In an age where every concert seems transformed into a digital spectacle, the Scandinavian metal band Ghost has taken a bold stance against the pervasive influence of smartphones in live performances.
Last week’s concert at TD Garden in Boston captured the attention of many, including non-metal audiences, who may not have prior knowledge of the band or its music.
Despite Ghost’s reputation for ghoulish theatrics and Satanic lyrics, it stands out not just for its sound but for its revolutionary approach to concert-going.
Ghost’s 2025 world tour, aptly named “Skeletour,” aims to provide a ‘phone-free experience’ by requiring fans to lock their mobile devices in special pouches upon entering the venue.
This initiative prohibits attendees from using their phones during the show, meaning no recordings, photographs, or even checking the time is allowed throughout the performance.
Should concert-goers absolutely need to use their phones, designated areas equipped with attendants are available to manage temporary access.
The Boston concert marked a significant event, being the first of its kind at the TD Garden where cellphones were banned, a move that has sparked a wave of reflection and conversation about audience engagement in the digital age.
While some fans might have felt restricted by this policy, many others relished the opportunity for a purely immersive experience, as highlighted in a report by Victoria Wasylak.
This policy embodies Ghost’s intention to foster a deep, authentic connection between the band and its fans, rather than letting the spectacle be mediated by glowing screens.
Frontman Tobias Forge voiced this sentiment during a French interview program, METALXS, stating that the use of cellphones creates a growing distance between the audience and the artists.
He emphasized the importance of true intimacy during live performances, expressing discomfort at the thought of fans filming his performance rather than being present in the moment with him.
Such remarks may seem antiquated in our current culture of ‘pics or it didn’t happen,’ but they serve as a significant critique of a society where the performance itself often takes a backseat to the necessity of documenting the moment.
Ghost is not alone in advocating for more meaningful connections at live performances.
Indie-rock artist Mitski has publicly lamented the impact of smartphone use, admitting that it makes her feel like the audience is being separated from the authentic experience she aims to create.
In a similar vein, Bruno Mars has shared his frustration over how phone usage detracts from the live experience, noting that it disrupts the flow of engagement and spontaneity that defines a great concert.
This trend is not simply a longing for the past; it’s also supported by scientific research that highlights the benefits of being fully present in experiences.
A pivotal study conducted by cognitive psychologist Linda Henkel, published in Psychological Science in 2014, introduced what she termed the “photo-taking impairment effect.”
Henkel’s research showed that individuals who took photographs of museum exhibits remembered less about the items compared to those who simply observed without the distraction of a camera.
Additional studies, including one from Binghamton University in 2021, reaffirmed these findings, underscoring the adverse effects of trying to capture moments on our ability to recollect experiences.
The overwhelming conclusion drawn from this research is that when we attempt to capture memories through our devices, we inadvertently diminish our capacity to internalize and remember those moments authentically.
Thus, while a camera can document a concert’s visuals, only focused attention can truly render it unforgettable.
Ghost’s initiative presents a cultural wake-up call, reminding us of the richness of experiences that can be enjoyed without the interference of technology.
Even if Ghost’s music doesn’t find its place on my playlist, I find immense respect for the band’s effort to combat the dominance of screens at live events and to emphasize that remarkable memories can be made in the absence of a smartphone.
It serves as a reminder that the most powerful experiences are often those we allow ourselves to live fully, without the compulsion to document every second.
image source from：bostonglobe
