Hellfest 2024: A Rock N’ Roll Heavy Symphonies Under Clisson Skies
Imagine a place where music shakes the ground, where strangers become family, and where the power of sound transcends language. This place is called Hellfest, a festival that didn’t just live up to its legendary reputation but soared beyond it. For four unforgettable days, the charming town of Clisson transformed into a haven for music lovers, with the rumble of drums and the scream
of guitars echoing under the summer sky.
From the first chord on Thursday to the last encore on Sunday, the 2024 edition of Hellfest was a celebration of community, creativity, and cathartic release. The festival grounds,
adorned with fiery sculptures and colossal stages, felt like a world apart—a realm where metalheads, rockers, and curious newcomers came together in shared euphoria.
The Music: A Journey Through Sonic Landscapes
The lineup was nothing short of spectacular. Legends walked the stage alongside fresh talents, creating a sonic tapestry that captivated every ear, this is just a snippet of the entire dream:
- Megadeth delivered a masterclass in thrash metal, with Dave Mustaine’s sharp guitar work on “Tornado of Souls” leaving the crowd spellbound. The band surprised fans with deep cuts like “Rattlehead” and “Kick the Chair,” proving that their decades of dominance are far from over.
- Avenged Sevenfold, returning after six years, offered a performance that blended intensity with vulnerability. M. Shadows’ voice, once questioned, soared effortlessly through classics like “Nightmare” and new tracks like “Cosmic,” captivating both old-school fans and new converts.
- BabyMetal‘s fusion of kawaii charm and heavy riffs had the crowd dancing with infectious energy. Their new single “Ratatata,” featuring Electric Callboy, added a fresh twist to their well-loved choreography and heavy instrumentation.
- Machine Head‘s long-awaited comeback after 12 years away from Hellfest was a brutal, adrenaline-filled spectacle. Circle pits erupted during “Imperium,” and fans embraced the chaos of “Davidian.” Robb Flynn’s infectious enthusiasm reminded everyone why Machine Head remains a force to be reckoned with.
- Metallica, the thrash metal titans, delivered a set packed with classics and surprises, including a spontaneous cover of “L’Aventurier” by Indochine. James Hetfield’s commanding presence turned “Master of Puppets” into a transcendent moment.
- Foo Fighters, led by the ever-charismatic Dave Grohl, provided a grand finale. The crowd roared along to “Everlong” as the band paid homage to late drummer Taylor Hawkins with heartfelt tributes.
The Atmosphere: More Than Just Music
Hellfest 2024 was more than a series of concerts—it was an immersive experience. The colossal mechanical spider crafted by La Machine loomed over the crowd, its metallic legs swaying to the rhythm of the music. The food stalls served everything from vegan delights to hearty barbecue, ensuring everyone had the fuel to keep moshing.
The sense of community was palpable. Strangers exchanged stories, danced arm-in-arm, and formed lifelong friendships. The festival’s commitment to inclusivity was evident in moments like Frank Carter’s women-only mosh pit, a gesture that highlighted the festival’s welcoming spirit.
The stages themselves were architectural marvels. The Warzone stage buzzed with punk rock energy, the Temple provided a spiritual space for black and doom metal devotees, while the Valley embraced psychedelic riffs with atmospheric lighting. The constant interplay of light, sound, and passion created an environment that was as visually stunning as it was sonically powerful.
Beyond the Music: The Heart of Hellfest
Hellfest has always been about more than just headbanging and guitar solos. It’s a space where art, culture, and activism intersect. This year, Lofofora brought feminist activists from Femen on stage to emphasize their message of equality. Tom Morello’s set doubled as a call to arms for social justice, reminding fans of music’s power to inspire change.
The festival’s environmental initiatives also stood out. Reusable cups, waste sorting stations, and initiatives promoting greener touring practices highlighted the event’s growing commitment to sustainability. Hellfest isn’t just celebrating music; it’s protecting the planet for future generations of rockers.
The Highlights: Moments We Won’t Forget
- Dave Grohl’s Infectious Energy: The Foo Fighters frontman delivered a performance that oscillated between raw power and heartfelt sincerity.
- Royal Blood’s Hypnotic Grooves: Their stripped-down rock resonated deeply in the late afternoon sun.
- Sylvaine’s Haunting Set: The Norwegian artist’s ethereal sounds provided a meditative escape from the festival’s intensity.
- Dropkick Murphys’ Celtic Party: A whirlwind of singalongs and high-energy folk-punk that left everyone smiling.
- Corey Taylor’s Emotional Tribute: The Slipknot frontman opened up about his mental health struggles before delivering an emotionally charged “Snuff.”
Are you ready for Hellfest 2025?
If you’ve never experienced Hellfest, 2024 proved why it’s an unmissable event. It’s not just about the music—it’s about the feeling of belonging, the thrill of discovery, and the pure, unfiltered joy that only live music can bring.
The tickets for 2025 sold out in record time—a testament to the festival’s growing magic. So, mark your calendar, pack your boots, and prepare to join the Hellfest family next year. Because once the fire of Hellfest touches you, there’s no turning back.
See you in HELL.
#HellfestForever #MetalFamily #ClissonRocks #Heavymetal #Hellfest #Theanarchist #Metalhead
