Copenhell 2023
• festival review •

The festival maintained its reputation for creating a vibrant and intense atmosphere. The stages were meticulously set up to ensure optimal sound quality, and the site offered a variety of food and drink options, catering to all dietary preferences. Notably, the Copenhell Con added a unique twist with Viking-themed activities, bringing a touch of Scandinavian culture to the metal extravaganza.

Despite the electrifying performances, the festival faced some challenges. Severe weather led to the unfortunate cancellation of Architects' set, marking the second consecutive year they faced issues at Copenhell. However, the spirit of the festival-goers remained undeterred, and other acts like Halestorm, Parkway Drive, and Sleep Token stepped up to keep the energy high and the crowds entertained.

The festival kicked off with high-octane performances from bands like Pantera and Gojira. Pantera's set was a powerful reminder of their enduring influence on the metal scene, while Gojira's precision and intensity left the crowd in awe. Mötley Crüe and Guns N’ Roses brought a touch of classic rock glamour, with the former delivering a nostalgic set full of their greatest hits.

Day 1: June 14

The opening day of Copenhell 2023 kicked off with a bang as Pantera delivered a ferocious set. The band, now featuring Zakk Wylde and Charlie Benante, paid tribute to the late Abbott brothers with a performance that was both nostalgic and electrifying. Classic tracks like "Walk" and "Cowboys from Hell" had the crowd roaring, showcasing Pantera’s lasting influence on the metal scene​​.

Gojira’s performance was a highlight, demonstrating their technical precision and intense stage presence. The band played a mix of old favorites and newer tracks, with songs like "L’Enfant Sauvage" and "Stranded" receiving thunderous applause. Their set was a testament to their status as one of the leading bands in modern metal​.

Adding a touch of glam rock to the evening, Mötley Crüe took the stage with their high-energy performance. The band’s set included hits like "Dr. Feelgood" and "Kickstart My Heart," delivering a show that was both visually and musically spectacular. Vince Neil’s vocals and Tommy Lee’s drumming were standout elements of their performance​.

Day 2: June 15

Thrash metal legends Testament opened the second day with a powerful set. Despite the early time slot, they delivered an intense performance, featuring tracks like "Over the Wall" and "Practice What You Preach." Their energy set the tone for the rest of the day​.

Billy Gibbons, of ZZ Top fame, brought his signature blues-rock sound to Copenhell. His set was a masterclass in musicianship, with Gibbons effortlessly blending rock and blues. Songs like "La Grange" and "Sharp Dressed Man" resonated well with the audience, adding a touch of classic rock to the festival​.

Both Gojira and Meshuggah delivered earth-shattering performances. Gojira’s set was marked by their precise execution and powerful presence, while Meshuggah impressed with their complex rhythms and heavy sound. Both bands showcased their technical prowess, making them highlights of the day​.

Despite their age, Sick of It All performed with the energy of a much younger band. Their hardcore punk set was filled with vigor, and tracks like "Scratch the Surface" had the crowd moshing and singing along​.

Day 3: June 16

Life of Agony’s performance was a blend of nostalgia and raw emotion. The band played a selection of their classics, including "River Runs Red" and "Through and Through." Their set was well-received, demonstrating their enduring appeal in the metal community​.

Aborted brought their brutal death metal sound to the stage, initiating circle pits in the scorching sun. While not the most memorable set of the festival, it was undeniably intense and appreciated by the crowd​.

Ghost’s theatrical performance was a spectacle. With a setlist featuring "Square Hammer" and "Cirice," the band combined music with visual elements like confetti and elaborate costumes. Their performance was both entertaining and musically solid, making them a standout act​.

Day 4: June 17

Despite severe weather conditions that led to evacuations and damage to equipment, Napalm Death’s performance was a testament to their resilience. The band delivered a ferocious set, even as hurricane-strength gusts caused disruptions​​.

Zeal & Ardor’s set was highly praised, though personal circumstances led some to miss their performance. The band's blend of black metal and blues created a unique and captivating atmosphere, making them one of the festival's standout acts​.

Unfortunately, Architects’ performance was canceled due to the severe weather. This marked the second consecutive year that the band faced issues at Copenhell, disappointing many fans who were looking forward to their set​.

Conclusion

Copenhell 2023 was marked by powerful performances, a strong sense of community, and a few challenges. Despite transportation issues and severe weather, the festival delivered memorable sets from a diverse lineup of bands. The combination of legendary acts and emerging talent created an unforgettable experience for all attendees, setting high expectations for Copenhell 2024