Graspop 2025 blokkenschema dag 2 - vrijdag 20 juni 2025

A handful of EPs, two albums and some luck: that is the story of Dead Poet Society in a nutshell. The Los Angeles-based rockers peddle an emotive mix of alternative hard rock and progressive indie music, fuelled by angst and outrage at the world and themselves. Founded in 2013, they self-released their 2015 debut ‘Axiom’ and continued to develop their sound on subsequent releases. Their maiden EP ‘Weapon’ (2013) failed to find an audience in the States but they were noticed by a popular Mexican music blog, giving them the opportunity to tour Mexico alongside a popular Mexican act. The ball started rolling and eventually they started to gain traction Stateside as well. The upward curve didn’t go unnoticed and in 2020 they were signed by the Spinefarm label; their punchy, explosive full-length debut ‘-!-‘ dropped the following year. Their sophomore effort ‘Fission’ (2023) explores themes like addiction, loss and breakup, bringing more thematic depth than their debut. Musically, they maintain their fuzzed-up alt rock style but with a swaggering confidence reminiscent of bands like QoTSA and Royal Blood. #GMM25

Pro-Pain from New York has been a relentless force in the live scene for over 25 years, known for their raw blend of hardcore and metal. Led by Gary Meskil, and joined in 2012 by Belgian drummer Jonas Sanders, the band continues to bring uncompromising intensity to the stage. Since their European debut in 1994—when they already blew the roof off Biebob—they’ve grown into timeless crossover pioneers with a powerful live reputation. #GMM25

With their 2014 ‘Pop Culture’ EP, Knocked Loose gave us a taste of true hardcore, modern style. As it turns out, this was just a welcome teaser for their first studio album ‘Laugh Tracks’ (2016). Credited as a metalcore revival band, Knocked Loose aims to strike a middle ground between hardcore and metalcore, making it hard to pigeonhole the Oldham County, Kentucky natives. Just listen to the Slayer-esque intro to album opener ‘Oblivions Peak’ and you’ll see what we mean. Heavy bass, slow-paced breakdowns, intense lyrics and an unrelenting intensity. Since their second appearance here in 2018 they’ve taken great strides. Their 2019 album ‘A Different Shade of Blue’ took the underground by storm—an unrelenting assault of breakdowns, blast beats and frontman Bryan Garris’s unmistakable shriek, but layered with an eerie atmosphere that sets them apart from their peers. Their latest studio album ‘You Won’t Go Before You’re Supposed To’ (2024) features a heavier and darker side to the band. Don’t miss out on Knocked Loose or you’ll feel it in your bones. #GMM25

2010s ‘Returners’ and ‘Get What You Give’ (2012) had put The Ghost inside firmly on the map and turned them into a force on the metalcore scene. Extensive touring had earned them a reputation as the younger version of Parkway Drive. So yes, they were cruising along just fine, thank you very much… and then their relentless ascent was abruptly halted when their tour bus collided head-on with a tractor, killing both drivers and leaving several band members in critical condition; drummer Andrew Tkaczyk lost one of this legs. Everyone thought it was game over for the band but after four gruesome years of rehabilitation they made the decision to reform in the same line-up. In 2019 in LA they played their first show since the tragedy and two years ago they hopped the pond again and hit Europe. It was an emotional and inspiring reunion and they come bearing gifts with their new album ‘Searching for Solace’ (2024). #GMM25

Falling in Reverse are the definition of unpredictable but in the best way possible. Led by the ever-controversial and wildly creative Ronnie Radke, this Las Vegas band have evolved from their post-hardcore beginnings into something entirely their own: a genre-smashing fusion of metalcore, hip-hop, pop and arena rock. Back in the day Radke was the lead singer for Escape the Fate but was relieved of frontman duties because he had to serve a two-year sentence. While inside, the idea for Falling in Reverse had time to germinate. Known for viral hits like ‘Popular Monster’ and ‘Voices in My Head’, Falling in Reverse blend razor-sharp lyrics, colossal breakdowns and anthemic hooks with theatrical flair. Their music tackles mental health, addiction, fame and personal demons, often with biting self-awareness. Love them or hate them, Falling in Reverse don’t play it safe, with an amalgam of rap, metal, extremely catchy melodies and outside-the-box collaborations. If you love bold, emotional and genre-busting rock then Falling in Reverse will scratch your itch. #GMM25

Formed in 1995 in Des Moines, Slipknot are not just known for their iconic masks but also for their unique and unrivalled sound. Their eponymous debut from 1999 revolutionised the rock and metal world. This album full of raw emotions, intense energy and aggressive riffs is considered a genre milestone and kickstarted Slipknot’s ascent to global fame. Here comes the pain! #GMM25

Steve Harris divides his time between a frantic touring schedule and writing and recording material for heavy metal legends Iron Maiden, yet he still manages to find the occasional opening for other endeavours. In the early 90s Harris was approached with a cassette by guitarist Graham Leslie. Harris liked the material so much he kept in touch with a few of the guys after their band split. He then ended up writing and recording material for what was initially marketed as a solo project with the remaining slots filled by backing musicians. However, before long the bass meister referred to British Lion as a full-fledged band. Their self-titled debut ‘British Lion’ dropped in 2012. Seventies rock was one of the major inspirations for the album and there’s a bit of The Who, Thin Lizzy and UFO in there so the songs are more mainstream rock-oriented than metal. The release of their sophomore effort was backed up with a US tour. ‘The Burning’ dropped in 2020 to great critical acclaim and number three is currently in the works. Incidentally, there’s now a second member of Maiden in the line-up: Simon Dawson, Nicko McBrain’s replacement in Iron Maiden, mans the kit. #GMM25

Miles Kennedy is no stranger to Dessel. He has several performances with Alter Bridge under his belt here and has shared the GMM stage with Slash on four occasions. This time around he’s flying solo and in addition to tracks off his first two solo albums, ‘Year of the Tiger (2018) and ‘The Ides of March’ (2021), he’ll be focusing on his most recent long player. Myles is the lucky owner of a belter of a voice that has touched several generations of rock fans so there’s a reason why Jimmy Page once thought about asking him to become Led Zeppelin’s frontman. Last year his third solo effort, ‘The Art of Letting Go’, hit the shelves. Whereas his previous solo efforts –  ‘Year of the Tiger’ (2018) and ‘The Ides of March’ (2021) – were more unplugged and intimate, ‘The Art of Letting Go’ showcases a harder side of himself. The new album is testament to the versatility of Kennedy’s voice and each of the ten tracks is a classic in its own right. Don’t miss out on one of the best rock singers of his generation! #GMM25

In 2012 Alestorm mastermind Christopher Bowes founded a new power metal band inspired by the mysterious and misty decor of the medieval Scottish Highlands. On their 2013 debut, the concept album ‘Tales from the Kingdom of Fife’, Gloryhammer tells tales of epic battles, fiery dragons, witches and wizards, but always tongue-in-cheek. Their sophomore album ‘Space 1992: Rise of the Chaos Wizards’ (2015) adds a sci-fi touch to the narrative of its predecessor. Gloryhammer stands for top power metal entertainment that milks every cliché in the book while totally getting away with it. In late 2021, longtime singer Thomas Winkler found  himself at the centre of controversy and left the band. His replacement Sozos Michael made his first studio contribution on ‘Return to the Kingdom of Fife’ (2023), which hearkens back to the sound of their beginnings. Gloryhammer don’t take themselves too seriously and Sozos knows how to deliver every intentionally ludicrous line with complete and utter abandon. Hoots! #GMM25

In 2006 and eight years later Jerry Cantrell played GMM as a member of Alice in Chains. While that band still exists, Jerry Cantrell has also built a solo career over the years. His solo work is akin to what we’re used to hearing from him but it’s his unique singing voice that provides extra spice. He recently dropped his fourth solo effort, ‘I Want Blood’, a darker album than its predecessor, riff-based and reminiscent of the output that saw Alice in Chains soar to fame. An excellent new solo album and the occasional Alice in Chains classic: what a great way to kill an hour. #GMM25

Take the influences and ideas of the different members, toss them into a skillet and see what’s cooking. Apparently that’s how the band came by its name. Today, the husband and wife team of John & Korey Cooper, Jen Ledger (drums) and Seth Morrison (lead guitar) continues to spread the word. The Christian rock band debuted in 1996 with a self-titled post-grunge oriented album that was well-received. Follow-up ‘Hey You, I Love Your Soul’ (1997) gravitated towards more accessible alternative rock but the fans still loved it. 2003’s ‘Collide’ made inroads into the mainstream. Apart from including synthesizers, they also like to bring in ‘non-metal’ instruments such as the kettledrum, the violin and the cello. Across the Atlantic, Skillet are a major draw and ‘Rise’ was the best-selling rock record of 2013. ‘Unleashed’ (2016) relies more heavily on electronics and keyboards without abandoning the arena rock vibe that permeates most of their work. Since the mid-2010’s their popularity has surged and their most recent outing ‘Revolution’ (2024) calls for a revolution of love, promoting themes of love and understanding over a militaristic world view. #GMM25

Polish blackened death metal titans Behemoth are returning to Graspop Metal Meeting this summer for an exclusive Benelux performance! Known for their ferocious live shows and theatrical stage presence, the band will unleash their signature blend of blistering riffs, thunderous drums, and unholy intensity upon Dessel. With their new album The Shit Ov God on the horizon, this show promises to be even more monumental, as Nergal and his legion treat fans to a mix of fresh, blasphemous anthems and timeless classics. (#GMM25) 

Spectral Wound conjure black metal in its purest, most feral form. Hailing from Montreal and formed in 2014, the band rejects posturing and pretence in favour of sheer sonic violence, rooted in the second-wave tradition but with a modern edge. With no studio trickery or ambient filler, Spectral Wound channel icy melodies through scorched-earth riffs and relentless drumming, creating an atmosphere that’s both haunting and electrifying. Their breakout album ‘Infernal Decadence’ (2018) established them as purveyors of uncompromising black metal, while ‘A Diabolic Thirst’ (2021) further cemented their reputation, with critics praising its blistering energy and melodic sophistication. Drawing influence from the likes of Darkthrone and Gorgoroth but with a distinct Canadian frostbite, Spectral Wound deliver a live set that feels like being swept into a blizzard of sound. #GMM25

Rising from the heart of Galicia, Spain, Bloodhunter have been steadily carving their name into the European metal scene with razor-sharp riffs and a ferocious stage presence. Formed in 2012 by guitarist and composer Dani Arcos, the band really found its voice with the arrival later that year of vocalist Diva Satanica, a growling powerhouse who would later gain wider fame through her stint in Nervosa and as a contestant on The Voice Spain. Bloodhunter’s sound is rooted in melodic death metal but leans into thrash, groove and even classic heavy metal influences, resulting in a style that is both catchy and crushing. Albums like ‘The End of Faith’ (2017) and breakout album ‘Knowledge Was the Price’ (2022) – with a Ripper Owens guest appearance – showcase aggressive, technically precise work focusing on dark, introspective themes. Their rise has been fuelled by tireless touring, fierce determination and a live reputation that’s growing louder with every set. Expect sheer energy, furious solos and guttural vocals that obliterate all. #GMM25

Hailing from Virginia, this female-fronted fivesome are known for creating a wall of sound dominated by fuzzy guitars. Following their 2012 self-titled debut, Windhand’s sophomore offering ‘Soma’ (2013) is another slab of thunderously heavy stoner doom metal. Most of the tracks on this album also feature on 2014’s ‘Live at Roadburn’, which is the perfect introduction to Windhand if you’re not familiar with their trademark Sabbathian vibe. The years following 2016 marked a further descent into the depths of their sound. Their 2018 album ‘Eternal Return’, produced by Jack Endino (Nirvana, Soundgarden), was a pivotal moment, blending crushing heaviness with mournful psychedelia and showcasing Dorthia Cottrell’s haunting, hypnotic vocals in full force. It’s a doomy yet dreamy album that balances fuzz-drenched riffs with melodic introspection. This is their last full-length to date but apparently new material is in the works. Still, frontwoman Dorthia Cottrell couldn’t wait that long and in 2023 she released a solo album, ‘Death Folk Country’. Windhand’s live presence is rooted in atmosphere, with each performance feeling like a slow-burning ritual. No gimmicks, just pure, soul-crushing doom with heart. #GMM25

Inspired by British classic rock and early heavy metal – specifically 70s era Black Sabbath – Green Lung offers a gripping take on the stoner/doom genre. The band emerged in 2017 in London and made a lasting impression with their debut ‘Woodland Rites’ (2019), which the press labelled ‘simply incredible’. Lyrically they like to evoke themes from old horror movies and English folklore. Their second album ‘Black Harvest’ saw their popularity progress beyond genre boundaries and their most recent contribution ‘This Heathen Land’ (2023) is another highly satisfying “journey into occult Albion”, as one reviewer eloquently put it. Green Lung offer a unique blend of Hammond organ-laden 70s rock, psychedelia and roaring doom metal. #GMM25 

Fronted by the charismatic Ben Ward, this London quartet formed in 1995 and are one of the genre’s most consistently successful acts. In their early years they put out a number of heavy hitters that combined gravelly stoner stomps with doom and space metal accents. After the turn of the millennium they started to incorporate more classic hard rock and even punk influences into their music. ‘A Eulogy for the Damned’ (2012) is a fine example and their live recording ‘A Eulogy for the Fans: Orange Goblin Live 2012’ is the perfect introduction to what you can expect this summer. Following the release of ‘The Wolf Bites Back’ (2018), bassist and co-founder Martyn Millard departed amicably and was replaced by Harry Armstrong (ex-Decomposed, Hangnail, Earls of Mars, End of Level Boss). In addition to Ben Ward’s versatile roars/shouts/clean contributions, Armstrong’s low-end contribution adds bite and power to Orange Goblin’s latest stoner/doom slab ‘Science, Not Fiction’ (2024). Come and sample the new material live! #GMM25

Instead of death metal, Eagles of Death Metal play a pumped-up mash-up of hard rock, garage rock, blues, desert rock, boogie, funk, rockabilly, punk and more. Singer/guitarist Jesse Hughes and drummer Josh Homme of Kyuss and QOTSA fame formed the band in 1988 in Palm Desert, California. Hughes and Homme are the only constant members, the rest are touring musicians. Homme’s reputation gave them a leg up with the release of their maiden effort ‘Peace, Love, Death Metal’ (2004) and follow-up ‘Death by Sexy’ more than met expectations two years later. They went on an extended hiatus following ‘Heart On’ (2008) and their comeback album ‘Zipper Down’ (2015), released shortly before the Bataclan attack on Paris, is their last studio effort to date. Over the years a number of big names have contributed, ranging from Taylor Hawkins, Joe Castillo, Troy Van Leeuwen, Mastodon’s Brent Hinds and Dave Grohl to Belgium’s own Tim Vanhamel. #GMM25

Hailing from Denver, Colorado, Blood Incantation is a death metal powerhouse known for fusing mind-bending technicality with cosmic, atmospheric elements. Formed in 2011, the band quickly made a name for themselves with their intricate compositions and hauntingly atmospheric sound. Their music draws on both the brutality of old-school death metal and the progressive elements of space and science fiction themes. Known for their impressive musicianship, Blood Incantation often dive into abstract concepts, from the vastness of space to philosophical musings on the nature of life itself. Their music has been described as a blend of late-era Death and the alien tones of ‘Domination’-era Morbid Angel. Their 2022 EP ‘Timewave Zero’ was characterised by ambient leanings but it’s their latest full-length ‘Absolute Elsewhere’ that dropped jaws and was Rock Tribune’s 2024 album of the year. #GMM25

Opeth’s 1995 debut ‘Orchid’ changed the rules overnight: Opeth single-handedly created a flamboyant crossover between progressive seventies rock and the melodic but brutal death metal of their hometown Stockholm. The result is a cocktail of sharp contrasts where subdued, semi-acoustic passages with soothing vocals suddenly degenerate into face-crunching riffs punctuated with bowel-churning grunts. While this is a somewhat unusual combo, the ease with which these musical geniuses create seemingly endless and spellbinding compositions leaves even the most die-hard sceptics gasping for breath. Their seminal album ‘Blackwater Park’ (2001) brought widespread mainstream recognition and signalled their definitive breakthrough. They became the flag bearers of ‘progressive death metal’, a title they vacated quite unexpectedly with the release of their album ‘Heritage’ (2011): no more blast beats or death growls until… ‘The Last Will and Testament’ (2024). The album is reminiscent of the ‘Ghost Reveries’ – ‘Watershed’ era but the prog vibe nevertheless remains present. Fans of their early work regard the new album as a return to form and those who didn’t catch their sold-out performance at Ancienne Belgique earlier this year will be itching to hear the new material live. #GMM25

Static Dress is one of the most exciting new forces in UK post-hardcore, blending chaotic energy, raw emotion and a striking visual aesthetic. Formed in 2018, the Leeds-based band quickly built a cult following with their intense live performances and a genre-defying sound that draws references to early 2000s screamo, metalcore, alternative rock and nu-metal. Their 2022 debut album ‘Rouge Carpet Disaster’ solidified their reputation, delivering haunting melodies, bone-crushing breakdowns and a sense of unfiltered urgency. Live, Static Dress is an unstoppable force; expect soaring vocals, relentless riffs and a visceral connection with the crowd. For fans of Underoath, My Chemical Romance and Bring Me the Horizon. Don’t miss their set because this is a band you’ll want to say you saw before they exploded. #GMM25

House of Protection is a dynamic musical project by former Fever 333 members Stephen Harrison and Aric Improta. Stephen Harrison boasts a wealth of hardcore and punk experience, amongst others as the guitarist of The Chariot; as for Aric Improta, the acclaimed skinsman from Night Verses contributes intricate rhythms and an overall experimental approach. As a duo, they blend elements of hardcore, electronica and punk, resulting in a singular sound that disregards traditional genre conventions. The very promising initial result of this collaboration is the EP ‘Galore’ (2023) and it is accompanied by a visually striking music video shot inside the so-called ‘Well of Death’ in Ahmedabad, India. #GMM25

Based out of Woking in the UK, Employed to Serve started life as a two-piece studio project but when their first two (digitally released) EPs proved more successful than expected, vocalist Justine Jones and guitarist Sammy Urwin recruited three additional members to form a fearsome live act. Their grind-influenced post hardcore takes no prisoners, as illustrated by the vicious tracks on their excellent sophomore album ‘The Warmth of a Dying Sun’ (2017). An instant classic, the album is a well-worked, haunting slab of metalcore. If the world is going to hell then Justine’s tormented vocals and the hardcore chaos on this CD are the perfect soundtrack. 2019’s ‘Eternal Forward Motion’ is characterised by groove and nu-metal influences; ‘Conquering’ (2021) marks a confident next step in their evolution with nods to old-school thrash, death metal and more. #GMM25

Over the last decade Australia has become a force to be reckoned with on the metal scene with bands like Airbourne, Parkway Drive, Deez Nuts, Thy Art Is Murder and also… Northlane. Formed in 2009, they have meanwhile seen their fair share of Europe and the US, opening for the likes of Architects, Veil of Maya and Bring Me the Horizon. Over the past decade, they have headlined tours on both European and US soil. Northlane combines the natural aggression of hardcore with an innovative metalcore sound, for example on ‘Node’ (2015). In 2019 their fifth long player dropped to universal acclaim. ‘Alien’ is heavier than its predecessors ‘Node’ and ‘Mesmer’, and keys into the nu-metal revival of the last few years. This is their first performance here since the release of ‘Obsidian’ (2022) and if the nu-metalcore on the previous album was a change of pace then ‘Obsidian’ shows once again they are not afraid to evolve instead of simply capitalising on past success. Fans of Sleeptoken, Architects and Spiritbox will stake their place on the front rows as Northlane mount the GMM stage for the fourth time. #GMM25

Polaris, the progressive metal core sensation from Sydney, Australia, is returning this summer for a second bite at the GMM cherry. Their debut ‘The Mortal Coil’ dropped in 2017, winning an ARIA award nomination for Best Hard Rock the following year; their sophomore effort ‘The Death of Me’ (2020) earned the same distinction. Lyrically they are known for exploring such themes as depression, anxiety and loss. In June 2023 they made their first appearance here but just two weeks later, the world looked completely different when guitarist Ryan Siew died, aged 26. Another six weeks later, the band’s third and most recent outing, ‘Fatalism’, served up a hard-hitting selection of tracks that pushes the boundaries between metalcore and progressive metal. It reflects the emotional turmoil the band experienced at the height of the COVID pandemic and will undoubtedly feature prominently in their set list. #GMM25

Cover and tribute bands come in all shapes and sizes but even in this diverse landscape, Me First and the Gimme Gimmes are a breed apart. For over thirty years, these punk icons have been putting their own unique spin on a wide selection of songs that appeal to music lovers of all ages. The line-up consists of old hands and in the past both Fat Mike (NOFX) and Chris Chifflet (Foo Fighters) were members of this remarkable ensemble. Me First and the Gimme Gimmes is Spike Slawson (Swingin´ Utters) on vocals, the legendary CJ Ramone (Ramones) plucks the bass and Joey Cape (Lagwagon) handles guitar duties, supplemented with fill-in members on tour. Welcome to an uplifting punk party with surprising reinterpretations of hits by Bob Dylan, Dolly Parton, Culture Club, Simon and Garfunkel, R. Kelly and many more. #GMM25

Originally formed in 2009, Ukrainian metalcore stalwarts Jinjer refer to 2010 as their inception year with the arrival of frontwoman Tatiana Shmalyuk. Musically they already had their ducks in a row with a formula that can best be described as progressive, modern metalcore but Tatiana added the X-factor that was previously lacking. With vocal abilities ranging from graceful clean and emotional vocals to a roar that will scare the mane off an adult lion, she is one of the main reasons why Jinjer are hot, a popularity they’ve earned through a strict work ethic and elaborate touring. ‘Macro’ included funk, jazz and reggae influences and was named one of the 50 top albums of 2019. One year later they made their Australian debut and their Melbourne show made such an impression that the recording of that gig was later released as a live album. ‘Wallflowers’ hit the shelves in 2021, a single-minded album that refuses to capitalise on Jinjer’s growing success. ‘Duél’ is scheduled for a February 2025 release and will undoubtedly crank their popularity up another notch. #GMM25 

Often when new bands emerge they hold fast to a single genre until they’ve made a name for themselves and then they slowly start to experiment. As Everything Unfolds skipped that initial phase and pulled out all the stops on their full-length debut ‘Within Each Lies the Other’ (2021). Following their first full-length, they were nominated for a Heavy Music Award for Best Breakthrough Live Artist; their second offering ‘Ultraviolet’ (2023) was one of Metal Hammer’s nominees for Best Metal Album of the Year’. Their cocktail of melodic post-hardcore, hardcore and sugar sweet rock gives their music mass appeal, as was obvious from their GMM debut here in 2022. In the summer of 2024, fate dealt them a cruel blow with the untimely demise of drummer Jamie Gowers. They decided to soldier on and now we welcome them back for their second appearance here. Fans of This Moment and Enter Shikari will definitely enjoy this emerging UK band. #GMM25

Many Greek bands like to dwell in the dark vaults of death and black metal. Villagers of Ioannina City (VIC) illustrate there’s more biodiversity in the Greek metal landscape. VIC play stoner and psychedelic rock, lavishly dipped in the polyphonic Greek folk music typical of their native region of Epirus. The use of (primarily) the clarinet, bagpipes and the kaval (a type of end-blown flute) gives the heavy sound effects a unique character. If you want to check them out then discover their two full-length albums: ‘Riza’ (2014) and ‘The Age of Aquarius’ (2019). #GMM25

Unprocessed is a progressive metal band from Wiesbaden, Germany, formed in 2013. Their music blends technical guitar work with elements of metalcore, djent and electronic influences. Known for their genre-defying sound, they have released five albums to date: including ‘In Concretion’ (2014), ‘Gold’ (2022) and ‘...And Everything in Between’ (2023). They fuse djent, metalcore and ambient textures with pop sensibilities and emotional depth. Lead guitarist and vocalist Manuel Gardner Fernandes is especially known for his viral guitar videos, bringing attention to the band’s next-level musicianship. Unprocessed is perfect for those who like their metal modern and adventurous, and will appeal to fans of Periphery, Spiritbox and TesseracT. #GMM25

Australian artist Kim Dracula is one of the most unpredictable and electrifying forces in modern heavy music. Dracula rose to fame through viral TikTok covers, among others of Lady Gaga, but quickly evolved into a genre-defying powerhouse, forging metal, trap, industrial and hyperpop into a uniquely chaotic sound. Their 2023 debut ‘A Gradual Decline in Morale’, showcases this eclectic fusion, bouncing back and forth between brutal breakdowns and eerie jazz interludes. Tracks like ‘Seventy Thorns’ (feat. Korn’s Jonathan Davis) and ‘Superhero’ highlight Dracula’s theatrical vocals, dark humour and explosive unpredictability. Don’t miss out on the GMM debut of this whirlwind form Down Under. #GMM25

Nova Twins fuse punk, grime and heavy rock into a high-voltage sound that’s entirely their own. Formed by Amy Love (vocals, guitar) and Georgia South (bass, synths), this UK duo has been breaking boundaries since their debut. Their raw energy, genre-defying style and politically charged lyrics have earned them critical acclaim and a fiercely loyal fanbase. With several EPs and albums like ‘Who Are the Girls?’ (2020) and ‘Supernova’ (2022)’ – the latter storming the upper echelons of the UK charts –  Nova Twins have played major festivals, collaborated with music legends and even scored a Mercury Prize nomination. In 2017, Nova Twins self-released two more EPs, ‘Thelma and Louise’ and ‘Mood Swings’, and toured all over the place with the rap-rock supergroup Prophets of Rage. In 2021 they hit the road with Bring Me the Horizon and Enter Shikari and now their brand of MC5 / New York Dolls-style punk and a touch of glamour in the tradition of Kiss and The Sweet is ready to lay waste to GMM. #GMM25

With eight albums in just over a decade, ‘prolific’ is the first word that comes to mind when asked to describe Smash into Pieces’ output. They’ve been busy making a name for themselves in these parts so their second stint at GMM is a unique opportunity to broaden their fan base even further. They’ve gained a loyal following over the years thanks to a stellar live reputation. On Spotify alone they’ve meanwhile reached the 1.3 million monthly listener mark and 900+ million streams overall. Originally formed in 2008, it took them five years to secure a record deal and put out their first album ‘Unbreakable’. It’s a modern rock record that could be described as the Scandinavian version of Alter Bridge. They are masters of epic rock with trademark solos, keyboard fills, a singer with a huge set of pipes and relevant lyrics. Since 2020 they’ve been telling us the story of Arcadia, a game developed by supercomputer S4Y with incredible AI computing power. Their latest album, ‘Ghost Code’ (2024), blends cinematic rock with electronic elements and continues the futuristic narrative while delving into themes of resilience and self-empowerment. #GMM25

Dethklok are the most brutal band in the cartoon world – and somehow also one of the heaviest in real life. Born from the cult animated series Metalocalypse, this virtual death metal band was brought to life by Brendon Small (guitar/vocals) and Gene Hoglan (drums), delivering savage riffs, absurdly technical playing and darkly hilarious lyrics with sarcastic undertones. Albums like ‘The Dethalbum’ and ‘Dethalbum IV’ fuse brutal death metal with tongue-in-cheek satire, all wrapped in a gloriously over-the-top aesthetic. Expect songs about coffee, cyborgs and total annihilation, all delivered with genuine musical chops. Whether you’re in it for the shredding or the laughs, Dethklok promise a show that’s loud, fast and completely ridiculous – in the best possible way. #GMM25

MEATALLICA strives for perfection in every aspect of their performance — from the virtuosity of the musicians to the energetic interplay on stage. Their passion for Metallica shines through in every note they play and every moment they share on stage. Through their drive and dedication, they elevate the live experience to a higher level, creating an atmosphere of excitement, intensity, and connection that resonates with and inspires the audience. MEATALLICA goes beyond being just a typical cover or tribute band. They dig deeper into the lyrics, the music, and — above all — into themselves, to forge an authentic connection with the audience. They deliberately chose the motto ‘Metallica to the bone’ because it embodies their commitment to capturing the very essence of Metallica. They steer clear of copied routines and choreographed moves, delivering instead an unfiltered blast of pure and raw energy straight from deep within. From timeless classics like ‘Enter Sandman’ and ‘Master of Puppets’ to deeper gems like ‘Fade to Black’ or ‘The Unforgiven’, MEATALLICA delivers a unique experience that is sure to excite all your senses. #GMM25

Een eerbetoon aan de band PANTERA, de masters of Groove Metal. The Art Of Pantera staat garant voor een lange set Pantera klassiekers, deze op zo’n dusdanige manier uitgevoerd dat zelfs de sound van de band dichtbij het origineel komt (Marcel speelt zelfs op een Dean DIME ML model en een Randall RG100es amp, dezelfde spullen die Dimebag destijds gebruikte). Gitarist Marcel Coenen (GODSCUM, The Theater Equation, Channel Zero, Sun Caged, Stormrider, System Pilot) is al sinds 1990 fervent Pantera-Fan toen het album Cowboys From Hell uitkwam. De gitaarlijnen van Dimebag inspireerden Marcel enorm. Ook drummer Spike Meulders (Stormrider) is al sinds het begin een groot Pantera fan, hij speelde destijds in de band Form waar ze een soort gelijke muziekstijl mee maakten. Voor de zang en de bas heeft Marcel zijn mede GODSCUM-bandleden Steven Tolkamp en Jochen Fuenders erbij gehaald. #GMM25