Review by Rob Broom for MPM
Ghost are an interesting band that often spilts opinion in the metal and rock community.
On the one hand the band have a tremendous gothic metal style image and the capability to rock with the best of them. Their lyrics delve into many of the popular stereotypes of metal music, but are very intelligent, clever and witty along with it.
On the other hand, their ability to deliver infectious catchy tunes that at times can almost stray in 1970’s Swedish pop stars Abbas territory – along with some rocked up cover versions of pop songs, that won’t normally be expected (for example the Pet Shop Boys ‘Its A Sin) – has had a habit of panicking some hardcore metal heads.
The bottom line is this – you either like Ghost or you don’t.
Personally I like Ghost, although I was a bit late to the Ghost party, only discovering them a few years back, but I completely enjoy the music and concepts that primary band founder and creator Tobias Forge has put together and am working my way through the back catalogue.
Ghost have been busy since last years excellent live movie and soundtrack offering ‘Rite Here, Rite Now’. A new album ‘Skeleta’ is due soon, there’s an unveiling of Papa V Perpetual (Tobias Forges latest onstage persona) and here is our first album taster – ‘Satanized’.
As with some of the other Ghost offerings, the video accompanying the song uses religious imagery, (in this case the confession of a monk), but the lyrics are more about battling your inner demons. The tune is packed full of melody and harmony which characterises the Ghost sound.
The chorus is easy to sing along to (again another Ghost hallmark) and I can imagine this will be a very popular live song. The band romp along and there’s a scorching guitar break midway through reminding you that this is a rock song! At the end of the video Papa V and the nameless ghouls (the band) are revealed in what we can assume will be the new stage costumes for the upcoming tour and a fantastic look it is!
Ghost always seem to deliver enjoyable, joyful music even when they are singing about darker themes. This song is no exception and ’Satanized’ is an excellent herald for the forthcoming new album.
I would recommend you look and listen beyond the Ghost naysayers and add them to your playlist today.
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