Graspop 2025 blokkenschema dag 1 - donderdag 19 juni 2025

The massive aggressive music of Municipal Waste still has the same impact as two decades ago when the band first exploded onto the scene with ‘Waste ‘Em All’ (2003). Contrary to such contemporaries and full-blown thrash bands as Havok and Suicidal Angels, the Richmond, Virginia natives’ output is more akin to hardcore, slotting them in the same category as D.R.I. and Suicidal Tendencies - the band members call it speed metal punk. These guys are known for their over-the-top sense of humour and for turning partying into an art form. Looking for a T-shirt? How about the classic Municipal Waste T-shirt featuring The Donald blowing his brains out? Social criticism but always tongue in cheek, just the way we like it. ‘The Last Rager’ EP was the precursor to their most recent full album ‘Electrified Brain’ (2022), an album that slays the old way and is devoid of any hint of subtlety. Last year they released an EP called ‘Tango & Thrash’, a collection of tracks that pays homage to classic action movies. Rounding up all pit hounds!  #GMM25  

Landmvrks are making their GMM debut this year. Hailing from France, the band was founded in 2014 and favours a mix of modern metalcore punctuated with hardcore riffs and earworm choruses. Early on they started writing and recording original material and honing their live chops on the road with the likes of First Blood and More Than Little. Their maiden album ’Hollow’ dropped in 2016 and since then, they’ve added ‘Fantasy’ (2018) and ‘Lost in the Waves’ (2021) to their arsenal; ‘Live at Espace Julien, Marseille’ (2019) catches the French quartet at their bludgeoning live best. Their next LP, ‘The Darkest Place I’ve Ever Been’, is scheduled for a 2025 release. Meanwhile they continue to climb the hierarchical ladder, touring with Knocked Loose, Stick to Your Guns and Miss May I, to name but a few. Landmvrks are masters of experimentation, contrasting hard and soft in a way that lifts them above the crowd while sounding fresh and original. Blast beats, groove, electro ballads and influences of all eras of metalcore are forged into a captivating whole that will have the metal hordes churning as they lay waste to GMM for the second time. #GMM25

Motionless in White is a gothic metalcore band hailing from Scranton, Pennsylvania. Citing a variety of influences ranging from Megadeth and Metallica to Slipkot, Rob Zombie and August Burns Red, they are amongst the most hyped new American metal bands. Their music has been referred to as horror metal and, rather predictably, their anti-religious stance has sparked a fair amount of controversy across the Atlantic. Musically they can best be described as a cross between Marilyn Manson and A Day to Remember: many of their songs sound simultaneously melodic and as brutal as a headbutt, albeit with a special twist. ‘Graveyard Shift’ (2017) and ‘Disguise’ (2019) do what Motionless in White does best: deliver an infectious blend of metalcore, gothic and industrial metal around memorable hooks and choruses. Their most recent outing ‘Scoring the End of the World’ (2022) was hailed by many reviewers as their best album yet. #GMM25

Dream Theater are celebrating the 40th anniversary of their inception this year and are widely considered part of prog metal’s Big Three. Known for their intricate compositions and the technical prowess of its members, they draw on influences including Rush, Yes, Iron Maiden, Pink Floyd and Judas Priest, resulting in a blend of heavy metal and prog rock. The 2010 departure of drummer Mike Portnoy sent a shock wave through the prog scene; his subsequent return in 2023 galvanised the band as they entered the studio to record their 16th album ‘Parasomnia’, which is scheduled to drop in February 2025. A new album, the hits, consummate musicianship and Portnoy’s return: the stars are aligning for one of the most anticipated performances of this edition. #GMM25

Over the years, British heavy metal legends Iron Maiden have been frequent house guests in Dessel. In 2025 they will headline the festival for the 11th time when their ‘Run For Your Lives Tour’ stops off in Dessel to celebrate half a century of Iron Maiden. Brace yourselves for a set list spanning the first nine studio albums, from their eponymous debut to ‘Fear of the Dark’. The ‘Run For Your Lives Tour‘ promises to be the most spectacular Maiden show to date. Scream for me, Dessel! #GMM25

In 2018, a Roman tribune, a fierce Norse warrior, a single-minded crusader and a lethal Spartan soldier formed an unbreakable alliance to elevate pure power metal to the status of religion. The German-Austrian-Swiss quartet Warkings brings the thunder of ancient battlefields to the modern metal stage. The four mysterious warriors – The Tribune, The Viking, The Crusader and The Spartan – each claim to have risen from the dead to spread the gospel of spine-shattering riffs and heroic anthems. With albums like ‘Revenge’ (2020) and ‘Morgana’ (2022), Warkings combine myth, history and fantasy in a high-octane blend of soaring choruses, galloping rhythms and theatrical flair. Their live shows are pure spectacle, filled with war cries, storytelling and relentless energy. If you like Sabaton or Powerwolf and you’ve got a taste for legends and myths, it’s time for you to join the battle! #GMM25

With members from Finland, Greece and Hungary, the international heavy metal quintet Beast in Black exploded onto the scene with their 2017 debut ‘Berserker’. Follow-up ‘From Hell with Love’ (2019) further refined the power metal mix with punchy, crisp riffs and catchy choruses, a powerful combination on the live stage. Guitarist/keyboardist/songwriter Anton Kabanen knows how to craft timeless melodies around heroic stories rooted in sci-fi, fantasy and cyber punk. Although influenced by classic heavy metal bands like Judas Priest, Manowar, W.A.S.P., Accept and Black Sabbath, the subtle addition of synthesisers enables Beast in Black to forge a unique sound. Their most recent single ‘Power of the Beast’ (2024) is quintessential Beast in Black with powerful riffs, soaring vocals and a memorable singalong chorus. #GMM25

Metal lyrics often deal with serious topics such as war, civil unrest, injustice, political views, etc. and in that sense pirate metal is a breath of fresh air. Pirate metal bands don’t take themselves or life in general too seriously and it’s all in good fun. One of the leading bands in the genre is Alestorm. They forge a clever and infectious combination of power metal and folk metal but on occasion they still like to experiment with other genres such as thrash, black and death metal. While it’s easy to dismiss the gimmick of grown men pretending to be pirates as merely silly, there’s no denying that Alestorm are actually good at what they do and their songs show more musicianship than they generally get credit for. Their 2024 EP ‘Voyage of the Dead marauders’ (2022) pours the same rum in the same bottle with a new label – uhm, lyrics. Once again they’ve served up the perfect party soundtrack and there’s more to come because ‘The Thunderfit Chronicles’ is set for a June 2025 release! Just in time for GMM so raise yer mugs, don yer eye patch and sing yer hearts out! Yarrr! #GMM25

The symphonic female-fronted metal band has earned its current status through talent, hard work and excellent music. The powerful voice of frontwoman Simone Simons is the perfect match with the grunts of mastermind Mark Jansen but the other band members, including Belgian guitarist Isaac Delahaye, also made a vital contribution in blending gothic and epic melodic metal into a varied sound generously sprinkled with orchestral passages. Founded in 2002, the Dutch formation celebrated their breakthrough with 2007’s ‘The Divine Conspiracy’, an album that broadcast their name to the farthest-flung corners of the world. ‘The Holographic Principle’ (2016) made Epica a top-tier band and 2021’s ‘Ωmega’ is the most recent chapter in their ongoing saga. Not only did they make an adaptation of French composer Camille Saint-Saëns’ famous composition ‘Dance Macabre’ (1874) for the opening of a new ride in De Efteling, they also released their new single ‘Arcana’, the prelude to a new chapter that will come to fruition next year. We’re sure you’ll give them a warm reception for their tenth appearance in Dessel! #GMM25

Since 2003 Powerwolf have been scouring the globe with a singular mix of religious symbolism, mythology and catchy tracks. Those who witnessed last month’s performance in the Lotto Arena know exactly what to expect: a grandiose show full of metal hymns, bombastic riffs and sing-along choruses, a dramatic light show and a touch of theatrical flair that sets them apart from the competition. With charismatic frontman Attila Dorn and his wolf pack firing on all cylinders, you’re guaranteed a magical heavy metal evening. #GMM25

Belgian post metal/sludge peddlers Psychonaut self-released their 2018 debut ‘Unfold the God Man’, putting them squarely in the crosshairs of Pelagic Records, who promptly re-released the album. It’s no secret our country has no shortage of homegrown talent but few bands come to fruition as fast as Psychonaut. Their sophomore effort 'Violate Consensus Reality' is without a doubt one of the best metal albums of 2022. Lyrically it delves into themes of collective human consciousness and the idea of transcending perceived separations to form a unified civilisation. Musically, it forges a well-balanced whole consisting of progressive, psychedelic, sludge and post-metal influences, creating a dense yet dynamic soundscape. The album garnered rave reviews at home and abroad, and the title track features guest appearances by Stefanie Mannaerts (Brutus) and Colin H. van Eeckhout (Amenra). The combination of Stefanie’s clean vocals and Colin’s agonised shrieks is spine-chilling, providing one of many highlights on an album that marries flawless musicianship, exceptional songwriting and lyrical relevance. Talk about a highly anticipated GMM debut! #GMM25

Signs of the Swarm are a brutal deathcore band hailing from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Since their inception in 2014 they have been stretching the limits of the genre. From their promising debut ‘Senseless Order’ (2016) across ‘The Disfigurement of Existence’ (2017) with its superior production, right down to their most recent feat, ‘Amongst the Low & Empty’ (2023), they have proven themselves masters at making dark, intense music that delivers an auditory throttling from the very first note. With a combination of crushing blast beats and unhinged vocals, they have managed to secure a worldwide fan base that continues to grow with every new tour and album. Prepare for a caustic deathcore attack with hints of slam death metal. #GMM25

Death Angel were one of the most popular thrash bands of the 80s. They spearheaded the second wave of thrash and their popularity soared following the release of their acclaimed third album ‘Act III’ (1990), which showcased the band’s artistic versatility thanks to the use of acoustic guitars and elements of funk and traditional heavy metal. A serious tour bus accident indirectly led to the band’s demise but a decade later a one-off contribution to a Chuck Billy benefit show led to the reformation of Death Angel. Excellent new albums such as ‘The Art of Dying’ (2004) and ‘Killing Season’ (2008) proved the old fire had been rekindled and they continue to put out excellent albums, with their most recent long player ’Humanicide’ ( 2019) resulting in a Grammy nomination. Don’t miss Act VI of Death Angel’s GMM catalogue! #GMM25

Drummer Martin Lopez founded Soen after his departure from Opeth and their studio debut ‘Cognitive’ dropped in 2012. Their debut was often likened to Tool but the comparisons ended with their sophomore outing ‘Tellurian’ (2014), thanks to tracks that flow more organically. On ‘Lykaia’ (2017) Soen found their own voice and identity: it’s a prog record with accessible yet intricate song structures bursting with consummate musicianship and standout vocals by versatile vocalist Joel Ekelöf. With the Tool comparisons swept aside, ‘Lotus’ (2019) saw Soen experimenting with more of a classic rock style that signals the next step in their evolution as one of the most exciting prog metal bands in the business. ‘Imperial’ (2021) is to Soen what the Black Album was to Metallica and topped many Album of the Year lists. On their latest slab ‘Memorial’ (2023) they took a somewhat more accessible approach but that hasn’t detracted from the quality of the songs. Soen are a finger-licking prospect for fans of Tool, Opeth, Anathema and Pink Floyd. #GMM25

Paradise Lost’s breakthrough album ‘Gothic’ (1991) propelled them to the top tier of the doom metal genre, a status the Halifax sons were able to consolidate on both Shades of God (1992) and Icon (1993). Over the years their output mellowed somewhat but 2007’s ‘In Requiem’ saw them return to their heavier roots and they’ve been on a major upswing ever since. Over the last decade they’ve continued to redefine their sound, marrying the doom influences from their early days with more melodic elements and a mixture of clean and harsh vocals. On ‘The Plague Within’ (2015), Holmes’ taking over mic duties for Bloodbath crystallised into the most cavernous vocals he’d produced in years. The powerful combination of Aedy’s crushing riffs and Mackintosh’s sorrowful, lamenting melodies create that typical gothic Paradise Lost atmosphere and the rhythm section is a slow, unrelenting machine that crushes everything in sight. ‘Medusa’ (2017) abandons the gothic approach in favour of the doom sound of their early days and Obisidian (2020) once again illustrates their two greatest strengths: consistency and the ability to keep things fresh, even after 37 years. #GMM25

Orbit Culture is a Swedish metal band that delivers a crushing mix of groove, melodic death metal and thrash that will appeal to fans of Gojira, Metallica and Fear Factory. Heavy, down-tuned riffs, thunderous drumming and powerful growls help create an intense atmosphere that is both massive and emotionally charged. Formed in Eksjö, Sweden, the band has been making waves on the metal scene with albums like ‘Nija’ (2020) and ‘Descent’ (2023), demonstrating their ability to balance brutality with melody. They are a quintessential live band thanks to tons of raw energy, headbanging riffs and spine-chilling vocals that will draw in groove dogs and melodic death fans. #GMM25

Together with Napalm Death, Carcass were the progenitors of the emerging goregrind scene. The feast of blood, guts and gore was backed by intelligent lyrics that seemed to come straight out of a medical handbook. As for the music, Carcass sounded every bit as deadly as their morbid artwork promised and ‘Reek of Putrefaction’ (1988) and ‘Symphonies of Sickness’ (1989) are still landmark albums. The more melodic approach on ‘Heartwork’ (1993) was credited with carrying the seed for what would later become known as melodic death metal but in 1996 - and in spite of growing commercial success - recording issues and a changing music industry heralded the demise of the band. The patient was ultimately resuscitated in 2007 when Carcass were booked to play a number of festival shows but it would be another six years before ‘Surgical Steel’ dropped, another masterpiece that brings a mix of crushing grind and melodic death metal with a set of cojones the size of wrecking balls. Their last album to date, 2019’s ‘Torn Arteries’ sees Carcass wielding less lethal instruments than in their youthful prime but the surgical precision makes for more accessible tracks. Jeff Walker’s sarcastic stage banter is an attraction in itself and GMM die-hards will certainly remember their headlining Marquee show at our 2019 edition. #GMM25

Based out of Bridgeport, Connecticut, Hatebreed are known for their singular amalgam of, amongst others, hardcore, metalcore, punk(rock), groove and thrash. Even on their 1996 debut ‘Under the Knife’, they exhibited an amazing ability to blend these genres into a galvanising bare-knuckled cocktail that effortlessly bridges the gap between musical styles. With subsequently ‘Perseverance’ (2002), ‘The Rise of Brutality’ (2003) and ‘Supremacy’ (2006), frontman Jamey Jasta and his band mates wrote a prominent chapter in the history of metalcore. The band leader oozes charisma and in the past both Jasta and Hatebreed have collaborated successfully with countless colleagues from other subgenres. Hatebreed are one of hardcore’s leading lights, a reputation they’ve earned a thousand times over, both on stages worldwide and in the studio. Give ‘The Divinity of Purpose’ (2013) or ‘The Concrete Professional’ (2016) a quick listen and it’s instantly obvious time hasn’t dulled their edge. The closing line of the opening track of their last studio effort to date, ‘Weight of the False Self’ (2020), captures the essence of Hatebreed’s mission: unleash the savage instinct! #GMM25

The name Fleshwater doesn’t ring a bell? Then be sure to check the most popular streaming services. They were formed in 2017 by vocalist/guitarist Anthony DiDio, drummer Matt Wood and bassist Jeremy Martin, aka three quarters of metalcore/nu-metal band Vein.fm. Together with charismatic figurehead Marisa Shirar (aka Mirsy), Fleshwater serves up a spellbinding adaptation of shoegaze and soft grunge, also known as ‘nu gaze’. Their full length debut ‘We're Not Here to Be Loved’ (2022) was very successful on the other side of the Atlantic. The album is not innovative as such but recombines classic 90s influences into an exciting new whole. The alternation between brooding and high-energy material works like a charm and the vocal tandem Shirar/DiDio complements each other perfectly, with Shirar’s haunting voice taking centre stage overall. If a blend of shoegaze, soft grunge, alt metal and post-hardcore is your thing then you should add Fleshwater to your list. #GMM25

There’s no shortage of pop punk, metalcore, melodic hardcore or post-hardcore bands out there but Trash Boat is more original and interesting than most. They exploded onto the scene with their pop punk debut ‘Nothing I Write You Can Change What You’ve Been Through’ (2016). The musicianship, vocalist Tobi Duncan’s raw but emotional vocals and the well-crafted songs elevated them above most of their peers. ‘Crown Shyness’ (2018) saw them taking the next step, both in terms of lyrical content and musical development, with surprising twists and turn. ‘Don’t You Feel Amazing’ (2021) takes its cue from the likes of NIN, Placebo and System of a Down, emphasising once again that Trash Boat are hard to pigeonhole .They don’t think in terms of genres, they just make the kind of music they like to hear. Trash Boat are not only maturing as individuals, the album also sounds like a musical coming of age. It also has more mass appeal, giving it all the makings of a breakout album. Their latest achievement ‘Heaven Can Wait’ (2024) is the next step on the road to their ultimate goal: filling stadiums.  #GMM25

Hailing from Southern California, Alien Ant Farm blends nu-metal, alt rock and punk pop with quirky energy. Known for their funky, high-octane cover of Michael Jackson’s ‘Smooth Criminal’, which topped the Billboard Alternative Songs chart in 2001, they deliver a fun, nostalgic punch for fans of early-2000s rock. Their breakout album ‘ANThology’ went platinum, featuring hits like ‘Movies’ and cementing their reputation for inventive, infectious tunes. Despite a life-threatening bus crash in 2002, the band persisted and released albums like ‘truANT’ and ‘Up in the Attic’, which lean into heavier alt-metal influences. After a hiatus, they returned with ‘Always and Forever’ in 2015 and their latest outing, 2024’s ‘Mantras’, proves they’re still evolving while delivering crowd-pleasers. Alien Ant Farm is perfect for fans of nostalgic rock anthems with a twist. Expect a high-energy set loaded with hits, covers and feel-good vibes. #GMM25

Every new Terror release follows the same tried and true recipe: unrelenting, titanium-tough hardcore with razor sharp riffs, pounding rhythms and signature hardcore lyrics. This LA band is practically a force of nature: from the very first note to the last split eyebrow in the mosh pit, these guys never take their foot of the accelerator pedal. Frontman Scott Vogel is not only a consummate live performer but is also (in)famous for his unconventional and often bizarre on-stage banter, widely known as ‘Vogelisms’ (“Sound guy, can I get more stage dives in the monitors please?”). Terror have been around since 2002 and Vogel and friends are still a band on a mission. Terror is not just about the music. They are hardcore heroes who promote the hardcore lifestyle and lead by example. The pummelling onslaught continues on their latest slab ‘Pain into Power’ (2022). Feisty and rambunctious as ever, Terror are an ironclad guarantee of a full mosh pit workout so what are you waiting for? #GMM25

Yellowcard made their mark in the early 2000s by pairing pop-punk energy and emotive violin lines – a combination that helped 2003’s ‘Ocean Avenue’ go double platinum. Formed in Jacksonville, Florida, and later based in California, the band became a Warped Tour staple and released a string of Billboard-charting albums including ‘Lights and Sounds’ and ‘Southern Air’. Known for anthems like ‘Only One’ and ‘Way Away’, they took a break in 2016, only to return stronger in 2022 with a Riot Fest set and new material. ‘The Childhood Eyes’ EP (2023) and ambient-tinged collaboration ‘A Hopeful Sign’ (2024) marked a bold, creative evolution. With heartfelt lyrics, soaring melodies and a renewed fire onstage, Yellowcard remain a top draw for fans of emotional, high-energy alt-rock. #GMM25

Melodic hardcore/metalcore fans will be chuffed to see Stick to Your Guns on the bill. Vocalist/guitarist Jesse Barnett founded the Californian band in 2003 and when their debut ‘For What It’s Worth’ dropped two years later, their determined and energetic brand of hardcore hit home with the hardcore crowd. Gang chants, a rhythm section as tight as a duck’s arse, the twin guitar attack and just enough of a modern spin on old school tactics to keep things interesting: check! The more brutal passages are reminiscent of Hatebreed whereas the melodic parts sound like a slightly heavier version of Ignite. ‘Disobedient’ (2015) and ‘True View’ (2017) have more clean vocals than their earlier work without sounding cheesy or disturbing the precarious balance between the two. Their latest exploit reaffirms their reputation for brutally heavy hardcore music with a profound message. ‘Keep Planting Flowers’ (2025) has more of a punk slant than any of their previous work. For fans of Stray From the Path, In Hearts Wake. #GMM25

In 1997, Lagwagon was one of the first punk bands to feature on the GMM bill; we welcomed them back 25 years later and now they’re back for round three. Lagwagon formed back in 1988 near Santa Barbara, California and their melodic punk rock is often compared to the likes of NOFX and No Use for a Name. They were the very first band to be signed by Fat Wreck Chords, the label founded by NOFX punk icon Fat Mike. When punk hit the mainstream in the nineties, Lagwagon refused to sign with a major label. As a result, their commercial success has been nowhere near that of The Offspring and Green Day, in spite of the undeniable quality of their music. ‘Double Plaidinum’ was their new album when they first played GMM; their second appearance, in support of their last album to date, ‘Railer’, fell through when the festival was cancelled due to COVID. It’s hard to believe more than two decades separate those albums because ‘Railer’ shares that timeless quality that is so typical of good skate punk albums.  #GMM25

California sons Deafhaven are a breed apart on the heavy music scene and it’s easy to see why. Citing black metal as their primary source of inspiration, they nonetheless take cues from shoegaze but also from blackgaze, heavy metal, indie rock and alternative rock. They started out as a duo but along the way the band fleshed out into a quintet. Their second full-length, ‘Sunbather’ (2013), features just four tracks, which oscillate between caressing light and oppressive darkness in a masterfully crafted mix of shoegaze and black metal. While Sunbather aroused considerable interest in metal circles, it was their third release ‘New Bermuda’ (2015) that was greeted with commercial and critical success, turning many non-metal fans on to their music. In the following years they held fast to their this recipe until 2021’s ‘Infinite Granite’ broke the mould with almost no harsh vocals and an alternative rock-oriented approach. Their live shows are an emotional voyage but fiercer than their studio work. #GMM25

The Raven Age have shown they are excellent ambassadors for a new generation of British metal acts. Founded in 2009 by George Harris (son of Iron Maiden chief Steve Harris) and Dan Wright, this melodic metal band stands for contemporary and melodic metal. They released their self-titled debut EP in 2014, resulting in support slots for the likes of Mastodon and Tremonti. In 2016 they opened for Iron Maiden on their Book of Souls world tour. The following year they released their full-length debut, ‘Darkness Will Rise’: melodic, epic and dynamic but at times also fast-paced and abusively heavy. They made a lasting impression at three consecutive editions of GMM (2016-2018) and since then they’ve released their sophomore effort ‘Conspiracy’ (2019), with shorter tracks but similar history-themed lyrics, and ‘Blood Omen’ (2023), their most rounded effort yet that sees them perfecting their recipe of genuine heavy metal with commercial appeal. ‘Blood Omen’ is a good place to start exploring their music, or you can spin ‘Exile’ (2021), which contains acoustic versions of previously recorded material as well as four blistering live recordings. #GMM25

Music lovers will know Charlotte Wessels as the former lead vocalist for symphonic metallers Delain. In 2021 this band temporarily dissolved, leaving Charlotte free to pursue her own musical path. Known for her characteristic, pop-oriented voice, her solo work is still recognisable: the love of epic songs and symphonic arrangements is still present but both ‘Tales from Six Feet Under’ albums nevertheless take a broader approach, with contributions ranging from indie pop to synth-infused rock. Bathed in a nostalgic atmosphere, her most recent outing ‘The Obsession’ (2024) heralds a return to a heavier symphonic metal sound. On the new LP she is assisted by three former Delain bandmates and the operatic interludes help create a wonderfully balanced album. Simone Simons (Epica) and Alyssa White-Gluz (Arch Enemy) are among the guest vocalists. #GMM25

Hot Milk are Manchester’s loudest emotional export. These rebels peddle pop-punk hooks, alt-rock angst and a healthy dose of chaos. Formed in 2018 by co-vocalists/guitarists Han Mee and Jim Shaw, the band wasted no time in making a name for themselves with their debut EP ‘Are You Feeling Alive?’, a bold record that screamed vulnerability and volume in equal measure. Since then, they’ve hit the ground running, touring relentlessly with the likes of Foo Fighters and You Me At Six, and earning a reputation for energetic live shows that deliver a full body workout. Their 2023 debut album ‘A Call to the Void’ saw the band dial up the emotion and distortion, tackling themes like mental health, self-destruction and defiance. Fans of Paramore and Bring Me the Horizon will find much to like here. #GMM25

Post-metal, noise, post-hardcore, sludge metal, post-rock, … American vocalist Julie Christmas will sink her teeth into any genre if it helps her bare her tormented soul in an enthralling show that brings out the full range of her vocal talents. The New York native built experience with Made Out of Babies and post-metal super group Battle of Mice and collaborated intensively with Cult of Luna. In her solo work she spews her anger in seething, at times dismal and intriguing rock songs. By the time she struck out on her own and dropped her first solo effort with 2010’s ‘The Bad Wife’, she had already established a reputation as one of the best and most versatile extreme metal vocalists out there. Her excellent new album ‘Ridiculous and Full of Blood’ (2024) features the full spectrum of vocals know to man, ranging from heartrending clean contributions to seething, throat-ripping screeches, enhanced by genuinely creative compositions. #GMM25

James Kent, better known under his stage name Perturbator, made his GMM debut in 2018. He was a guitarist in several black metal bands before switching to electronic music in 2012. His synth and darkwave tracks gained more notoriety when several were used in the ‘Hotline Miami’ game and its sequel. His music is inspired by such films as ‘Akira’, ‘Ghost in the Shell’ and the 1987 Arnold Schwarzenegger flick ‘The Running Man’, which was based on a Stephen King novella. As Perturbator he has released five albums to date, all of which received positive reviews from a host of metal magazines. His most recent outing ‘Lustful Sacraments’ (2021) again relies on his signature mix of French house and 80s nostalgia but this time with a shift towards industrial, calling to mind the likes of NIN and Depeche Mode. Not your usual GMM artist but with Kent’s array of old synthesizers and the addition of live guitars you’re in for a surprise. Welcome the uncrowned king of synthwave/cyberpunk! #GMM25

From the moment of their formation, alternative/industrial metal band Mass Hysteria has been a powerhouse of French metal, known for their politically charged lyrics. While early on they experimented with a mix of French and English lyrics, they soon solidified their identity as a French-language metal band, proving that heavy music can be just as powerful and globally resonant in their native tongue. Their sound is an unusual amalgam of leaden riffs, electronic elements and hard-hitting lyrics, making them one of France’s most influential metal acts. Over the years they have channelled influences from various genres into their output but the backbone is always alternative/industrial metal. Albums like ‘Contraddiction’ (1999) and ‘Matière Noire’ (2015) cemented their reputation and anthemic choruses, battle-cry lyrics and crushing intensity make their live shows an invigorating experience. Their latest, two-part album Tenace (2023, Pt. 1 & 2) proves they are still at the top of their game. #GMM25

Thrash Attack is a metal cover band from the south of the Netherlands. The band was formed in 2022 as an initiative by Spike Meulders and Marcel Coenen, both known from Stormrider and The Art of Pantera. Like a phoenix, Thrash Attack rose from the ashes of Metal Attack, which disbanded in December 2021.Thrash Attack plays heavy and thrash metal covers from the '80s and '90s, focusing especially on bands like Sepultura, Slayer, Sacred Reich, Metallica, Fear Factory, Testament, Death, Exodus, Megadeth, Nuclear Assault, and more.

This special cocktail of the rhythm section from ACTION IN DC, Bon Scott performer John Blandford, and the energetic Erwin Wuite as Angus guarantees a spectacular AC/DC show! The decades of stage experience these rockers bring from the AC/DC tribute scene is unmistakable! Songs from both the Brian Johnson and Bon Scott eras are blended into one powerful set! Be amazed by this AC/DC tribute that’s spot-on both musically and visually! #GMM25