Ghost | Rite Here Rite Now Review

by Griff Stevens

Swedish heavy metal titans Ghost have once again proven their mastery over theatrical rock with their latest release, Rite Here Rite Now. This album, the soundtrack to their 2024 film of the same name, captures the band’s electrifying live performance at Los Angeles’ Kia Forum in September 2023. While the album delivers an impeccably polished sound and showcases Ghost’s latest hits, it ultimately leaves some fans longing for a more comprehensive retrospective of the band’s journey.

From the first note of “Imperium” to the closing chords of “The Future Is a Foreign Land,” the album is a meticulously crafted experience. Tobias Forge’s charismatic vocals, paired with the band’s tight instrumentation and a chorus of backing singers, create a lush and immersive soundscape. The production quality is top-notch, making listeners feel as if they are front and center at the concert, enveloped by the music and the enthusiastic cheers of the crowd.

Tracks like “Kaisarion,” “Call Me Little Sunshine,” and “Twenties” from the 2022 album Impera are given new life on stage. The live rendition of “Watcher in the Sky” soars with an irresistible hook, amplified by a dynamic choir of male and female vocalists. The instrumental “Miasma” features a standout saxophone solo by Papa Nihil, adding a unique and memorable moment to the performance.

The setlist leans heavily on Ghost’s recent works, particularly from Impera and 2018’s Prequelle. This focus highlights the band’s evolution into a more melodic and accessible sound, with tracks like “Dance Macabre” and “Mary on a Cross” embodying a blend of heavy metal and pop sensibilities. The chamber version of “If You Have Ghosts” offers a refreshing reinterpretation of the Roky Erickson cover, infusing it with classical and choral elements that add a new dimension to the song.

The album’s highlight, “The Future Is a Foreign Land,” is a new studio track that closes the live experience on a high note. Its retro ’60s pop/rock vibe, catchy melody, and uplifting lyrics provide a fitting end to the set, showcasing Ghost’s versatility and willingness to explore new musical territories.

While Rite Here Rite Now succeeds in delivering a captivating live experience, the exclusion of material from the band’s earlier albums, Opus Eponymous and Infestissumam, is a notable omission that leaves the album feeling incomplete. These albums were crucial in establishing Ghost’s unique blend of occult themes, theatricality, and classic rock influences, and their absence is felt.

Rite Here Rite Now is a polished and enjoyable live album that showcases Ghost’s recent work and stage presence. However, the lack of earlier material makes it more of a complement to the film than a definitive live document of the band’s career. This album is a must-listen for fans of Ghost’s newer material, offering high-quality recordings and new interpretations of recent hits.