Ghost to Make an Appearance at PPG Paints Arena; Northside Music Festival Begins (Fri., 7/18/25)

1) Although Leo XIV is considered a progressive Pope, it’s doubtful that you would see him at a Ghost concert. The Swedish hard-rock band goes deep into the dark side, performing demonic twists on Catholic rituals and organized religion in general. There is an aura of secrecy about the band. Its members are not named publicly. Onstage, they wear costumes and enact character roles. (For example, the lead singer likes to wear a papal mitre over a skull mask, and has gone by various made-up names such as Papa V Perpetua.) Ghost was formed in 2006 in Linköping, Sweden. The group’s 2013 album Infestissumam was recorded in Nashville, rose to No. 1 on the Swedish charts, and won critical acclaim worldwide. Currently the nameless souls are embarked on a global Skeletour in support of their sixth studio album, Skeletá. Pittsburgh fans can get haunted by Ghost at PPG Paints Arena. 8 p.m. 1001 Fifth Ave., Uptown. (E.C., M.V.)

2) The Northside Music Festival kicks off today. It is a free 3-day music, food, and arts festival occurring on several stages and locations on Pittsburgh’s Northside. Highlights include Gene The Werewolf, Bindley Hardware, Eagleburger Band, Chip & the ChargeUps, Andre Costello & Tomorrow Club, NASH.V.ILL, Black Ridge, The Low Kings, Timbeleza, The Hawkeyes, and Brad Yoder. Sunday is gospel day. For days and times see the festival website.

Share on Social Media