Metal bands prepare to perform at Mutants festival in Northwest Arkansas
Back in 2011, a multitude of underground metal bands gathered at Downtown Music Hall located on West Capitol Avenue in Little Rock for three days filled with music and chaotic energy. This was the initial Mutants of the Monster Music Festival, which continued for three more years before a hiatus due to the closure of Downtown Music. However, Mutants of the Monster made a triumphant return in 2018 and is now gearing up for its 10th edition to take place across various Little Rock venues from Thursday to Saturday.
The upcoming festival boasts a powerhouse lineup including well-known acts like Rwake and Pallbearer, among others, who are set to mesmerize audiences with their heavy music. Christopher “C.T.” Terry, a notable figure within Little Rock’s metal scene and the co-vocalist of Rwake, spearheads the festival’s organization. Terry aims to create an atmosphere where friends can come together to enjoy fantastic music and spend quality time in each other’s company.
The festivities kick off with a stellar lineup on Thursday at Stickyz, featuring bands like Exhorder, Sunrot, and Madman Morgan. The excitement continues with Friday’s roster, headlined by Georgia-based rockers Royal Thunder and the Body, alongside other talented musicians. Rwake, fresh off their recent album release, will take the stage at Central Arkansas Library System’s Ron Robinson Theater on Friday, promising a visually stunning performance complete with an elaborate laser show.
Pallbearer, one of Little Rock’s iconic doom metal bands led by vocalist Brett Campbell, are set to headline Saturday’s show at Rev Room. Reflecting on their participation in the inaugural Mutants festival, Campbell emphasized the unique opportunity the event provides for bands to showcase their talents to a diverse audience. This year, Pallbearer is thrilled to bring their music to the festival once again, wrapping up their current tour with a bang.
Joining the lineup at Rev Room on Saturday is Little Rock’s own sludge metal band, Rwake, who will be celebrating the release of their latest album. The festival aims to bring together music enthusiasts and heavy metal enthusiasts for a weekend filled with electrifying performances and a shared love for the genre. With bands like Pallbearer and Rwake headlining the event, Mutants of the Monster promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for all attendees.