Hellfest 2023: A Resounding Success in Clisson
The Hellfest 2023 has come to a close, marking yet another exhilarating four-day marathon for metal enthusiasts. This year, the festival expanded its reach, kicking off with two additional days of pre-festival activities at the Leclerc center in Clisson, leading to a total of six days dedicated to metal music in this quaint town of 7,000 inhabitants.
New Developments and Expectations
This year’s festival was met with curious anticipation surrounding new features, particularly the newly designed outdoor Valley stage. This stage sparked discussions among attendees, especially during the day sessions that began at 2:00 PM. The challenges of sound and light management during these performances were noted, though the night sessions dazzled with their visual and auditory appeal. Bands such as Amenra, Botch, and Monster Magnet delivered standout performances, showcasing the festival’s commitment to high-quality sound. Additionally, the commercial structure known as “The Sanctuary” made its debut, visually captivating but seemingly falling short of improving foot traffic as expected. Organizers are likely to take these observations into account for future events.
Day One: A Fiery Opening
Under a hot sun, the festival officially opened on Thursday, June 15, at 3 PM. The debut performance by Blackbraid, a Black Amerindian metal project, set the tone under the temple tent. The Valley stage followed with remarkable acts including Dune from Scotland, the Rhodanians of Céleste, and the post-metal powerhouse Amenra, which delivered one of the festival’s most memorable shows. However, performances by Billy Idol and Kiss left something to be desired, with the latter relying heavily on a flashy pyrotechnic display to salvage their performance.
Day Two: An Eclectic Mix
Friday’s lineup included a mix of Death and Black Metal from Breton bands Venefixion and Belenos, albeit with short sets that sometimes hindered their ability to fully express their musical styles. The Valley stage welcomed Bongripper with their instrumental doom, as well as Weedeater, featuring the charismatic “Dixie” Dave Collins, and Triggerfinger with their elegant Stoner/Rock sound. The Warzone scene was electrifying, highlighted by the Londoners Cockney Rejects delivering a dynamic performance. Rancid also impressed the audience with their efficiency and rigor.
Day Three: Iron Maiden Takes the Stage
Saturday was a monumental day, headlined by the legendary Iron Maiden. Their performance drew an extraordinary crowd to the main stage at 9 PM, featuring a setlist that included several tracks from their latest album “Senjutsu,” albeit at the expense of some classic hits. Bruce Dickinson, ever the showman, engaged the audience with his energy and delivered a poignant message during “Death of the Celts.” Earlier in the day, the Valley stage showcased a diverse array of bands, including Nantes’ Décasia, American group Spirit Adrift, and sludge metal veterans Crowbar.
Day Four: A Memorable Conclusion
The festival concluded on a rainy note, yet the atmosphere remained vibrant. The first performances under the Altar and Temple stages were well-attended, with French bands Blod, Aleister, and “The Old Dead Tree” captivating audiences. Following them, the Americans Legion of Doom and Swedes Dozer managed to silence the rain with their powerful performances. The festival wrapped up with the iconic Tenacious D and the highly anticipated Slipknot, featuring an impeccable stage show that left a lasting impression.
Volunteer Efforts and Festival Spirit
Once again, the volunteers of the Challenger structure played a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and enjoyment of attendees. They managed the famed “pits,” providing a secure environment for slam dancers. The Hellfest remains a beacon of safety and camaraderie, fostering a friendly festival atmosphere where individual freedoms are both celebrated and protected.
Controversies and Perspectives
While the majority of festival-goers were united by their love of metal, some sought to raise discussions around contemporary themes such as the environmental impact of the festival and the inclusion of controversial bands. Festival organizer Ben Barbaud addressed these concerns in an interview, defending the festival’s commitment to freedom of expression and artistic integrity. His candid approach reflects the festival’s ethos and its resistance to modern censorship.
Looking Ahead: Hellfest 2024
The excitement for Hellfest 2024 is already brewing, with tickets for the four-day pass set to go on sale on June 27 at 1 PM. The festival will take place from June 27 to 30, 2024, marking a shift in its traditional dates. Fans are eager to discover the reasons behind these changes as anticipation builds for the next edition.
Conclusion
Hellfest 2023 proved to be an unforgettable celebration of metal music, showcasing a diverse lineup and fostering a vibrant community spirit. The festival continues to evolve, embracing change while staying true to its roots. As fans look forward to next year’s event, one thing is clear: Hellfest remains a cornerstone of the metal music scene, uniting enthusiasts from all walks of life.
FAQs
What is Hellfest?
Hellfest is an annual metal music festival held in Clisson, France, attracting thousands of fans from around the world.
When does Hellfest 2024 take place?
Hellfest 2024 will take place from June 27 to 30, 2024.
How can I buy tickets for Hellfest 2024?
Tickets for Hellfest 2024 will go on sale on June 27 at 1 PM. Make sure to check the official website for purchasing details.
What types of music are featured at Hellfest?
Hellfest primarily features metal music, including various subgenres such as heavy metal, black metal, death metal, and stoner rock.
Is Hellfest family-friendly?
While Hellfest is primarily focused on metal music, it fosters a friendly and inclusive atmosphere. Attendees should consider the content and environment when bringing children.