Live Review: KNOTFEST Australia 2024 in Melbourne, Australia – Where Music, Art and Culture collided
21st of March 2024 at the Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne, Australia
Review by Jeana Thomas
Photography by Jeana Thomas Photography
Editor’s Note: Welcome to KNOTFEST Australia 2024. With 14 bands performing consecutively between two stages, KNOTFEST is the most anticipated metal spectacle in Australia, appearing in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane across 4 days and nights. Jeana Thomas of Sheldon Ang Media was in Melbourne to witness a day of no holds barred performances, headlined by the legendary Pantera and Disturbed. It was also a day where music, art and culture collided amongst bands from across the globe, including The Hu of Mongolia who stunned the crowd through their mesmerising traditional instruments and throat singing. We also witnessed Lzzy Hale – the only female lead vocalist, ripping the stage with Halestorm through her stunning vocal range and guitar. Perhaps, Nightwish is on the negotiation table? Regardless, we can’t wait for 2025.
PANTERA
Pantera’s Knotfest Performance in Melbourne: A Metal Masterclass
Pantera, the iconic heavy metal band known for their relentless energy and uncompromising sound, made a triumphant return to the stage at Knotfest in Melbourne. The anticipation leading up to the performance was palpable, as fans eagerly awaited the chance to witness the raw power and aggression that defined Pantera’s music. As the curtain they had up fell, the familiar roar of the crowd filled the air, Pantera unleashed a performance that exceeded all expectations and solidified their status as legends of the metal genre.
From the moment they stepped on stage, Pantera commanded attention with their commanding presence and blistering musicianship. They immediately set the tone for the night, delivering a sonic assault that left the audience in awe. Guitarist Zakk Wylde’s virtuosic riffs cut through the air like a razor blade, while vocalist Phil Anselmo’s primal screams sent chills down the spine of every listener.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Pantera’s performance was their unwavering intensity. Each song was delivered with a relentless energy that never wavered, driving the crowd into a frenzy of headbanging and moshing.
Pantera’s performance was not just about brute force – it was also a display of unparalleled musicianship and tight-knit chemistry. Bassist Rex Brown and drummer Charlie Benante formed a rhythm section that was as tight as it was thunderous, providing the backbone for Wylde’s explosive guitar work. The band’s flawless execution and precision timing were a testament to their years of experience and dedication to their craft.
Throughout the performance, Phil Anselmo’s stage presence was nothing short of captivating. His commanding presence and intense delivery held the audience in the palm of his hand, drawing them into the music with every word. Whether he was prowling the stage like a caged animal or engaging in fiery exchanges with the crowd, Anselmo was the consummate frontman, commanding attention with every move.
Of course, no discussion of Pantera’s performance would be complete without mentioning the late, great Dimebag Darrell. His guitar solos were nothing short of legendary, showcasing not only his technical prowess but also his boundless creativity and fearless experimentation. Songs like “Domination” featured extended solos that left jaws on the floor and hands in the air, as Dimebag pushed the boundaries of what was possible on the guitar.
As the night drew to a close, Pantera left the stage to thunderous applause. Though they may have departed, their presence lingered in the air, a reminder of the indelible mark they have left on the world of heavy metal. Their performance at Knotfest in Melbourne was nothing short of a masterclass in metal, reaffirming their status as one of the greatest bands of all time. Long live Pantera.
DISTURBED
Disturbed Delivers a Thunderous Performance at Knotfest Melbourne
Disturbed, the iconic heavy metal band known for their powerful vocals, thunderous instrumentals, and captivating stage presence, brought their signature intensity to Knotfest Melbourne in a performance that electrified the crowd and left a lasting impression. As the anticipation built and the sun was going down, the audience erupted into a frenzy of excitement, eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Chicago-based quartet.
From the moment they stepped onto the stage, it was evident that Disturbed was here to leave their mark on Knotfest Melbourne. Frontman David Draiman, adorned in his trademark attire, stood tall at the centre of the stage, exuding confidence and charisma as he prepared to unleash his formidable vocal prowess upon the crowd. The opening notes of ‘Hey You’ reverberated through the grounds, sending shockwaves of energy through the audience and setting the tone for the evening ahead.
Draiman’s vocals were nothing short of extraordinary, ranging from hauntingly melodic to guttural and aggressive, showcasing the versatility and power that has made him one of the most acclaimed vocalists in the metal genre. With each word he sang, Draiman commanded the attention of every soul in the audience, drawing them into the emotional depths of Disturbed’s music.
Hits like ‘Bad Man,’ and ‘The Sound of Silence’ elicited deafening cheers from the crowd, as fans sang along with every word and raised their fists in solidarity. The energy at Flemington was palpable, with mosh pits swirling and bodies colliding in a euphoric display of communal celebration.
But it wasn’t just the band’s musical prowess that captivated the audience – it was also their unwavering passion and connection to their fans. Throughout the set, Draiman took the time to address the crowd, expressing his gratitude for their unwavering support and sharing personal anecdotes that added a sense of intimacy to the performance. It was clear that Disturbed wasn’t just playing for the audience – they were playing with them, united in their love for music and the unbreakable bond that it creates.
Disturbed’s performance at Knotfest Melbourne was a masterclass in metal excellence. From David Draiman’s commanding vocals to the band’s electrifying instrumentals, every aspect of the performance was executed with precision and passion. For those lucky enough to witness it firsthand, it was an experience they will never forget – a testament to the enduring power of music to unite, inspire, and uplift the human spirit
LAMB OF GOD
Lamb of God Reigns Supreme: A Thrilling Performance at Knotfest Melbourne
In the realm of modern metal, few bands command as much respect and admiration as Lamb of God. With their ferocious blend of groove-laden riffs, blistering solos, and politically charged lyrics, Lamb of God has established themselves as one of the most influential and formidable forces in the metal scene. At Knotfest Melbourne, the band delivered a performance that was nothing short of electrifying, captivating the audience with their relentless energy and uncompromising intensity.
With the sun high above, the anticipation reached its peak, the crowd erupted into a deafening roar as Lamb of God took the stage. Frontman Randy Blythe, stood at the forefront, his imposing presence commanding the attention of every soul in the audience. With a primal scream, Blythe launched into the opening lines of ‘Memento Mori,’ sending shockwaves of excitement through the crowd and setting the stage for the sonic onslaught that was to follow.
From the first note to the last, Lamb of God’s performance was a relentless barrage of sonic fury. Guitarist Mark Morton and Willie Adler unleashed a torrent of crushing riffs and face-melting solos, their precision and technical proficiency on full display as they tore through songs like ‘Walk with Me in Hell’ and ‘Redneck.’ Behind them, bassist John Campbell and drummer Art Cruz laid down a thunderous rhythm section that provided the backbone for the band’s unmistakable groove.
But it was Blythe’s commanding stage presence and guttural vocals that truly stole the show. With each word he sang, Blythe poured his heart and soul into every lyric, delivering his trademark blend of aggression and emotion with unwavering intensity. His performance was raw, visceral, and utterly captivating, drawing the audience into the depths of Lamb of God’s music and leaving them spellbound.
Throughout the set, Lamb of God treated the crowd to a mix of fan favourites and deep cuts, showcasing the breadth and depth of their catalogue.
Lamb of God had delivered a performance for the ages, reminding everyone in attendance why they are considered one of the greatest metal bands of all time.
Lamb of God’s performance at Knotfest Melbourne was nothing short of brilliance and a masterclass in metal excellence. From Randy Blythe’s commanding vocals to the band’s blistering instrumentals, every aspect of the performance was executed with precision and passion.
HALESTORM
Halestorm Shatters Expectations: A Captivating Performance at Knotfest Melbourne
Halestorm, the powerhouse rock band led by the charismatic Lzzy Hale, took Knotfest Melbourne by storm with a performance that was nothing short of electrifying. The only female singer at the festival, she hit the ground running and it was clear that the audience was in for a show to remember. With their infectious energy, dynamic stage presence, and undeniable talent, Halestorm delivered a set that left the crowd wanting more.
Lzzy Hale wasted no time in asserting her dominance as one of rock’s most electrifying frontwomen. With her powerful vocals and commanding stage presence, she captivated the audience from the very first note.
But Halestorm is far more than just Lzzy Hale – it’s a tightly knit band of seasoned musicians who bring their own unique flair to the table. Guitarist Joe Hottinger, bassist Josh Smith, and drummer Arejay Hale (Lzzy’s brother) proved themselves to be a force to be reckoned with, delivering tight, energetic performances that perfectly complemented Lzzy’s powerhouse vocals.
Halestorm had delivered a performance for the ages, reminding everyone in attendance why they are considered one of the most beloved rock bands of their generation.
I can honestly say that Halestorm’s performance at Knotfest Melbourne was a triumph of talent, passion, and sheer rock ‘n’ roll energy. From Lzzy Hale’s powerhouse vocals to the band’s tight instrumentals, every aspect of the performance was executed with precision and flair. Definitely not a performance you would forget – a testament to the enduring power of music to unite, inspire, and uplift the human spirit.
THE HU
Along with everyone else I found The Hu’s performance at Knotfest Melbourne truly a mesmerising fusion of traditional Mongolian music and modern metal that left the audience in awe. From the moment they graced the stage, the band’s unique blend of throat singing, horsehead fiddle, and heavy guitar riffs transported the crowd to another world. Their powerful, primal energy resonated throughout Flemington, captivating every listener with its raw intensity. Tracks like ‘Wolf Totem’ and ‘Yuve Yuve Yu’ showcased the band’s ability to seamlessly blend ancient Mongolian sounds with contemporary metal, creating a truly unforgettable experience. Their performance at Knotfest Melbourne was a testament to the universal language of music, transcending cultural boundaries and uniting fans from all walks of life in a shared celebration of artistry and passion.
ASKING ALEXANDRIA
What a thrilling rollercoster of energy and emotion that Asking Alexandria’s brought to Knotfest Melbourne. The band unleashed a torrent of raw intensity, fuelled by powerful vocals and blistering guitar riffs. Frontman Danny Worsnop’s charismatic stage presence captivated the crowd, while the band’s tight instrumentals kept the energy levels soaring. Hits like ‘The Final Episode (Let’s Change the Channel)’ and ‘Into the Fire’ had fans singing along at the top of their lungs, creating an electrifying atmosphere. Their performance was a testament to their ability to command a stage and connect with their audience, leaving a lasting impression and a hunger for more.
WAGE OF WAR
Wage War’s performance at Knotfest Melbourne was a sonic assault that left fans craving more. Their explosive energy and razor-sharp precision on stage captivated the audience from start to finish. With relentless breakdowns, soaring melodies, and guttural vocals, Wage War delivered a set filled with intensity and passion. Tracks like ‘Relapse’ and ‘Manic’ ignited the crowd, showcasing the band’s ability to incite chaos while maintaining tight musicianship. Wage War’s performance at Knotfest Melbourne was a testament to their status as one of metalcore’s most formidable acts, leaving fans exhilarated and eager for their next onslaught.
THY ART IS MURDER
Thy Art Is Murder’s performed at Knotfest Melbourne with an unrelenting barrage of brutal deathcore that left the audience in awe. From the moment they took the stage, the band’s ferocious energy and technical precision were on full display. Frontman Tyler Miller guttural vocals cut through the air like a chainsaw, while the band’s thunderous instrumentals pulverised everything in their path. Tracks like ‘Destroyer of Dreams’ and ‘Holy War’ incited a frenzy in the crowd, showcasing the band’s ability to command a crowd with their sheer aggression. Thy Art Is Murder’s performance at Knotfest Melbourne was a visceral and cathartic experience, solidifying their reputation as one of the most formidable forces in the extreme metal scene.
ESCAPE THE FATE
Listing to Escape the Fate’s performance at Knotfest Melbourne was a thrilling journey through the realms of post-hardcore and alternative rock. From their first step on stage, the band exuded energy and charisma, captivating the audience with their dynamic stage presence. Frontman Craig Mabbitt’s emotive vocals soared over the crowd, while the band’s infectious melodies and driving rhythms kept the energy levels high. Hits like ‘Forgive Me’ and ‘This War Is Ours (The Guillotine II)’ had fans singing along and pumping their fists in the air, creating an electric atmosphere. Escape the Fate’s performance was a testament to their ability to blend aggression with melody.
SKINDRED
Skindred’s performance at Knotfest Melbourne was an explosive fusion of reggae, metal, and punk that ignited the crowd in excitement. The band brought an infectious energy that had everyone jumping and dancing. Frontman Benji Webbe’s commanding presence and charismatic stage banter kept the audience engaged throughout the set. The band’s eclectic mix of heavy riffs, catchy hooks, and reggae-inspired rhythms created a unique sonic experience that had fans of all genres rocking out together. Tracks like ‘Nobody’ and ‘Gimme that Boom’ showcased Skindred’s versatility and ability to get the crowd moving. Their performance was a breath of fresh air, injecting a dose of fun and positivity into the metal festival atmosphere.
SPEED
Australian band ‘Speed’ delivered raw intensity with their hardcore mastery at Knotsfest Melbourne. The band is a force to be reckoned with in the realm of heavy music.
From the moment they hit the stage, Speed grabs the listener by the throat and doesn’t let go. The relentless barrage of aggressive guitar riffs, thunderous drumming, and guttural vocals creates a sonic onslaught that leaves no room for complacency.
What sets Speed apart from other hardcore bands is their ability to seamlessly blend ferocity with musicality. Amidst the chaos, there are moments of unexpected melody and intricate song-writing that showcase the band’s depth and versatility.
Lyrically, Speed pulls no punches, addressing themes of societal decay, personal struggle, and the pursuit of liberation with unapologetic honesty. Each song serves as a cathartic release, channelling the frustrations and anxieties of modern life into a blistering sonic assault.
Perhaps the most impressive aspect of Speed’s music is its authenticity. There’s a palpable sense of urgency and sincerity in every note, reflecting the band members’ genuine passion for their craft and the messages they convey.
Overall, Speed’s latest offering is a tour de force of Australian hardcore, delivering a sonic punch to the gut that will leave listeners breathless and craving more. With their uncompromising attitude and relentless drive, Speed proves once again why they are a force to be reckoned with in the world of heavy music.
WINDWAKER
Windwaker’s performance at Knotfest Melbourne was a whirlwind of energy and emotion that left the audience in awe. From the moment they took the stage, the band’s infectious enthusiasm and raw talent were palpable. Frontman Liam Guinane’s powerful vocals soared over the crowd, delivering lyrics with heartfelt emotion and conviction. The band’s tight instrumentals and dynamic stage presence kept the energy levels high throughout the set. Tracks like ‘Dopamine Freestyle’ and ‘The Empire’ had fans singing along. Their performance at Knotfest Melbourne was a testament to their rising star in the metalcore scene, leaving fans eagerly anticipating their next performance.
BRAND OF SACRIFICE
Brand of Sacrifice’s put on a brutal display of technical mastery and unbridled aggression. Their relentless onslaught of bone-crushing riffs and guttural vocals enveloped the audience in a sonic whirlwind. The precision of their instrumentation was matched only by the intensity of their stage presence, as they commanded the crowd with authority. Tracks like ‘Lifeblood’ and ‘Eclipse’ showcased the band’s ability to seamlessly blend elements of deathcore and symphonic metal into a cohesive and devastating sound. Brand of Sacrifice’s performance was a visceral and unrelenting experience that left fans both exhausted and exhilarated, solidifying their reputation as one of the most promising acts in extreme metal today.
KING PARROT
A raucous display of unfiltered energy and punk-infused grindcore was the performance that the band ‘King Parrot’ put on for Knotfest. From the moment they hit the stage, the band unleashed a whirlwind of chaos, captivating the audience with their raw intensity and relentless aggression. Frontman Matt Young’s frenetic stage presence and guttural vocals commanded attention, while the band’s blistering guitar riffs and thunderous drumming provided the perfect backdrop for their high-octane performance. Tracks like ‘Disgrace Yourself’ and ‘Hell Comes Your Way had fans embracing the band’s irreverent attitude and in-your-face approach. King Parrot’s performance at Knotfest Melbourne was a frenzied and unforgettable experience, showcasing their mastery of the grindcore genre.
Sheldon Ang Media would like to thank Dallas Does PR and KNOTFEST 2024 for the media accreditation. See you in 2025!
About the Writer/Photographer: Originally hailing from Western Australia, Jeana Thomas now thrives in the vibrant city of Melbourne. Amidst the hustle of her role in a prominent teaching hospital, she also navigates the dynamic world of entrepreneurship as the owner of a medical transcription company. Beyond her professional endeavours, Jeana finds solace and joy in the rhythm of music, the allure of travel and the artistry of photography, with a particular passion for wildlife photography. She embraces the spirit of festivals, the excitement of sports, theatre, the laughter-inducing antics of comedy and the electrifying atmosphere of live music performances. She cherishing each experience as a chance to immerse herself fully in life’s rich tapestry.
About Sheldon Ang Media: Perth based Sheldon Ang Media (est. May 2022) have been accredited to over 80 of the hottest acts including Taylor Swift (ERAS Tour in Sydney), Coldplay, KISS, P!NK, Tom Jones, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Blink 182, Sting with reviews shared by the likes of UB40, Delta Goodrem and Toni Childs. He has interviewed rockers Suzi Quatro, Ace Frehley (KISS), John Steel (The Animals), Frank Ferrer (Guns N Roses), Phil X (Bon Jovi), Andrew Farris (INXS) plus over 50 artists.
