Live Review : Ghost @ State Farm Arena, Atlanta, GA - July 11th 2025

Chris Collett
Jul 14
2 min read

Updated: Oct 26

On July 11, Ghost didn’t just perform at Atlanta’s State Farm Arena; they delivered a full-blown satanic sermon. The “Skeletour” lived up to its name, transforming the venue into something between a gothic cathedral and a mega-church for the dark side. With phones locked in Yondr pouches, distractions were gone, and for once, everyone in the room was fully present and fully possessed.

From the opening notes of “Peacefield” into “Lachryma,” it was clear we were in for a ritual, not a rock show. The backdrop visuals evolved throughout the night, pulling us from stained-glass gothic arches into deeper, darker visuals, eventually descending into hellish underworlds glowing with crimson and fire. It was theatrical, yes, but also spiritual. Ghost doesn’t just entertain; they convert.

Papa V took on multiple forms during the night, from a shiny, almost messianic figure in glittery contacts to a skull-masked ghoul in full papal regalia. The costume changes were seamless and, at times, otherworldly. The Nameless Ghouls were locked in as ever, but special shoutout to the Ghoul in a walking boot. Broken leg or not, he didn’t miss a single beat while dashing around the stage.

One of the most memorable transitions came during the encore with “Dance Macabre.” The stage, previously cloaked in mystery and shadows, suddenly burst into a wild rainbow of lights. Part disco, part Disneyland fever dream. It was a surreal, joyful moment that somehow didn’t break the spell of the night; it deepened it.

Without a sea of glowing screens to compete with, the spectacle of Ghost was even more powerful. Every riff, light cue, and gesture from Papa was met with focused energy from a crowd that seemed genuinely in awe. It felt communal. Like mass. Just, you know… darker.

For many fans, Ghost isn’t just a band; they’re a belief system. And nights like this show exactly why. The band honors that devotion by delivering a spectacle that’s equal parts theater, ritual, and rock n’ roll.

In my book, that’s a perfect show. This was one of the most immersive, thrilling live shows I’ve seen in years. A perfect ten.