Recap: Memorable highlights from metal festival’s final day in 2025
The Aftershock 2025 music festival in Sacramento ended on a high note, featuring a stellar lineup of heavy metal acts that left fans in awe. The final day of the festival showcased performances by industry legends such as Rob Zombie, Marilyn Manson, Bring Me the Horizon, Mudvayne, and In This Moment, ensuring that fans got their fill of electrifying music.
Rob Zombie stole the show with his signature shock rock performance, blending groove and industrial metal into a captivating set. His hour-long performance included hits like “More Human Than Human” and “Dragula,” along with the exciting announcement of new music on the horizon. The energy and power of his set were undeniable, cementing his status as a rock icon.
In This Moment brought their unique brand of gothic and industrial metal to the stage, captivating the audience with a performance that felt like a journey through a dark, cinematic masterpiece. Frontwoman Maria Brinks commanded the stage with confidence and charisma, drawing fans into a world of horror and fantasy that was both spellbinding and immersive.
The notorious band GWAR took their set to new extremes, pushing the boundaries of taste and shock with outrageous antics that would make even Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce blush. Known for their over-the-top performances, GWAR did not disappoint, delivering a show that was larger than life and filled with their trademark audacity.
The festival also saw memorable performances from other acts like Mudvayne, Motionless in White, and Machine Head, each bringing their unique style and energy to the stage. From crowd surfing fans dressed as Michael Myers to electrifying guitar solos and dynamic vocals, the Aftershock 2025 festival was a feast for the senses.
Rock photographer Chris Riley captured stunning images of the festival, immortalizing the passion and intensity of the performances on stage. Each photo tells a story of power and emotion, reflecting the raw energy and talent that defined the Aftershock experience.
As the final day of the Aftershock 2025 festival came to a close, fans were left exhilarated and inspired by the incredible performances they had witnessed. The festival once again proved why it holds the title of the best metal party on the West Coast, bringing together fans and artists in a celebration of music and passion that will be remembered for years to come.