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Hellfest 2023 / An audience with Papa Roach, plus Sum 41 and Bloodywood

Hellfest 2023. An audience with Papa Roach. Of course, everyone wanted to discuss Last Resort, how timeless it is, and how the nostalgia of it all is good for us now that Nu metal is coming back around. Jacoby Shaddix spent some time talking about how he’s so pleased, even today, that they can reach kids and people who are struggling and know they’re not alone.

Papa Roach - Hellfest Festival 2023, Clisson.
Papa Roach – Hellfest Festival 2023, Clisson.

The band said they just have to keep evolving and that social media has been a huge part of allowing them to extend their reach. Jacoby said they would just keep going. “We don’t know what’s next, but we’re looking forward to it.” Jacoby explains how there isn’t anything else for him. “I will not stop, this is my dream of being a rock star, and I’m living it.”

Sum 41

What a way to bring Friday night to a close, with Sum 41 on the last date of their summer tour. With what they’ve claimed, you better catch them fast, as their last tour dates are in 2024, and then Sum 41 will be no more.

Sum 41 - Hellfest Festival 2023, Clisson.
Sum 41 – Hellfest Festival 2023, Clisson.

They spoke about all those who influenced them through the years, but one, in particular, needed a big shout-out. They burst into Rage Against The Machine’s Sleep Now In The Fire, along with an array of their own hits, such as In Too Deep and Fat Lip. Before Fat Lip, Deryck announced that the band’s final show would be in Paris in November 2024.

Sum 41 - Hellfest Festival 2023, Clisson.
Sum 41 – Hellfest Festival 2023, Clisson.

Everyone gave the 41 salute, four fingers on one hand and a fuck you on the other, and Deryck thanked everyone “for putting up with all of our stupid bullshit.” It was a pop-punk night of nostalgia, and one could say a farewell to Hellfest. Merci beaucoup for 27 years.

Bloodywood

What a welcome to Hellfest Bloodywood received this morning on the Main Stage 02! Bloodywood is an Indian Folk Metal Band from New Delhi. But, of course, we already knew that here at MetalTalk.

Bloodywood - Hellfest Festival 2023, Clisson.
Bloodywood – Hellfest Festival 2023, Clisson.

Along with the usual instruments that go with Metal music, an array of others were played, including flute and Dhol giving them their unique sound, quickly capturing our attention. There were banging the drums of war, the war against propaganda.

Bloodywood - Hellfest Festival 2023, Clisson.
Bloodywood – Hellfest Festival 2023, Clisson.

Dancing along was a must, and their style works so well together, with Hindu and English lyrics, bringing cultures together and opening our minds to something different. Speaking of open-mindedness, with this huge platform they have, they’re not wasting a moment to get important messages out there, using their influence in their lyrics and in messages.

Bloodywood - Hellfest Festival 2023, Clisson.
Bloodywood – Hellfest Festival 2023, Clisson.

They have an impossible dream they need help with, they said. It seems to heal every struggle. They spoke of predators lurking, sexual assault, justice needed, to show no mercy, that enough is enough. Then back into song, spitting with such passion! Keep spreading the word, guys. We hear you!

Bloodywood - Hellfest Festival 2023, Clisson.
Bloodywood – Hellfest Festival 2023, Clisson.

Take Part: Are you at Hellfest this year? Who are you looking forward to see? Want to get in touch and tell us how it’s going? Email MetalTalk Editor Steve Ritchie to tell us how it’s going for you. Hellfest@MetalTalk.net

Hellfest 2023

MetalTalk Hellfest 2023 coverage can be found at https://www.metaltalk.net/tag/hellfest-2023

This year’s MetalTalk team is:

Jade Colvin

Kahmel Farahani

Photography: 

Georgia Brittain

For Hellfest 2022, visit https://www.metaltalk.net/tag/hellfest-2022

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