UtBS XV Day 1

Under the Black Sun XV - Day One

Bernau (DE), July 6-7, 2012

Under the Black Sun undoubtedly is the nr. 1 underground annual black metal festival of Western Europe. Not only does it give stage to true underground bands, ranging from upcoming talent to well established names in the scene, but it’s location is also most pleasant. Situated in the countryside , just east of Berlin, the venue is at a horseriding stables facilty, surrounded by woods. The stage area looks like a fairy tale. The lodging and restaurant facilities, parking and camprounds are all within short reach and the atmosphere, with just a few hundred dedicated visitors, is amazingly relaxed. During the day one can either be leisurely in nature or visit the beautiful German capitol Berlin while at night it’s time to relax among friends, drinking Cuba libre and listen to bands who play to the stars in a clearing in the woods. Bands here play solely BM music. They stem from all over the world and love to come tot his festival for the reasons just mentioned. Here, musicians and audience are united and feel at ease. It’s a Black Metallers Valhalla.

At this XVth anniversary, the first day’s headliner was Kampfar. Their performance was energetic, as always. Our favorite of this day was the Canadian group Forteresse from Quebec, who performed in Europe for the first time. Forteresse makes stirring atmospheric Black Metal and their singer has the suitable charism. Their guitar player, Monarque played here, succesfully, at UtBS XIV, before and his fast riffs on a clear sounding Fender guitar, which he played fully naturally, made a big impression. Despite the weather forecast this turned out to be a beautiful, dry and lovely night. Line up Friday 06.07.2012 Kampfar (Nor) 00:00 – 01:00; Nightbringer (Usa) 22:45 – 23:45; Acherontas (Greece) 21:30 – 22:30; Forteresse (Can)20:30 – 21:15; Blackdeath (Rus) 19:20 – 20:15; Evil Warriors (Ger) 18:20 – 19:05; TSMED (Pol) 17:30 – 18:05.

Photography Chérie & Panzer, Metalphoto - Text: Chérie, Metalphoto - This review only shows a fraction of the photo’s taken. Bands can contact us for full series.