If you actually want something resembling an account of this event, I'd set my sights over at The Obelisk instead, with proper coverage of Friday, Saturday and Sunday. This is me just sharing some thoughts and enthusiasm for some of the bands.
My festival itinerary over the three days;
Friday: Kadavar, Hexvessel, Yawning Man, Mars Red Sky, Black Moth, Crystal Head
Saturday: Unida, Wo Fat, Pagan Altar, Lowrider, Turbowolf, Chron Goblin
Sunday: Pentagram, Cough, Witch Mountain, Truckfighters, Belzebong, Naam, Victor Griffin's In-Graved, Glowsun
I caught Elder just a few days before this festival and had such a good time I find it absolutely appropriate to register my delight. That Nick DiSalvo guy was so clean with his guitar work it became stupid at times. Never pass up a chance to see Elder if you can. NEVER.
Anyway, Friday was generally a lukewarm affair not having much affinity for anyone but Kadavar. Yawning Man was more fun than expected, but being familiar with their material made it much easier to enjoy their set. Black Moth where my surprise act, heavy doom rock riffs aided by powerful vocals - check out a single here.
Saturday opening bands were okay, not bad. Lowrider was quite good but definitely could've been a tiny bit tighter, though this is all excusable with the lack of live experience and the decade long hiatus. Pagan Altar's Alan Jones was just absurd on the guitar, an overwhelming assault of NWOBHM guitar lead goodness. Wo Fat brought thunderous groove with their jammed out vibe. As for Unida? I don't even think their stuff is that strong... but vocal power of John Garcia for the first time won me over pretty much instantly. Definitely will have to make it out for Vista Chino when they come around.
The last day started pretty well with Glowsun and then Victor Griffin's In-Graved (pictured above). The venue was criminally under populated for the latter. I mean, he is the guitarist on all those classic Pentagram albums after all!! Also, Belzebong ended their set with a new song which sounded pretty awesome and confirms some new music beyond 'Dungeon Vultures' will be forthcoming. But days highlight definitely has to be Pentagram. The new guitarist delivered and it was great to hear some new (but old) songs in the setlist!
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