Everyone knows about the overcrowded and vastly overpriced Download Festival, so I thought I’d point out some of the more obscure festivals taking place around Europe next year, including the ones I’m set to attend. This list is bound to grow as time goes on, so check back occasionally.
Location: Leibzig, Germany. Date: 25 – 28/05/2007
Not terribly obscure, this gigantic city-spanning event is nevertheless often overlooked. A lot of the time it’s because their line-up is announced relatively late, or because of the hundreds of bands playing, the few one recognises makes it seem like they’re won’t be enough bands one likes. Wrong! Anyone who’s into goth, industrial, cyber, or (because this is Germany after all) gothic metal and heavier stuff will be catered for. The various stages are divided by genre so if you find one that lists a couple of bands that you know and like you’re pretty much guaranteed to like the other ones playing there. Never a better way to get introduced to bands. Add German beer, the medieval and viking markets and the general atmosphere of the whole thing, and this a winner.
In my opinion the best way to enjoy this festival is from the wonderfully centrally placed Holiday Inn, but that sells out quickly. I would advise anyone interested to book accomodation straight away, even if festival tickets aren’t on sale yet.
Attending: Yes.
Location: Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. Date: 31/03/2007
Don’t let the name put you off. Headliners this year are Jon Oliva’s Pain – that’s Jon Oliva of (currently on hiatus) Savatage mastermind fame. Some of you may recall Savatage’s song Believe as the first song Karen and I danced to on our wedding.
Also on the bill: Kamelot, Scar Symmetry, Communic, Leaves’ Eyes, and many more. The whole thing is held at the Centaur indoor arena.
Attending: Yes.
Location: Tolmin, Slovenia. Date: TBC.
We went to this one last year and it was fantastic. Great weather, awesome location in a picturesque valley in western Slovenia, and great line-up made this festival a sure winner, and – if we’d opted for camping – cheaper than Download, flights included!
Not sure if we can make it this year, especially with WGT, but perhaps this is one for alternate years. I’ve got pictures from Metal Camp 2006 for those wanting an idea of what it was like.
Attending: To be decided.
