Tobias Forge has a hell of a year ahead of him. Ghost’s new album, Skeletá, drops on April 25th, and the first single, Satanized, is out now. The mastermind behind the band sat down with me to talk about the new record, his love of classic rock, and how playing Madison Square Garden is a dream come true. Watch below.
Tobias Forge on Crafting ‘Skeletá'
If you’re expecting Impera 2, think again. Forge made it clear that this record is all about looking inward. While Impera had a lot to say about the state of the world, Skeletá is more personal. “I wanted this album to be more introspective and healing,” he told me. “It’s something I needed, and I think it’s something the fans need, too.”
That shift in focus also played into the decision to lead with Satanized. While Forge usually has a strong idea of which tracks should be singles, this time, he let the label pick—and he was pleasantly surprised when they chose the one he secretly hoped for. “I had this video idea in my head, and I was so happy when they picked it,” he said. “It has that Scorpions ‘77 stomp, which I love, but I didn’t expect it to be the lead single.”
For those who haven’t seen the video yet, it plays heavily into the evolving Ghost lore, featuring a new Papa and continuing the storyline that fans have followed for years.
Ghost’s Anticipated Performance at Madison Square Garden
Ghost is set to play Madison Square Garden on this tour—one of the most legendary venues in rock history. But here’s a fun twist: Forge didn’t immediately connect the dots that MSG (Madison Square Garden) and MSG (Michael Schenker Group) share the same initials.
“When I was a kid, one of my favorite records was Get Yer Ya-Ya’s Out! by The Rolling Stones, which was recorded there,” he said. “MSG became this monolith of making it, one of those places you have to play.”
It almost happened for Ghost years ago when they were booked to support Avenged Sevenfold. Unfortunately, the routing changed, and that dream was put on hold—until now. “You never know when these legendary venues will be gone,” Forge admitted. “Just look at Cobo Hall in Detroit—one day it’s there, and then, poof, it’s gone.”
Classic Rock’s Impact on Ghost’s Sound
As if dropping a new album and headlining MSG wasn’t enough, Ghost is also part of the upcoming Black Sabbath tribute show. Forge didn’t hide his excitement about the opportunity.
“As a lifelong Sabbath and Ozzy fan, it’s an enormous honor,” he said. “You have to be professional about it, but at the same time, it’s surreal.”
With Skeletá on the way, a massive tour, and a chance to pay tribute to one of the most influential bands of all time, 2024 is shaping up to be a monster year for Ghost.
Detroit fans, mark your calendars—Ghost is coming to town this summer. And if you haven’t checked out Satanized yet, what are you waiting for?
Ghost’s Skeletá drops on April 25th. The new single, Satanized, is out now.
