For this 18ᵉ edition which will take place from June 19 to 22, no less than 184 groups from around the world are expected in Clisson, from the United States for many but also from England, Australia, Mongolia, Ukraine, of Mexico … and of course France for 27 of them. Who are they? Where do they come from? Answer here and now …
Hellfest 2025: A Global Gathering of Metal Enthusiasts
Every year, Clisson transforms into a vibrant hub for metal music lovers, and this year’s 18th edition of Hellfest promises to be no different. From June 19 to 22, the festival will welcome an impressive lineup of 184 groups hailing from across the globe. This year, attendees can anticipate an eclectic mix of performances from bands representing diverse countries, including the United States, England, Australia, Mongolia, Ukraine, Mexico, and, of course, France.
A Diverse Lineup of Talent
With a staggering 70,000 festival-goers expected each day, Hellfest has earned its reputation as one of the premier metal festivals worldwide. The event features six stages showcasing a monstrous lineup that attracts fans from every corner of the globe.
International Presence
This year, the festival will see a substantial representation from the United States, with 64 bands making the journey across the Atlantic. Following the U.S. are the British with 16 bands, the Germans with 13, and the Norwegians with 12. The lineup also includes artists from Sweden, Canada, Australia, Finland, Iceland, Hungary, Croatia, Israel, Mongolia, and Ukraine.
French Contributions
Among the 184 performing groups, 27 are French, making up approximately 14% of the total lineup. This marks a slight decrease from last year, when 32 French bands represented 18% of the festival’s programming. These local acts hail from cities such as Paris, Bordeaux, Lorient, Rennes, Grenoble, and Nantes.
Spotlight on Nantes Bands
Nantes, a city known for its vibrant music scene, will feature several local bands this year. Notably, Ultra Vomit, known for their parodic metal, will perform on June 19, showcasing their latest album “The Power of Power,” released in October 2024. In addition to Ultra Vomit, other Nantes-based bands include:
- Cashmire (Rock)
- Lunar Tombfields (Atmospheric Black Metal)
- Gravekvlt (Occult Rock)
- Tsar (Progressive Metal)
Returning Favorites
Some familiar faces will grace the Hellfest stage once again, including:
- Lion’s Law (Paris, Oï)
- Novelists (Paris/Marseille, Metalcore)
- Hexecutor (Rennes, Thrash Metal)
- Mars Red Sky (Bordeaux, Psychedelic Stoner)
- Furies (Paris, Heavy Metal)
First-Time Performers
This year’s festival will also introduce 15 acts making their Hellfest debut, including:
- The Butchers (Paris, Punk Rock)
- Calcine (Paris, Hardcore)
- Adx (Oise, Speed Metal)
- The Chainsaw Motel (Rennes, Nu Core – Stoner)
- Luc Arbogast (La Rochelle, Folk Medieval Rock)
Conclusion
As the countdown to Hellfest 2025 begins, anticipation builds for what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of metal culture. With a diverse array of talent from around the world, this year’s festival not only highlights the genre’s global appeal but also showcases the vibrant local music scene in France. Whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer or a newcomer, Hellfest offers something for everyone, making it the ultimate destination for metal enthusiasts.
FAQs
What are the dates for Hellfest 2025?
Hellfest 2025 will take place from June 19 to 22.
How many bands will perform at Hellfest this year?
A total of 184 bands are expected to perform at this year’s festival.
Which countries will the performing bands come from?
Bands will be representing countries including the United States, England, Australia, Mongolia, Ukraine, Mexico, and France.
Are there any local Nantes bands performing?
Yes, several Nantes bands will perform, including Ultra Vomit, Cashmire, Lunar Tombfields, Gravekvlt, and Tsar.
Will there be any first-time performers at the festival?
Yes, there will be 15 bands making their Hellfest debut this year.