Bang Your Head Festival - Day 2: Rockers, Young & Old, Get Wet!
July 16, 2019, 5 years ago
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Both in the crowd and onstage, today was an all-ages event. With rain threatening to wash away the entire line-up, the hearty endured much, to see reformed '79 incarnation of Dutch band Picture, show the youngsters how to do it, followed by the speedy, high octane performance (and higher vocals) of Enforcer. Why isn't that band bigger in North America? Beast In Black kept the energy level (and vocal register) in the stratosphere. Many (myself included) finally got to see Cirith Ungol, and the incomparable Tim Baker, although torrential rain temporarily stopped the show, as everyone was instructed to seek shelter. They returned, but the schedule was off thereafter, causing some unnecessary overlap.
Evergrey and touring partners/Gothenburg buddies Dark Tranquillity, were not only sharing crew, but backline, making their simultaneous appearances difficult. Krokus was not the day's headliner (that was Steel Panther), but in reality, they were the de facto kings of Friday. Even nearby thunder and lightning failed to interrupt the Swiss Blitz, rounding out the final days of their requirement tour (Adios amigos). Really must experience Attic! Their originals recreate the sights and sounds of classic Mercyful Fate. No easy feat, and with elaborate staging, to boot. Exhorder closed things out with a little NOLA face melt. A full recap of BYH will be posted soon.
