Ghost Haunts ​the Armory

Saturday night the Swedish heavy metal band Ghost brought their The Ultimate Tour Named Death to Minneapolis in ghoulish style along with supporting act Nothing More.

At 7:30, San Antonio’s Nothing More hit the stage with a vengeance, owning the audience with its powerful, hard-hitting music and the prowling voice of Jonny Hawkins.

Their raw power and immediate control of the packed house reminded me of witnessing Pantera perform for their first time. Feeling like I was late to the party, it made me question why I have never seen these guys before.

Painted in black and white, Hawkins owned the stage and the audience as Nothing More performed a set that was far too short.

At 8:45 the lights went out, the curtain fell, and Ghost took to the stage with their satanic, Cirque du Soleil style of hard-rocking music. The Armory was packed and the perfect venue for such a show. The crowd ranged in ages from seven to seventy, with every walk of life represented, including what appeared to be many in demonic cosplay attire.

Cardinal Copia and the Nameless Ghouls posessed the stage in unison. Delivering a broadway-style show that was highlighted by their substantial and, at times, pop-metal music while delivering the message that Satan is among us.

Ghost is all about the show, and their fan base knows it. Growing up with bands like Merciful Fate, I have a “been there done that” attitude, but never has this style of music become so artistic. In no way am I bashing the show as it was great entertainment combined with masterful musicianship. Though witnessing Ghost live makes you wonder, if Satan’s job is to torment the bad for eternity, maybe he’s not such a bad guy. After all, he did bring us a great show!

Ashes
Rats
Absolution
Faith
Mary on a Cross
Devil Church
Cirice
Miasma
Ghuleh/Zombie Queen
Helvetesfönster
Spirit
From the Pinnacle to the Pit
Ritual
Satan Prayer
Year Zero
Spöksonat
He Is
Mummy Dust
Kiss The Goat
Dance Macabre
Encore
Square Ham