ROCKFEST 25: Vive Le Rock – Review
ROCKFEST 25 – REVIEW
Vive Le Rock and Fistful Of Metal magazines had the exhilarating opportunity to experience the Finnish extravaganza that is ROCKFEST 25. From June 12th to June 14th, the picturesque city of Turku played host to this epic rock festival, offering an unforgettable weekend filled with music, spectacle, and a strong sense of community. With approximately 35,000 rock enthusiasts in attendance, one might expect chaos and congestion, but instead, the event was surprisingly spacious, well-organized, and efficiently run. The crowd, mostly comprised of individuals aged 30 to 50, exuded a blend of respectfulness and boundless energy throughout the festivities.
Friday kicked off with a powerful display of melodic rock as Nestor from Sweden took the stage. Initially formed in 1989 and making a comeback in 2021, the band delivered a dose of pure AOR spirit reminiscent of Bon Jovi and Europe, coupled with a tinge of Van Halen flair. The high-register vocals, dazzling guitar solos, and nostalgic shoulder-pad vibes created an atmosphere brimming with genuine joy and optimism, devoid of any sense of irony. The performance was a testament to Sweden’s enduring prowess when it comes to creating infectious choruses that resonate with audiences.
Following Nestor, Battle Beast showcased the indomitable strength of power metal. Lead vocalist Noora Louhimo commanded the stage with the intensity of a mythical Valkyrie, overshadowing many of her male counterparts with her fierce vocals. The band’s synth-infused anthems coupled with Louhimo’s compelling stage presence left the audience in awe, with many considering their performance to be on par with a headlining act. Die Krupps then delved into the industrial realm, serving up a potent mix of EBM and metal fusion that has been their signature since 1980. Their performance on the Pirkka Stage was a dark and energetic affair, infused with rebellious lyricism and punk-inspired intensity that explored themes of identity and resistance.
Bullet for My Valentine set the night ablaze with their melodic metalcore precision, celebrating two decades since the release of their album, ‘The Poison.’ The band’s performance of fan-favorite anthems like ‘4 Words (To Choke Upon)’ and ‘All These Things I Hate’ ignited the mosh pit in a frenzy of empowerment and frenzy, leaving a lasting impression on fans. Closing the Main Stage was Till Lindemann, known for his work with Rammstein, who delivered a twisted and theatrical solo set that transcended the boundaries of a typical concert experience. Filled with flames, German monologues, and industrial filth, Lindemann’s performance was a grotesque yet unforgettable masterpiece of performance art.
Saturday saw the likes of Demolition 23, featuring Michael Monroe of Hanoi Rocks, kickstarting the day with their raw sleaze-punk energy. Backed by a stellar lineup, the band tore through a set filled with ’90s rebellion, delivering songs with punk venom that resonated deeply with the audience. Immortal Disfigurement, a rising star in the world of symphonic deathcore, offered a blistering and intense performance that felt more like an assault than mere entertainment. Their crypt-growled vocals and apocalyptic atmosphere left a lasting impact on all who witnessed their set.
The Cult graced the Main Stage with their gothic glam and spiritual charisma, with frontman Ian Astbury exuding a mesmerizing energy as the band performed classics like ‘Rain’ and ‘She Sells Sanctuary.’ The reverberating soundscapes created by the band turned the audience into a collective wave of reverence, transforming the performance into a spiritual ceremony of sorts. Manic Street Preachers followed, offering a blend of stadium-sized anthems and introspective cuts that showcased the band’s poetic and passionate musical prowess. Closing out the festival was Muse, who delivered a grandiose stadium-sized performance filled with sci-fi operatic elements. Matt Bellamy’s shredding guitar work and emotive vocals, combined with the band’s dystopian electro-metal sound, created a mesmerizing and unforgettable experience for all in attendance.
In conclusion, Rockfest 2025 stands out as a festival without filler, offering a meticulously curated lineup that left no room for mediocrity. From nostalgic glam rock to punishing metal and transcendent stadium shows, every set throughout the weekend felt essential and impactful. Thoughtfully organized, flawlessly executed, and brimming with unforgettable moments, Rockfest 2025 was truly an event to remember.