Trying Ghost Again. Vocal ANALYSIS of "Cirice".

[@Britton_Thompson]

*Fun Fact:* You're not the only one who was impressed by 'Cirice.' The rest of the music industry was too because Ghost won a Grammy for this song in 2016

[@jacquelyndavis7296]

This is the first American Grammy won by a Swedish band. Abba didn't even win one. Go Ghost!!!!!!! I was obsessed with them when they made this album with Simon and Martin.

[@Anni3BR]

Cirice just hypnotize people. I’m one of them 😅

[@darkbrandongamer]

It wasnt a spell. It touched your soul. Somehow Ghost can do that

[@stoddern]

Another fun fact, Tobias has stated that he really wanted this video to feel like a horror film in particular he wanted it to be his version of the movie Carrie. And i feel doing it as a young kids school talent show rather than having him and the gouls really stes the tone!

[@claytonkeever2992]

Awards don't really mean much anymore though.

[@tenrai5]

I love the duality in the meaning of this song. On the one hand, it’s about someone truly seeing you for the first time, seeing through the scars and defenses into your very soul, deeming it pure (not tainted). Then on the other hand, this is the way a manipulative, deceptive cult leader speaks in order to lure someone into their web. “Can’t you see that you’re lost without me?” And both meanings co-exist, and more!

[@rocioiribe5841]

totally agree! being truly seen can often be a seductive feeling you can get lost in to an unhealthy degree and this video captures that very well. what a beautiful song!

[@antivanti]

Reminds me of Charlie Manson singing "Look at your game, girl" to outsider girls who were never the center of attention

[@bstnlcge2662]

On top of that "Cirice" is the old english for "Church", which resonates even more with the lyrics.

[@fatimapalacios2292]

Yes. "Can't you see that you're lost without me" it's the distinctive lyric of the song.

[@metalmark1214]

Wow, so appropriate that it's about cultism. Here in United States we have a huge cult going on.

[@hokogan]

“Cirice” and “Square Hammer” were what got me into Ghost. If you really want to dive into his clean vocals, “If You Have Ghosts” and “I Believe” are absolutely incredible.

[@whoacarh]

Absolutely recommend both of them. Especially the live version on youtube of If You Have Ghosts. Great vocal performance by Tobias.

[@katmannsson]

For me it was Rats!, Square Hammer, and Cirice.

[@whoacarh]

@@katmannsson I love when Ghost spreads out from the blah. Rats, Square Hammer, Cirice, If you have ghosts, I believe... they all spread out from the blah of their career. Mary on a Cross is actually a favorite of mine. Sad to see that she didn't like it. Probably don't listen to the live performance of it? Popestar is fantastic. I basically love every single one of their EPs. Albums are about half great. I honestly don't think they've released a bad EP. Every song on their EPs is fucking great.

[@tracyntal.v]

for me it was mary on a cross because of TT, but i saw yesterday i had Dance Macabre 2019 in my old playlist. Sad that it took me so long to fully listend to Ghost and became a fan.

[@michaeldoyle189]

I found ghost with Secular Haze. But I've actually really enjoyed the trajectory of their music. Going from a metal band, to more of a rock band. It was awesome that they covered If You Have Ghosts. I love the Roky Erickson album The Evil One. Ghost knocked that cover out of the park.

[@linusfotograf]

You should do ’He is’ - it’s one of their best!

[@jeffhall2411]

Amen

[@hephaestus4242]

“He Is” and the video highlight the band’s aesthetic perfectly

[@antivanti]

The shining and the light without whom I cannot see

[@Kodaemon]

YES.

[@jmcm7291]

@@Kodaemon NEMA!

[@Fastwinstondoom]

That. That is the REAL Ghost. Mystical, groovy, gothic and heavy. Stand by Him, Zombie Queen, Square Hammer and He Is are other(in my opinion) prime examples of this!

[@VaultCourier380]

Zenith too

[@patrose7742]

Pinnacle to the Pit is another as well

[@MaxSoininen]

Pre Pontare and Al Fakir era ghost. The newer albums are co-written by swedish pop sensation Vargas & Lagola. You can hear it so clearly and it quite frankly sucks that their identity shines through so much.

[@Jerseyangel89]

Zombie Queen is my favorite because it turns into surf rock and it works so well

[@PsychoDiesel48]

@@MaxSoininen Strange. I'm just as big a fan of both eras so to speak. Their older work. Especially Meliora and Prequelle though.

[@mollymasters4694]

People get “Ciriced” at their gigs or “rituals” where he picks someone out from the crowd and serenades them during this song 😍🖤

[@ThatsShowbizBabyy]

Yesss I just saw them in Salt Lake City Utah and he did this!

[@mastod0n1]

Saw them in Clarkston, MI a couple days ago and he serenaded a girl in the front row and held her hand during the quiet "Can't you see that you're lost?" part and the amphitheater cameras stayed on her for a minute and the joy and disbelief in her face moved me to tears

[@ToastyMcGoo]

​@@mastod0n1I was at that show, too! It was such an entrancing moment, and I was super far back. I can't imagine how she felt in that moment, being sung to directly. They are such a charismatic group, I was absolutely blown away ,and am so thrilled and grateful that I got to see them live. Definitely a once in a lifetime experience.

[@thehauntedhive]

​@@mastod0n1goddammit of course I just discovered Ghost this week and they were just here in Michigan 4 months ago 😫 Next time they're here, I am SO going

[@theodorebear6714]

Didn't know this. That's really nice.

[@TenTonNuke]

I'm always impressed by the kid playing the singer. He's so cool and confident that I actually believe him to have occult-like powers.

[@mervifiskari-autio5319]

I think it’s she 🤔

[@Coyotzz]

​@@mervifiskari-autio5319 the singer?

[@MerWhinery]

@@mervifiskari-autio5319 Ghost: Cirice (Music Video 2015) - Andrew Ortega as Young Papa Emeritus III - IMDb.

[@MikkoSimila]

​@@MerWhineryRise of Papa Emeritus III. His first performance.

[@darryldouglas6004]

All hail our dark master! 🤟🏾

[@RabbitVasque]

I don't know if you've seen any live performances of this, but Papa will often pick one person (typically a woman or a younger child) and sing this song DIRECTLY to them. Back in the old days before the security line between the audience and the stage, he'd take their hand and hold it through the chorus.

[@6maniac6metal6]

Back in the old days? The song came out in 2015, quit making me feel old!

[@TextRibbon]

They did a live performance on Stephen Colbert for Halloween a few years back and I’m pretty sure they had something along those lines on stage!

[@HmmWelp]

Iirc he stopped doing that because so many spent the time looking at their phones as they recorded rather than appreciating the moment.

[@jmwmusic91]

@@HmmWelp Stages are too big, too. Can't often reach over the barrier

[@mmilcz833]

@@HmmWelp He didn't stop though. He only stopped holding the hand, I assume because it is basically physically impossible with the way the venues are set up. But he still crouches down, looks at one person and holds his hand out in their direction (or some combination of those things). Don't know if he said anything along the lines of what you mentioned, but if he did, he seems to have changed his mind since.

[@rottensquid]

As a lyric, "I can feel the thunder that's breaking in your heart" is kind of a masterpiece. There's a lot to unpack in that phrase.

[@iansimmons735]

Together with, 'I can see through the scars inside you...'

[@rottensquid]

@@iansimmons735 There's nothing more seductive than feeling seen. That's why "Don't you know that you're lost without me" is such a twisted follow-up line. It's classic manipulation, making you feel seen, and then using that to control you. That old song "Liar" by Henry Rollins was talking about the same stuff.

[@hafizurmahdi5284]

Tell me about it

[@pilgrimspromise1132]

The piano at that part where the band goes quiet is haunting

[@sebastiandececchis5102]

To continue you on your Ghost journey, might I recommend their song “He Is”? It’s just as beautiful as it is dark and really showcases Tobias’ vocal capabilities 😅

[@juhgata1000]

And the videoclip is awesome. I love the humor in there

[@codyallen43]

Meliora is an actual masterpiece. Other songs that absolutely need a reaction include: -From the Pinnacle to the Pit -Deus in Absentia -Square Hammer

[@jennakate4006]

Yes these are all good songs, she should also listen to Dance Macabre.

[@alec3064]

Love Deus in Absentia

[@mwithey97]

He Is should definitely be on that list

[@crowkiller0668]

Absolution

[@pickleshanks]

Just, like, the whole damn album is all bangers. Even Devil Church is excellent, and it’s basically just an intermission lol

[@Catnap39360]

It's a rare privilege to watch a person fall in love in real time. Thank you for giving us front row seats to this.

[@jonroberts2760]

There’s a reason they won a Grammy for this one. So good

[@jonroberts2760]

2016 Grammy win for best metal performance bud. Look it up

[@SanjayPulver]

I've heard that this music video takes inspiration from the end of Carrie where she uses her telekinetic powers. Also, the kid dressed as Papa did a GREAT job of capturing Tobias' energy. So glad you are checking out more of their stuff!

[@PlugInKali]

If you've "heard" that, it means you haven't watched it, because it's pretty obvious to anyone who has watched that film or read that book. Also the lyrics, since Carrie was told by her extremist christian mother that she was a monster, the anti-pope is telling her that he can see her scars and understand the pain she's been through and is asking her to join him.

[@cmorrow74]

I totally got Carrie vibes the first time I watched this video.

[@billwoolcott4932]

I definitely thought of Carrie the first time I saw the video...even the lyrics talk about her inner turmoil with wanting to be a normal girl but being told over and over that she's evil...

[@richardsinclair7661]

@@PlugInKali There are ways to correct someone without sounding like a condescending jerk. Chill the hell out.

[@applecracker]

Agree...The Carrie reference is quite obvious.

[@PsclDragonBorn]

What I love about Ghost is that you have so many vibes in one band. Tobias is so amazing in creating a mood. When I wanna hear his voice and wanna hear something catchy and groovy I go for „Mary on a Cross, Dance macabre, Kiss the Go Goat“ but when I want more power and anger I go for „rats, cirice, square hammer“ Ghost is such an unique thing and I loveeee it.

[@yduronerom6380]

Well said 👏 They have it all and then some. Badasses with style and pure entertainment live show ability. What more can you ask for in a bunch of dudes who make music happen? Plus a few babes roaming around ain't bad either. Without a doubt one of my favorite bands to bless my ear holes.

[@cosmicbrambleclawv2]

That's actually partly why I was so late to the Ghost party 😂 I'm pretty sure I heard one of the darker angry songs in high school or college and was like "Mm it's ok but I'm not vibing" And then just never looked into it until thankfully stumbling across the original version and quickly after, the Carpenter Brut remix of Dance Macabre a year or two ago 👌 And I've now had Mary on a Cross stuck in my head for 2 days straight 😂 (discovered Call Me Little Sunshine earlier, definitely enjoy that one as well, but the tempo to MOAC is drowning it out so I can't quite sing it in my head 😂)

[@MattKrogmeier]

There's a reason this song won a Grammy! Glad you gave Ghost another chance, and certainly hope you'll give them a few more spins! I recommend "Ritual," "Year Zero," "From The Pinnacle To The Pit," "Zenith," or maybe get into some of their excellent cover tunes, particularly "If You Have Ghosts" or maybe "Bible." As for the video - I'm *pretty* sure it's a riff on the old horror classic "Carrie." Seems that way to me, anyway.

[@thevoodooview]

This, to me, is peak Ghost. I feel like they haven't had this sound since this song but I'm not entirely certain they even want to. Ghost is always introducing fresh sounds with each track and it's one of the things that makes them unique.

[@mryoung0412]

Yea its my favorite also, really great melody and theme. They're not a one hit wonder but imo they haven't matched this song since.

[@lordskysixss]

Yes, i like that in them. They are always changing, but i also think that they change the sound as the lore unfolds. It is possible to return to a doom metal like sound form their earlier work. It all depends on how Tobias develops Ghost's lore.

[@thevoodooview]

@@lordskysixss I like the changing sounds as well.

[@twintetra5]

THE MOST BASED TAKE EVER. their best aspect is theyre not really pinned down to one sound they heavily shift constantly and its fucking great

[@thevoodooview]

@@twintetra5 I'm certain that it Tobias wanted this sound again he would write a song that would bring the same if not even more energy.

[@javkhlantugstugsbayar]

worked on their concert once, a hand on my heart, they sound 100 times better live, which is weird given how good they already are just through earphones

[@Saintbaileys]

I can confirm ghost Is 💯 better live. Like Queen, it's impossible to truly respect or understand just what Tobias is capable of until you hear it in person.

[@Sephvf]

Agreed, I went to my first ritual a couple weeks ago and I'm still mesmerized by how beautiful they were live.

[@thing_under_the_stairs]

So true. I have no idea how they do it (apart from having 8 extremely talented and skilled Ghouls onstage with Tobias) every time, but they really *DO* sound better live.

[@davidbickham7318]

Fully agree. Saw them live for the first time recently and it really does feel like Ghost in its purest form

[@theuglybarnacle885]

100% agree! Just watched them in Sydney, Australia this week and absolutely blew me away with how good they were live!

[@SacrificingNothing]

I am a new Ghost fan after hearing Year Zero on a puppy meme video lol. I got so sucked into the lore and everything. I’ve been watching every live performance I can find, had every album on repeat nonstop and listened every interview. It’s been a great 2 weeks. Tobias is truly such a mega talent. I can’t imagine my life without Ghost now. If you have Ghost, you have everything ❤

[@Sh4dow_7802]

We all been through that 😊 I recently started to collect the stage clothes and masks they use

[@SacrificingNothing]

@@Sh4dow_7802 that is so awesome! I am so jealous! I am so tempted by the blanket hoodie thing that looks like Copia’s robe on the merch site, I can’t imagine having a real one. So cool!

[@UltimateGamerCC]

welcome to the Clergy, Brother Stan.

[@WastedTalent-]

My addiction started with the last Ghost analysis.

[@giddyhippy2015]

Welcome to the Clergy, friend!

[@demondaddy328]

So I have to say about this song particularly, this was the one that got me hooked onto Ghost and going down the rabbit hole of Tobias as a musician. This song, however musically and melodically beautiful, has so many messages that spoke to me on such a spiritual and personal level the first time I heard it. That line of “I know your soul is not tainted even though you’ve been told so” was a lightbulb that blew up in my brain after I left the Evangelical church as an adult. I listened to this song so many times when I was transitioning out of organized religion and then started learning more about Tobias and his own upbringing and how it has influenced his music. Music really is a universal language.

[@shanebeaulieu917]

Her reactions... priceless. The pure joy that sounds in the right way give her just make you smile. She loves what she does, and it shows.

[@MightyMoon1]

It’s amazing how well Tobias sings through the masks. For me, Ghost is the only band with no skippable songs on any albums. Even the short transitional songs are really beautiful!

[@ACNordstrom]

Idk there are some songs that I ain't a fan of but Impera slaps from end to end.

[@tjanderson6561]

Tbh the only song of their entire discography I skip, every time, is their cover of missionary man. But to be fair I always hates that song. 😂

[@yduronerom6380]

Don't forget about one of my favorites. Ghuleh or Zombie Queen yo. It's just got that certain je ne sais quoi. I know that y'all wouldn't disagree or do something to doubt my ass about this shit....because it might possibly be taken the wrong way and nobody wants that shit to ever happen...again....we all remember what happened last time don't we? The damn law doesn't even come around anymore after all that went down, and it's just referred to as that unpleasantness wasn't right and should be forgotten by all who were allowed to remain amongst the unburied and still upright.

[@arkham2835]

​@tjanderson6561 I didn't like it at first but it grows on you

[@rottensquid]

He said in a recent interview that he's getting sick of singing in the masks. He compared it to trying to perform ballet in flip-flops. I assume he's going to drop it fairly soon.

[@nikoiscreative]

When I hear the "I can feel the thunder..." lines, I feel the same emotional tug that just pulls at me like "Life Eternal" does.

[@andynewman9637]

His voice is so soothing

[@bilboswaggins9921]

You can definitely hear how careful Tobias was to give each era and Papa their own sound.

[@scottamacker4481]

I don't throw the word genius around loosely, but the lyrics to this song are purely genius. The music complements them so well.

[@leerobbo92]

This era of Ghost was so, so good. This and Square Hammer are two of my absolute favourite songs from the last decade.

[@l337dta]

@@leerobbo92 same, still listen to those two songs specifically all the time

[@antivanti]

"He is" is also one of my absolute favorite from this album

[@wtice4632]

​@@leerobbo92 little sunshine goes hard. Its just as good

[@digitalmouse3314]

It's actually a really good song but I'm a B-Side guy myself I usually like the less popular songs

[@CCluff]

Cirice is masterpiece. It was really fun watching you get bewitched by this song. We’ve alllllll experienced the same thing.

[@blast3613]

It's the song that caught me. LOL, I'm sitting here in my PAPA Jaws T-shirt.

[@meistyr]

Love this song

[@codycooper5768]

definitely one of the tunes that got me into ghost! Awesome, awesomely great video as well!

[@Mike-hs2jc]

The band's sound has evolved SO much over the years. Even just from Prequelle to their most recent album Impera, their vibes are so different, yet still stay rooted to well... their roots. Always though, it sounds amazing.

[@FoxyBlocks]

This song live is something else, watching papa holding someones hand while he sings this song is so hypnotic!

[@rachelsmithkey9191]

Also, PLEASE react to their acoustic performance of "If you have ghosts". You can hear his voice under the mask and see how it affects his singing. Plus its SUCH a good performance. You'll fall in love with them in you hear it, i promise.

[@Chelidda]

I'm not a huge fan of Ghost, but Cirice blows my mind and gives me chills every single time. It's got to be one of the best songs from the last ten years. Fantastic!

[@Tom-ok2rh]

You sound like a fan to me🤔🤔

[@rottensquid]

I'm not really a metal fan at all, but there's something about this band's approach. They're super theatrical and silly, and it makes a nice change from the over-seriousness of most metal.

[@phrike7588]

In about 25 years only two songs has sent shivers down my spine and that's "Chop Suey" and "Cirice." There's something about taking a surprising left turn melodically and finding some kind of angelic tone that really tingles the spine - in this case it's the "...breaking in your heart" in the quiet part.

[@bodiwire]

@UngodlyU You should check out Chop Suey in the style of Ghost by Anthony Vincent.

[@marathon8954]

I've seen people moan about Tobias' voice - limited range blah, blah, blah. Personally I think it's great to hear someone in this genre, though they straddle so many, who isn't constantly screeching and wailing but simply just singing the song. Love them - they are both comforting as you feel like you already know them and staggeringly brilliant at the same time. Truly precious in these lean times.

[@GeekFurious]

Limited range? He's originally a death metal singer. He can probably do ALL the things any of the so-called great metal singers can do.

[@dodothebird4101]

He does magic with his "limited range" 😏

[@MagnaRyuuDesigns]

​@@GeekFurious Right and if you do actual vocal analysist of each Papa, each 'singing voice' is different. So whoever says he has "limited range" have no clue what they are talking about.

[@RobbieFitzgerald]

I wasnt a fan of his vocals at first. In fact they turned me off the band when I first discovered them on myspace many years ago because it felt bland. He does sing in a bit of a more subdued way at times on this album and the older stuff. So I can get why people dont like it because frankly nothing before Meliora has clicked for me. But I digress.

[@SaaraSofia94]

Yeah. I too have seen people moan to Tobias' voice. Not in this way but oh well...

[@ArgelTal_]

last time she was like "i thought this was supposed to be metal?!" ... jeah. :D THIS one, won a grammy for best metal song. you got pressed into the wrong song to start off the journey with ghost ... lots of more different experiences still to choose from. they are very very variable. but i still get goosebumps with Cirice.

[@176crt]

Two words …. HE IS I’m one month new to Ghost, and in the later half of my fifties. If you can manage to find the live version of HE IS from San Francisco, you get the stage presence and energy. Beautiful song . Love your reactions

[@audiooddities9982]

He Is is the bomb! in my opinion, the best song on the album.

[@jimmynaylor1759]

The live version on Swedish TV with the marionettes is my favourite.

[@mmilcz833]

I introduced my grandma to Ghost recently, she's 73 and absolutely in love with the sound (she says it reminds her of her youth, which checks out - would be late 60s to 80s when she was in late teens to 30s), so I don't think that you can ever be too old for Ghost. I am just over two months in my Ghost obsession and just saw them exactly one week ago - it was incredible.

[@mattdad8429]

Welcome to the fold.

[@julieross1984]

Saw them live a couple nights ago. "He is" live was something else... Literally obsess now.

[@ISDExecutor71]

Ghost pulled me in with “Square Hammer”. This song and “Dance Macabre” are also awesome.

[@just4joebob]

No joke, those are the big three that got me hooked to them.

[@StevieDrawStuff]

I love dance macabre

[@Talon18136]

Dance macabre is one of my favorite and the hunters moon my third favorite is call me little sunshine

[@atvena]

Rats

[@justaponyyy]

i was at their concert yesterday, it's hard to describe how epic it is

[@djangorestraind596]

They're amazing live

[@myrtolab.8045]

I saw them a week ago and Cirice was just mesmerizing and haunting. Just beautiful

[@craigmurphy1204]

Caught them in Glasgow back in 2019. Their little pre-song guitar duel featured a nifty cover of 500 Miles by the Proclaimers - got the biggest cheer of the night 😂

[@yduronerom6380]

Whoa I fukin love you for saying that mess. Hopefully it's allowed...but Shitabrick yo I wanna know what that was and is like one day, a dear friend who has passed on turned me on to Ghost after I showed him some King Diamond and his ass was so damn right when he gifted me the blessings of Ghost. I miss that dude all the time and will always love this band and I'll await for my turn to be allowed to switch forms of energy and kick it with my brother Terrance Williams or as I called him T-Bone or what he chose T-Rod, but sorry bro you will remain T-Bone. 😢

[@MikeB128]

Yup. 100% agreed.

[@Ashannon888]

My favorite part of the video are the couple I call the Addams Family. You see them in the first part looking bored but polite. But when everything is over and chaos is supreme, they're cheering and applauding. (I assume the boy singer is their child or there some lore tidbit I missed) It's just so delightfully fitting with Ghost's aesthetic. The macabre winning out over the mundane.

[@yduronerom6380]

I agree but enjoy the dude ripping off the shirt superman style and revealing the pimp ass chest tattoo with that evil face just happy as hell 😀 Pure gold 👌

[@Elenuay]

Yes!! They're exactly like the Addams' at their kids talent show where everyone basically drowned in a sea of fake blood xD

[@edithgruber2125]

Thank you for giving Ghost a second chance. Cirice sent me down the rabbit hole in 2016 and I haven't looked back since. I have also checked out Tobias's other projects like the death metal band Repugnant and the rock band Subvision. I'd definitely recommend the songs 'Scenario' or 'Son of May' from Subvision's debut album 'So Far So Noir'. The changes in rhythm in Scenario are quite surprising and he shows what he can do vocally. While I like his voice in general, I think it fits the music of Subvision perfectly, I like it better there than in some Ghost songs. Oh and there are some Easter eggs in Subvision songs that are reminiscent of riffs that are used in Ghost songs. It's brilliant.

[@andrewludwig9251]

My dearest Elizabeth, I do believe that a 2 hour interview between yourself and Mr. Tobias Forge would be in high order! You picked up on all the little things that Tobias Forge seeks to have in every song he writes so the dynamic would be amazing. I think it would be KZbin gold if you could pull this off!

[@lovely_Lilitu]

I agree. Hard. I loved seeing her and David Draiman. Now we need her and Tobias! Yes!

[@wmxx2000]

This is one of Ghosts best songs. That riff, as a guitar player, is extraordinary.

[@terrythompsonmusicianwinds601]

I am glad you gave Ghost a second chance and welcome to the Ghost rabbit hole! They have so many different styles in their songs and pick another one like "He is" and you will be impressed again. Tons of great songs!

[@soberguy0]

Spillways is probably my all time favorite ghost song. It's a toe tapping, gyrating, stuck in your head kind of tune and really hits on every end with a good crunchy tune.

[@crimsonpriestess5519]

I am always amazed by the performances of the little girl and the kids playing the band members. So good! You should also give their song Square Hammer a listen sometime!

[@ezekielv2479]

Tobias is honestly a genius. Most of his albums are all him playing the instruments and the Ghouls obv help on stage. Their whole persona is interesting to me because Tobias has said a Papa is essentially someone who spreads the word of a said religion. Like for example, Jesus is a Papa. Tobias said “why not have an evil Papa who can sing??” Thus, Ghost was born. Although most of them are not even Satanists as many may tend to believe at surface value. They are such a talented band and sound just as good live bc i’ve seen them live and they are absolutely stellar. 🤘🏽

[@charleslatham7800]

Ghost is just so singular in what they’re creating, and I love that you’re being exposed to them. As a massive fan of you and your content, in addition of course to how much I appreciate this particular artist, I must IMPLORE you to treat yourself to what I believe is their very most recent offering, a ballad-y duet masterpiece featuring Patrick Wilson, the actor no less, entitled Stay. It is breathtaking.

[@JacobMinger]

I’ve had that version on repeat almost every day since hearing it. I love it

[@rottensquid]

Singular, that's a good word. They're simultaneously retro and brand new, self-serious and yet completely silly. It's nice to see stage performers actually having fun and putting on a show.

[@kevsmart]

If you want to move onto the next iteration of Ghost check out Square Hammer or Dance Macabre. Both featured a change from the haunting style of the Meliora album and the Papa Emeritus III era (though Hammer was still technically Papa) to the Cardinal Copia era of Forge's and Ghost's personality that has carried through the Prequelle and Impera albums.

[@davidkilby1043]

Both amazing songs

[@Celeste-.-marie]

Two of my favorite songs

[@user-yy7tw9hv9n]

@@Celeste-.-marie I"m honestly surprised she hasn't checked out Daria Zaritskaya

[@MBrulla]

She thinks her head was banging to the groove before. Macabre is just infectious.

[@slartbarg]

They very deservedly won a Grammy for this song. There's honestly so much more by them you could check out by them like Dance Macabre or Spillways if you want to check out some of the slightly newer stuff. Square Hammer is probably definitely a must-check-out. Their older stuff is absolutely great too - Ritual, Monstrance Clock, Secular Haze, and their cover of Here Comes the Sun

[@lanimorris2462]

Welcome to the spell of Ghost. They are polished. Every sound you hear is deliberate and drives/pulls you to a conclusion. It is complicated, yet concise. Dissonant yet beautiful. It’s primal yet sophisticated. Who’s capable of these juxtapositions of rawness and perfection? I’m lost yet found🤣.

[@azariahknight1240]

Glad you felt hypnotized! In the community at one of their “Rituals”/concerts an audience member is normally serenaded during this song, being what the community calls being “Cirice’d”. So it did its job 😂

[@jonmacnevin1223]

They are one of those bands where you can clearly hear all their influences, yet they still somehow manage to be completely original.

[@ElyonDominus]

I scrolled through comments and didn't see this come up. The part in the video where you call out to Stranger Things and Eleven is very likely a nod to Carrie. Though with how layered Tobias / Ghost is/are with music and lyrics, and his penchant for theatrics, it could be many, many things and i think that's very special with Ghost. Some songs I might suggest are: Year Zero, Rats, Twenties, Mummy Dust, Kiss The Goat, and Pinnacle To The Pit. My favorite band is Queen and I see a lot of their music in Ghost; from the theatrics, layered meanings, rich lyrics, and breadth of genres that Ghost moves around in while not being afraid to change things up. Thank you for breaking this down, reacting, and helping viewers not only discover this band but also appreciating the skill and care that goes into this and other songs.

[@BayouCouyon]

The fact that Tobias does all the vocals (harmony and all) for the official vids...absolutely amazing!!! Can't wait to see them in September!!!

[@Exalted_in_Venus]

I can't wait to see them October!! Have you seen that video of the woman in the front row of a show and Tobias is singing this song to her and she's like 😲😍😢

[@jennaweiler5936]

We are seeing them in August! My 15yr old cannot wait

[@dvprater314]

Going to see them in September, too. Can't wait.

[@ingeniouswild]

You're in for a treat. Saw them 3 days ago, they played at a festival one day after Iron Maiden and while maiden was good, Ghost made them look bleak in comparison especially if you take into account all the things that go into a show, lighting, mixing, harmonizing, theatrics..

[@youruncleolaf4694]

@@Exalted_in_Venusi'm seeing them in october too!! will you be at riverstage?

[@ErizotDread]

I feel like this is just one of those perfect songs....everything in it is such high quality, and everything works so well with everything else that you can't imagine any part changing in the slightest. It's just a brilliant masterpiece of a song...and video as well.

[@gloriouslumi]

Still waiting on a return to Ghost!! "Dance Macabre" and "Square Hammer" are Ghost staples, while "Hunter's Moon" is probably my favorite off their most recent album, along with "Kaisarion"

[@jeremyfitzgerald3733]

She hasn't figured out that each incarnation of Papa and Copia gives a different feel when he sings. He changes his inflections based on each character he portrays.

[@DerrickRG91]

Kinda lame really. Just make music.

[@jeffreyramsaur796]

​@@DerrickRG91 jU​​​sTmAkEmUsIc derp 🥴 Only thing lame here is u dude 😂

[@randomvideogamestuff7644]

@@DerrickRG91 lol wat

[@taylorlacusta2075]

​@DerrickRG how is that lame? Its a true talent. And they are _literally_ just "making music"🤦🏼‍♀️

[@MikkoSimila]

True. I'm definitely leaning into Papa era. Emeritus feels like this evil force of nature, like Sith Nihilus from Kotor 2. And it shows in their music, the power. Copia while good music, feels different.

[@Gruncival]

I am not a Ghost enjoyer, but this song is singularly incredible and I would never deny their musical skill. Great choice.

[@aidanmcauliffe8999]

I definitely feel like Ghost is a band you also have to watch live performances to fully appreciate them

[@donsolo96]

^This. Went with my 21 year old daughter to see them in Concord. My expectations were low. The actual performance? Blew me away. GREAT live band.

[@dadeligtfuldazzlingderika33]

I loved their music b4 seeing them live, after I became OBSESSED! They put on an amazing show ❤

[@ZackSparks]

It's so perfect seeing you get hypnotized by the song at times, and getting snapped out by the sudden shifts

[@asura_x7512]

I think I never saw you this excited analyzing a song, hardcore Ghost fan here, and that excitement we saw in your face (and the headbanging need too), it's what brought us to this band, Tobias Forge is an awesome musician, in every way, thanks for this XX

[@BlanckMortuary]

I discovered Ghost because of my kid. We went to Ritual a couple of weeks ago. It was an amazing show, you need to attend.

[@Mistheart101]

honestly the Ceremony and Devotion version of Cirice, recorded from a live concert, is also incredible. the crowd gets *so* into it, and I adore it

[@NecroGrin]

So glad you gave Ghost another chance! You should listen to "Rats" or "Square Hammer" next

[@ConAnd81]

Two good suggestions, "Square Hammer" is my favourite Ghost song, but I honestly think it would be more interesting to see her analyse "Rats."

[@VeilSideZ32]

No… that’s going the opposite direction of what she likes…

[@alementary4065]

With very few exceptions, I've never listened to a Ghost song I loved right off the bat. I've almost never failed to fall in love with them after repeated listens.

[@m-s6762]

I've experienced the same thing. I'd say the only ones I loved almost instantly were Cirice, Miasma (which really got me into Ghost in fact), then Mary On a Cross (because it made me feel like I'd known it my whole life)

[@melaniezarth1109]

I have to say I instantly fell in love with Square Hammer ❤️

[@Josephkerr101]

I've noticed this as well I keep jumping song to song and finding myself going back and one by one loving them more and more. I kind of disdained cirice and square hammer at first coming off of year zero... but I just can't get enough of them now.

[@lisahoshowsky4251]

I think I’m going through the same thing right now. Caught myself humming Danse Macabre today after initially dismissing it months ago but now with multiple listens I think it’s got its claws in me along with the band as a whole

[@misery441]

Great video, Elizabeth. I think contrast is what makes this song so remmarkable; the music is dark, disonant, and heavy, but the vocals are so clean and soothing, and the lyrics adress you directly. You stand in the presence of impending doom, yes, but Tobias' voice make you feel like you're in the right side of it. This doom will not destroy you, it will set you free. The ones who will be destroyed are the others, those who aren't like you. It's very cathartic, in a seriously dark way. The lyrics feel so honest, close, and even tender, but you can also sense a lot of toxic manipulation behind those sweet words. There is so much to appreciate here, it's a truly incredible song.

[@gmorkins6006]

Best Ghost song in my opinion. I feel like this song encapsulates everything they were going for conceptually. Chorus is a classic and that guitar solo is so perfectly simple.

[@GeekFurious]

Not even the 20th best Ghost song.

[@stillbrian9448]

Spillways would be a fantastic reaction from them, they went total 80's poprock. It's super catchy

[@scattershock]

I'm so glad you gave Ghost another shot! MOAC is definitely a fun song, but there's so many other tracks that really show what Tobias can do. Fingers crossed for more Ghost reactions soon - I'd love to see what you think of Kaisarion.

[@sharpefilms2287]

Completely agree. I do love Mary on a Cross but it’s almost a shame that it’s their song to go super viral because it just doesn’t represent quite so much what Ghost is.

[@Talon18136]

@@sharpefilms2287it’s bc it’s catchy and pop themed those are the songs that usually hook people in then they find other songs they like in the bands repertoire it also helps they blend alot of genres and eras of music as well but I would expect nothing less of a Swedish band

[@Martin-jk2ng]

Absolutely love Ghost. They have a wide, varied base of muscial styles that are all throwbacks to older eras of metal and hard rock. You're gonna get a bit of anything is possible with this band. Love that you're revising them

[@kaffeeleiche303]

Got to see them live in Hamburg, Germany last week. It was my first concert ever and damn, we were blown away! My friends and I love their music, but their live perfomance is something else, we sang at the top of our lungs. The uniting power of music! Also, Iearned about "getting ciriced". Sometimes when they play Cirice live he goes down on one knee, reaches out to one person in the front row, holding their hand while singing the chorus. Anyway, I love Ghost and your videos! ❤

[@ahsmachinist]

This is the song that brought my full attention to Ghost and what they're capable of. Fantastic video for a fantastic song! Wonderful analysis as always Elizabeth! 🤘

[@IL_801]

Cirice was my first Ghost song, and it NEVER fails to hypnotize and seduce. There's so many layers, it's truly art ❤

[@vannahvengeance1992]

Mine too. When I saw they were nominated for a Grammy for this song I decided to check it out. Hooked eversince.

[@charlottesometimes4]

Me too, when it first came out 😍 God I love Ghost

[@MooseyFate100]

Hearing Ghost do "Sympathy for the Devil" gave me a lot of extra respect for Tobias's voice and what it can do. That cover is definitely worth a reaction!

[@taylornielsen1048]

This is definitely my favorite Ghost song. It showcases the vocal range of Tobias, along with the catchy riffs and solos, and as you mentioned: the killer drums and the thumping bass guitar. It’s just a fantastic song.

[@CorySwanson]

Cirice and Square Hammer were songs that sent me down the Ghost rabbit hole about a year and a half ago. Welcome to the Ghost fam! I had the privilege of seeing them live at their ritual in Nampa, ID last year and I'm going to my second ritual this August in Utah (fans refer to the concerts as rituals... further builds the lore behind the band--and the lore is quite deep and very fun). Hoping to see you do more Ghost on here!

[@theodorebear6714]

Art is up for interpretation *however-* She is not being controlled by the singer. She was controlled and he wants her to know that that there is a "thunder that's breaking in your heart". Her power was unlocked when it was implied that she had more power than others let on. He wants you to know that he "can see through the scars inside you" He is not casting a spell. He's dispelling a spell. He is speaking to us because we all have scars inside us. We all can have a thunder in our hearts Even when we don't hear this song I want to remember that I am more than my scars and that a powerful thunder in my heart can give me strength and courage to be kind to others and spread joy even when it's difficult. If I'm being bullied or I see someone else being bullied/abused/controlled I know that they are more than their scars or perceived flaws. It takes courage and conviction to do a talent show like that where people won't agree with your song. The parents were so proud of their son for showing deep kindness to someone else, just as they had shown kindness to him.

[@guffepuffe]

Its just amazing how u shunned the "mainstream" Ghost and instead it was their older heavier and darker metal that made u love them. You're a true metalhead now Elizabeth! On another note, it's time u bless us with a reaction of the cranberries live performance of zombie from -99

[@stephantom8237]

Funny how relative everything is. To everyone I knew, this was already mainstream Ghost. The first album was its own era, when it was underground and completely accepted by “True Metal” fans. Saw them in a tiny venue on one of their first US tours. So weird how much has changed! Most of my metalhead friends disavowed them a many years and albums ago but I still like them.

[@101Mant]

​@@stephantom8237 arguing over what is "true metal" is one of the saddest things about sone metal fans. The ridiculous gatekeeping that happens just makes them look small minded. I say that as a life long metal fan who grew out of this sort of thing.

[@Harvest133]

@@101Mant If you don't gatekeep your hobbies/organizations you fall victim to entryism from bad faith actors.

[@Ashannon888]

@@Harvest133 And if you do gatekeep you eventually wither and die. Better to not gatekeep and just get rid of the bad faith actors. And honestly, most gatekeepers I find are pretty bad faith actors themselves.

[@Harvest133]

@@Ashannon888 if you don't gatekeep the bad faith actors win. There is no compromise.

[@hraefn1821]

James Hetfield is a huge Ghost fan and has been to a lot of their concerts. There's backstage footage of him playing this riff and Kirk being like "Duuuude...what's that?" James grins like a kid and says "Cirice...Ghost..."

[@Lurch685]

That. Is. Fucking. Awesome.

[@TheComicBookJoker]

@@Lurch685 Yeah, James also gave them a spot in the 2012 Orion Music festival, and personally introduced them. He’s been a fan of theirs since 2010.

[@robthorne2077]

@@TheComicBookJoker I saw them at the AC Orion and they sounded incredible. They’re stage show has come a long way since then.

[@reylann2965]

I'm going to see Ghost in October, I am very excited. This song was what got me hooked on them. It just worms it's way into your brain like a bewitching spell. It also reminded me of the novel Carrie by Steven King.

[@headshots989]

I've seen Ghost 3 times now at concerts. They are always top notch. I perfer the older songs like cirice, mummy dust, year zero, square hammer, from the pinnacle to the pit, and faith.

[@MerelvandenHurk]

I think I heard all of those last Thursday at Graspop 🤟 Also my third or fourth time seeing them. I started listening when Meliora had just come out, but I got into them through mainly Ghuleh / Zombie Queen and Elizabeth, and then started listening in order from Opus onward. Elizabeth is also a musical masterpiece ❤

[@aaronloftus1573]

This was actually the first Ghost song I heard from them and been hooked since. One of my favorites is Darkness At The Heart Of My Love, such a great song that you can get lost into.

[@kmonoski]

Watching you experience this song brought me joy and gave me chills…I fell in love with Ghost all over again. I deeply miss seeing them at smaller venues and getting Ciriced is one of my fondest memories. Tobias is absolutely mesmerizing when he stares into your soul and sings directly to you. 🥰🖤🤘🏻

[@Lurch685]

This riff is just so freaking chuggy and awesome. I love it.

[@MagnaRyuuDesigns]

Each version of GHOST is different because each lead singer is a different character portrayed by Tobias. Each is so different that vocal analysist of each one shows a difference that is actually really amazing.

[@blazedbat]

I've been a ghost fan since 6th grade and I'm 21 now. there's really no one like them and I'm so thankful to have had them through my life.

[@wwondertwin]

Tobias' voice has really matured recently btw. I saw them now on the Re-Imperatour and he's so good live, even better than a year ago.

[@satalitegirl]

This is my favourite Ghost song. As someone who has experience domestic abuse in the past, it reminds me of the power and control that one person can have over another. However, I interpret the thunder as the strength to break free of the manipulation.

[@EricFord1975]

I'm sorry to hear that you had to go through that. Music can be so healing, so hopefully this song helped you.

[@beowulf1417]

The layers to Ghost from the compositions to the lyrics to the film clips and stage shows are crazy. There's A LOT happening which makes them such a rewarding band to explore and look into.

[@TheBlaskar]

Cirice is a banger. Just feels like 80’s “heavy metal” to a T

[@antivanti]

This song in particular has a lot of early Swedish Doom Metal influences ala Candlemass as well

[@RikFTK]

Somebody described the main riff as "Slayer, but slower" and I think that is exactly right.

[@petrilampela]

This was the song that made me fall in love with Ghost. And specifically the "off-meter" part in the chorus ("in your heart") that kinda bleeds over the rhythm (the chorus goes in 4/4 + 4/4 + 2/4). It's just so beautiful and really makes the song for me. Ghost combines all three of my favourite genres (pop, metal and prog) and even though their prog side is a little less obvious it's definitely there. Helvetesfönster is my favourite composition from them, the ending of that song has easily one of the most beautiful melodies I've heard in my entire life.

[@onepiccolo06]

I didn't expect to love this song so much, but it's one of my favorites by Ghost. His voice gets me in the feels every time...

[@Tarantula7Tom]

Delighted that you gave Ghost a second chance! Some suggestions for the next reaction would be Rats, Dance Macabre or Call Me Little Sunshine.

[@cmorrow74]

I second these.

[@patrose7742]

From the Pinnacle to The Pit and Square Hammer would be good choices too

[@cmorrow74]

@@patrose7742 Pretty much anything from Ghost is gold. Spillways, Hunter’s Moon, Majesty: you just really can’t go wrong with Ghost.

[@Tarantula7Tom]

@cmorrow74 completely agree 👍

[@knightwagner]

One of my favorite songs and I love the music video to death.

[@meganhausman1443]

When the soundtrack to Rite Here Rite Now comes out I need you to react to If You Have Ghosts. The original is amazing but the RHRN recorded version made me cry. So. Good.

[@BadDanMe]

"He Is" is not just one of Ghosts best songs, but one of the best songs overall. You NEED to hear it.

[@jasongultjaeff9397]

It's a brilliant song. Agree..one of the best ever!

[@shipperwolf7090]

Ghost is my new fave band and Cirice is SO good. I cant wait for this reaction!

[@giosilva7978]

Thank you so much for this reaction! I love your reactions for so many reasons and the way you explain things basically takes the words right out of my mouth. You're beautiful inside and out! Thank you 😢

[@jimmynaylor1759]

I'm glad you decided to give Ghost another chance. You are correct, they are hypnotising. The clever Faustian, stage persona combined with the multiple meaning lyrics and the primordial music. Try out He Is for another hypnotic track or Call Me Little Sunshine. Tobias, aka Papa Emiritus, did a fantastic collab with The Hellacopters and covered Sympathy for the Devil. It is one of the best versions I have heard.

[@jeremeywilson2318]

The live version is incredible!!! Square Hanmer is an absolute banger as well!!!

[@lauradonn1989]

Your entire analysis is how i feel when I'm sitting alone analysing and losing myself in their music. Down to your facial expressions. You get it❤

[@adamsteinbacher2629]

Meliora is PEAK Ghost. This album, and the touring band that supported it's cycle, will always be my favorite version of Ghost.

[@danielsgrunge]

+1

[@GabeR115]

I gotta say the same thing but with Prequelle. The touring drummer for prequelle is probably my all time, I saw them twice during that run

[@adamsteinbacher2629]

@@GabeR115 that was definitely a great drummer too. Martin's showmanship makes him my favorite. His current band pg.lost is incredible.

[@denominatorxero720]

​​@@adamsteinbacher2629woah hold the fuggg up I didn't know that pg.lost was the older drummer what!?