Ghost

**Ghost** is a Swedish rock and metal band founded in Linköping in 2006 and known for their extraordinary live performances and occult themes. The band around frontman Tobias Forge, who performs as the alternating figure of the mysterious "Papa Emeritus" or "Cardinal Copia", combines dark lyrics with catchy melodies and influences from hard rock, heavy metal and pop. Their stage performance is a mixture of theatricality and sacredness, with the band members, the so-called *Nameless Ghouls*, appearing in masks to create an anonymous, mystical atmosphere.

Ghost's musical breakthrough came with their debut album *Opus Eponymous* (2010), which quickly attracted international attention with songs such as *Ritual* and *Elizabeth*. Subsequent albums such as *Infestissumam* (2013), *Meliora* (2015) and *Prequelle* (2018) further developed their sound and spawned hits such as *Cirice* (for which the band won a Grammy), *Square Hammer* and *Dance Macabre*. Ghost skilfully mix dark, religious symbolism with catchy melodies and elements of classic rock and metal, which has earned them a wide following of metal and rock fans.

The band has gained a firm place in the modern rock and metal scene not only through its musical diversity, but also through its concept as a fascinating live show. By playing with religious symbolism and their iconic stage presence, Ghost create a mystical world all of their own, captivating the audience both musically and visually. Widely recognised as one of the most original and influential metal bands of recent years, Ghost are celebrated for their artistry and flair for theatrical staging.