Hell’s Bells Belgium: Metal Mayhem with a Side of Food

Hell’s Bells Belgium once again brought the metal community together for two days of pounding riffs and raw energy. Officially billed as a “food and music festival,” the event offered a lineup that catered to the heaviest tastes, while the culinary side of things—though decent—left some hoping for more.

Attending only the first day, we were greeted with an impressive roster of performances that set a high standard for the weekend. Triptykon, the day’s headliner, delivered an unforgettable set, combining their signature dark sound with a stage presence that commanded respect. Thomas Gabriel Fischer and the band took the audience on an intense journey through crushing riffs and haunting atmospheres.

Part of the excitement was the (unofficial) inclusion of the  “Endtime signals” tour, featuring Dark Tranquillity, Moonspell, and Wolfheart. Dark Tranquillity showcased their melodic death metal mastery, blending soaring melodies with heavy rhythms. Moonspell brought a theatrical, gothic vibe, creating an immersive experience for the audience. Wolfheart, with their relentless energy, delivered a fiery performance that left no one standing still.

Noticeably absent, however, was Hiraes, a band also featured on the tour but missing from the festival lineup (since this festival was not officially part of the tour). While their absence may have been felt by some, the remaining bands like Primordial, Vltimas, Carpathian Forest, Dead Head, Hellripper and The Monolith Deathcult more than compensated with powerful and memorable sets.

Beyond the music, the festival offered an array of food options to keep energy levels up. While the selection was acceptable, the “food festival” label might have set expectations too high for what was ultimately available.

Despite this minor shortcoming, the atmosphere on day one was electric. Fans filled the grounds, bonding over their shared love for metal and making the most of the vibrant setting. The energy of the crowd, combined with stellar performances, ensured the first day was a resounding success.

For those who experienced only the first half of the festival, it was a night to remember, packed with music and camaraderie. Hell’s Bells Belgium once again cemented its reputation as a must-visit for metal fans, even if its culinary ambitions didn’t fully hit the mark (yet).