Fans of heavy metal and hard rock are in for an exciting summer as GHOST announces their 2023 U.S. tour dates, featuring the legendary Swedish death metal band AMON AMARTH as co-headliners. This list covers everything you need to know about the upcoming tour, including dates, venues, why it’s a must-see, and tips to help you choose the best shows to attend.
1. Tour Kickoff in New York City on July 21
The summer tour begins at Madison Square Garden on July 21, a historic venue that offers an electrifying atmosphere to launch the tour. GHOST’s theatrical stage presence combined with AMON AMARTH’s ferocious death metal riffs promises a night full of energy and spectacle. Attending this opening show is a perfect way to witness the tour’s grand debut and experience the vibrant New York music scene.
2. Stops in Major Markets Including Los Angeles and Chicago
Following the kickoff, the tour hits major U.S. cities such as Los Angeles’ Kia Forum on July 28 and Chicago’s United Center on August 4. These venues are renowned for their capacity and sound quality, ensuring an immersive concert experience. Fans in these cities will get a chance to see GHOST’s signature theatricality paired with AMON AMARTH’s relentless metal prowess, making these dates particularly special.
3. Special Performances in Smaller Venues for Intimate Shows
In addition to large arenas, select dates include smaller, more intimate venues like the House of Blues in Boston on August 2. These shows offer a closer, more personal experience with the bands, allowing fans to get up close and enjoy a more intense connection during the performance. If you prefer a less crowded, more immersive concert, these dates are worth prioritizing.
4. Festival Appearances Including Aftershock Festival
GHOST and AMON AMARTH will also perform at major festivals such as the Aftershock Festival in Sacramento on September 14. Festivals provide a unique chance to see multiple bands in one day, often with a more festival-like atmosphere that amplifies the excitement. Attending these can be a great way to catch the bands alongside other top acts and enjoy a full day of live music.
5. Themed Setlists and Special Collaborations
During the tour, both bands are expected to perform special setlists, with GHOST likely to showcase tracks from their latest album, “Prequelle” and upcoming releases, while AMON AMARTH will focus on hits from albums like “Twilight of the Thunder God” and “Viking.” Rumors also suggest some surprise collaborations or guest appearances, making these shows even more unpredictable and exciting for dedicated fans.
6. Ticket Tiers and VIP Packages
Tickets are available in various tiers, including general admission, reserved seating, and VIP packages that may include meet-and-greets, exclusive merchandise, and early entry. The VIP options are especially appealing for fans wanting a more personalized experience or memorabilia from the tour. Early purchase is highly recommended, as these packages tend to sell out quickly.
7. How the Bands Are Promoting the Tour
Both GHOST and AMON AMARTH are actively promoting the tour through social media, with behind-the-scenes content, teaser videos, and interactive fan contests. This engagement helps build anticipation and offers fans a chance to win tickets or exclusive merchandise. Following their official channels can provide valuable updates and early access to ticket sales.
8. Local Opening Acts and Supporting Bands
Each city’s lineup may feature local or supporting acts, giving fans a broader taste of the metal and rock scene. For example, in Chicago, the opening act is often a rising band like Gatecreeper or Unto Others, adding local flavor to the night. Supporting bands often set the tone for the headliners and are worth checking out for fans eager to discover new music.
9. Accessibility and Venue Details
Many of the venues listed are equipped for accessibility, with features such as wheelchair access and assistive listening devices. It’s important to check venue policies and accessibility options in advance to ensure a comfortable experience. Additionally, some venues offer parking or public transit options, which can influence your decision on which shows to attend.
10. How to Secure Tickets and Plan Your Trip
Tickets go on sale through official ticketing partners like Ticketmaster and Live Nation starting April 15. To secure your spot, it’s best to set reminders for the sale date and consider purchasing VIP packages early. Planning ahead for travel, accommodations, and arrival times ensures you don’t miss out on these highly anticipated shows.
How to Choose
When selecting which tour dates to attend, consider factors like your proximity to the venue, ticket availability, and your preferred setlist. For a more immersive experience, opt for smaller venues or VIP packages. If you’re a die-hard fan, attending multiple shows can give you a full tour experience, but prioritize the dates that align best with your schedule and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When do tickets go on sale? Tickets are scheduled to go on sale April 15, 2023, at 10 a.m. local time for most dates.
- Will there be meet-and-greet opportunities? VIP packages may include meet-and-greets; details will be announced closer to the sale date.
- Are there age restrictions? Most venues are all-ages, but some may have age restrictions or require minors to be accompanied by an adult.
- Will the setlist be the same at every show? No, bands often vary their setlists, especially for festival appearances or special events.
- Can I buy tickets at the door? It’s recommended to buy tickets in advance, as some shows may sell out or have limited availability at the door.
- What safety protocols will be in place? Expect COVID-19 safety measures, such as vaccination or negative test requirements, depending on local regulations and venue policies.
Final Thoughts
The GHOST and AMON AMARTH summer tour promises a compelling lineup that combines theatrical rock with brutal death metal, appealing to a broad spectrum of metal fans. From iconic venues in major cities to intimate shows and festival appearances, there’s a variety of options for fans to experience this epic tour. Planning ahead, securing tickets early, and choosing the right shows based on your preferences will help you make the most of this summer’s metal extravaganza. Whether you’re a long-time follower or new to these bands, this tour is set to deliver unforgettable live music moments that will resonate long after the last note.
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