All Photos By Rocky Kessenger/@through_the_metal_lens
Review Contributions From Lillith Kessenger
Milwaukee Metal Fest finally returned, and the Pre-Party set the bar high. This wasn't just another show; this was the culmination of a dream I'd carried since I was a teenager. At 49, I stood in front of stages I'd only imagined, camera in hand, ready to capture history.
The night kicked off strong with SACRAMENT and XCOMM, two newer bands bringing fresh blood and fierce riffs. Notably, behind XCOMM's kit was Revel Ian, Scott Ian's son,carrying the metal torch forward in impressive fashion. It was great to see the next generation on stage, opening for legends and owning every second.
The evening's centerpiece, JASTA AND FRIENDS, proved even more memorable than anticipated. Jamey Jasta was joined by metal veterans including Scott Ian (ANTHRAX), Phil Demmel (MACHINE HEAD, VIO-LENCE), and Revel Ian himself, making for a powerful set full of collaborations. The highlight was a blistering cover of EXODUS' "Bonded by Blood", with Elise from DAYLIGHT RIOT sharing vocals alongside Jasta and Scott Ian shredding guitar, a legendary moment of generational unity.
Closing the night, Arizona thrash veterans FLOTSAM AND JETSAM unleashed relentless energy, setting the stage ablaze and thrashing us into the weekend. Eric "A.K." Knutson's vocals pierced the air while Michael Gilbert and Steve Conley delivered razor-sharp riffs. Bassist Bill Bodily and drummer Ken Mary kept the rhythm locked tight, pushing the crowd into a frenzy.
From behind the lens, watching a veteran band effortlessly command a packed room was a photographer's dream, years of mastery captured in every shot. FLOTSAM AND JETSAM didn't just headline; they reminded everyone why they've stayed relevant for over four decades.
Thursday night wasn't just a warm-up, it was the spark igniting the whole weekend.
Check out some photos of the event!
All Photos By Rocky Kessenger/@through_the_metal_lens
