LIVE REVIEW:SUMMER BREEZE OPEN AIR 2025 – A First-Time Experience to Remember + Aftermovie

Our first trip to the Summer Breeze Festival was everything we had imagined and more — a true bucket list moment. The journey began with a 7-hour drive from home, complete with a pit stop to fuel up for the weekend ahead. Held from 13–16 August 2025 in the picturesque Bavarian town of Dinkelsbühl, more precisely in the quaint district of Sinbronn, the festival offered a sprawling metal playground for fans of every subgenre.

Tuesday was more of a prelude. Arriving early, we could catch glimpses of acts on the Camp Circus Stage, the festival's smallest stage. Unfortunately, I missed The Narrator, which left me kicking myself — a reminder that in metal festivals, timing is everything.

Wednesday

DEFECTS

British metalcore act DEFECTS opened my festival experience, and from the very first song, their energy was palpable. The band clearly had a strong rapport with the crowd, and fans responded with nonstop headbanging and fist-pumping. They started their set a few minutes late, but that didn’t matter once the music hit—the second song already saw the first crowd surfers making their way across the audience. About twenty minutes in, the stage became a sea of people jumping and moshing, and the band didn’t shy away from fan interaction. During the set, they announced that their drummer would be departing, sharing heartfelt wishes for his future endeavors. The climax of their performance featured a thrilling wall of death, leaving everyone in the audience energized and hyped for the rest of the day.

GUTALAX

I only caught the final ten minutes of Gutalax, but those minutes were a riot. The Czech grindcore masters brought their signature toilet humor to the stage, with toilet paper flying, brushes waving, and fans dressed like the band members. Despite their over-the-top antics, the music itself was tight, fast, and fun, creating a chaotic, party-like atmosphere. Even audience members unfamiliar with their work couldn’t help but laugh and join in the madness. It was the perfect palate cleanser between the intensity of DEFECTS and the upcoming heavier acts.

BEAST

Denmark’s death metal powerhouse BEAST delivered a set filled with raw aggression and audience engagement. The band played with precision, and the crowd was in full frenzy, particularly during the track “Soulbringer,” which prompted everyone to leap and slam into each other. Frontman energy was off the charts—he even ran into the crowd proudly displaying Denmark’s flag before returning to the stage. The highlight was when he hoisted a fan onto his shoulders, creating a live circle pit in the audience that had everyone screaming and laughing. Their performance balanced brutality with spectacle, leaving fans ecstatic and fully satisfied. It was clear that BEAST thrives on direct interaction with their fans.

AUGUST BURNS RED

August Burns Red brought a masterclass in metalcore to the main stage. Opening surprisingly with a System of a Down cover Chop Suey, they immediately captivated the crowd, setting the stage for what would be an explosive performance. Jack Luhrs’ vocals ranged from heart-pounding screams to melodic highs, and the swapping of instruments between Brent Rambler and Dustin Davidson added an unexpected dynamic. Their heavy-hitting tracks, including “Meridian,” transformed the stage into a mosh pit arena, complete with fire bursts that elevated the intensity. The band closed with “White Washed,” leaving the audience breathless from both musical precision and sheer stage presence. Every breakdown and riff felt meticulously executed, proving why they remain a staple in the genre.

CRYSTAL LAKE

Crystal Lake’s performance was nothing short of electrifying. Crowd surfers came from all directions, and I personally helped dozens of fans up, feeling the raw energy pulsing through the set. Their blend of metalcore intricacy and sheer aggression kept the audience engaged at every turn. The biggest surprise was an elderly fan, likely over 70, joining the crowd surfing—a testament to the universal appeal of their music. Each track was met with massive cheers, demonstrating the band’s incredible ability to connect with the audience. The Japanese masters left everyone drenched in adrenaline, proving why they are revered in the global metalcore scene.

IN EXTREMO

German folk metal legends In Extremo brought medieval instruments like bagpipes, harps, hurdy-gurdies, and shawms to life in an explosive set. The band’s mix of folk melodies with heavy riffs captivated both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Their stage presence was commanding, blending theatrics with musical craftsmanship that reminded me of a German Rammstein in energy and showmanship. Each song was carefully crafted to balance melody, intensity, and audience interaction, with sing-alongs and chants resonating through the festival grounds. The set was a journey through history and modern metal, demonstrating the band’s mastery of both tradition and performance. It was a spellbinding experience that showcased their ability to make medieval music feel fresh and thrilling.

AEPHANEMER

French blackened symphonic metal act Aephanemer delivered a set filled with intricate melodies and soaring vocals. The female frontwoman impressed with her powerful voice and commanding stage presence, leading the crowd through symphonic passages and crushing riffs. Each song, including a brand-new track, was met with enthusiasm, showing that the audience was fully engaged. The band’s tight performance allowed every instrument to shine, from soaring guitars to precise drumming. Fans responded with waves of applause, mosh pits, and headbanging, creating a lively atmosphere. Aephanemer proved they can seamlessly blend symphonic elements with intense metal aggression.

DIMMU BORGIR

Symphonic black metal giants Dimmu Borgir closed the day with an unforgettable display of power and spectacle. The stage was set ablaze with pyrotechnics as the band delivered iconic tracks with flawless execution. Frontman's charisma was undeniable, commanding attention with every growl and chant, while the rest of the band supported with precise instrumentation. The mix of symphonic orchestration and black metal aggression created a sonic wall that left the audience in awe. Fans responded with intense energy, moshing and cheering for every song. The performance was a perfect culmination of the day’s extreme metal journey, leaving a lasting impression on every attendee.

Thursday

ALLT

Swedish progressive metalcore/thall band ALLT delivered an electrifying performance that captivated the audience from start to finish. Opening with their single "Remnant," they immediately set the tone with their dark and emotive sound, combining downtuned riffs with soaring melodies and orchestral arrangements. The band's tight musicianship and dynamic stage presence kept the crowd engaged throughout. They concluded their set with "Paralyzed," leaving the audience in awe of their powerful performance.

HANABIE

Japanese metalcore outfit HANABIE brought a unique blend of visual kei and metalcore to the stage. Their energetic performance featured a fusion of electronicore elements and hardcore punk influences. While their theatrical stage presence and colorful attire added to the spectacle, the high-pitched screams and playful antics didn't resonate with all attendees. However, the band's commitment to their performance was evident, and their ability to engage the crowd showcased their dedication to the craft.

BETWEEN THE BURIED AND ME

Progressive metal giants Between The Buried and Me took the stage with a masterful display of musicianship. The band's intricate compositions and seamless transitions between genres showcased their technical prowess. The vocalist's dual role as a keyboardist added a unique layer to their sound, enhancing the overall experience. Their performance was a testament to their status as pioneers in the progressive metal scene.

LANDMVRKS

French metalcore band Landmvrks delivered an explosive set that had the crowd moving from start to finish. Opening with the title track from their new album "Creature," they showcased their signature blend of melodic hooks and heavy breakdowns. The band's energy was infectious, with each member fully immersed in the performance. Their closing track, "Self-Made Black Hole," left the audience wanting more, solidifying their reputation as one of the most exciting acts in the metalcore scene.

GOJIRA

French progressive metal band Gojira brought their signature blend of technical prowess and environmental consciousness to the stage. The band's performance was marked by intricate guitar work, powerful drumming, and thought-provoking lyrics. Their commitment to environmental issues was evident, with visuals and messages promoting sustainability integrated into their set. The crowd responded enthusiastically, reflecting the band's strong connection with their audience.

SEPTICFLESH

Greek symphonic death metal band Septicflesh delivered a crushing performance that transported the audience to the heights of Olympus. Despite some technical issues with the frontman/bassist, the band maintained their composure and delivered a set filled with powerful riffs and orchestral arrangements. Songs like "Martyr" and "Anubis" showcased their ability to blend brutality with melody, leaving a lasting impression on the crowd.

THROWN

Swedish nu-metalcore band Thrown unleashed a relentless performance that had the crowd moshing from the first note. Known for their fusion of nu-metal elements and breakdowns, they delivered a set that was both chaotic and captivating. The band's ability to maintain intensity throughout their short, two-minute songs kept the energy high and the audience engaged. Their performance was a testament to their prowess in the nu-metalcore genre.

COLDRAIN

Japanese post-hardcore band Coldrain brought their A-game to the stage, delivering an explosive performance that had the crowd in a frenzy. The singer's versatile vocal range, which included clean singing, screaming, and even rap parts, added depth to their sound. Guitar solos showcased the band's technical skill, while heavy tracks like "Mayhem/Mayday" and "Rabbit Hole" had the crowd slamming and circle-pitting nonstop. Their performance was a highlight of the festival, demonstrating their ability to blend melody and aggression seamlessly.

Friday
 
ANGELMAKER

Canadian deathcore titans ANGELMAKER hit the stage like a freight train, delivering one of the most intense performances of the day. With their trademark dual-vocalist assault, the crowd was treated to layers of gutturals, shrieks, and unrelenting heaviness. Every breakdown landed like an earthquake, with the pit transforming into absolute chaos. Fans screamed every word back, proving how far their reach has spread internationally. What stood out was their precision — despite the brutality, the set was razor-sharp and professional from start to finish. By the time they closed, the entire tent was drenched in sweat and adrenaline, a testament to ANGELMAKER’s unshakable place in modern deathcore.

AVRALIZE

Germany’s own ALVRALIZE brought modern metalcore energy straight to the crowd, and from the first notes it was clear they weren’t holding back. Their mix of crushing riffs, high-octane breakdowns, and soaring choruses had fans moving nonstop. The vocalist in the fur hat showcased impressive versatility, shifting from ferocious screams to emotive cleans with ease. On stage, the band members were in constant motion, engaging the crowd and fueling the atmosphere. Circle pits formed organically as the set escalated, showing the strong bond between band and audience. By the end, ALVRALIZE had proven they could easily hold their own alongside the bigger names on the bill. 

FIT FOR A KING

Unfortunately, due to a sudden rainstorm, I had to miss FIT FOR A KING. After days of blazing sun, the storm forced me to skip this set, which was disappointing as they’re known for delivering energetic, powerful performances.

ADAPT

Once the rain cleared, I caught Swedish metalcore veterans ADAPT. Returning after a long absence, the band’s sixth show in seven years had an emotional edge, with the vocalist admitting his nerves on stage and joking, “I’m getting old, I tell you.” Despite the nerves, they delivered a memorable set, complete with pyro effects and tight musicianship. Their veteran presence and stagecraft proved why they’re respected in the European metal scene.

DESTINITY

I then returned to the Third Stage for Lyon-based melodic death metal act DESTINITY. Even in just ten minutes, it was clear the band is a well-oiled machine, executing precise riffs and harmonized leads. Their polished sound and stage presence suggested a band confident in their craft and ready to make a lasting impression.

IMPVLSE

At the Campsite Circus Stage, I witnessed German metalcore outfit IMPVLSE for the first time. Despite a brief technical issue that forced them off stage for 15 minutes, they returned with a vengeance. The band demonstrated incredible energy, with a vocalist who handled screams, growls, and clean vocals effortlessly. Crowd interaction was off the charts, including a well-executed wall of death. IMPVLSE proves thy could headline larger stages with ease, and they are a must-watch for metalcore fans.

DAGGER THREAT

Staying at the campsite stage, Hamburg-based metallic hardcore band DAGGER THREAT tore through their set. Their stage presence was explosive, triggering mosh pits, crowd kills, and relentless energy. The highlight came when they covered Slipknot’s Surfacing, sending the crowd into total delirium. A thrilling performance that left no one standing still.

KUBLAI KHAN TX

One of the most anticipated acts of the day, KUBLAI KHAN TX brought their trademark brand of crushing, groove-laden hardcore to Summer Breeze. Their riffs hit like concrete blocks, with every breakdown sparking absolute chaos in the pit. The crowd erupted into massive singalongs during fan favorites, with the band’s uncompromising lyrics echoing like anthems of defiance. Frontman Matt Honeycutt’s presence was commanding, his voice booming with raw intensity that shook the ground. The pits only got bigger as the set went on, with walls of death splitting the crowd and crashing together in madness. KUBLAI KHAN TX proved why they’re one of the heaviest hitters in hardcore right now, leaving no doubt they belonged on the big stage.

STATIC-X

Closing the night was STATIC-X, starting at 1 a.m., with a show delayed by technical difficulties. Stepping in for the late Wayne Static was Edsel Dope, who handled vocals with confidence and energy. The set leaned heavily on Wisconsin Death Trip, and when performing Cold, an image of Wayne Static appeared on the screen, a moving tribute to the late frontman. Despite challenges, STATIC-X delivered a top-notch performance, ending with Push It well past 2 a.m., leaving the crowd buzzing from the late-night nu-metal spectacle.

Saturday

DOWNSET

Opening the second stage on a blistering hot Saturday morning, DOWNSET showed exactly why their name still carries weight after decades. The LA hardcore legends wasted no time bringing crossover grooves and raw, streetwise rap vocals to Summer Breeze, and the crowd responded despite the early start and unforgiving sun. For many, this was a bucket-list moment — seeing a band that had been absent for years finally return to the stage with full force. Their old-school hardcore energy, infused with rap-metal grit, felt like a direct connection to the roots of the genre that influenced so many newer bands playing the festival. The crowd wasn’t huge at first, but as word spread across the grounds, more people gathered, drawn in by the relentless energy and groove. By the end, DOWNSET had turned the field into a living tribute to hardcore’s golden era, showing that legends never fade.

ANNISOKAY

ANNISOKAY took the main stage with a polished and modern sound that contrasted sharply with the raw energy of DOWNSET earlier. Having seen them over 15 years ago in a much smaller setting, their growth into one of Germany’s leading metalcore exports was undeniable. The new vocalist delivered a strong performance, but longtime fans couldn’t help but compare him to his predecessor — while technically solid, the charisma and stage presence didn’t always hit the same mark. The clean/guitarist vocals felt more restrained live, particularly during the heavier breakdown sections where one wished for more fire. Still, the musicianship was top-tier, with precision in every riff, breakdown, and chorus. While not the most engaging performance of the day, ANNISOKAY nevertheless showcased their professionalism and tight execution, proving why they’ve lasted so long on the international scene.

STELLARIS

Over at the third stage, Czech modern metal rising stars STELLARIS delivered one of the most electrifying sets of the day. Vocalist Nicole stole the show with her fearless stage presence, diving headfirst into the pit, throwing herself into the crowd, and even crowdsurfing to the delight of fans. Her charisma was undeniable, commanding attention with both soaring cleans and savage screams that cut through the mix. The rest of the band matched her energy, hammering out breakdowns and riffs with ferocity that had the entire tent shaking. What made STELLARIS special was how genuine their connection to the crowd felt — they weren’t just performing, they were part of the chaos. By the end of their set, it was obvious that this wasn’t the last time Summer Breeze would host them; STELLARIS had conquered the stage and claimed new fans in the process.

THROATCUT

The campsite circus stage welcomed German metalcore outfit THROATCUT, who arrived fresh off the release of their new album. From the first notes, it was clear that the German metalcore scene is alive and thriving, with THROATCUT standing as one of its fiercest examples. Their set was a mix of razor-sharp riffs, downtempo chugs, and devastating breakdowns that had the crowd losing their minds. Despite the smaller stage setting, the intensity rivaled that of the main stages, as pits opened up and bodies flew in constant motion. Their ability to balance technicality with raw heaviness made them stand out — not just another metalcore act, but one with their own stamp. By the end of their set, fans were chanting their name, a clear sign that THROATCUT had delivered one of the campsite’s best performances.

VIANOVA

Berlin’s VIANOVA brought one of the most unique performances of the weekend. Their blend of metalcore with experimentation felt fresh, shifting from crushing breakdowns into jazzy grooves and even djent-inspired riffs without hesitation. The frontman stood out not only for his vocal range but also for his eccentric style, wearing a furnace hat that became almost a trademark for their show. The unpredictability of their set kept the crowd engaged, never knowing whether the next moment would be a smooth melodic passage or a bone-snapping breakdown. The use of keys added another dimension to their sound, elevating them above many standard metalcore acts. By the end, it was clear that VIANOVA had left a lasting impression with their fearless approach and raw stage presence.

ACCVSED

Germany’s ACCVSED stormed the stage with pure intensity, proving that even a smaller setup couldn’t limit their energy. From the opening moments, they had the crowd moving—moshing, headbanging, and even stage-diving—without once needing to prompt it. Their sound combined sharp metalcore riffing with subtle electronic touches, creating a modern and atmospheric edge that gave them a distinct identity. The frontman showcased an impressive range, switching between soaring clean vocals and feral growls, while both guitarists added backup screams to thicken the wall of sound. The energy they projected made it feel like they belonged on the main stage, as their performance easily carried that weight. By the time they left, ACCVSED had turned casual onlookers into dedicated fans.

REVNOIR

French four-piece REVNOIR were next, and they showed that you don’t always need a bassist to fill the stage with sound. Their vocalist was captivating, gliding effortlessly from delicate clean singing to devastating screams and guttural growls. The contrast in his delivery gave their songs emotional depth, especially when paired with atmospheric guitar work. One of the most memorable moments came mid-set when a guitarist sat down at a piano, allowing both the band and audience a chance to breathe before plunging back into chaos. It was a performance that balanced brutality with beauty, and the crowd responded with thunderous applause after every track. REVNOIR may not have had the biggest crowd of the day, but those who stayed were treated to something special and unique.

APRIL ART

APRIL ART took to the third stage with confidence and flair, delivering one of the most high-energy shows of the day. Fronted by a charismatic female vocalist who commanded every inch of the stage, the band instantly had the crowd clapping, shouting, and moving along. Pyrotechnics and a relentless pace only added to the spectacle, making their set feel like a headlining show. Musically, they walked the line between hard rock and modern metal, combining big hooks with heavy riffs that kept both casual listeners and diehard fans entertained. The chemistry between band members was undeniable, as they never seemed to let their energy dip even for a second. By the finale, APRIL ART had proven themselves as one of Germany’s rising live forces, leaving the audience buzzing.

BREAKDOWN OF SANITY

Swiss metalcore giants BREAKDOWN OF SANITY returned to Summer Breeze with fire in their veins. After years of absence, their comeback felt monumental, and the audience responded in kind with circle pits and chants that never seemed to stop. Even with the lineup change at vocals, the band sounded as tight as ever, delivering both classic tracks and newer material with precision and power. The balance between melodic passages and brutal breakdowns was executed perfectly, reminding everyone why this band is so beloved. Their new frontman brought youthful energy, bouncing across the stage and interacting constantly with the fans, proving he’s worthy of carrying the legacy. For many in the crowd, this was one of the emotional highlights of the day, as BREAKDOWN OF SANITY reclaimed their place among Europe’s metalcore elite.

MACHINE HEAD

Finally, I had to leave BREAKDOWN OF SANITY early to catch MACHINE HEAD on the main stage, and what a performance! They opened with Imperium, instantly sending the crowd into delirium, followed by fan favorites like Ten Ton Hammer and Outsider. Highlights from the new album were well-received, and classics like From This Day and Davidian reminded everyone why this band remains legendary. Robb Flynn’s charisma was on full display, with crowd interactions including two memorable fans carrying penis balloons and unicorns. They even celebrated bassist Jared’s birthday with the audience singing along. The show closed with Halo, a perfect finale with the crowd lifting girls onto their shoulders. MACHINE HEAD once again proved why they are one of the metal world’s household names. 

Festival Vibes

Beyond the music, Summer Breeze 2025 was an experience of unity, passion, and pure metal spirit. Free drinking water across the camp and festival grounds was a lifesaver in the heat, while toilets and showers remained impressively clean (though a cooler shower option wouldn’t hurt!). Families, kids, and even seniors joined the madness — with the image of a 70+ year-old woman crowd surfing forever etched in my memory. Security was some of the best I’ve seen, helping fans safely while enjoying the music themselves. Summer Breeze isn’t just a festival — it’s a community. And with 25,000 tickets for 2026 already sold, the countdown has begun. Until next year, Dinkelsbühl — danke schön for an unforgettable first time.