Nova Rock 2023 – Day 2: Church Bells and Strobe lights

On Thursday of the Nova Rock Festival 2023, the weather continued mostly dry. The Austrian festival fueled the party atmosphere once again with impressive pyrotechnics and well-structured organization.

Blind Channel, who represented Finland in the ESC in 2021, started off strong. With songs like ”Dark Side” or “Balboa” the band rocked despite having to play with borrowed instruments due to an airline f*up as stated on Twitter.

Singer Jason Aalon Butler took the stage with a new lineup for Fever 333. The show was full of energy and featured typical Fever actions, like stage reconstruction and climbing spotlights. A special highlight was the addition of guitarist April Kae, bringing femininity to Fever. According to frontman Jason, this set aimed at the female audience, showcasing dance moves and self-expression. The “new” Fever 333 shows great promise.

Sum 41’s performance fulfilled a long-awaited desire for some and as pioneers of their genre, they offered more than just a show. Unfortunately, the band’s upcoming end, announced in May, was palpable in the fans’ reaction. One last time at Nova Rock, one last time in Austria – an event no one wanted to miss. Sum 41 is synonymous with youth and mischief, even though their songs may not hit as hard as in the past, “Pieces” still evoked collective goosebumps. “Let’s do this one last time,” Derek exclaimed before smashing the ground like a true rockstar. Despite the massive crowd, the atmosphere fell somewhat flat. However, the band was almost drowned out by the fans’ screams during “In Too Deep,” despite the low sound volume.

Dominic Harrison, also known as Yungblud, had a slightly challenging time, as he performed right after Sum 41. But was it a problem? Not really, because Yungblud combined enthusiasm with plenty of stage action and catchy indie rock tracks that weren’t afraid to incorporate elements of hip-hop or pop. No matter how cheesy or dramatic it may sound, you feel embraced and comfortable. My Chemical Romance, Twenty One Pilots, Yungblud – a great addition to the lineup of acts that have saved so many young people’s lives with their music. Yungblud gives so much to every emo kid, outsider, weirdo, and queer kid with everything he does and says. Above all, he gives them so much hope for a future where they will have a place.

During Three Days Grace’s set, singer Matt Walst acknowledged all the festival goers who were brave enough to jump off the bungee tower. He said more than once that he would also like to take the leap as well. Unfortunately, drummer Neil Sanderson had to fly home after the show due to a foot injury, which means he won’t be able to join the upcoming tour. But Breaking Benjamin drummer Shaun Foist was immediately available and is now supporting the Canadians.

While a straightforward rock show without frills dominated here, things were quite different later on with Powerwolf. The German metal band is known for their extravagant shows that resemble a theatrically charged mass – plenty of pathos and lots of fire included.

Last but certainly not least, Parkway Drive succeeded in igniting the back rows of the crowd with their spectacular pyro show (in case headbanging hadn’t already accomplished that). They may have even caught the attention of a few female fans during their performance, especially when lead singer Winston McCall bared his tough persona, showcasing both his powerful voice and physique. The Australian band has evolved into one of the most renowned acts in the metalcore genre over the years, selling out numerous major venues on their previous tour and earning a headline slot at prominent festivals like Nova Rock.

The evening ended with a fantastic atmosphere and exhausted attendees. Despite technical issues and persistent mud (despite rare rain), the second day was also successful.

 

Review of Day 1

Review of Day 3

Review of Day 4

 

Review & Photography: Mariam Osman