Tobias Forge discusses new album “Skeletá,” classic rock, and MSG performance

Tobias Forge is set to have an exciting year with the upcoming release of Ghost’s latest album, Skeletá, on April 25th, and the recent drop of the first single, Satanized. The creative force behind the band recently shared insights into the new record, his deep-rooted affection for classic rock, and fulfilling his dream of performing at Madison Square Garden.

Contrary to expectations, Skeletá deviates from the theme of its predecessor, Impera, and delves into a more personal and introspective realm. Forge emphasized the album’s intent to focus on inner reflection and provide a sense of solace. “I aimed for this album to be a journey into the self, a healing experience for me and, hopefully, for our fans as well,” he expressed.

The decision to lead with Satanized as the first single reflected a departure from Forge’s usual approach of selecting singles. This time, he entrusted the choice to the record label, and to his delight, they chose the track he secretly favored. “I had this vivid imagery in mind for the music video, so I was thrilled when they went with it,” Forge noted. He also highlighted the song’s distinctive allure, drawing inspiration from the classic rock sound of bands like Scorpions in ’77, a creative choice that pleasantly surprised him.

The accompanying music video for Satanized further propels the evolving narrative of the Ghost universe, introducing a new Papa character and advancing the intricate storyline that has captivated fans over the years.

In addition to the musical evolution represented in Skeletá, Forge shared his enduring admiration for classic rock, citing its influence on his creative process. He expressed a profound connection to the timeless sound and energy of classic rock, emphasizing its role in shaping his artistic vision and contributing to Ghost’s distinctive musical identity.

Furthermore, Forge opened up about the monumental milestone of performing at Madison Square Garden, a revered venue that holds special significance for him. Describing the experience as a dream fulfilled, he emphasized the significance of this moment in Ghost’s journey and the profound impact of connecting with audiences in such iconic spaces.

As Ghost prepares to unveil Skeletá to the world, fans can anticipate a deeply introspective and emotionally resonant musical journey, guided by Forge’s compelling vision and enriched by the band’s continued evolution. With the release of Satanized setting the tone for an album that promises to be both personal and transformative, Ghost’s latest offering is poised to captivate audiences and uphold their legacy as pioneers of innovative rock music.