Gallery, ReviewDitch This MagazineOctober 05, 2023gallery, live, melbourne, Odin Imaging, Nathan Goldsworthy, odin imaging, Destroy All Lines, Ghost

Ghost @ John Cain Arena 04-10-23

Gallery, ReviewDitch This MagazineOctober 05, 2023gallery, live, melbourne, Odin Imaging, Nathan Goldsworthy, odin imaging, Destroy All Lines, Ghost

photos and words: Nathan Goldsworthy @odin.imaging

Last night, Melbourne witnessed an unforgettable spectacle as the enigmatic band Ghost descended upon the city, leaving fans clamoring at the gates of a venue that had been upgraded to accommodate their devoted following.

And what a fortunate upgrade it was! The band's full production was on display, turning a rainy Melbourne evening into a unforgettable experience.

As the huge production setup delayed the eager crowd from entering, anticipation hung thick in the air. The stage was a sight to behold, resembling a cathedral adorned with stained glass windows that depicted the iconic Papa.

Behind the curtain, mysterious movements stirred the audience into a frenzy of excitement, and the collective screams when there was any sign of movement were deafening.

The show kicked off with "Kaisarion" and "Rats", quickly getting the crowd involved as they dove into their discography of hits. Papa underwent multiple headdress changes, adding a touch of theatricality to the performance. (as if that was possible)

After a seamless transition from one of their best recent tracks “ Watcher in the Sky” and then back to one of their most iconic tracks “Year Zero”. A soulful ballad pierced the night, “He Is” prompting everyone to risk breaking the "no phone" policy, illuminating the venue with their screens and lending their voices to the chorus. The crowd was far from shy when it came to participation, seizing every opportunity to sing along and scream their hearts out.

The arrival of Papa Nihili was a showstopper, as a saxophone-playing pope was wheeled out in a glass casket during “Miasma”, only to be resurrected amid a fireworks display. This breath-taking moment was undoubtedly a highlight of the night.

As Tobias Forge returned to the stage, he teased the crowd about not wanting to end up like his "old man" and, with a sly grin, announced, "Shall we do one of his songs?" The audience erupted into cheers as "Mary on a Cross" filled the cathedral-like atmosphere.

"Did you feel that...in your taint?" Tobias asked

The evening left fans rejoicing as the final confetti fell and voices united to sing "Nothing Ever Lasts Forever" during the song “Respite On The Spitalfields”.

But Ghost had more in store, concluding the night with a three-song encore

The nameless Ghouls and Ghoulettes of Ghost shone brightly, with great banter and camaraderie musical chemistry between them. Each nameless ghoul had the potential to steal the spotlight, a testament to the band's collective talent.

With their unparalleled theatrics, impressive production, and musical prowess, Ghost delivered an incredible show that transcended the ordinary and transported fans to a realm where nothing ever truly lasts forever.