Fear Factory’s Dino Cazares shared his thoughts on Ghost’s recently announced shows with no phone policy.
“I don’t care if u bring phones into our show. The way I look at it is when u buy a ticket u do what the f*ck u want as long as no one’s getting hurt,” the guitarist said of the band’s rule and added, “it’s not my venue so u have to follow whatever rules the venue gives if any.”
Ghost’s 2025 world tour will have a no-phone policy across its 55 shows in Europe and North America. The band announced that the North American leg will include a show at Madison Square Garden in July.
The band’s website shared that the concerts will be a ‘phone-free experience’ using Yondr pouches. Fans will keep their phones but can only unlock them outside the venue’s designated area. This rule was previously used by Ghost at their September 2023 show at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles.
“Anyone seen using a device during the performance will be escorted out of the venue by security. We appreciate your cooperating in creating a phone-free viewing experience,” the band said in a statement.
While many other rockers like Maynard James Keenan also prefer a ‘no-phone’ policy on their shows, fans have mixed feelings about Ghost’s no-phone policy. Some appreciate the focus it brings to the concert, free from phone screens. One fan shared on X, “I went to a Ghost show at the Forum in LA earlier this year and they were filming so no phones allowed. It was glorious. Every single person was engaged in the music, band and performance. 10/10.”
Others, however, are disappointed about not being able to record moments for themselves. Another fan commented, “Everyone seems happy about the phone ban on Ghost’s new tour but think about it. There will be no new ritual content to see. No new vids to scream about, no new gifs. Nothing. I really don’t like this future.”
Ghost’s tour starts on April 15 in Manchester, UK, and ends on September 24 in Mexico City.
I don’t care if u bring phones into our show. The way I look at it is when u buy a ticket u do what the fuck u want as long as no one’s getting hurt + it’s not my venue so u have to follow whatever rules the venue gives if any.
— Dino Cazares (@DinoCazares) October 29, 2024