Nova Rock 2024 – Day 1: A Spectacular Start with Green Day and Keanu Reeves on Stage

The Nova Rock Festival 2024 kicked off on June 13th at the Pannonia Fields in Austria, delivering a thunderous start that lived up to its legendary reputation. With a diverse lineup and electrifying performances, the first day set a high bar for the rest of the festival.

A Star-Studded Opening

As fans flooded into the vast Pannonia Fields, the anticipation was palpable. The lineup boasted a mix of heavy hitters and emerging talents, ensuring there was something for every rock enthusiast. The festival’s first day was a testament to the enduring power of rock and its ability to bring people together in celebration of music and community.

Hot Milk Ignites the Stage

British band Hot Milk had the honor of opening the festival. Their energetic set, filled with punk-pop anthems, immediately won over the crowd. Tracks like “Candy Coated Lie$” and “I Think I Hate Myself” set the tone for a day of relentless energy and passion.

Hanabie and Donots Keep the Momentum

Following Hot Milk, Japanese metalcore band Hanabie took the stage, delivering a performance that was as fierce as it was fun. Their unique blend of heavy riffs and playful melodies kept the crowd engaged. German punk rockers Donots followed, bringing their high-octane energy and infectious stage presence. Their set was a whirlwind of crowd surfing and sing-alongs, particularly during fan-favorites like “Calling” and “Whatever Happened to the 80s.”

Alien Weaponry and The Interrupters

New Zealand’s Alien Weaponry, known for their incorporation of Māori culture into their thrash metal sound, delivered a powerful and culturally rich performance. Songs like “Kai Tangata” resonated deeply with the audience. The Interrupters, with their ska-punk vibe, provided a refreshing contrast, getting the crowd dancing with tracks like “Take Back the Power.”

A Hollywood Highlight

One of the day’s unexpected highlights was Dogstar, featuring none other than Hollywood star Keanu Reeves on bass. Reeves’ presence added a unique twist to the festival, and Dogstar’s set, filled with grunge and alternative rock tunes, was well-received by the audience. It was a surreal moment seeing a movie star jamming on stage, adding to the festival’s eclectic atmosphere.

Kerry King’s legendary riffs

One of the most anticipated acts was the Kerry King Band. Kerry King, famed guitarist and co-founder of Slayer, brought his new project to Nova Rock, and they did not disappoint. With blistering riffs and a powerful stage presence, King’s set was a masterclass in thrash metal. The band’s performance was a tribute to the genre’s enduring appeal and King’s legendary status in the metal community.

Jane’s Addiction and Palaye Royale

Alternative rock legends Jane’s Addiction brought their signature sound and theatrical flair to the stage. Their performance was a mesmerizing blend of music and visual art, with classics like “Jane Says” captivating the audience. Palaye Royale, known for their glam rock aesthetic and explosive performances, kept the momentum going with a set that was both visually and sonically stunning.

Billy Talent and the Bloodsucking Zombies

Canadian rockers Billy Talent delivered one of the standout performances of the day. Their set was a relentless barrage of hits, including “Red Flag” and “Fallen Leaves,” that had the entire crowd singing along. Stepping in for the ill Corey Taylor, the Bloodsucking Zombies from Outer Space brought their unique horror-punk style to the stage, turning what could have been a disappointment into a memorable performance.

Gloryhammer’s Epic Saga

Power metal band Gloryhammer added a touch of fantasy to the festival with their epic storytelling and theatrical performance. Dressed in full medieval regalia, they transported the audience to another world with songs like “Angus McFife” and “The Unicorn Invasion of Dundee.”

Green Day’s Triumphant Headlining Act

The climax of the first day came with the highly anticipated headlining performance by Green Day. Taking to the Blue Stage, the legendary punk rock band did not disappoint. From the opening chords of “American Idiot” to the closing notes of “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life),” Green Day delivered a masterclass in live performance. Billie Joe Armstrong, Mike Dirnt, and Tré Cool had the audience in the palm of their hands, with the crowd singing along to every word.

Amazing first day

The first day of Nova Rock 2024 was a resounding success, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what the rest of the festival has in store. With a lineup that spans genres and generations, Nova Rock continues to prove why it is one of Europe’s premier rock festivals. As the echoes of the final encore faded, one thing was clear: Nova Rock 2024 had only just begun, and it was already unforgettable.

 

Written text and pictures by Mariam Osman

Check out the other days:

Day 2 / Day 3 / Day 4