Ghost: Infestissumam (2CD Deluxe Edition)

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Ghost’s Infestissumam, released on April 10, 2013, is a bold, theatrical exploration of Satanic themes wrapped in a rich, almost playful veneer of 1970s-inspired rock and progressive pop. As the follow-up to their critically acclaimed debut, Opus Eponymous, the album marked a significant evolution for the band, showcasing a broader sonic palette and a deepened commitment to their theatrical and subversive identity. With Infestissumam, Ghost cemented their reputation as a band that could blend the dark and the melodic with remarkable finesse.

The Sound: A More Expansive Palette

Where Opus Eponymous was steeped in stripped-down, retro-inspired heavy metal, Infestissumam expands Ghost’s sound into new territories. The production, handled by Nick Raskulinecz, is lush and polished, emphasizing intricate arrangements and a sense of grandeur. From the moment the album opens with the choral chant of the title track, it’s clear that Ghost has fully embraced their theatrical tendencies.

Songs like “Per Aspera Ad Inferi” and “Year Zero” highlight the band’s ability to blend heavy riffs with almost sacred, hymn-like melodies. The choral elements, particularly on “Year Zero,” evoke a sense of dark ritual, creating an atmosphere that is both ominous and oddly celebratory. This dichotomy—a blend of darkness and accessibility—is one of Ghost’s defining traits and is on full display throughout the album.

Highlights: Theatrical and Memorable

“Secular Haze,” the album’s lead single, exemplifies the band’s shift toward a more adventurous sound. Its carnival-esque organ riff and waltz rhythm create a disorienting yet compelling atmosphere, perfectly complementing the sinister undertones of the lyrics. Similarly, “Ghuleh/Zombie Queen” is a standout track that begins as a haunting ballad before exploding into a surf-rock-inspired anthem, showcasing Ghost’s ability to juxtapose disparate styles in a way that feels seamless.

The album’s lyrics continue Ghost’s tradition of exploring Satanic themes, often with tongue firmly in cheek. Tracks like “Body and Blood” and “Monstrance Clock” delve into themes of blasphemy and ritual, but their delivery is so melodically engaging that they come across as strangely inviting. “Monstrance Clock,” which closes the album, is a particularly striking example, with its communal, chant-like refrain leaving a lasting impression.

Themes: Subversion and Ritual

At its core, Infestissumam is a celebration of the subversive. The album’s Latin title, meaning “most hostile” or “most threatening,” hints at its overarching theme: the inversion of sacred and profane. Ghost doesn’t just dabble in Satanic imagery; they revel in it, using it as a vehicle for theatricality and satire. The juxtaposition of grandiose, almost religious musical elements with irreverent lyrical content creates a tension that is both unsettling and fascinating.

The Reception: Controversy and Acclaim

Upon its release, Infestissumam garnered critical acclaim for its ambitious scope and unique sound. However, it wasn’t without controversy. The album’s overtly Satanic themes led to challenges in distribution, particularly in the United States, where some CD manufacturers refused to produce the album’s artwork due to its content. Far from hindering the band, this controversy only added to Ghost’s mystique and appeal.

Commercially, the album was a success, debuting at No. 1 on the Swedish charts and earning the band a larger following worldwide. Its accessible yet provocative nature allowed Ghost to bridge the gap between underground metal and mainstream rock, a feat few bands have achieved with such finesse.

Legacy: A Defining Moment

Infestissumam stands as a defining moment in Ghost’s career, solidifying their identity as purveyors of darkly theatrical rock with a flair for the dramatic. It’s an album that dares to be both sinister and accessible, blasphemous and beautiful, inviting listeners into a world where the sacred and the profane coexist in harmony. With its bold sonic experimentation and masterful execution, Infestissumam remains a cornerstone of Ghost’s discography and a testament to their ability to craft music that is as provocative as it is unforgettable.

by RUE MORGUE RECORDS