And the presentation of the protagonists of MammothFest 2025 continues with the second day!
Day two (October 4th)
Virgin Steele: Virgin Steele is one of the most important American heavy metal bands, known for their epic sound and dramatic style. Formed in 1981 in New York by guitarist Jack Starr and vocalist/keyboardist David DeFeis, the band quickly became part of the U.S. power metal scene. With powerful riffs, soaring vocals and symphonic touches, Virgin Steele developed a unique style that mixes classic heavy metal with mythology, romance and theatrical atmosphere. Their early albums, like “Guardians of the Flame” (1983), showed their raw energy, but it was with records such as “Noble Savage” (1985) and “Age of Consent” (1988) that they began to stand out. In the 1990s, the band entered a very creative period, releasing ambitious concept albums like “The Marriage of Heaven and Hell (Part I & II)” (1995 and 1996) and “Invictus” (1998), which earned them a cult following around the world. David DeFeis, as singer, composer and pianist, has been the driving force of Virgin Steele, giving the band its distinctive mix of aggression and grand, operatic feeling. Their music often draws from ancient myths and epic tales, combining heavy guitars with symphonic arrangements. Even today, Virgin Steele continues to create, perform and inspire fans with their passionate and dramatic vision of heavy metal.
Rhapsody of Fire: Rhapsody of Fire stand as one of the most iconic and enduring names in symphonic power metal. Founded in Italy during the mid-1990s, the band helped define and popularize the genre with their blend of fast, melodic metal, epic orchestrations and fantasy-driven storytelling. Today, under the leadership of keyboardist and composer Alex Staropoli, Rhapsody ff Fire continue to carry the torch with renewed energy and vision. While their early albums like “Legendary Tales” and “Symphony of Enchanted Lands” became landmarks of symphonic metal, the modern era of the band shows no sign of slowing down. With vocalist Giacomo Voli at the helm since 2016, Rhapsody of Fire have embraced a new chapter, bringing both power and emotion to their trademark sound. Their recent releases, including “The Eighth Mountain” (2019) and “Challenge The Wind” (2024), showcase sweeping arrangements, choir-backed choruses and cinematic atmospheres, proving the band remains as ambitious as ever. On stage, Rhapsody of Fire deliver a truly theatrical experience, transporting audiences into realms of myth, magic, and epic battles! Are you ready for some Hollywood metal?!
The Night Eternal: Germany’s The Night Eternal are one of the most exciting new forces in today’s heavy metal scene. Formed in 2019, the band mixes the spirit of classic 70s and 80s heavy metal with a darker, more modern edge. Their music is powerful, guitar-driven and full of energy, capturing both nostalgia and freshness. They started strong with their debut EP, then released two acclaimed albums: “Moonlit Cross” (2021) and “Fatale” (2023). The second record gained huge attention, reaching the top of major German metal magazines like Deaf Forever and Rock Hard, while Metal Hammer ranked it #2 of the year. This success quickly built them a loyal fanbase at home and abroad. On stage, The Night Eternal are unstoppable. They have already performed at some of Europe’s biggest festivals and toured with legendary names such as Blind Guardian and Angel Witch. In 2024, they played an impressive 55 shows, proving their commitment and drive. Now signed to Metal Blade Records, the band is preparing new material and appearances at Hellfest and Alcatraz Open Air. With their passion and power, The Night Eternal are ready to rise even higher in the world of heavy metal.
Vigilhunter: Vigilhunter are one of the most exciting new names in the wave of traditional heavy metal. Formed in Italy, the band is fronted by powerhouse singer Alexx Panza (also known for his work with Hitten and Jack Starr’s Burning Starr). With their self-titled debut album, Vigilhunter have already made a powerful entrance, offering songs that carry the spirit of late ’80s American heavy metal while adding fresh energy of their own. Their music is full of soaring vocals, sharp riffs, and unstoppable energy that instantly transport listeners back to the glory days of classic metal. Yet, Vigilhunter are not just repeating the past—they are giving it new life, combining youthful passion with a clear love for the traditions of the genre. Their growing fanbase shows that people are ready for heavy metal bands that deliver honesty, power, and heart. With Alexx Panza leading the charge and the band’s unstoppable drive, Vigilhunter are quickly rising as one of the brightest hopes of modern traditional metal. Don’t miss their live shows—you might just find your new favorite band.
Black Soul Horde: Formed in Athens in 2012, Black Soul Horde have established themselves as a force in the underground heavy metal scene, combining classic NWOBHM energy with epic, horror-tinged storytelling. Vocalist Jim Kotsis and guitarist/composer John Tsiakopoulos lead the band, supported by guitar and rhythm sections that deliver tight riffing, soaring leads and memorable melodies. Their early release “Tales of the Ancient Ones” (2013) already showed their epic metal ambitions, enriched by mythology, Lovecraftian horror and occult themes. Subsequent albums like “Land of Demise” (2020) and “Horrors From The Void” (2021) built their reputation further: heavier, darker atmospheres, but still rooted in melody and classic metal power. Now, with their fourth album “Symphony of Chaos” set for release on October 31 via Vinyl Store, Black Soul Horde are pushing into new territory. The upcoming record promises high-octane metal, sharper melodies, myth and horror narratives and anthemic hooks—while preserving the riff-driven heaviness that defines them. If you like your metal with fire, darkness and epic scope, Black Soul Horde are a name you can’t afford to miss.
Leatherhead: Leatherhead are one of the most exciting new names in Greek heavy metal, a young band from Larissa who already carry the fire of a new generation. Formed in 2022, they wasted no time in forging their own path, standing out with an explosive and uncompromising sound. Their music is a powerful combination of US power metal energy, thrash-infused sharpness and the timeless rawness of traditional heavy metal, delivered with youthful passion and precision. The release of their self-titled debut album in 2024 confirmed their potential, earning rave reviews from both fans and critics. With relentless speed, scorching riffs and soaring high-pitched vocals that echo the greats of the past while feeling fresh and relevant, Leatherhead proved that they are not just another newcomer, but a true force to be reckoned with. Leatherhead are here to stay—an unstoppable storm leading the new wave of Greek heavy metal.
