Rock Festival Causes Tremors in Floors and Walls
The rock festival in Straumgjerde this year created an intense and exhilarating atmosphere that left attendees with ringing ears and a stiff neck the next day. The youth center Vårvon was once again the epicenter of electrifying music, sweaty crowds, headbanging, and shirtless revelers. Watt’s Up, Sykkylven’s premier rock festival, did not disappoint with a stellar line-up featuring bands like Syltekarane, Staal, Blood Command, and Skabbath. Skabbath, performing a set of Black Sabbath covers, left the audience in awe.
Kicking off the night were Syltekarane, a group comprising Christian Eikeset Auflem, Jørund Ruud, Sondre Kvistad Utgård, and Mathias Utgård, who made their debut performance on stage. Delivering an entire set of original songs, including one freshly completed piece, Syltekarane set the stage on fire with their eclectic sound and energy.
Following suit was Staal, an industrial metal band that many deemed the highlight of the evening. Previously a side project of the band Rammsund, Staal gained fame for performing Rammstein songs in Nynorsk. With original lyrics in Nynorsk and a spectacular stage presence, Staal kept the crowd mesmerized. Their rendition of a few Rammstein tracks in Nynorsk was a treat for the audience, creating an unforgettable experience.
The founder of the Sykkylven Rock Festival, Sten Utgård, expressed his satisfaction with the event. With local sponsorship backing, the festival secured phenomenal acts like Staal and Blood Command, while maintaining an intimate setting perfectly suited for the performances. Although specific attendance numbers were not available, approximately a hundred festival passes were pre-sold, with additional tickets sold at the door.
Reflecting on the future of the festival, Utgård pondered when the Sykkylven Rock Festival would officially become a tradition. With just two successful editions, the event aims to continue its legacy into the next year, ensuring the rock festival becomes a staple in the local music scene. Attendees like Jan Ove Leknes joined the chorus of praise, lauding bands like Staal for their stellar performances.
In conclusion, this year’s Rock Festival in Straumgjerde transformed a quiet town into a hub of pulsating music, enthusiastic crowds, and memorable performances. With electrifying acts, unexpected surprises, and an atmosphere charged with energy, the festival left a lasting impression on all those who were fortunate enough to attend.