Review of Monsters of Rock 30th Anniversary Concert featuring Scorpions, Judas Priest, Europe, Savatage
Monsters of Rock, which originated in the UK in the 1980s, has successfully made its mark in several countries, with Brazil emerging as a significant platform for the festival, primarily dedicated to hard rock and heavy metal. The debut in Brazil took place on August 27, 1994, at the Pacaembu Stadium in São Paulo, featuring groundbreaking performances by KISS, Slayer, Black Sabbath, Suicidal Tendencies, Viper, Raimundos, Angra, and Dr. Sin, among others.
Throughout the past thirty years, Brazil has been the stage for subsequent editions of Monsters of Rock, further cementing its position in the rock scene and establishing the country as a vital tour stop for major international acts. On April 19, 2025, at Allianz Parque in São Paulo, Monsters of Rock commemorated 30 years of history in Brazil, and Sleaze Roxx was present to share all the details.
Opening the event was Stratovarius, a band that made its Brazilian debut on a rather unconventional stage—a go-kart track in Salvador, Bahia, in 1997. Despite changes in the lineup over the years, there remained a strong bond between the band and its Brazilian fan base. With a setlist featuring both classic favorites like “Black Diamond” and tracks from their recent album “Survive,” Stratovarius successfully connected with the audience at Allianz Parque, bringing together nostalgic moments with newer heavy tones.
Following Stratovarius was Opeth, whose leader Mikael Åkerfeldt made light of their position as the “youngest band” on the lineup. Despite the challenging sound setup, Opeth’s humor and the raw energy of their performance resonated with a portion of the audience, presenting a stark contrast to the reception they received.
Queensrÿche, on the other hand, returned to Brazil after a hiatus of 13 years, showcasing their enduring spirit and musical prowess. With a setlist tailored to include the timeless classics that fans adore, the band’s performance was a testament to their revitalized sound and essence, solidifying their place within the hearts of their loyal fanbase.
The 30th anniversary of Monsters of Rock in Brazil was a celebration of rock history, with each band delivering a unique experience that resonated with the audience. From nostalgic classics to newer tracks, the event paid homage to the genre, cementing Brazil’s status as a thriving hub for rock and metal enthusiasts worldwide.