Hellfest: Where Metal Dreams Become Reality – HellFest 2023 Gig Review

July 1, 2023 rocknews

Welcome to the heart of the metal realm, where the roaring riffs, thunderous drums, and electrifying energy converge to create a festival experience unlike any other. The enchanting town of Clisson, France, is home to the annual celebration that has become synonymous with unadulterated sonic mayhem. Embracing the unwavering spirit of metal, Hellfest has once again taken its place as the definitive pilgrimage for devoted headbangers from across the globe.

In the picturesque backdrop of Clisson, the festivals crowd swelled with anticipation, this year’s Hellfest is hosting an unrivalled lineup of iconic metal acts which included the legendary KISS, Iron Maiden and Motley Crue alongside promising newcomers on one of the festivals many stages.

Hellfest is an immersive experience that tantalises all the senses from the minute you enter the festival grounds. The festival not only delivers an exceptional lineup of legendary bands but also showcases a plethora of intricate structures that add to the overall atmosphere. As you walk towards the main arena a colossal gateway greets you, adorned with fierce gargoyles and a huge Hellfest sign. Its imposing presence sets the tone for the electrifying journey that lies ahead. Beyond the gateway, a sprawling landscape unfolds, bustling with a multitude of structures that evoke both awe and fascination.

One of the most striking structures at Hellfest is the Hell Main Stage. In actual fact it is not one stage but two positioned side by side allowing a seamless transition from one band to another with only a few minutes break in the performances. The stages are massive, more than ample to house any of the biggest stage shows that the bands on the line up could bring with them. Towering high above the crowd and commanding attention are the three gigantic LED screens. This gargantuan stage is the focal point of the festival creating an immersive experience which allows thousands of metalheads to revel in the energy and passion emanating from the headlining performers.

Traversing through the festival, you encounter an assortment of other stages, each stage has its own unique character. From the large and always busy Temple and Alter stages housed within two large tent structures and both must be capable of holding ten thousand people. There were even screens on the outside for those who couldn’t get inside. Valley was located a short walk away through the woods which provided some sort after shade on the hotter days. Adjacent the stage was Peter Hudsons ‘Charon’. A wheel that contained a series of skeletons in different poses that when illuminated by strobe lighting became animated as if they were rowing a boat on some macabre mission.

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Another short walk away, takes you to the Warzone stage, and perhaps my favourite of the festival, where I got to see a few new bands. I particularly enjoyed seeing Australian band ‘The Chats’ and the Ska punk band “Less Than Jake’ both had a unique style and brought a lot of energy to the stage. Located at the entrance to Warzone is a monolithic structure rising a hundred feet above the ground in tribute to Motörhead’s Lemmon Kilmister. The statue even has a cigarette in Lemmy’s mouth that from time to time emits a puff of smoke.

Hellfest is not just about the music; it’s also a visual feast. The festival grounds feature impressive art installations and sculptures, captivating the eye at every turn. Gigantic metal sculptures, intricately crafted and reflecting the festival’s theme, adorn the pathways, adding a touch of dark beauty to the environment making it an unforgettable experience for art enthusiasts and metalheads alike.

I was surprised to see a whole building devoted to Hellfest Merchandise. The building was clad in fake black stone and above the entrance is a bright red neon lighting depicting its name ‘The Sanctuary’. The structure was devoted solely to selling the Hellfest Merchandise which ranged from t-shirts and caps to baby grows and underpants. Equally as impressive as the building was the queue to purchase Hellfest Merch. The queues were constant all weekend. Four long lines of concert goers waiting to buy their items with many wearing the t-shirts they purchased with pride. In contrast there was a small tent across from The Sanctuary which was selling the band merchandise. This tent although busy did not attract the same amount of crowds.

Food at the festival is amazing and the selection is endless. There is everything from French Crepes to Argentinian BBQ. In fact Id be surprised is there isn’t a type of food from every continent and there is certainly no way that you can sample everything on offer over the four days, the choice is just so vast. Initially the queues seemed overwhelming as they looked so long to each of the counters. However, the organisers of Hellfest have this figured out and to reduce the time spent queuing there is an ordering line and then a line to pick up your food and I’m pleased to say that it works very well.

So if you like Rock and you want to attend one of the best organised events of the year then get yourself a ticket to Hellfest but be quick as they sell out within minutes!! The first wave of 4 day tickets go on sale on the 27^th June 2023 and you can grab yours for a bargain 329€ that’s less than 2€ a band!!