Ghost – Xcel Energy Center – St. Paul MN – August 2nd 2025

Ghost at the Xcel Energy Center – A Theatrical Mass of Metal

Review and photos by Kyle Hansen

We got there early to grab photos of the fans. They were all so wonderful. The protester has getting heckled big time. I didn’t bother to take a picture cause he is always out there.

From the moment the lights dimmed and the opening organ notes rang out, Ghost turned the Xcel Energy Center into their own cathedral of spectacle and sound. With Papa Perpetua leading his army of Nameless Ghouls, the Swedish rock outfit delivered a set that was equal parts heavy metal ritual and rock opera.

The acoustics at the Xcel held up well for a band like Ghost, who mix crushing guitar riffs with orchestral flourishes and melodic vocals. Even in the upper levels, fans could clearly hear the subtleties in tracks like “Call Me Little Sunshine” and the anthemic “Square Hammer.” The venue’s size also allowed for full visual impact—the pyrotechnics, stained-glass backdrops, and eerie lighting came off as grand rather than overblown.

One of the standout moments was the live performance of “Kiss the Goat”. The band maintained tight control of pacing throughout, alternating heavy-hitters like “Rats” with fan favorites such as “Year Zero” and “Dance Macabre,” all while Papa entertained with his usual sardonic banter between songs.

Crowd energy was strong. While the arena was large, it still felt intimate thanks to Ghost’s command of stage presence. The fans—many in costume—were fully engaged, and the atmosphere was part arena rock show, part costumed ritual.

Pros:

• Incredible visuals and stage production

• Strong setlist spanning multiple albums

• Sound quality surprisingly crisp for an arena

• Charismatic frontman and seamless transitions

• No phones!! It was wonderful.

• Knowing the guards who let us hang a bit longer to see if we could find some picks. No luck.

Verdict:
If Ghost is playing anywhere near you, go. It’s more than a concert—it’s a theatrical communion that makes excellent use of a large venue without losing the band’s eerie intimacy.