Tobias Forge, the mastermind behind Ghost, has sparked a conversation in the rock world with a bold new move: encouraging fans to put their phones away during the band’s upcoming concerts. But don’t worry — this isn’t a tech-hating rant or an authoritarian crackdown. It’s about reclaiming the raw magic of live music.
Ghost is preparing to introduce a phone-free environment at their shows, starting with their highly anticipated performance at Madrid’s Palacio Vistalegre on April 30. Instead of seeing a sea of raised screens, Forge wants to see faces, energy, emotion — real connection between the band and the audience.
So how will they do it? The band is planning to use Yondr pouches — those sleek, lockable cases that let you keep your phone but disable its use during the show. It’s not about punishment; it’s about presence.
Forge has explained that this initiative is designed to enhance the overall concert experience — not only for the fans but also for the performers. Too often, the vibe of a live show gets lost behind digital filters and Instagram stories. The glow of screens can be more distracting than most realize, breaking the flow of the event for everyone involved.
And Ghost isn’t alone in thinking this way. Other major acts have been taking note of this growing trend and may follow suit. It’s a gentle push to help fans live in the moment — to shout, dance, feel the bass in their bones, and walk away with memories that aren’t just pixels in their gallery.
All this aligns with the band’s evolving artistic vision, as they prepare for the release of their new album “Skeletá” on April 25. This next chapter for Ghost isn’t just about new music — it’s about creating unforgettable experiences.
So, if you’re heading to see Ghost live, get ready to unplug — and plug into something deeper. You might be surprised at how much more vivid the moment becomes when you’re truly living it.
