The kickoff of this 2026 edition takes place under a blistering sun. From the early hours, the tone is set: the shadowed areas are being taken over, water bottles are filling up at full speed, and the organizers’ reminders about the heat already punctuate this first day. An extreme weather forecast that, however, does not prevent festival-goers from massively flocking to the site, welcomed this year by a new statue dedicated to Ozzy Osbourne, a central figure of the festival and of metal in general.
This edition also opens in a particular context. Several last-minute cancellations slightly reshuffle the cards, while the theme Tales From The Pit plunges Hellfest into an atmosphere inspired by the famous horror stories of the 1990s. Despite these unforeseen events, the excitement remains intact: four days of music await the tens of thousands of festival-goers at Clisson.
ODC (Hellstage)
Before heading to the main stages, head to the Hellstage where ODC kicks off the proceedings with a modern alternative metal fueled by contagious energy. Led by a particularly invested Célia, the Parisian band doesn’t take long to grab the attention of a crowd still finding its bearings on the site.
The blend of hooky choruses, heavier passages, and rap-inflected sections works quite well, especially thanks to Sonny, the band’s bassist, who steps up to the mic on several songs. Without revolutionizing the genre, ODC delivers a solid performance that perfectly serves as a warm-up. A convincing opening that suggests the band could soon deserve a more exposed slot at forthcoming editions.
Truckfighters (Valley)
A few meters away, the Valley hosts the Swedish duo TRUCKFIGHTERS. Despite the already crushing heat, the pair swiftly impose their massive stoner rock, propelled by thick riffs and an implacable rhythm section.
The contrast between the two musicians quickly jumps out. While Oskar “Ozo” Cedermalm stays focused behind his bass, Niklas “Dango” Källgren traverses the stage relentlessly, moving around and injecting constant energy into the show. This dynamic gives real texture to a set that alternates between the band’s classics and several tracks from Masterflow, their first studio album released after a decade-long absence.
Although some vocal parts sit slightly in the background, the overall impression remains highly convincing. “Mind Control”, “Desert Cruiser” or “Truce” remind why Truckfighters remains one of the essential references on the European stoner scene.
We Came As Romans (Mainstage 1)
In front of Mainstage 1 to witness the real start of the festivities. Twelve years after their first appearance at Clisson, WE CAME AS ROMANS return to Hellfest with a new album to defend, All Is Beautiful… Because We’re Doomed, broadly represented in a setlist clearly oriented toward the future.
Dropping into the first songs, Dave Stephens increases interactions with the crowd. Wall of death, calls for circle pits and constant encouragement quickly help erase the suffocating heat still hanging in front of the stage. The frontman even labels Hellfest as one of the world’s “coolest festivals,” clearly happy to reconnect with the French audience.
Musically, the band maintains its characteristic blend of aggression and catchy melodies that has shaped its identity for nearly twenty years. If a few passages in clean singing are occasionally a touch off, the overall intensity never wanes. The emotion tied to the memory of Kyle Pavone remains in the background, but We Came As Romans now looks forward with renewed confidence.
Mikkey Dee (Mainstage 2)
It’s hard not to feel a touch of emotion when MIKKEY DEE steps onto a stage just a few dozen meters from the Lemmy statue. Surrounded by Viktor Skatt and William Dickborn, the Swedish drummer offers far more than a simple tribute concert: a genuine celebration of the Motörhead legacy.
“We are not Motörhead,” he reminds right away. The message is clear. This isn’t about imitating an untouchable monument, but about letting the songs live with sincerity. The chemistry among the musicians works instantly, carried by a Viktor Skatt whose voice and presence inevitably evoke Lemmy without tipping into caricature.
The appearance of Chuck Garric on “Killed By Death” provides one of the night’s peak moments, followed by a explosive finale on “Ace Of Spades” and then “Overkill.” A perfect way to truly launch this 2026 edition.
Elder (Valley)
Back to the Valley, where ELDER slowly transforms the suffocating heat into a hypnotic experience. The Americans immediately carve out their universe, built on long progressive explorations, serpentine riffs and hovering atmospheres.
The setlist, deliberately tight, allows each composition to breathe. The tracks from Through Zero slot naturally with older pieces, confirming the band’s evolution while not denying its stoner roots.
Rather than seeking instant impact, Elder prefers to let each song unfold slowly. “Halcyon,” a monumental closing piece, literally carries the Valley on a psychedelic journey before it takes minutes to descend. A suspended moment, perfectly placed in this dusty landscape.
The Plot In You (Mainstage 1)
The American metalcore scene remains in the spotlight with THE PLOT IN YOU. More introspective than its predecessor, the band led by Landon Tewers immediately establishes a darker atmosphere, supported by polished video projections and a notably precise sound.
Landon again impresses with his ability to alternate between melodic singing and much harsher passages. Tracks from their latest releases naturally sit alongside staples like “Left Behind” or “Feel Nothing,” sung along with enthusiasm by the front rows.
The heat and the vastness of the Mainstage slightly limit audience interaction. The band’s universe seems to demand greater proximity to reveal its full richness. That aside, The Plot In You delivers a controlled performance that confirms its status among the most compelling modern metalcore acts.
The Pretty Reckless (Mainstage 2)
Headed to Mainstage 2 where Taylor Momsen returns to Hellfest with a growing confidence. From the moment she steps on stage, the frontwoman naturally asserts her presence, alternating between conspiratorial glances, an unapologetic rock’n’roll attitude, and vocal mastery that leaves little room for doubt.
The band fluidly navigates between songs that built their reputation and several tracks from Dear God, anticipated a few days hence. “For I Am Death” reveals all its darkness while “When I Wake Up” lets Taylor Momsen step offstage briefly to greet the front rows, triggering an eruption of enthusiasm in passing.
As is often the case with THE PRETTY RECKLESS, it is mainly the interpretation that makes the difference. The husky, bluesy timbre of the vocalist gives an immediate identity to the songs, amplified by a band that is particularly tight. If some more instrumental moments feel slightly stretched, especially Ben Phillips’ solo on “Heaven Knows,” the overall performance remains of high mastery. The finale on “Going To Hell,” accompanied by the traditional crowd photo, ends a graceful and effective showcase.
Breaking Benjamin (Mainstage 1)
Long-awaited by a portion of European audiences, BREAKING BENJAMIN finally marks its return to the old continent. A rarity that is easily explained: the band typically favors North American tours, Benjamin Burnley himself joking that the group now crosses the Atlantic… by boat.
The opening tracks struggle to fully convince. The mix heavily emphasizes the guitars, occasionally pushing the vocals into the background, while some high notes come across a bit shrill. On stage, the band remains relatively static, preferring to let its repertoire speak rather than chase interactions.
Fortunately, the classics soon reclaim their rightful place. “Failure,” “Breath,” “So Cold” and “I Will Not Bow” remind why Breaking Benjamin remains a benchmark of American alternative rock from the early 2000s. The emotion peaks when the opening riffs of “The Diary Of Jane” ring out, performed by a single voice to a conquered audience. A performance that builds progressively and confirms the band’s ability to unite crowds.
Borknagar (Temple)
Complete change of atmosphere under the Temple with Norwegian veterans BORKNAGAR. Between atmospheric black metal, Nordic folk and progressive flights, the outfit offers one of the day’s most singular sets.
Opening with “Nordic Anthem” immediately sets the tone. The vocal harmonies, carried by Lars Nedland and ICS Vortex, establish a majestic atmosphere even as the mix sometimes slightly masks the clean singing parts. That doesn’t stop a crowd largely composed of connoisseurs from staying engaged throughout the concert.
“Moon,” “Voices” or “Colossus” exemplify the richness of the Norwegians’ repertoire, able to alternate power and melody with remarkable fluidity. A performance that reminds, should it be needed, why Borknagar remains one of the most respected bands in melodic extreme metal.
The Halo Effect (Altar)
If mentioning THE HALO EFFECT brings to mind In Flames, the Swedish supergroup quickly proves it has its own identity today. Led by Mikael Stanne, whose presence instantly unites the audience, the quintet puts on a melodic death metal show that is as effective as it is unifying.
The tracks from March Of The Unheard flow naturally, supported by flawless technique and infectious enthusiasm. The musicians seem genuinely touched by the welcome given to this first Hellfest appearance, flashing smiles and thanks between songs.
Without trying to reinvent Göteborg’s sound, The Halo Effect offers a modern and particularly inspired version. The numerous sing-alongs from the audience show the excitement already sparked by this relatively new formation, which confirms all its potential here.
Uncle Acid & The Deadbeats (Valley)
As the sun sinks, the Valley returns to a setting that seems more fitting for UNCLE ACID & THE DEADBEATS. While they are more accustomed to performing in the gloom of smoky rooms, their psychedelic rock with doom inflections nonetheless sits perfectly in this late-day slot.
Deprived of part of their usual staging, the band lets the core of their compositions speak. The entrance of Rachel Burnett adds a new color to the whole with keyboard, saxophone and backing vocals, while Kevin Starrs proves unexpectedly expressive on stage, notably during “Pusher Man” or “Melody Lane.”
The finale on “I’ll Cut You Down” closes a show of remarkable mastery, reminding how Uncle Acid & The Deadbeats has established itself as a reference for contemporary occult rock.
Papa Roach (Mainstage 1)
The temperature finally begins to ease a little as PAPA ROACH takes the Mainstage 1. Before a particularly compact crowd, the Californians deliver one of the most explosive performances of the day.
Jacoby Shaddix never stands still. From the opening tracks, he moves to the barriers and then dives into the crowd, multiplying interactions without ever diminishing intensity. His energy seems inexhaustible and instantly lifts the entire pit into a huge party.
While classics like “Getting Away With Murder”, “Scars” or “Last Resort” naturally provoke an immediate reaction, Papa Roach also looks to the future with “See U In Hell”, recently released on the Devil May Cry soundtrack. The appearance of his two sons on stage adds a particularly touching note to a concert already rich with high points.
The now-iconic “Nu Metal Time Machine”, punctuated by nods to Korn, Limp Bizkit, Deftones and System Of A Down, definitively transforms the Mainstage into a colossal celebration. A display of prowess that once again confirms Papa Roach’s status as a festival essential.
All Time Low (Warzone)
On paper, seeing All Time Low on the Warzone might be surprising. The Americans’ pop-punk seems at first distant from this scene’s rougher identity. Yet the doubts quickly vanish.
Driven by a particularly energized Alex Gaskarth, the group turns their show into a genuine bundle of good vibes. Between constant jumping stints, banter with the audience, and irresistible choruses, the Warzone fills gradually to deliver a particularly joyful performance.
The newer tracks naturally fit among the classics, while “Sleepwalking” lights up the mosh pit as phones are raised to the sky. The inevitable “Dear Maria”, “Count Me In” closes the show in an ecstatic mood, confirming that All Time Low still possesses the power to unite several generations of alternative rock fans.
Alice Cooper (Mainstage 2)
A true rock monument, the American proves once more that his sense of spectacle remains intact, blending theater, dark humor and great classics in a production as generous as it is effective.
Rather than leaning immediately on his biggest hits, ALICE COOPER takes time to establish his universe before rolling out the staples “I’m Eighteen”, “Poison” or “Hey Stoopid”. As always, staging plays a crucial role: guillotine, theatrical executions and improbable props follow in a sequence that is precisely timed.
The pleasant surprise comes from Anna Cara. Tasked with temporarily replacing Nita Strauss, the young British guitarist impresses with her technique and ease, delivering a solo that earns thunderous applause. The finale, mixing “School’s Out”, “Another Brick In The Wall” and a cover of “Smells Like Teen Spirit”, creates a massive crowd moment despite an unexpectedly bold wink. A formula that we almost know by heart, but whose effectiveness never fades.
Bring Me The Horizon (Mainstage 1)
Following the vibrant homage to Ozzy Osbourne a few minutes earlier, BRING ME THE HORIZON takes on the responsibility of closing Mainstage 1 on this first day. A highly symbolic position that perfectly illustrates the British band’s evolution, moving in a few years from a contentious act to a true international headliner.
The stage design, evoking a futuristic cathedral gradually overtaken by vegetation, immediately sets the tone. Giant screens, ubiquitous pyrotechnics, explosions, flames and numerous video sequences accompany a show conceived down to the last detail. More than a concert, Bring Me The Horizon offers a true visual experience.
Oliver Sykes impresses as much by his stage presence as by his vocal performance. Visibly moved to occupy this spot on the lineup, he thanks the audience at length while praising festivalgoers’ resilience in the face of extreme heat. The anthems “Mantra”, “Teardrops”, “Happy Song”, “Kool-Aid” or “Can You Feel My Heart” trigger an immediate response from a crowd wholly devoted to the Brits.
The show also features several memorable moments. An interactive sequence briefly turns the Mainstage into a giant karaoke, while the surprise arrival of Will Ramos on “Antivist” injects an extra dose of brutality into a set that is already intensely energetic. Later, Oliver descends to the front rows with his onboard camera to share intimate moments with festival-goers before finishing the show wearing an improbable chick-shaped hat, gifted by a fan.
When “Throne” rings out, it’s impossible not to recognize how far the band has come since its beginnings. Bring Me The Horizon is no longer just a reference in modern metalcore: it has become a festival machine, perfectly tuned to blend emotion, spectacle and efficiency with impressive mastery.
Social Distortion (Warzone)
While part of the audience heads toward the Mainstages, the Warzone welcomes Social Distortion for a finale centered on the sincerest form of rock n’ roll.
After a long absence due to health issues of Mike Ness, the band returns to the stage with energy intact. The new tracks from Born To Kill integrate perfectly with the classics that have built the Californians’ reputation over more than forty years.
Without gimmicks or superfluous display, Social Distortion prioritizes authenticity. Mike Ness’s voice, recovered after his battle with cancer, adds extra emotion to a show where every chorus is shared by a Warzone fully devoted to their cause.
Conclusion
Despite the punishing heat that will have tested everyone’s stamina, this first day of Hellfest 2026 meets all its promises. Between expected confirmations, delightful surprises and XXL performances, Clisson once again proves its ability to bring together metal’s generations around a lineup as eclectic as it is coherent. This opening day suitably launches four days that already promise to be memorable.
Day 1 – Day 2 – Day 3 – Day 4
