Hellfest 2023: A Global Gathering of Extreme Music

No less than 184 groups are expected in Clisson for the 18th edition of the extreme music festival, featuring artists from around the world, including the United States, England, Australia, Mongolia, Ukraine, Mexico, and, of course, France, represented by 27 groups. Who are they? Where do they come from? Answer here and now…

The Return of Hellfest

All paths lead to Clisson! Metal music lovers know it perfectly, as for 18 years now, they have gathered in this charming yet peaceful town in Loire-Atlantique. During the festival, however, it transforms into a bustling hub of energy and excitement, welcoming around 70,000 festival-goers each day.

A Festival of Epic Proportions

The Hellfest has become notorious for its monstrous programming and six stages, drawing a crowd that extends far beyond the borders of France. This year, festival enthusiasts can look forward to an impressive lineup of groups hailing from 28 different countries.

International Representation

As always, the United States tops the list with 62 bands, followed by 17 from the United Kingdom and 13 from Germany. Norway contributes 12 bands to the mix, alongside representation from Sweden, Canada, Australia, Finland, Iceland, Hungary, Croatia, Israel, Mongolia, and Ukraine.

French bands make up 27 of the total lineup, accounting for approximately 14% of the festival’s programming. This marks a slight decrease from last year, which featured 32 French groups, or 18% of the total.

Spotlight on French Artists

French groups hail from various cities, including Paris, Bordeaux, Lorient, Rennes, and Grenoble, with some local talent from Nantes.

Nantes Takes Center Stage

This year, Nantes-born ultra vomit, known for their parodic metal, was slated to perform on Mainstage2 with their album “The Power of Power,” released in October 2024. Unfortunately, due to a disc herniation, their leader, Fetus, has had to step back, allowing the Parisians of Rise of the Northstar to fill in. Their unique blend of hardcore, rap, and Japanese culture has made them a crowd favorite, having performed at Hellfest in 2015, 2018, and 2023.

Emerging and Established Talents

In addition to Rise of the Northstar, four other Nantes groups will grace the festival: Cashmire (Rock), Lunar Tombfields (Atmospheric Black Metal), Gravekvlt (Occult Rock), and Tsar (Progressive Metal). Tsar had previously been featured on the Hellstage, showcasing local talent.

Returning Favorites

Among the returning acts are Lion’s Law (Paris, Oï), Novelists (Paris/Marseille, Metalcore), and Mars Red Sky (Bordeaux, Psychedelic Stoner). These groups have a history with Hellfest, bringing their established fan bases along for the ride.

First-Time Performers

This year also marks the debut of several bands at Hellfest, including:

• The Butchers (Paris, Rock Punk), who will honor their late leader, François Hadji-Lazaro.
• Calcine (Paris, Hardcore)
• Adx (Oise, Speed Metal)
• The Chainsaw Motel (Rennes, Nu Core – Stoner)
• Lastkrch (Paris, Modern Metal)
• Persefone (Andorra, Death Metal)
• Wormsand (Menton, Stoner – Sludge)
• Black Bile (Lorient, Doom Post Metal)
• Luc Arbogast (La Rochelle, Folk Medieval Rock)
• Grenoble (Occult Rock)
• The Cemetary Girlz (France/Andorra, Death Rock)

Conclusion

The 18th edition of Hellfest promises to be an unforgettable experience, showcasing a diverse array of talent from around the globe. With a mix of seasoned veterans and fresh faces, this festival continues to uphold its reputation as a must-attend event for metal enthusiasts. As the festival approaches, fans eagerly anticipate the sounds of their favorite bands and the discovery of new talent that will leave a lasting impression.

FAQs

When is Hellfest taking place?

Hellfest typically takes place in mid-June. Specific dates for this year’s festival can be found on the official Hellfest website.

How many bands are performing this year?

This year, a total of 184 bands are set to perform at Hellfest, with artists from 28 different countries.

Which countries are represented at Hellfest 2023?

Bands from countries including the United States, England, Australia, Mongolia, Ukraine, Mexico, and France, among others, will be performing at the festival.

Can I find local French bands at Hellfest?

Yes, there will be 27 French bands performing at this year’s festival, showcasing a variety of genres from across the country.

What should I bring to the festival?

Attendees are advised to bring appropriate clothing for outdoor conditions, ear protection, and any necessary personal items, as well as a sense of adventure and enthusiasm for the music!