Hellfest 2026, Clisson, France. Thursday. Deep Purple are hard to fault. They start with Highway Star and they show why they are one of the most consistent institutions of rock music. Ever.
Is Gillan’s voice what it used to be? Of course it is not. But the man is 80 and still sounds very good. Also, new recruit Simon McBride (well, not that new) shows why they got him. He slots in impeccably and also has a beautiful solo moment at one point. He goes from feeling-driven to technical and shows you why he has the job.
Yes, Deep Purple extend the instrumental sections, maybe more than they should, to allow their singer to breathe, but that phenomenal rhythm section of Glover on bass and Paice on drums is a thing to behold. And so is that oh-so-characteristic for Purple Hammond organ tone, where Don Airey excels like the Jon Lord days.
And when Gillan comes in, like on Into The Fire, boy, does he come in. He even plays harmonica, with gusto, at one point.
They are not scared to go into the newer material. It ties in perfectly with the old and, furthermore. It is rather brave, since being a legacy act, with their history, it is not uncomfortable.
Is the crowd reaction ecstatic, with a mosh pit and the like? Of course it is not. But people of all ages listen carefully to one of the most legendary bands ever to exist. And no more is needed.
When they do When A Blind Man Cries, if you can fault this, you should not be here. This is one of the places where it all started. And when Gillan, who has 30 per cent eyesight, sings this, there is a poignancy to it that you can not be affected by.
Black Night and Smoke On The Water are at the end of the set. Deep Purple kick major ass. As they should do.
HELLFEST 2026
Prepare to be consumed by the relentless energy of the most influential bands in Heavy Metal as they ignite the Hellfest stages with blistering performances. The immersive atmosphere of Clisson will immerse you in a dark, captivating experience like no other.
With its unparalleled lineup and unwavering commitment to the spirit of metal, Hellfest 2026 promises an unforgettable journey into the depths of sonic mayhem.
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MetalTalk Hellfest 2026 coverage can be found at https://www.metaltalk.net/tag/hellfest-2026.
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