Festival ReviewsMaryland Deathfest

Maryland Deathfest 2024: A Triumph of Extreme Metal Majesty

Maryland Deathfest 2024, held from May 23 to May 26 in Baltimore, was a monumental gathering for metal enthusiasts. The festival showcased an impressive lineup across multiple venues including the Baltimore Soundstage, Rams Head Live!, Power Plant Live!, and Angels Rock Bar.

AHAB
AHAB – Photo: Thomas Woroniak Photography

AHAB’s performance at Maryland Deathfest 2024 was a highlight of the festival, delivering an intense and atmospheric set that perfectly encapsulated their unique brand of “nautic doom.” The German quartet, known for their heavy, maritime-themed music, played a mix of tracks from their latest album, “The Coral Tombs,” and older fan favorites. Songs like “The Divinity of Oceans” and “Old Thunder” were particularly well-received, resonating deeply with the crowd through their haunting melodies and crushing riffs. The band’s ability to create a palpable sense of depth and despair through their music was on full display, leaving a lasting impression on those in attendance.

The festival’s roster was a powerhouse of metal acts, featuring performances by iconic bands such as Mayhem, Sodom, Cryptopsy, Gorguts, Bloodbath, and Abbath. Highlights included Cryptopsy’s full performance of their album “Blasphemy Made Flesh” to celebrate its 30th anniversary and Gorguts playing rare tracks from their early albums.

Fans were thrilled with the mix of death, black, and thrash metal acts. The energy was palpable as bands like Dismember, Dragged Into Sunlight, and Coffins delivered intense sets. The diverse lineup also included performances by Archgoat, Aura Noir, and Imperialist, catering to a wide array of metal subgenres.

The festival was not just about the music; the atmosphere in Baltimore was electric, with fans from all over the world coming together to celebrate their shared passion. Despite some logistical challenges typical of large festivals, the event was well-organized, and the multiple venues allowed for a continuous stream of live performances without significant delays.

Overall, Maryland Deathfest 2024 was a resounding success, solidifying its reputation as a premier event in the metal community. The eclectic lineup, intense performances, and dedicated fanbase made for an unforgettable weekend.

DreamHost

Thomas Woroniak

Owner/Editor/Photographer/Journalist at AntiHero Magazine -- Thomas is a concert photographer and writer living in the Kansas City, MO area. When he isn't elbowing people in the photo pit, he makes an actual living as a web developer and freelance motion graphics designer. He is also a guitarist and studied music composition at the University of Illinois at Chicago -- Author: Thomas Woroniak
Back to top button