In 2009, my life changed irrevocably as me and three other good friends headed for Hellfest and then Graspop. It was my initiation into the international metal community and my first time in a large, European festival. The sheer number of bands I discovered that year is astronomical: Clutch, Electric Wizard, The Black Dahlia Murder and Down to name a few. I also so some bigger names perform live and had a thoroughly good time. Hellfest has a great location, great facilities and an all around endearing attitude. There have been some voices over the past few years claiming that the festival has since multiplied and has lost a lot of its charm. I don’t know about that. I do know about lineups. Head on over the jump to witness the majesty for yourself.
To put it bluntly: wow. More subtly, I might be considering going myself this year and this is just the initial lineup. Highlights include Meshuggah (!), At the Gates, Triptykon, Ne Obliviscaris and The Atlas Moth and I’m just naming names that are rarely seen on ballots. Holy crap, Samsara Blues Experiment?! Who the hell knows these guys even exist? (They do, and they’re awesome. Check them out).
Anyway, get your tickets and fast. Hellfest has always sold out in the past years and you don’t want to be left out. Who knows, maybe I’ll see you there?
-EK