Photos of Ghost at Giant Center.
All photos and review by Gretchen Smither
in Hershey, PA on October 24th, 2019.
Hershey may be the sweetest place on earth, but no one was there for the chocolate on October 24. Instead of perusing Chocolate World, a ritual was taking place elsewhere that drew quite the crowd. If you’ve never attended a ritual directed by Cardinal Copia, you’re missing out on a truly religious experience.
Aside from this night’s performance, I had only seen Ghost perform twice prior. The first time, I was still learning about the band and the music, so I wasn’t expecting the performance they are known for. It was also at a smaller, intimate venue located in Richmond, VA. The second time I saw Ghost perform was when they closed out the first night of Sonic Temple in May 2019. This alone was a far different experience for me from the first time I saw them a few months prior. This third time was probably the best I’ve seen them, which is saying something, because I was blown away with their performances before.
Kicking off the set was “Rats,” their first single from their most recent album, Prequelle. Immediately, concert goers were off their feet, rocking hard to the sounds of Cardinal’s vocals and the Nameless Ghouls’ instruments. Speaking of the Nameless Ghouls, it almost seems unfair how they’re forever nameless, as their talents are vast and fans everywhere would love to shower each member with praise. But that surrounding mystery is just one part of the band’s appeal.
The band played their newest releases, “Mary on a Cross” and “Kiss the Go-Goat,” both of which have 60s vibes to them. Papa Nihil graced everyone with his sweet saxophone playing skills during “Miasma” and we were showered with Papa money and confetti during “Mummy Dust.” The night closed out with chart topping songs, “Dance Macabre” and “Square Hammer.”
Although Cardinal Copia’s arrival in April 2018 was met with some pushback from fans of the Papa incarnations, the leader of the band has become well-received. This was quite apparent in Hershey, as fans greeted Cardinal with jubilant shouts and enthusiastic calls. There was no denying that although Cardinal is not a Papa, yet, he can still lead with great vigor. By the end of the evening, everyone had their asses sufficiently wobbled and taints abundantly tickled. The Ultimate Tour Named Death in North America wrapped up on October 26 in Glens Falls, NY. Rituals will continue throughout Europe in mid-November.
Setlist
Ashes
Rats
Absolution
Faith
Mary on a Cross
Devil Church
Cirice
Miasma
Ghuleh/Zombie Queen
Helvetesfonster (partial)
Spirit
From the Pinnacle to the Pit
Ritual
Satan Prayer
Year Zero
He Is
Mummy Dust
Kiss the Go-Goat
Dance Macabre
Square Hammer
