Swedish rock titans Ghost have officially ushered in a thrilling new era with their latest single, “Satanized,” the first taste of their highly anticipated sixth studio album, ‘SKELETA,’ set for release on April 25th, 2025.

As expected, the band is diving headfirst into their signature theatricality, blending the macabre with the melodic, and “Satanized” delivers on all fronts.

From the very first notes, “Satanized” feels like a love letter to Ghost’s early days, embracing their classic rock influences while injecting a fresh dose of energy. The track is steeped in hook-heavy riffs, soaring vocal melodies, and a fast-paced, squealing guitar solo that feels ripped straight from an ’80s arena rock anthem. Long-time fans will find comfort in the song’s structure, while newcomers will be drawn in by the sheer bombast and sinister charm Ghost always delivers.

But what truly sets “Satanized” apart is its haunting use of Latin scripture, adding an eerie, ceremonial feel to the track. The verse, seemingly lifted from a biblical passage creates a chilling, almost ritualistic atmosphere. This interplay of the sacred and the profane is exactly what makes Ghost so compelling; the ability to make you headbang and feel slightly damned at the same time.

No Ghost release would be complete without a jaw-dropping music video, and “Satanized” doesn’t disappoint. The entire video is presented in black and white, exuding the grainy, vintage aesthetic of a lost 1920s horror film, fitting for the year of Nosferatu, if you ask me. At its core, the video tells the tale of an exorcism gone terribly wrong, featuring a tormented soul, shadowy priests, and monks who seem to be rocking out rather than banishing demons.

As the video unfolds, the tension builds, culminating in a dramatic shift to full colour in the final moments. This reveal showcases the band in elaborate, jewel-encrusted costumes, complete with rhinestones, bat wings, and eerily intricate masks, signalling a bold new visual direction for this era. It’s a breath-taking conclusion that suggests a rebirth or transformation, hinting at the deeper themes that ‘SKELETA’ may explore.

Image found on UCR.

What Does “Satanized” Tell Us About ‘SKELETA’?

While Ghost has yet to unveil the full scope of ‘SKELETA,’ “Satanized” gives us some tantalising clues. The classic rock energy, the Latin scripture, and the exorcism theme all suggest an album that will lean into religious horror, gothic mysticism, and possibly even themes of resurrection, perfectly in line with Ghost’s ever-expanding mythos.

This single also marks the dawn of a new Papa, rumored to be Papa V Perpetua, and his performance on “Satanized” is nothing short of mesmerising. His delivery is both sultry and sinister, charismatic and commanding, proving that this new incarnation of Ghost’s leader is ready to take the throne in style.

Image found on Ghost’s Official Website.

Ghost has always thrived in spectacle, and “Satanized” proves they have zero intentions of slowing down. With a song that perfectly balances nostalgia with contemporary rock and roll, a video that is pure gothic horror bliss, and an album on the horizon that promises to be their most ambitious yet, Ghost has once again cemented their place as one of rock’s most thrilling and unpredictable acts.

April 25th can’t come soon enough. If “Satanized” is any indication, ‘SKELETA’ is going to be one hell of a ride.