Witches & Warlocks - The first 33 bands for the 33rd Wacken Open Air!
While the last riff storms are still being cast over the holy ground, we can already give you the first preview of the 33rd edition of the Wacken Open Air and one thing we can promise you! It will be magical!
The number 33 is not only a magic number but also quantifies for the first time this year the number of bands we will unleash in the first band wave.
In 2024 we will transform the Holy Ground into a mystical playground - supported by all kinds of legends from the sagas of heavy metal!
The first band wave will be led by some legendary companions who have already graced us several times at the W:O:A:
Scorpions
German rock legends Scorpions, best known for their 1984 anthem "Rock You Like a Hurricane" and 1990 ballad "Wind of Change," have sold over 100 million records, making them one of the most successful rock bands to ever come out of Europe. In over 50 years they have become the most successful rock band in continental Europe and living proof that not only VW, Mercedes or BMW are internationally competitive, but also classic rock music made in Germany. Countless silver, gold and platinum awards are only one side of the Scorpions' story. Another is their unrestrained wanderlust. After so many years, no other rock band of their caliber is on stage as often as the native Hanoverians. They have played thousands of concerts in all corners of the world. In 1988, they were the first Western rock band to play sold-out shows 5 days in a row in Leningrad, which was still Soviet at the time. Pioneering achievements elsewhere as well: by playing very early concerts in China and Southeast Asia, they opened the doors for many other Western bands. These are the moments that cemented the Scorpions' reputation as one of the rare bands that stand far apart from the crowd!
Amon Amarth
From pole to pole and sea to sea, AMON AMARTH are the undisputed kings of Viking heavy metal. Formed in 1992 in Tumba, Sweden, the band has created an extraordinary legacy of thunderous, anthemic metal rich with the magical imagery of Viking history, folklore and culture over three decades. Since their underground smash debut Once Sent From The Golden Hall (1998), they have been an unstoppable creative force. With a unique and distinctive sound that blends the best of several epic metal styles, the quintet has become known for its timeless anthems and explosive, theatrical live shows. With albums like 2008's highly acclaimed Twilight Of The Thunder God and 2016's conceptual triumph Jomsviking, the Swedes have been consistent pioneers of heavy metal as a life-affirming and communal experience, armed with a seemingly endless stream of instant classics.
In Extremo
From an acoustic trio to one of the most successful German rock bands. From an idea, hard work, unshakable belief to several Top 10 and three No. 1 albums. To sold out tours, quaking castles and most loyal fans all over the world. From the current album "Kompass zur Sonne" and many more milestones: In Extremo take it to the next level! For a fabulous quarter of a century now, the band has fascinated with its rousing energy, which - in perfection! - arises from this very own mixture: Between historical influences and the powerful sound of their metal guitars, between medieval instruments, folkloric-archaic as well as modern rhythms, sing-along anthems in German and dialect, between pure full throttle and goosebump melodies, so much more than music is created. It is an atmosphere, a feeling, a connection that makes them as unique as they are successful.
Of course, that's not all and many more old companions but also new faces will honor us, with partly very special shows!
Blind Guardian
Mayhem – Exclusive 40th Anniversary German Festival show
Pain
Beast In Black
Watain - exclusive "lawless darkness" Show,
Bury Tomorrow – Record Release Show
Blues Pills
Knorkator
Sonata Arctica
Motionless In White
Unleash The Archers
Sick Of It All - exclusive 30th anniversary of "Scratch The Surface" show
The Warning
Red Fang
The Black Daliah Murder
Ankor
Primordial
Flotsam & Jetsam – Special Oldschool Set
Xandria
Soil - Special "Scars"-Show
Emil Bulls
Vio-Lence - 2024 Germany exclusive festival appearance
Wolf
Exumer
Vreid - 30 Years of Sognametal / exclusive show for W:O:A
Brutus
Ignea
Futur Palace
John Coffey
Asagraum
and many more!
Tomorrow at 08.00 PM the pre-sal will start ! Be Part of The Legend!
Yours
W:O:A team
