Mayhem Fest Returns With A Bang
In the early days of my musical journey, festivals were essential milestones in my exploration of sound and artistry. Each summer from 2011 to 2018, I eagerly attended the Vans Warped Tour, a vibrant tapestry of music that introduced me to a plethora of new bands and artists. The energy was electric as I navigated through crowds, soaking in performances that ignited my passion for music.
Similarly, the Mayhem Festival offered an exhilarating experience, touring various locations from 2008 to 2015. It had a raw intensity that resonated deeply with fans of heavy music, fostering a sense of community among attendees. When the festival announced its return with a one-day event in 2024, followed by a full tour in 2025, I felt a surge of excitement. I recognized this as a fantastic opportunity for emerging bands to capture the attention of eager listeners once again. In the early days of my musical career, festivals were a vital part of my musical journey of exploration. I attended the Vans Warped Tour every year from 2011 to 2018, and through the festival, was introduced to so many new bands and artists. Mayhem Festival was very similar in that it was a festival that would tour many stops throughout the summers from 2008 to 2015. When they announced their return, I was elated, knowing this would be a huge opportunity for new bands to be discovered once again.
The one-day Mayhem Festival Returns event kicked off its festivities at Glen Helen Amphitheater, opening its gates at exactly 1 PM. As I pulled into the venue, I was struck by the sheer magnitude of the space; this amphitheater is the largest outdoor venue in the United States, boasting a staggering capacity of 65,000.
The festival buzzed with excitement as it showcased three vibrant stages: the main attraction, the "Hot Topic" Main Stage, gleamed with lights and energy, while the two side stages, "Blood Runs Red" and "Back to Black," offered unique experiences of their own. Navigating between these stages was an adventure in itself. The amphitheater is situated Navigating between the stages was an exhilarating adventure. The amphitheater, perched majestically on a large hill, boasts its main stage at the base, where the energy of the crowd swells with every performance. To reach the charming side stages, I found myself climbing the winding paths along the hill's perimeter, the earth beneath my feet shifting between gravel and grass. After reaching the top, I descended again, tackling a steep, rugged slope that led me to the side stages.
The first band I had the opportunity to photograph was the ferocious Roman Candle, hailing from Las Vegas, NV on the Blood Runs Red stage. This metallic hardcore quartet is made up of four passionate musicians: the dynamic vocalist Piper Ferrari, the inventive guitarist Jonas Vece, the thunderous bassist Sergio Lopez, and the powerhouse drummer Bryson Drace. From the moment they took the stage, their high energy was palpable, electrifying the audience. Piper Ferrari, in particular, was a standout, pouring her heart and soul into the performance. Her raw emotion and feral intensity captivated everyone in the place, making it impossible to look away. The band's tight instrumentation and compelling presence created a heavy yet exhilarating atmosphere. This was my first time not only watching but also photographing these talented musicians, and I was eager to capture the raw power of their performance. Their connection with the crowd and each other was remarkable, leaving a lasting impression that I could hardly wait to document.
The next act to take the stage was Brutus, hailing from the vibrant city of Leuven, Belgium, as they electrified the Back To Black stage. This band seamlessly fuses elements of post-rock, post-metal, and post-hardcore, creating a sound that is both rich and haunting. The trio comprises Stefanie Mannaerts, whose powerful vocals and captivating drumming command attention, along with the dynamic guitar work of Stijn Vanhoegaerden and the solid foundation provided by bassist Peter Mulders. What sets Brutus apart is their unique arrangement: the drummer also serves as the lead vocalist, a rare combination that adds an extra layer of intensity to their performance. The energy they brought was palpable, with every note resonating through the crowd. Their set was nothing short of a musical assault, leaving me completely entranced and eager to explore more of their work. By the end, I found myself a new fan, genuinely impressed by their artistry and passion.
Escuela Grind, hailing from Ithaca, New York, took the spotlight next on the Blood Runs Red stage. This band is a dynamic fusion of grindcore, powerviolence, and death metal, creating an electrifying sound that demands attention. The quintet is made up of the powerful vocalist Katerina Economou, alongside guitarists Kris Morash and Thomas Sifuentes, whose riffs cut through the air with brutal precision. The rhythm section features bassist Justin Altamirano, providing a deep, resonant backbone, while drummer Jesse Fuentes unleashes a relentless barrage of beats. From the moment they stepped on stage, the energy was palpable. They delivered an onslaught of fast, heavy musical brutality, engulfing the audience in their chaotic sound. Each song felt like a whirlwind, showcasing their raw intensity and skill. The performance was nothing short of insane, leaving the crowd exhilarated and craving more.
The next act on the Back To Black stage was It Dies Today, hailing from Buffalo, NY. This formidable metalcore band features the dynamic vocal prowess of Nicholas Brooks, while the guitar work of Chris Cappelli and Steve Lemke weaves intricate melodies and heavy riffs. Providing a solid backbone to the group are bassist Mike Hatalak and drummer John Runkle, whose thunderous rhythms drive the energy of their sound. From the moment they took the stage, the atmosphere crackled with intensity. This marked the band's first performance in California in quite some time, following a hiatus that began in 2015. Fans had been eagerly anticipating their return, and It Dies Today did not disappoint. They unleashed a torrent of high-octane energy, captivating the crowd with a performance that was both powerful and unforgettable.
Born of Osiris, hailing from Chicago, IL, recently graced the Blood Runs Red Stage next with their electrifying performance. This talented progressive metalcore quartet is composed of dynamic vocalist Ronnie Canizaro, skilled drummer Cameron Losch, and the formidable guitar duo of Lee McKinney and Nick Rossi. Having had the privilege of witnessing and photographing Born of Osiris on numerous occasions, I can confidently say they consistently bring a whirlwind of energy to their shows. Their performances are not only intense but also remarkably tight, showcasing the intricate syncopated rhythms characteristic of progressive metal and djent. Each time I see them, I find myself completely captivated by their musicianship and stage presence. The way they effortlessly blend technical precision with exhilarating performance leaves an indelible mark on the audience. This recent show was no exception; they truly outdid themselves once again. Born of Osiris has a permanent spot in my heart, and I look forward to every opportunity to experience their music live.
Next on my agenda, I hurried over to the Hot Topic Mainstage to witness the electrifying performance of Seven Hours After Violet, hailing from the vibrant city of Los Angeles, CA. This supergroup brings together an impressive lineup: the powerful vocalist Taylor Barber, known for his work with Left To Suffer; the enigmatic bassist Shavo Odadjian of System Of A Down fame; the innovative guitarist Michael Montoya, also known as Morgoth Beatz; the dynamic drummer Josh Johnson from Winds of Plague; and the talented guitarist and vocalist Alejandro Aranda. This marked their inaugural live festival performance, with their very first gig having taken place merely five days earlier at SiriusXM. Coinciding perfectly with the release of their debut self-titled album, Seven Hours After Violet delivered a captivating showcase of their diverse musical prowess. Their sound is a rich tapestry, weaving together influences from metalcore, progressive metal, and progressive rock, among other genres. Experiencing such a remarkable supergroup debut on a grand stage during a major music festival was an exhilarating moment, and I find myself eagerly anticipating the journey that lies ahead for this remarkable band.
After an exhilarating set, I rushed back to the Back to Black stage, eager to catch the legendary Unearth hailing from Boston, MA. This dynamic quintet, revered as pioneers of the metalcore genre, features the powerful vocals of Trevor Phipps, the intricate guitar work of Buz McGrath and Peter Layman, the thunderous beats of drummer Mike Justian, and the solid foundation provided by bassist Chris O'Toole. Having long anticipated the opportunity to see and photograph Unearth, I was not disappointed. Their performance was a whirlwind of energy and passion, perfectly illustrating why they remain one of the original metalcore titans still commanding the scene today. I left the venue buzzing, already counting down the days until I could photograph and witness their electric presence again.
Hanabie, an electrifying band from Kichijōji, Tokyo, Japan, took the Blood Runs Red stage by storm next. Their distinctive sound is an exhilarating fusion of metalcore, nu-metal, and electronica, crafting a vibrant musical tapestry that captivates the audience. The lineup features the dynamic vocalist Yukina, whose powerful voice commands attention; Matsuri, the guitarist and clean vocalist, whose intricate riffs and harmonies add depth; Hettsu, the bassist, whose rhythms lay a solid foundation; and Chika, the drummer, whose frenetic beats drive the energy of the performance. The band radiated enthusiasm as they performed, leaping across the stage and engaging the crowd with infectious energy. Beach balls flew through the air, adding an element of whimsy and fun to the atmosphere. Each song felt like a celebration, drawing the audience into a collective experience of joy and excitement. Before this show, I hadn’t been familiar with Hanabie, but witnessing their talent firsthand was a revelation. They left a resonating impact that is sure to linger long after the final note.
Darkest Hour from Washington D.C. electrified the audience as they took the stage on the Back To Black platform. As trailblazers of the metalcore genre, this band has carved out a remarkable legacy over nearly three decades in the metal scene. The current lineup features the powerful vocals of John Henry, flanked by the dynamic guitar work of Mike Schleibaum and Nico Santora. The rhythm section is anchored by bassist Aaron Deal and the thunderous drumming of Travis Orbin, creating a sound that's both tight and explosive. When I last captured their performance in 2023, they brought an impressive energy that left a lasting impression; this time, they cranked that intensity up even further. Their relentless passion and commitment to their craft were palpable, demonstrating why they have remained a formidable force in the music world for so many years. The crowd was swept up in the waves of sound, each song a testament to their enduring legacy and mastery of the genre.
The Blood Runs Red stage is electrified with the thunderous presence of Throwdown, a formidable hardcore band hailing from Orange County, CA. This marked their highly anticipated return to Southern California after a decade-long hiatus, and they didn’t hold back. The quartet unleashed a powerful 8-song set that shook the venue to its core. Fronted by the intense vocal prowess of Dave Peters, the band showcased an impressive lineup, including the dynamic basslines of Matt Mentley, the relentless drumming of Ben Dussault, and the razor-sharp riffs of guitarist Mark Choiniere. Their tight performance was a masterclass in beatdown hardcore, each note resonating with raw energy and passion. I felt incredibly fortunate to witness and document this momentous occasion, capturing the essence of their long-awaited first California show in over ten years.
Next on my agenda, I raced over to the Hot Topic Mainstage, fueled by adrenaline, to witness the incredible Jinjer hailing from Donetsk, Ukraine. If I had to characterize their sound, I’d say they embody the essence of progressive metal, seamlessly blending elements of metalcore, groove metal, and djent into a powerful sonic experience. The band features the captivating vocalist Tatiana Shmayluk, whose commanding presence is impossible to ignore; bassist Eugene Abdukhanov, drummer Vladislav "Vladi" Ulasevich, and guitarist Roman Ibramkhalilov round out this extraordinary lineup. I first encountered Jinjer back in 2018 during their second US tour alongside DevilDriver, and again when they headlined North America in 2019. The transformation and growth of Jinjer over these past five years have been nothing short of astonishing. Their sound has matured into a rich tapestry, with the bass tones leading the charge and anchoring the instrumentals beautifully. Tatiana's vocal abilities truly elevate Jinjer to a whole new level. Her mastery and control over her voice is remarkable, commanding the stage with an undeniable charisma that captures the audience’s rapt attention. Jinjer was among my most eagerly awaited bands of the day, and they somehow managed to surpass all my expectations. In every sense, Jinjer is a class act, delivering a performance that resonates long after the last note fades.
I hurried back to the Back To Black stage, eager to catch the electrifying performance of After The Burial, hailing from Minneapolis, MN. This dynamic progressive metalcore quartet features the powerful vocals of Anthony Notarmaso, the intricate guitar work of Trent Hafdahl, the relentless energy of drummer Dan Carle, and the solid foundation laid down by bassist Adrian Oropeza. Having photographed this talented group numerous times over the years, I was especially excited to witness them in the vibrant atmosphere of a festival. Their sound is characterized by intricate syncopations, drawing heavily on djent influences that create a complex, textured listening experience. The band exhibited an impressive tightness in their performance, delivering a show that was both sonically rich and visually captivating. Every time I get the opportunity to capture these musicians through my lens, I feel a thrill—it's a joy to engage with their incredible music in such a lively setting. Their energy is infectious, and their artistry truly shines.
The indomitable deathcore band, Suicide Silence, hailing from Riverside, CA, took the Blood Runs Red stage by storm next. Fronted by the powerful vocals of Eddie Hermida, the lineup features the dynamic guitarists Chris Garza and Mark Heylmun, the thunderous bassist Dan Kenny, and the relentless drummer Ernie Iniguez. As the sole Southern California show of the year, the band pulled out all the stops, crafting a meticulously designed setlist to thrill their long-time fans. When the opening drumbeat of "Unanswered" reverberated through the venue, a palpable energy surged through the crowd, signaling that things were about to get intensely exhilarating. True to form, Suicide Silence unleashed an utterly brutal performance, captivating the audience and keeping them in rapturous awe throughout the set. Having had the privilege of witnessing their shows multiple times, I can confidently say that they never fail to astonish. Each performance is a visceral experience that leaves both the band and the fans breathless, truly a testament to their prowess in the deathcore scene.
I eagerly made my way to the Hot Topic Mainstage, buzzing with anticipation to see one of my all-time favorite bands, Architects, hailing from Brighton, East Sussex, England. The last time I had the privilege of witnessing and photographing this dynamic progressive metalcore group was back in 2019 during their powerful "Holy Hell" tour in the U.S. Now, returning to the stateside for the first time since then, the band left no stone unturned, delivering a breathtaking performance enhanced by a vibrant and captivating lighting display that perfectly complemented their intense showmanship. The lineup features the charismatic vocalist Sam Carter, whose commanding stage presence captivates the audience, alongside the skilled guitarist Adam Christianson and bassist Alex "Ali" Dean, both delivering intricate melodies that resonate deeply. Drummer Dan Searle drives the pulsating energy forward, while guitarist Martyn Evans and rhythm guitarist Ryan Burnett weave complex layers into the soundscape. The evolution of Architects since the "Holy Hell" era has been nothing short of remarkable, as they consistently expand their reach and connect with new audiences with each release. This was evident in the masterclass performance they presented, which stood out as my favorite set of the day. I am already counting down the days until I have the opportunity to capture their incredible energy and artistry again during their next visit to the U.S.
I made my way once again to the vibrant Back To Black stage, eager to capture a moment from We Came As Romans, hailing from Troy, MI. This talented band features vocalist Dave Stephens, accompanied by the dynamic guitar duo of Joshua Moore and Lou Cotton, the steady rhythm of bassist Andy Glass, and the powerful beats of drummer David Puckett. It’s been a while since I last photographed them back in 2021, and witnessing their return was incredibly exciting. Their latest album, "Darkbloom", is nothing short of extraordinary, marking a bold evolution in their sound. The depth and intensity of their music have grown, showcasing their remarkable ability to push boundaries. Despite only having the chance to see them for a single song, the energy they brought to the stage was electric, and it was awe-inspiring to watch them dominate the Mayhem Festival. Each member contributed to a performance that was nothing less than a sonic celebration, leaving me eager for more.
Kittie, hailing from London, Ontario, Canada, electrified the audience as they closed out the Blood Runs Red stage. Having heard whispers about their prowess for years, witnessing their performance live was an eye-opening experience that exceeded all expectations. The band boasts a dynamic lineup: powerhouse vocalist and guitarist Morgan Lander, her talented sister and drummer Mercedes Lander, the skilled bassist Ivana "Ivy" Jenkins (née Vujić), and the fierce guitarist Tara McLeod. As they headlined the Blood Runs Red stage, Kittie unleashed their distinctive sound, a captivating fusion of heavy metal, alternative metal, groove metal, death metal, and nu-metal, creating an intense and immersive atmosphere. Their exhilarating performance was nothing short of a revelation, firmly establishing that Kittie truly deserves their reputation.
For the last performance of the day, I eagerly made my way to the Hot Topic Mainstage, where the legendary Parkway Drive was set to take the stage. Hailing from the picturesque Byron Bay, New South Wales, Australia, this band has carved out a remarkable legacy over their two-decade career, establishing themselves as a powerhouse in the metalcore genre. Their shows are known for their electrifying energy, and this one promised to be no different. As I approached the venue, the resonant sound of their signature groove-heavy music filled the air, creating an atmosphere brimming with anticipation. Parkway Drive's full-bodied sound is a force to be reckoned with, effortlessly enveloping the amphitheater and igniting the crowd with excitement. The lineup consisted of the dynamic vocalist Winston McCall, whose passionate delivery captivates every listener; lead guitarist Jeff Ling, whose intricate solos soar above the rhythmic foundation; rhythm guitarist Luke "Pig" Kilpatrick, adding depth and texture; drummer Ben "Gaz" Gordon, whose powerful beats drive the energy; and bassist Jia "Pie" O'Connor, solidifying the band’s tight-knit sound. Surprisingly, despite being a long-time fan, I had never had the chance to witness Parkway Drive live until this moment. And let me tell you, they surpassed all my expectations. The raw energy and overwhelming talent they displayed were nothing short of astounding. It became immediately clear why they command such a loyal following and a prominent spot in the music world. This performance was an unforgettable experience that truly left a mark on my day.
The Mayhem Festival was an unforgettable whirlwind of energy and excitement, almost like stepping into a vivid dream. I felt transported back to the vibrant chaos of Warped Tour, dashing between stages with my camera in hand, eager to capture every moment. The atmosphere was electric, with the sounds of heavy guitars and pounding drums reverberating through the air. It's thrilling to see metal not just returning but flourishing, showcasing its power and passion in a way that's genuinely awe-inspiring. Experiencing this rebirth of the genre was nothing short of beautiful.