Originally shot for WMMR.com
Philadelphia’s Wells Fargo Center transformed into a gothic cathedral last weekend as Swedish metal masters Ghost brought their Skeletour World Tour to an absolutely dedicated crowd.
The atmosphere around Wells Fargo Center was electric hours before showtime, with devoted Ghost fans lined up outside the venue in elaborate corpse paint, Papa masks, Nameless Ghoul masks and flowing robes, while vendors sold official merch near an inflatable Papa V Perpetua.
The crowd’s energy inside was as thick as the humidity outside – a mix of excitement and theatrical appreciation that only Ghost’s unique fanbase can generate. When the house lights dimmed and the opening notes rang out, twenty thousand voices erupted in unified celebration, transforming the arena into a temple of dark rock worship where every soul felt connected to something larger than themselves. From the moment Papa V Perpetua stepped into the spotlight, the arena pulsed with an otherworldly energy that only Ghost can conjure.
The setlist was a masterclass in theatrical metal, opening with “Peacefield” before later diving into fan favorites like “Rats” and “Mummy Dust.” The crowd erupted during “Satanized,” with thousands of voices joining Papa’s melodic croon. The band’s signature blend of heavy riffs and pop sensibilities shined throughout “Darkness at the Heart of My Love” and “Cirice.”
Ghost’s stage production was nothing short of spectacular. Elaborate church-like set pieces, dramatic lighting, and Papa’s commanding theatrical presence created an immersive experience that felt part rock concert, part religious ceremony. The Nameless Ghouls moved with synchronized precision, their masked anonymity adding to the mystique while delivering crushing performances.
The emotional peak came during “He Is,” where Papa’s powerful vocals soared over the arena’s reverent silence. The encore brought the house down with “Mary on a Cross,” “Dance Macabre” and “Square Hammer” leaving the Philadelphia faithful in a state of euphoric exhaustion.
Ghost continues to prove why they’re one of metal’s most compelling live acts and deserve to be selling out arenas. Their ability to blend theatrical pageantry with genuine musical craftsmanship creates an experience that transcends typical concert boundaries. Philadelphia witnessed something truly special – a band at the absolute peak of their powers delivering an unforgettable evening of dark, beautiful metal magic.
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