of ABBA.

[@zachh6868]

Ghost has done it! We're finally mainstream! Hopefully they can keep it up. I personally love how Ghost can be catchy AND you can hear something new in a song after 6 months of listening to it a ton

[@emmawiklander345]

I could not agree more!

[@captaincaptain2128]

This is one of the best sounding bands live. I honestly like some of their live music better than the studio tracks. Tobias is so in control of his voice, and the band is so good together. No backing tracks, no shenanigans, just pure live talent. That's why Ghost is the GOAT.

[@KeepChessSimple]

It also helps they don't have insanely loud tube amps on stage but just use in ears and digital amps.

[@Spider8itchy]

The go-goat

[@LukeRebel22]

THE GOAAATT!!!

[@rottensquid]

In a recent interview, he commented that he could be singing better, but the mask is like wearing flip flops and trying to ballet. I get the impression he's going to drop the mask soon, or make some other drastic change. It's gotta be tiresome. But you gotta respect the commitment to showmanship.

[@captaincaptain2128]

@@rottensquid he doesn't show it. I've seen him perform live several times and he sounds almost identical to the studio version. He's incredibly talented.

[@MutantGuppyFromHell]

Their songs "Cirice" and "Call Me Little Sunshine" are a couple of my favorite songs from them. Love them!

[@beanman9936]

I wanna see griftwood

[@sebrina8057]

Both are amazing live.

[@imyoursuperbeast8220]

From the Pinnacle to the Pit is a banger too

[@dallesamllhals9161]

@@pablomorato1 Well, i can't se it...'cause i won't pay Google(or send them pics of my passport).....It's hard to be a xennial(veteran from 'tours in the '00s too!?) online in 2023+ ;-D

[@vinyldash2333]

Call Me Little Sunshine is a fuckin banger

[@neurocat8837]

I’m classically trained and when I first listened to Ghost I was in love with Tobias’s voice. It’s so beautiful

[@des5592]

Very unique voice! I’ve been a fan for a while, and I could definitely tell he took some lessons during Covid. Much more conscious vibrato and better mix of chest and head voice.

[@erincoco612]

Same here can't wait to see them in August!!!!

[@beamingrose28d4]

"I thought that this was gonna be metal." - Lol everyone's reaction to hearing Ghost for the first time.

[@justastupidjourney3978]

I think "snark" is the best description of Tobias's lyrics I have ever heard. Everything really is tongue in cheek but so well written, so catchy, and to see them live is truly a spectacle!

[@ahau9799]

Perhaps a new song or chapter called Snark will randomly arrive now 😂

[@baverfjant]

On the other hand in Tobias's native language "snark" means "snore":D

[@ahau9799]

@@baverfjant That's make an interesting language mishap 😂 Ghost is definitely not a snore.

[@straygoat4366]

It's not just make-up. It's a mask :) And as others have said, this song is from a 60s era throwback in the deep-lore of Ghost. Each album is a different vibe, with different styles and genres mixed in. Time to dive deep. Of note, Tobias spent much of his career as a punk rock guitarist. Now he's a pop/rock/metal singer 😈

[@mitchyoung]

I came to say this exact thing

[@DefinitelyNotBender]

She said it was a mask if you pay attention.

[@Ih8liarsandusers]

She literally said that he is wearing a mask.

[@Ih8liarsandusers]

​@@mitchyoung She literally said he is wearing a mask at the beginning of the video. Pay attention

[@jamwerx]

@@Ih8liarsanduserslike I replied before… she was referring to the ghoul masks, so YOU pay attention 🤪 just teasing

[@abimyers2446]

I describe Ghost as pop music for metallers. It's got all the good bits of metal, stadium rock, great aesthetics, but also fun, catchy, positive and easy to listen to.

[@dustinowens8434]

Id describe them as the glam rock of the 2020's. The boy band of rock, if you will.

[@jodievance]

Same, I’m not into metal as a genre (but I can appreciate it) but ghost is my favourite band of the last 3 years!

[@jusatin]

The best way to describe Ghost (and the Lordi Superflytrap album) is Abba Metal.

[@avishekchakraborty8289]

Thats actally.... a pretty cool way to put it to people who don't know much about metal and its subgenres

[@vampire365]

And it depends on which "era" of Ghost as well. I agree

[@rondellschuyler7074]

This is the best thing to happen to rock music in twenty years. Exciting band. Tobias has a passion that is easily seen. Thanks Tobias !

[@firehawk2324]

Ghost has become my favorite band. The music is incredible. Edit to clarify some bits: When he says his Papa, he means the "character" that was the lead singer before him. Papa Emeritus, Papa Emeritus II, Papa Emeritus III, and now we're on Cardinal Copia. They (Ghost) are the Clergy, we (the audience) are the Congregation. Please do Dance Macabre, it's one of their best songs in my opinion.

[@tr1sk4l]

since 2020 he is the Papa Emeritus IV.

[@rakune1]

By Papa, in this particular song, he means Papa Nihil. Who "released" this song in the 60s (within the Ghost story) ... The song was "re-released" in 2019.

[@Dahnlor]

As I understand it, Ghost was sent by Satan to bring about the Satanic Apocalypse by spreading the Satanic Message through their music. Unfortunately, each Papa Emeritus has been unsuccessful in achieving this goal, hence their frequent replacements.

[@makmanos]

No he means Papa Nihil who is the character that performs live, well his ghost nowadays anyway, during one song called Miasma, pretending to play the saxophone.

[@willrfrench]

I love the video for Danse Macabre. Those leotards! 🧐

[@BATTIS94]

Tobias is pretty fun live. This iteration of his live persona is super tongue in cheek. He a solid vocalist, but I think the best thing about him is his stage presence.

[@youbmine]

I was excited to see that you found Ghost. I'll be 70 this year and I have been to two Ghost concerts. The best band since the 70's! Tobias Forge is a genius. His mouth doesn't move because he wears a mask. Please listen to the other songs and read a bit about the characters. I think you'll like it. Love your analyses!

[@nikkireviews]

My husband and I have been two 2 of their concerts too (three this coming fall) and they're super fun live! 😊

[@MiMi-kx1vy]

I am going to my first concert in August and I am in my 60’s. I am so glad to hear others in my age group have gone.

[@megannbeach778]

Just saw Ghost last night and it was so much fun! His stage presence is amazing!!

[@mijavera]

Not only is his vocals solid, English is his second language!

[@Mitsuolevel]

That alway blows my mind

[@Broccoli_Highkicks]

Scandinavian schools teach foreign languages from a very young age, and focus on conversational usage. It's kinda sad when people find it remarkable that kids in some other countries are receiving a good, useful education...

[@Finicky9]

I always think he takes advantage of that to be funny arkward in the mockumentaries

[@johnnyt6508]

Forced to learn English in schools here in Sweden 🌞🐒

[@Balthar]

like almost for 70% of metal stars :D Behemoth, Vader - Poland, Bathory - Norway etc etc ;)

[@sangdrax5352]

Ghost makes some incredibly catchy songs. Square Hammer was the first song that got me hooked on them. You never know what he is going to do and what direction he will go in. Please delve into more of their music. You wont be disappointed!

[@valmaxianelvengod]

I remember because of a post on Reddit calling them Scooby-Doo chase music with Square Hammer got me to listen to them and I've been a fan since

[@mariocastillo8334]

The dissonance between their black metal-ish look and the pop glee by which they tackle their music is absolutely delicious. I was introduced to them through "Cirice" and I was hooked merely by the surprise. Ghost is now by far and large one of my favorite bands out there and they just keep getting better!

[@torenvarela9340]

I saw them live for the first time a week ago, and I can say they are using LIVE backing vocals! In fact there are no backing tracks at all! Everything you hear in their live performance is being played live. One of the best live shows I've seen in a long time!

[@Tostti]

Love this song. His mouth doesn't move too much because he is also wearing a mask, it's not just makeup.

[@blackbirdpayan]

I was actually so stressed about she not knowing this fact

[@cry-ing-forabsolution]

@@blackbirdpayan SAME

[@valeriebasta7983]

Tobias is wearing a prosthetic mask, that's why he looks like he's barely moving his mouth. Also this is something I so appreciate about more pop hooky tunes and live performances, the hooky nature of the song gets the melody ingrained in everyone's mind, so you have this symbiotic vocals with Tobias, the band, and the crowd. Makes it such an experience to witness!

[@Pook1914]

Ghost is an amazing project for Tobias. Their commitment to the schtick and their own "history" and band mythology is really amazing. I mean, what other band writes songs with the idea that they actually wrote the songs in the 60's? The dedication to their own story is truly over the top and epic, combining several artistic mediums. I love Ghost; it's like KISS, Alice Cooper, and ABBA had a baby.

[@gonedeep43]

Or if Slipknot had their Balls Removed?😂

[@05bacs05]

“This is a song my Papa used to sing…” If you’re a fan of Ghost, then you know very well who “Papa” is…😉

[@elratchett3539]

His father... and his father's father, and his father's father's father....

[@coutinhothrash666]

Yes! hahahha

[@davewebb413]

You'd think she would research it before creating a video. She has no idea he is wearing a mask. She has no idea that the Ghoul's mask is an open mouth, just covered with black make-up. Frustrating.

[@xeyrruken]

Actually, yes and Papa is Nihil the one from the 1969. Tobias wanted to keep the Papa's personas to keep it intriguing and give more that toucch of mystery to the band

[@I_wanna_go_home603]

@@elratchett3539 his father’s father’s father’s father

[@OmarMartinez-tw4to]

Ghost is my idea of a true Rockstar! Ghost is clean, well dressed and knows how to move with class! What a showman. Never seen a Rockstar be so classy and elegant but still keeping it Rock!

[@mayamelina6]

FINALLY. Though I wish you’d done a different song… TikTok made that one big… but it’s not their best. Please do “He Is” or “Cirice”

[@imarealwitch1154]

Yeah... TikTok made me hate the song, it sucks since it's one of my favorite bands ever.

[@Demidruid]

I would love so see her reaction Cirice one of my favorites

[@DMofPuppets]

"He Is" is so brilliantly meta, it's one of my favorites.

[@L3G1TBANANA1]

@@imarealwitch1154 the solution to that is delete tiktok

[@XxNickSlaterxX]

your problem is that you are using tiktok in the first place xD

[@Cadinho93]

Ghost is the best thing to happen to the rock/metal world in many years. Also, my favorite thing about Ghost fans is the diversity you see in the audience. Old guard metalheads, teens and everyone in between. It’s so wholesome.

[@KZ3fps]

I agree. In my opinion if you hate Ghost, you hate fun. That's not to say you have to like their music or anything, but to actively hate them means you hate a band that knows how to have fun.

[@Tredemptation]

Went to a Ghost concert and there was every type of person there you could imagine, it was really cool!

[@CyberBeep_kenshi]

Meh. Too commercial low risk for me. Try epica or jijnjer

[@RayeGunn]

@@CyberBeep_kenshi You are allowed to like both, you know. I love Jinjer to bits... Also Gojira, and Mastodon, and Avatar and so many others, some of them obscure, like, i dunno Stoned Jesus, or Gnome.... and I also like Ghost.

[@Scoutzknives]

@@RayeGunn naw man, its not cool to like successful rock/metal. you have to find the most obscure shit to impress people with.

[@the1ucidone]

I waited so long to see this reaction and I'm so glad I did because you did not disappoint. If we are lucky she will delve deeper into their many hits. Have a great weekend everyone!

[@velvetcumulus]

Please do Spillways!! It's so good, all his songs are amazing. Also the ghouls are commonly named Nameless Ghouls or just the Ghouls and Ghoulettes, they all show their own personalities and voices that sing in harmony with Papa. And Papa wears a mask too, it's a latex one with hair, facepaint, everything, it's why his mouth hardly moves.

[@kredonystus7768]

"It's so fascinasting", "tounge in cheek" and "It's so catchy, what is this?" kinda perfectly describe Ghost.

[@Jozz421]

Ghost is a huge rabbit hole but a fantastic rabbit hole. My fellow Swede Tobias Forge is a genius and Ghost's music is fantastic and range from ballads to so hard metal that even I get scared. He have a way of making music videos for his songs that really give you an extra bite and add a huge amount of understanding of the lyrics. A lot of lyrics have an almost absurd amount of sarcasm that you don't get with a live performance and a lot of the Ghost "story line" is incorporated in the music videos as well. Great reaction as always and greets from Sweden....

[@rabidsmiles]

The whole Impera album is fantastic.

[@julienva1068]

Amazing album

[@erinhansen9773]

It's impeccable! Every album is amazing, but some of the different things they did on Impera is just *chefs kiss*

[@briankrimpens9820]

except searchlights.... feels off for me

[@nickgamboa]

Elizabeth…she gets it. She gets music, meanings an the interpretation. Fantastic video. Love, love, love your reaction to it all.

[@ImSumWhatMad]

YES!!!! I have been wanting you to get into Ghost for years! Tobias Forge has improved his vocals so much since he started. Ghost started as a passion project from him. He wrote all the songs in full, including instrumentation. He was an instrumentalist first, not a singer. But he took on the frontman role, and he's been making improvements on his vocal technique ever since. They have such a catchy style, and their live performances are incredible. I hope to see you react to more from them in the future!

[@LiberalsArePoop]

That's interesting to know, since I've always loved Tobias' voice and assumed singing was just natural for him.

[@SulserPumpkin]

His voice live is so incredible. So much theater and power, and honestly their recordings don't do him justice.

[@cheifneverwash]

Ghost is such an amazing band to see live. Their performances are always theatrical and very aestheticly pleasing. All the members of the band are wearing masks, including the singer. Each album they release, they cycle through a new iteration of the masks. My wife and I are going to see them at the end of the year. This will be my 3rd time seeing them and my wife first Ghost experience.

[@ahau9799]

Sending my best wishes to you are your wife! I'm sure she'll have a grand time at her first Ritual. Like they say, no one ever forgets their first time! 😂

[@fullmentalalchemist3922]

Denver?

[@stephenbeale4707]

Fun fact, Ghost is HEAVILY influenced by the rock and metal bands of the 80’s and they bring something unique and exciting. The he new Album Impera is AMAZING! Hopefully you will check out a few songs I think you will love it, love the reactions!

[@chriskeiser5809]

One of my absolute favorite bands. I’ve described them variously as Scooby Doo chase music with distortion and like if Black Sabbath and ABBA had a baby that sang exclusively about satan. They definitely flip between very poppy songs and heavier songs. Their best heavy songs are going to be things like From The Pinnacle To The Pit, Cirice, and Faith.

[@ashanein]

Omd this is perfect.

[@nightsgrow6575]

Brilliant description!

[@brettgood]

Scooby-doom

[@nikkireviews]

I love the Scooby-Doo comparison. That's so true. 😂

[@CorySwanson]

I was so ridiculously excited that you were finally doing Ghost! I really hope you keep exploring their discography. They don’t fit into one single genre and the lore behind it all is so very fun (if you are into that). The songs stand on their own without the lore, as well. Looking forward to seeing more!

[@spike2439]

Ghost transcends genre and time. Tobias Forge is a genius with how he's created Ghost's story. It's pure entertainment.

[@rhirhix6377]

love this reaction. the ghouls and ghoulettes are the backing vocals. omg theyre amazing they flow so well. its just heavan, i hope to see them live someday

[@07foxmulder]

15:49 I’m sure that would be one of the biggest compliments you could give Forge. His influences range from disco to punk to death metal to country. Ghost is such a fantastic band.

[@joelmarinier9199]

Ghost (in fact Tobias Forge's) real genius is to take all influences and blend them seemlessly in their music. From Beatles to Slayer going through 70's disco, Abba, Mercyful Fate he doesn't have much limits to what he creates. Ghost = top of the line music, top of the line lyrics, top of the line musicians, top of the line live show, one of the best I ever saw in my more than half century. And one of my top 5 favorite band.

[@markimoomoo8877]

That note on “high” ALWAYS gives me chills.

[@chungkuo]

Tobias is a phenomenal performer. I've seen 3 versions of Ghost live and every show is a blast. Can't wait to take my kid to a show when she's older. He paces himself and preserves his voice. There's always an instrumental so he can take a break. A real pro.

[@juanmanuelrodriguezgonzalez]

Ghost is such an amazing band and it's honestly really fun to see other people reactions to their music and lore. I'm so glad Elizabeth finally got to hear them since she always brings out the best of every artist. Can't wait for her to check out more from them, like square hammer, dance macabre, cirice, and so on. Diving into this band is just a fun thing to do.

[@WoodWizard13]

When I saw them in concert last year, his stage presence and physical movements really felt like a mix of David Bowie and Prince.

[@Deletirium]

I can definitely see that. I love Bowie...

[@ShounenN]

Their latest album "Impera" is some of the best music I've heard this decade! Incredible, incredible, INCREDIBLE!

[@hawaii2k]

My favourite album released last year.

[@holidayonion]

Impera instantly skyrocketed itself into my top 3 albums of all time. It's phenomenal in every way.

[@carnuatus]

Ding ding ding.

[@DerEchteBold]

Oh wow, thank you for this comment! Just looked it up, pretty much expecting not to like it cause I didn't like any of the songs I heard very much, except for Mary on a Cross and Kiss the Go-Goat... but 'Kaiserion' was insanely surprising and amazing, I'm curious what the rest will be like.

[@ShounenN]

@@DerEchteBold Spillways and pretty much every song from that album is a masterpiece..the guitar lines are so good too!

[@milesbass8979]

I was at this concert live. Unbelievably vibrant!

[@nathantumulty7172]

Their genre is all over the place depending on the song. Much like Avatar, every song brings something different. It's very refreshing..

[@jono330]

Avatar is absolutely the band most similar to Ghost!

[@MattKrogmeier]

I would LOVE for Elizabeth to give Avatar a listen! Not just for the spectacle, but for Johannes’ vocal abilities. Very versatile depending on the song…just don’t start with “Blod” 😂

[@jono330]

​@@MattKrogmeier gotta start with The Eagle Has Landed like I did!

[@MattKrogmeier]

@@jono330 I’d be all for that! That’s the song that got me into them!

[@jono330]

@@MattKrogmeier same!

[@michaelandrews9301]

I work as a stagehand and have worked for Ghost several times. Yes, the helmets have ventilation, the googles actually have a very broad range of vision and they use microphones like the ones you utilize for operatic performances and Broadway tours use.

[@stephaniemichaud6954]

Thanks for sharing that! It was really interesting. 👍😁

[@trevLV]

Square Hammer is their best song. I went to see them, years ago, opening for Iron Maiden. Wasn't expecting much. They opened with Square Hammer, and I instantly became a fan

[@matmatmatamatvsjdjfh]

objectively it isnt

[@trevLV]

@@matmatmatamatvsjdjfh its funny, because nobody gives one shit about YOUR opinion

[@night_ethereal]

I'm so jealous I would love to see both bands on the same night. I've seen Maiden twice they were fkg amazing live

[@Hellraiser988]

​@@matmatmatamatvsjdjfh between square hammer or his version of enter sandman

[@justingreen8572]

Now Iron Maiden opens for them.

[@nicholas920us]

Ghost is a whole performance art piece... there is lore, there are plotlines and apocalyptic themes that overide every album.

[@Torgonius]

Ghost is definitely a band you need to experience at a full live show. It is as much theater as it is a concert. Have seen them twice now. Seeing them again in Tampa this summer.

[@tjanderson6561]

Agreed. I'm going to my second Ritual this summer and cannot wait!

[@johnpeace971]

I saw them about 5 years ago in a theater, and it was an OK show. It seemed like they had the intention but not the money yet. They've come through town a couple of times since, but I've waited. Now they are in arenas, and I will now go expecting an Alice Cooper level amount of theatrics

[@katiehambrick3966]

I’ve been watching Ghost live since 2018, they’ve only gotten better with age!

[@nmmboy]

Finally! They’re like an orchestra from the dark side. “He is” is my favorite song from them 😩 🔥🔥🔥

[@edwardcalvet]

He is , is an Amazing song. The video is great too, I love the way it mocks evangelicals😂

[@nmmboy]

@@edwardcalvet lmao right? I let my religious friend listen to it, and he loved it so much. Then he froze up completely when I reread the lyrics to him 😂😂🥴

[@edwardcalvet]

@@nmmboy lol...that's Hysterical

[@edwardcalvet]

@@nmmboy I think this might be my favorite line from any song, he is The disobedience that holds us together. That is brilliant on so many levels.

[@nmmboy]

@@edwardcalvet Yes I love that line as well! So brilliant. My favorite one is “The guidance of the morning star, Will lead the way into the void.”

[@ericbolton9512]

Omg you should see them live! I've seen them four times. It NEVER gets old.

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

Cool!

[@WhimsicalHelvetesfönster]

I get to see them live in August for the first time and I can't wait!

[@ericbolton9512]

@@WhimsicalHelvetesfönster GIRL! YOU ARE IN FOR A TREAT! I am so happy for you!

[@justingreen8572]

@@WhimsicalHelvetesfönster You'll feel the fires of hell if you're in the pit lol

[@WhimsicalHelvetesfönster]

@@justingreen8572 I would love to be in the pit but I'm too old for that now and my body feels bad enough as it is lol.

[@Stevie_B_0828]

This channel has not only helped me appreciate music in new and exciting ways, but has opened my eyes, heart, and mind to genres of music i never would've taken a chance on if left to my own devices. Thank you, Elizabeth, for staring this channel and for breathing new life into the world of music. I've learned so much from you and this channel, and I look forward to many years of enjoyment thru this very channel. Elizabeth, you rock! 🤘😝🤘🩵

[@matthewganong1730]

This song was the B-side from a 2-song single album that was, in the lore, from the first incarnation of Ghost back in the late 60’s. Not only do they make great music, but there is an entire fictional lore that goes with it and keeps getting added to.

[@_minimoon_]

Ghost review!!! I waited so long to see this on this channel!! Hoping you'll love it as much as I do!!

[@Demidruid]

Fun fact: All the ghouls are technically nameless. But, all of them have fan pick nick names. The small one with the white guitar is Dew/Sodo, the larger one with the black guitar is Aether, the lanky one with a black and white guitar is Rain, the one on the left platform is Swiss. The drummer is Mountain, The two behind the the keyboards is Cumulus (shorter thick queen) and Cirrus (tall ripped queen), and the newest one is on the right platform is Sunshine (Some call her stratus also).

[@ellegee4043]

These are amazing fan made names!

[@irrelevantsafety]

I never realized how many members there were

[@Demidruid]

@@irrelevantsafety yeah me neither til I tried making them in 5he sims and had to make separate house hold for the ghouls and Papa

[@m.ericwatson968]

Did not know that, that is cool, thanks

[@elementzer01224]

Extremely fun fact. Bump.

[@DollyKauionalani]

It was tongue and cheek to those who follow the band lore. The story line is that everyone knows that Papa Emeritus 1 is his actual birth papa, but neither of them know it. It's a whole thing! They are so great live!!

[@closey2112]

So, you were on point, when you commented about the very beginning of the song, when Tobias said “ This is a song my Papa use to sing” The Papa he is referring to, was / is his former persona Papa Emiratis and Papa Emiratis II. Which were ghoulish Popes, when Ghost first hit the scene. They are a great band to see live and the crowds energy is always positive and contagious. Keep up the great work!

[@adrianz5614]

Actually, he refers to "Papa Nihil" the in universe father of the Papas I - III (and Papa IV but that was revealed later) The in universe timeline starts in the 60s when Papa Nihil was a young man

[@jeffravelius1]

It’s such a obvious fake reaction. No doubt she knew before hand about these personas. How would you just conclude that otherwise if you knew nothing about the band.

[@scwebb]

Mary on a Cross is an, er… “interesting” choice to start with! As others have said, this song is a deliberate 60s throwback. They do much heavier songs, but also a wide mix of styles. I saw them live last year and they’re the most fun band I’ve seen in decades.

[@sagestrange]

Oh crap! This made me so excited to see you do this. I love them, and you're amazing. Also, your confusion on what to call their genre is common. Goth Bon Jovi

[@Whispersfrommidgard]

Idk why but this song tears me up. Idk if it's just that beautifully written or something in the lyrics but the chorus tears me up

[@thickthickitythickface]

Same lol

[@hrbekroenick]

I'm part of the cult, and they blew me away, opening for Iron Maiden. Thank you for a beautifully executed video, as well as your honesty! This particular live performance made me fall in love with this song all over again. And I pause the breathless harmony changes as well! I must have listened to this 10 times in a row when it was first uploaded. I see all these random fans and I want to meet them in person and buy them a 🍸, and I'm a sober dude! Would love to see you watch the videos for Rats, Dance Macabre and Cirice though...

[@bulletsxdame]

Part of the cult too.

[@dennisfox8673]

I couldn’t click on this video fast enough! Welcome to Ghost fandom, the bewildering contradictions are so intriguing and well played that it really adds to the initial appeal. I suspect all the answers to your questions about details and their lore (backstory) have already been answered. But I want to share the first word I thought of when I started checking Ghost out. Flawless. You were definitely looking to put that into words, I’ve had more time so I’ll help out. The band is professionally flawless. They are all VERY solid musicians, but they are careful to not push to the limit of their abilities-whether that is Tobias in any of his incarnations, or any of the nameless ghouls he surrounds himself with. In the words of Glenn Tipton that allows them to play with complete confidence. In turn that allows them focus on delivering the overall experience of their songs, story, and performance. You should check out Kaisarion to hear one of the ghoulette back up singers hit the afterburners right at the jump. 🤘🏻🙂🤘🏻 Also, as long as I’m here I’ll throw out a plug for Lovebites Winds of Transylvania from Tokyo 2021. Although you really can’t go wrong with any of their stuff.

[@sugarwookiee]

I've been DYING for you to react to Ghost so this makes me sooo happy! You really captured my exact feelings toward Ghost which are that it looks one way but it's just so HAPPY. You've already got a ton of comments explaining the mask and the ghouls/ghoulettes, etc but I wanted to throw some more suggestions in. Dance Macabre is similarly happy while being dark. Cirice is just an amazing song overall. Ghost has a lot of varied sound but it's always catchy.

[@juttaman25]

Sydney and Melbourne got to experience it this week. And it was fucking amazing. One of the greatest concerts I’ve ever seen in my 50 years on this earth.

[@maevan360]

I'm so glad you're listening to Ghost! Honestly this is not the best song to start with, but I understand that it's their most viral. They cover a lot of genres. This song is meant to sound like a relic of the 60's. In terms of meaning, you could say it tells the story of Papa Nihil and Sister Imperator, the suspected parents of the current Papa. You could also say it's about Tobias and his wife's struggles with all they've been through and the band finally finding success. There's deep lore with the storyline of the band but you can enjoy the music without diving all the way in. The mask Tobias wears definitely effects his singing style, though he's improved his technique over the years tremendously. The current Ghoul masks actually have their mouths exposed so they are easier to sing and breathe in than the last masks. The background singers are amazing and you should check them out! Their identities are public now so they're easy to find. Almost all the ghouls are working on their own projects and are seriously talented. Give them a listen!

[@dustinjones8887]

YES!! Can't wait to see this. I've seen Ghost in concert twice so far (2013 and 2016 respectively). They sound soooo good in concert and put on a great theatric show. Check them out live---make it happen.

[@fadedgallipolirblx275]

I love your reactions. You're so knowledgeable and emotional with your assessments of songs.

[@nathanaelgazzard7989]

Just walked home from the concert. The energy in the crowd when they start this song is just... ooft.

[@DrewishAF]

You definitely need to check out more of their songs. They legitimately cover about 5 VERY different genres through several albums. Cirice, Square Hammer, Dance Macabre, Rats, Year Zero, and Call Me Little Sunshine sweep pretty well around their different styles/tones and each could have a solid video on their own. Oh, and the other members are "Nameless Ghouls." Tobias also changes his persona throughout the different albums from a Satanic Pope (such as different iterations of "Papa Emeritus") to various "dark clergy" and even this odd "human form of Satan" kinda dude. They definitely have some much different styles than what anyone really ever expects.

[@dancorrell2560]

PLEASE do more Ghost, Elizabeth!! They are amazing!!! Cirice, Square Hammer, He Is, Monstrance Clock, Dance Macabre.... so many awesome songs to explore!

[@carlmarks8170]

The two best Ghost songs, IMO, are their awesome cover versions of Pet Shop Boys and Roky Erickson kzbin.info/www/bejne/apyxlqealNF8ias

[@shiraarieli3731]

Ahhhhhhh so excited!❤ I've been waiting to see Elizabeth reacting to Ghost 😁

[@chrisdouglas5020]

I saw them a year and a half ago in Denver and they started Mary on a cross by “marijuana cross”. It’s was hilarious😂

[@johnlucas2317]

In addition to the sexual innuendos and the “lore” aspects involving Papa Nihil and Sister Imperator, some people have suggested that this song is indeed about smoking weed.