Heavy metal titans KREATOR have announced the “Klash Of The Ruhrpott” festival, set to take place July 20, 2024 at Amphitheater Gelsenkirchen in Gelsenkirchen, Germany
The concert will feature the long-awaited union of Germany’s legendary “Teutonic Big Four“, completed by SODOM, DESTRUCTION and TANKARD.
The one-day thrash extravaganza is a celebration of German metal, expected to welcome domestic and international fans for this once-in-a-lifetime event.
Mille Petrozza (KREATOR) commented: “I’m so happy we have an opportunity to present this package in the best way possible! It’s going to be a really special day, full of love and respect…and the most extensive KREATOR set ever…prepare for some DEEP CUTS!”
Thomas “Angelripper” Such (SODOM) commented: “I am very happy to finally be able to share the stage with my old companions and friends again. A meeting with these four fantastic bands cannot be surpassed in terms of cult status. It will be a very special event for us and our fans. Until then, please stay healthy and confident. See ya soon… Cheers, Tom.”
Schmier (DESTRUCTION) commented: “Oh YES — we all have been waiting for this to happen, I am excited that it finally worked out! Hopefully this is the beginning of some more to come! We are super thrilled to be a part of this. Thanks for the invitation, Mille!”
Andreas “Gerre” Geremia (TANKARD) commented: “Good things take time! Finally the four big will clash and thrash together. We feel very proud to be a part of this historical event!”
Tickets go on sale on Wednesday, August 2 at 10 a.m. CEST.
KREATOR holds a significant place in the history of heavy metal music. Formed in Essen, Germany, in 1982, the band emerged during the golden era of thrash metal in the 1980s, alongside iconic acts like METALLICA, SLAYER and MEGADETH.
The band’s early releases, such as “Endless Pain” (1985) and “Pleasure to Kill” (1986), helped establish the band as one of the pioneering forces in the thrash metal scene. These albums showcased their aggressive and relentless style, characterized by fast-paced guitar riffs, intense drumming, and powerful, politically charged lyrics. The group’s music was often dark and aggressive, reflecting the band’s disdain for social and political injustice.
As the band evolved, they incorporated more melodic elements into their music, particularly evident in albums like “Extreme Aggression” (1989) and “Coma of Souls” (1990). These releases broadened their appeal and cemented their status as one of the leading thrash metal bands in Europe.
In the early 1990s, the group, like many thrash metal bands, faced challenges as the popularity of the genre declined with the rise of alternative and grunge music. However, they managed to stay relevant by adapting their sound and experimenting with industrial and gothic influences on albums like “Renewal” (1992) and “Outcast” (1997).
The late 1990s and early 2000s saw a resurgence of interest in thrash metal, and KREATOR returned to their roots with the release of “Violent Revolution” (2001) and “Enemy of God” (2005). These albums were well-received by both critics and fans, solidifying KREATOR‘s position as a major force in the thrash metal revival.
In recent years, KREATOR‘s albums like “Hordes of Chaos” (2009) and “Phantom Antichrist” (2012) continued to garner acclaim for their combination of old-school thrash elements with modern production and songwriting. The band’s relentless touring schedule and electrifying live performances have further strengthened their legacy as one of the most influential and enduring thrash metal bands in the world.
With a career spanning several decades, KREATOR‘s impact on the thrash metal genre cannot be overstated. Their contributions have influenced countless bands and continue to inspire new generations of metal musicians and fans worldwide. KREATOR remains a vital and essential part of the heavy metal landscape, firmly securing their place in metal history.
