In the storied town of Clisson, France, where cobblestone streets whisper ancient secrets, Hellfest 2024 roared to life like a phoenix reborn in flame. This year’s installment didn’t just reaffirm Hellfest’s legendary status—it elevated it, reshaping the landscape of extreme music with an audacious display of sound, spectacle, and unrelenting energy.
As dusk enveloped the Clisson skies, the atmosphere surged with palpable electricity. The festival grounds transformed into a sacred space, where the thunderous echoes of metal’s finest reverberated through the night. Fans, united by their passion, stood shoulder to shoulder, immersed in a shared ritual of sound and spirit.
Main Stage Headliners: A Symphony of Power and Passion
The main stage at Hellfest 2024 served as the ultimate altar for metal and rock enthusiasts, hosting a lineup of headliners that brought the festival to electrifying heights each night.
- Thursday set the tone with an explosive double feature. Avenged Sevenfold delivered their signature blend of technical prowess and anthemic melodies, enthralling the crowd with a career-spanning set that highlighted their evolution. Sharing the spotlight, Dropkick Murphys infused the evening with their raucous Celtic punk energy, transforming the grounds into a massive, beer-soaked singalong.
- On Friday, the mood shifted to relentless intensity. Machine Head unleashed a sonic onslaught of groove-laden riffs and impassioned lyrics, their performance a testament to their enduring ferocity. The night took a different turn as The Prodigy brought their electrifying fusion of electronic beats and punk attitude, turning the festival into a pulsating rave under the stars.
- Saturday belonged to legends. Metallica, masters of metal, delivered a performance that transcended mere music. With a meticulously curated setlist spanning their storied career, their presence was a thunderous reminder of their unmatched dominance. Earlier in the evening, Saxon proved why they remain one of heavy metal’s most enduring acts, captivating the crowd with their classic, no-frills sound and unwavering charisma.
- The festival reached its climactic conclusion on Sunday, with two powerhouse acts bringing it home. Foo Fighters, led by the indomitable Dave Grohl, turned the stage into an arena of pure rock energy, their set packed with hits that united the crowd in euphoric singalongs. Closing the night, The Offspring brought their high-octane punk rock to life, igniting the audience with their infectious hooks and rebellious spirit.
Each headliner brought something unique to the table, creating an unforgettable tapestry of sound and spectacle that defined Hellfest 2024.
Hidden Gems and Serendipitous Surprises
Beyond the headliners, Hellfest’s labyrinthine grounds teemed with hidden treasures waiting to be uncovered by the adventurous. From intimate performances by rising stars to surprise appearances by veteran acts, every corner of the festival pulsed with energy and intrigue. Smaller stages hosted boundary-pushing bands that defied genre conventions, while impromptu jam sessions and acoustic sets offered a raw, unfiltered glimpse into the artistry of metal and rock. Vendors and pop-up installations added another layer of excitement, inviting fans to immerse themselves in a vibrant culture of music, art, and camaraderie. For those willing to explore, Hellfest was more than a festival—it was a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences.
Temple Stage: A Shrine to Darkness
- Cradle of Filth brought their signature gothic theatrics to the Temple stage, weaving a sinister tapestry of black metal, symphonic grandeur, and dark poetry. With Dani Filth’s piercing shrieks and haunting stage presence, the band led the audience through a shadowy journey filled with intricate guitar riffs and chilling atmospherics. Iconic tracks like “Nymphetamine” and “Her Ghost in the Fog” mesmerized the crowd, who reveled in the macabre beauty of the performance.
- Emperor delivered a searing set that reaffirmed their legendary status in the black metal pantheon. The Norwegian icons unleashed their signature mix of ferocious blast beats, icy riffs, and haunting keyboards, transforming the Temple stage into a realm of frostbitten darkness. Tracks like “Inno a Satana” and “I Am the Black Wizards” sent shivers down spines as the crowd roared their devotion. It was an awe-inspiring performance, showcasing why Emperor remains a cornerstone of extreme metal.
- Eivør captivated the Temple stage with a performance steeped in Nordic mysticism and ethereal beauty. Blending folk influences with atmospheric elements, her haunting vocals transported the audience to windswept fjords and ancient forests. The set was a mesmerizing blend of traditional and modern sounds, featuring tracks that highlighted her otherworldly voice and emotive storytelling. Eivør’s performance provided a serene yet powerful contrast to the heavier acts on the stage, leaving the crowd spellbound.
- Dimmu Borgir closed the Temple stage with an awe-inspiring display of symphonic black metal majesty. With their theatrical stage presence and cinematic arrangements, the band delivered a spine-chilling set that combined ferocity with grandeur. Songs like “Progenies of the Great Apocalypse” and “Gateways” resonated with unrelenting power, while the orchestral elements added layers of drama and intensity. The performance was nothing short of epic, leaving fans in a state of euphoric darkness.
- Satyricon, however, stole the crown. With their iconic black metal ferocity tempered by a rock-and-roll edge, they embodied the spirit of Hellfest itself. Satyr’s stage presence—a balance of regality and menace—commanded absolute devotion, while Frost’s blistering drumming unleashed a primordial intensity. The result? A sonic ritual that left the crowd in a state of dark euphoria.
Altar Stage: Where Riffs Become Reverence
- Ne Obliviscaris delivered a transcendent set, their violin-driven progressive metal compositions weaving a tapestry of haunting beauty and relentless intensity. For those seeking innovation, this performance was an unparalleled highlight.
- Dark Tranquillity, hailing from the melodic death metal capital of Gothenburg, Sweden, conjured a storm of melancholy and aggression. Their meticulously curated setlist fused timeless classics with tracks from their latest opus, a reminder of their unyielding dominance in the genre. The interplay of melancholic riffs and impassioned growls created an immersive auditory journey.
- Amorphis, Finland’s prog-metal architects, spun intricate musical narratives, their folk-inspired melodies lifting the crowd into realms of Nordic legend. The seamless interplay between clean vocals and guttural roars encapsulated the dichotomy of beauty and brutality, mesmerizing every soul in the audience.
- The Black Dahlia Murder tore through the Altar stage with their signature blend of razor-sharp riffs, relentless blast beats, and melodic intricacy. With a renewed energy following their return to the stage, the band honored their legacy with tracks like “Statutory Ape” and “Everything Went Black,” sending the crowd into a frenzy. Their performance was both emotionally charged and technically flawless, cementing their place as one of melodic death metal’s most vital acts.
- Nile transported the Altar stage into the heart of ancient Egypt with their crushing brand of technical death metal. Tracks like “Sarcophagus” and “Black Seeds of Vengeance” combined intricate riffs, thunderous drumming, and guttural growls to create a wall of sound that left the audience awestruck. Their ability to balance blistering intensity with atmospheric storytelling made their set a standout moment for fans of precision and power.
- Brujeria unleashed their unapologetically brutal and politically charged performance, turning the Altar stage into a rallying cry of defiance. With their grindcore-infused riffs and ferocious vocals, they delivered crowd favorites like “Matando Güeros” and “La Migra (Cruza la Frontera).” Masked and mysterious, the band’s raw energy and confrontational lyrics ignited an infectious intensity among fans, making their set an unforgettable experience.
- Sanguisugabogg brought their grotesque and crushing death metal to the Altar stage, delivering a set drenched in brutal riffs, guttural growls, and uncompromising heaviness. Tracks like “Dead as Shit” and “Menstrual Envy” had the crowd headbanging and moshing in unison, reveling in the band’s unrelenting onslaught. As one of the newer acts on the lineup, Sanguisugabogg proved they are a force to be reckoned with in the death metal scene.
Valley Stage: The Haven of Sonic Exploration
- Mr. Bungle delivered a set that was equal parts chaotic and masterful, embracing their avant-garde roots with fearless experimentation. Mike Patton’s dynamic vocal range and the band’s genre-defying arrangements kept the crowd on edge, each track an unpredictable journey through musical madness.
- Kvelertak, on the other hand, brought their signature blend of Norwegian rock ‘n’ roll and punk-infused energy to the stage. Their high-octane performance, fueled by roaring guitars and raucous choruses, turned the crowd into a seething mass of headbangers, united by the raw, infectious spirit of their music.
- On Friday, The Valley stage vibrated with heavy grooves and fuzzy riffs as Fu Manchu delivered a masterclass in stoner rock. The Californian legends brought their laid-back yet hard-hitting energy, captivating the crowd with a set that oozed psychedelic vibes and desert rock swagger. Tracks like “King of the Road” and “Mongoose” showcased their signature mix of distortion-heavy guitar tones and infectious rhythms. The band’s unpretentious, groove-driven performance was the perfect soundtrack for fans to lose themselves in the hazy, hypnotic atmosphere of the Valley stage.
Warzone Stage: The Battlefield of Hardcore Fury
- On Thursday, the Warzone stage erupted into a frenzy as Thrown delivered an unrelenting dose of modern hardcore energy. The Swedish band’s razor-sharp riffs, crushing breakdowns, and visceral vocals ignited a raw, mosh-pit-fueled intensity among the crowd. Their performance was a masterclass in controlled aggression, blending emotional vulnerability with uncompromising heaviness. Fans were left breathless as Thrown cemented their status as a rising force in the hardcore scene, making their mark on Hellfest with unapologetic ferocity.
- Suicidal Tendencies brought their explosive blend of thrash and punk energy to the Warzone stage, delivering a performance that was equal parts chaos and precision. Mike Muir’s commanding stage presence and high-octane charisma kept the crowd moving as they tore through iconic tracks like “Institutionalized” and “You Can’t Bring Me Down.” With relentless energy, blazing riffs, and mosh-pit anthems, the band proved why they remain a cornerstone of crossover thrash.
- Body Count turned the Warzone stage into a battlefield of raw aggression and hard-hitting social commentary. Fronted by the legendary Ice-T, the band delivered a crushing set of groove-heavy riffs and unfiltered lyrical power. Tracks like “Talk Shit, Get Shot” and “Cop Killer” hit with unrelenting force, sparking an adrenaline-fueled connection with the crowd. Body Count’s fusion of metal and hip-hop energy was electrifying, making their set a standout moment of the festival.
- Biohazard brought their Brooklyn-born hardcore grit to Hellfest, delivering a ferocious set that resonated with raw, unrelenting power. Tracks like “Punishment” and “Shades of Grey” showcased their heavy grooves, aggressive vocals, and socially conscious themes. The reunited lineup played with a passion that electrified the Warzone stage, giving both long-time fans and newcomers a performance to remember. With their blend of hardcore energy and metallic edge, Biohazard reminded everyone why they’re legends in the scene.
- Harm’s Way unleashed a ferocious hardcore assault, their blistering energy carving an unforgettable moment into the hearts of fans. It was a visceral reminder of the diversity Hellfest celebrates, bridging subgenres and styles.
The VIP Area: A Haven of Comfort Amid the Chaos
For those seeking a reprieve from the relentless energy of the festival grounds, the VIP area at Hellfest offered a luxurious oasis without sacrificing the festival’s gritty charm. Nestled away from the main stages, this exclusive zone provided a more relaxed atmosphere, complete with shaded seating areas, lush greenery, and a refined design that paid homage to Hellfest’s dark, metal aesthetic.
VIP attendees were treated to an array of perks, including premium food and drink options that ranged from gourmet local delicacies to craft beers and cocktails. The bar staff ensured quick service, allowing guests to savor their refreshments without missing the action.
Adding to the exclusivity, the VIP area frequently became a mingling spot for artists and industry insiders, giving fans a rare opportunity to rub shoulders with some of their metal heroes. Whether recharging for the next round of headbanging or enjoying a quieter moment with friends, the VIP experience at Hellfest elevated the festival to a new level of indulgence, proving that metalheads can appreciate luxury just as much as heavy riffs.
The Hellfest Experience: A Journey Beyond the Music
Hellfest transcends mere performance. It’s an odyssey, a gathering of kindred spirits drawn together by a shared love for the heavy arts. From battle-vested veterans to first-time attendees wide-eyed in wonder, the sense of camaraderie was as thunderous as the riffs echoing across Clisson.
The festival grounds themselves were a marvel. Towering sculptures of demons, beasts, and mythical creatures loomed large, blurring the line between reality and the fantastical realms that metal often inhabits. Fire-breathing dragons and glowing runic symbols transformed the space into a living testament to metal’s mythic allure.
As the final note reverberated into the night, one truth was undeniable: Hellfest 2024 wasn’t just an event—it was a revelation, an exaltation of music, community, and the unyielding power of metal.
