Horizon Ignited

Horizon Ignited burst onto the Karhu Main Stage with a confident display of energy and tight musicianship. “Ashes” made for a striking opener—driven drums, chugging rhythm guitars, and a soaring clean chorus that fractures into metallic aggression, instantly commanding the audience’s attention. Vocalist Okko Solanterä transitioned seamlessly between growls and cleans, supported by powerhouse leads and melodic synth accents from Miska Ek.

“Prison Of My Mind” and “Towards the Dying Lands” sustained momentum, the crowd connecting especially to the latter’s catchy refrain and melancholic undertones. The production sounded crystal-clear live; each riff cut through the mix while the bass and drums locked in a solid groove. By the time they hit “Tides,” new material melded organically with older tracks—no hint of transitional stiffness.

A highlight came mid‑set with “Leviathan,” its heavy riffing matched by an emotive chorus that generated sing-alongs.

Overall, Horizon Ignited’s Tuska show affirmed their rising status in Finland’s metal scene.

Dol

Dol’s Tuska set was focused on atmosphere and emotional resonance. Opening with “Into the Ether,” the band gradually built tension—layered guitars, understated percussion, and far-reaching vocal melodies from Petri Lampela created a cinematic soundscape.

“Harakiri” ramped up the intensity with heavier riffs and dynamic shifts. During the heavier passages, Dol excelled at transitioning between cathartic crescendos and intimate, introspective moments.

Throughout the performance, Dol demonstrated a keen sense of pacing and stagecraft. Lampela’s vocals were emotional and controlled, the guitarists intertwined melodies and heavy riffs, while the rhythm section provided steady, evolving foundation. Although their style diverges from the aggressive metal some festival-goers anticipated, the immersive set earned appreciative applause and reflective silence during ambient passages.

In summary, Dol’s Tuska performance was a nice surprise.

Endstand

Endstand returned to the stage at Tuska with unapologetic intensity, reaffirming their status as Finland’s hardcore veterans. Opening tracks like “Do As They Say” and “The Fuel” immediately galvanized the audience with stomping rhythms, aggressive guitars, and Janne Tamminen’s powerful bark. The four-piece lineup delivered a cohesive onslaught; Joel Sipilä’s bass and Pekka Hänninen’s drums locked into a punishing groove, while Mika Kaukonen’s guitar work interwove sharp riffs with melodic counterpoints.

Though their last studio record dates back to 2007, they remain in tune with modern trends, blending hardcore ferocity with metallic flair. Mid-set featured “Empty Promises” and “Sometimes Dreams Might Come True,” beloved among their 2006–07 material.

Stage presence was commanding; Janne stalked the stage, urging pits and sing-alongs. The raw energy, combined with the polished tightness of seasoned musicians, created a potent blend of spontaneity and precision.

In summary, Endstand’s Tuska appearance wasn’t just a nostalgia trip—it was a statement of renewed purpose. They captured the raw ethos of 1990s Finnish hardcore, updated with melodic sensibilities, and delivered a set that satisfied long-time fans and intrigued a younger generation. A ferocious and exhilarating performance that proved Endstand still has teeth.

Call From Abyss

Call From Abyss’s performance at Tuska was a masterclass in creating a haunting atmosphere, yet the overall execution felt somewhat disconnected. From the outset, their set was heavy on atmosphere, with eerie intros that bled into dense riffs. Songs like “Vessel of Shadows” showcased the band’s melodic death metal style, filled with intricate guitar leads and deep, growling vocals. The live performance of this track carried the same haunting, atmospheric quality found on the album, but the band struggled to translate the full depth of the sound into the large festival setting.

While the riffs were technically impressive, the dynamics of the set seemed one-note at times. Their ability to transition from melodic moments to aggressive breakdowns was noticeable, but it didn’t quite have the same impact it might have had in a smaller, more intimate venue. The crowd was engaged, but there seemed to be a lack of the intense connection that one would expect from such a performance.

Vocalist Antti Virtanen’s growls and cleans were decent but occasionally lacked the clarity and emotion needed to carry the more atmospheric sections. The mix didn’t help either—at times, his vocals were buried under the guitars, and the grand, symphonic elements didn’t come through as strongly as they might have with a better sound balance.

Despite these shortcomings, Call From Abyss still delivered a solid performance. The band’s musicianship and composure were evident throughout, and songs like “From the Depths” showed the potential for a truly immersive live experience. Their set ended with a solid showing, but they left the stage without leaving a lasting impression on the crowd.

In conclusion, while Call From Abyss’s performance was technically proficient, it lacked the depth and engagement that fans might have hoped for, especially given their strong album material. They’ll likely shine in smaller, more controlled environments where their atmospheric qualities can truly come to life.

Knocked Loose

Unfortunately, Knocked Loose’s performance at Tuska didn’t live up to expectations. While their reputation for intense, high-energy live shows is well-established, their Tuska set was cursed by several issues that diminished the overall experience.

For us, it was clear that the performance wasn’t quite clicking. While the band’s signature heaviness was present, the energy felt somewhat flat. The sound mix didn’t help either, with the vocals from vocalist Bryan Garris struggling to cut through the heavy instrumentals. His guttural growls, which are usually a core part of their appeal, lacked the depth and clarity that fans have come to expect. At times, it felt like the vocals were buried under the chaos, and Garris’ delivery didn’t carry the same ferocity that fans are used to.

The songs themselves were played competently, but the performance lacked the raw, in-your-face aggression that made Knocked Loose a standout on the hardcore scene. Tracks like “Mistakes Like Fractures” and “Counting Worms” should have gotten the crowd moving, but instead, there was a noticeable disconnection between the band and the audience. The energy wasn’t quite there, and even the breakdowns, which are usually a highlight in their set, didn’t hit with the same impact.

While the band still gave it their all, the set felt sluggish, and the crowd seemed less engaged than one might expect for a band of their caliber. Overall, Knocked Loose’s Tuska performance was disappointing—it lacked the explosive intensity they are known for, and the vocal issues left much to be desired.

Falling From Grace

Falling From Grace’s performance at Tuska was nothing short of mesmerizing. Their mix of melodic death metal and symphonic elements created a unique soundscape that captivated the crowd from the first note. Opening with “Echoes of Sorrow,” the band set the tone with atmospheric keyboards and heavy, sludgy riffs that resonated in the open-air space. Their live performance highlighted just how well their orchestral elements translated to a festival stage, with the bombastic synths filling the air while the guitars maintained their sharp, melodic edge.

Vocalist Marko Väisänen commanded attention with his versatile delivery, seamlessly shifting between guttural growls and clean, soaring melodies. His vocal range paired perfectly with the atmospheric backing, particularly in tracks like “Shattered Soul,” where the band weaved delicate arpeggios alongside crushing breakdowns. The stage was alive with movement, especially during the more aggressive parts of the set, with fans throwing themselves into the pits as the riffs piled on one another.

The band’s musicianship was tight, with drummer Jussi Kallio’s precision on display during “Beyond the Ashes” and “Falling.” The live renditions of older songs like “End of the Road” were especially energetic, the pit growing larger with each passing minute.

A standout moment was the track “The Great Divide,” where the symphonic elements took center stage. The band’s balance of melodic beauty and heavy brutality was exceptional, and they closed their set with “The Shattered Mind,” leaving fans both breathless and satisfied.

In summary, Falling From Grace brought their signature blend of melody, aggression, and atmosphere to Tuska with skill and passion. They proved themselves to be not just a melodic death metal band, but a force in bringing cinematic metal to life on stage.

Skynd

Skynd’s performance at Tuska 2025 stood out as one of the most captivating sets of the festival, though not for everyone. The Dutch band brought their signature dark electronic-industrial fusion to the stage with a theatricality that was equal parts haunting and mesmerizing. Opening with “Randy,” they set the tone with harsh industrial beats, dissonant electronic pulses, and disorienting synths. The eerie atmosphere built quickly as vocalist Skynd provided haunting clean vocals interwoven with guttural growls, matching the sinister nature of the lyrics.

The stage presence was intense, and Skynd’s performance was more than just a concert—it was an experience. The accompanying visuals were unsettling, reinforcing the dark themes of their music. During tracks like “The Girl in the Box” and “Hans,” there were strobe lights, projections, and eerie, ambient noise that wrapped around the crowd, pulling them deeper into the world the band was building.

However, as intriguing as it was, the set had its moments of inconsistency. The electronic beats and harsh industrial elements occasionally drowned out the live guitars, and at times, Skynd’s vocals became lost in the mix, reducing some of the impact of the darker lyrical themes. Still, songs like “The Girl in the Box” and “Rituals of the Machine” had the audience moving, their catchy hooks and rhythms resonating even through the murky, atmospheric production.

In conclusion, Skynd’s Tuska 2025 set was an intense and immersive experience, showcasing their ability to blend industrial and metal with a touch of psychological horror. Though there were minor issues with the sound mix, the band’s unique performance style and thematic intensity ensured they stood out, providing a memorable set for those drawn to the darker corners of the metal scene.

Vähäkyrö Drive-By

We did not see a lot of Vähäkyrö Drive-By, therefor just some photos.

Cradle of Filth

Cradle of Filth’s performance at Tuska 2025 was a blend of highs and lows, making it an unforgettable set for fans, albeit for some unexpected reasons. The band kicked off with a thunderous rendition of “Nymphetamine,” and the crowd was immediately immersed in the grandiose orchestration, Dani Filth’s piercing shrieks, and the symphonic elements that define their sound. However, during the first few songs, technical issues plagued the performance—guitars and keyboards seemed out of sync with the rest of the band, and Filth’s vocals were intermittently muddled by the mix. It was a jarring start, and the crowd seemed unsure whether the issues would resolve.

Fortunately, the sound quality improved as the set progressed, and the band’s performance began to settle into its usual chaotic excellence. “Her Ghost in the Fog” and “Cruelty Brought Thee Orchids” brought the intensity back up, with the crowd following every call from the stage. The band’s theatricality was as strong as ever, with extensive lighting and visual effects, but the momentum was still disrupted by the technical problems that continued to surface during the first part of the set.

In an unfortunate turn of events, Dani Filth had a dramatic fall during the middle of the set while running across the stage. While he was quick to recover, it was a moment of vulnerability that took the wind out of the sails for a brief period. His professionalism shone through, though, as he quickly regained his footing and powered through the rest of the performance, delivering a solid rendition of “The Death of Love” to close out the show.

Despite the setbacks, Cradle of Filth’s Tuska set was still an impressive show in many ways. The band’s energy and passion for their craft were palpable, and as the sound issues were fixed, the later songs, particularly “Nymphetamine” and “Her Ghost in the Fog,” felt like the symphonic black metal anthems they are. While the technical hiccups and Dani’s fall momentarily interrupted the flow, the band’s overall stage presence and musical delivery left fans satisfied, if not totally without a sense of unease.

In conclusion, Cradle of Filth’s Tuska set will likely be remembered for the mix of technical issues and Dani Filth’s fall, but it also showcased their unmatched dedication to theatrical performance and symphonic black metal.

Enemies Everywhere

Enemies Everywhere’s performance at Tuska was a powerful, no-frills assault on the senses, and it was clear from the beginning that the band is at home in front of a large, energetic crowd. Opening with “Beneath the Surface,” the band’s mix of melodic metalcore and intense breakdowns was on full display. The crowd was immediately drawn in, responding to the crushing riffs and anthemic choruses. Vocalist Tomi Kostiainen, who has a unique mix of clean, melodic vocals and aggressive screams, delivered his lines with passion and power, but at times, his screams were hard to catch in the mix, especially during the heavier moments.

Despite a few minor sound issues early in the set, the performance grew tighter as the show went on. Songs like “Struggling to Breathe” and “Fading Echoes” were crowd favorites, with the audience singing along to the emotional choruses. The rhythm section, led by drummer Mikko Lehto, provided a solid foundation, keeping the tempo fast and aggressive without losing the song’s emotional drive.

The band’s stage presence was energetic and engaging, with the members constantly interacting with the crowd. A standout moment came during “The Weight of Regret,” when Kostiainen urged the crowd to sing along, creating a powerful, collective moment of release. The set closed with “Forsaken,” a track that perfectly encapsulated the band’s ability to blend melody and aggression in a way that felt both personal and cathartic.

Overall, Enemies Everywhere’s set at Tuska 2025 was an intense experience, filled with energy and raw emotion. While there were a few sound issues that occasionally obscured the vocals, the band’s performance made up for it with their sheer presence and emotional intensity. Their blend of melody and aggression kept the crowd engaged throughout, and they certainly left their mark on the festival.

Bambie Thug

Bambie Thug’s performance at Tuska 2025 was a wild ride, pushing boundaries both musically and visually. From the first beat, the crowd was thrust into a high-energy industrial hellscape filled with pounding electronic rhythms, distorted synths, and guttural vocals. Opening with “Cybernetic Hearts,” the band set the tone with a rapid-fire barrage of heavy industrial metal paired with atmospheric synth layers. The balance between the mechanized, robotic instrumentation and the raw emotional vocal delivery was both unsettling and captivating.

Vocalist and frontperson, Bambie, was an intense presence on stage, moving erratically, almost possessed by the music, as they commanded the crowd with a blend of screams, spoken word, and melodic vocals. The industrial beats and electronic elements were expertly mixed, creating an immersive environment that enveloped the audience in an atmosphere of chaos. However, as with many acts that blend electronic elements with live instruments, there were occasional moments where the synths drowned out the guitars, momentarily losing some of the grit that gives Bambie Thug their unique flavor.

The visuals were another major element of the performance, with distorted projections, flashing lights, and a dark, cyberpunk aesthetic that matched the band’s themes of technology and decay. The crowd responded enthusiastically, with many headbanging and jumping along to the relentless beats.

A standout moment came during “Hollow Inside,” where the blend of melancholic melodies and harsh, distorted sounds seemed to cut through the crowd, creating an almost cathartic release. Closing with “Bleeding Love,” Bambie Thug brought the energy to a fever pitch, leaving the crowd buzzing with excitement.

In conclusion, Bambie Thug’s Tuska 2025 set was an intense, visceral experience that showcased their ability to merge industrial metal with electronic chaos. While there were occasional technical issues with the mix, the overall performance was captivating, and the band’s theatrical presence made it a memorable experience for the audience.

Electric Callboy

Electric Callboy’s performance at Tuska 2025 was nothing short of a spectacle. From the very first beats of “We Got the Moves,” the band launched into their high-energy set with a perfect balance of heavy riffs, catchy electronic hooks, and comedic charm. The crowd immediately responded to the infectious energy, with fans dancing, moshing, and singing along with the band’s anthemic choruses. Electric Callboy’s mix of playful, tongue-in-cheek humor with serious musicianship made for a unique and fun experience.

Vocalist Kevin Ratajczak was his usual charismatic self, engaging the crowd and keeping the energy at a fever pitch. The band’s ability to blend metalcore breakdowns with EDM-style synths was seamless, and songs like “Hypa Hypa” and “MC Thunder” made the crowd erupt in excitement, with their infectious melodies and party vibes. The band’s ability to shift from heavy, growling metalcore riffs to upbeat dance-worthy moments kept the crowd engaged the entire time.

The highlight of the set was the performance of “Spaceman,” where the band made full use of the festival’s stage production, with elaborate light shows and visuals enhancing the overall experience. Despite their light-hearted approach, the band didn’t skimp on their musicality—guitarists Daniel Klossek and Sebastian “Sushi” Biesler delivered tight, technically impressive performances that kept the metalheads happy.

In conclusion, Electric Callboy’s Tuska 2025 performance was a blast, delivering everything fans expected: high-energy music, playful antics, and an overall feel-good atmosphere. They proved that they can deliver a perfect balance of metalcore heaviness and electronic party vibes, all while keeping the crowd laughing and moving.

Bokassa

Bokassa’s performance at Tuska 2025 was nothing short of exhilarating. From the moment the band took the stage, the energy was palpable. Opening with “Living Hell,” the crowd immediately responded to the heavy riffs and fast-paced rhythm. Bokassa’s signature stoner rock sound was on full display, with crunchy guitars and a groove that made it impossible not to move. The band’s mix of sludge metal and hardcore punk elements kept the crowd on their toes, offering a blend of punishing heaviness and infectious melody.

Vocalist Jørn Kaarstad was a force on stage, matching the band’s intensity with his commanding presence and gruff, charismatic vocals. His dynamic range, from gritty screams to more melodic singing, gave the performance an added layer of depth. The rhythm section, with drummer Knut Børge Helland and bassist Marius Sjøli, delivered a tight, driving performance that was a perfect match for the band’s anthemic riffs.

What truly stood out in this performance was Bokassa’s infectious energy. The band’s approach is unapologetically high-octane, blending catchy hooks with heavy, punishing breakdowns. The crowd was fully engaged throughout, moshing, headbanging, and singing along to songs like “This is Why We Can’t Have Nice Things” and “D.O.A.”

Despite a few minor technical glitches in the mix, Bokassa’s sheer stage presence and enthusiasm made up for any sound issues. The highlight of the set came during “Vultures,” where the band’s intensity reached its peak, delivering an explosive finish to their performance.

In conclusion, Bokassa’s Tuska 2025 set was a loud, fun, and unforgettable experience. Their blend of stoner metal, sludge, and hardcore punk, paired with their infectious energy, made for one of the most enjoyable and intense sets of the festival. If you were in the crowd, you certainly walked away feeling like you’d just experienced a band at the top of their game.

Imminence

Imminence’s performance at Tuska 2025 was a striking mix of power and vulnerability. From the opening notes of “Chasing Shadows,” it was clear that the band had come to make a lasting impact. The Swedish quintet effortlessly blended aggressive metalcore elements with sweeping melodic sections, creating an atmosphere that kept the crowd captivated from start to finish. Vocalist Eddie Berg’s soaring cleans and guttural screams were spot-on, carrying the raw emotional weight of their songs. His stage presence was magnetic, moving between intense moments of aggression and more melodic, atmospheric passages, seamlessly connecting with the audience.

The band’s musicianship was impeccable, with guitarists Dante J. S. L. and Frederik Nordström delivering tight, technical riffs while maintaining the emotional dynamics that are central to Imminence’s sound. The rhythm section, led by Hannes Lilja (bass) and Johan Skugge (drums), provided a solid foundation, anchoring the heavier moments while allowing the more atmospheric sections to breathe.

What stood out most about the performance was the band’s ability to shift between moments of crushing heaviness and delicate, vulnerable beauty. The orchestral moments in “Heaven in Hiding” and “Under the Surface” gave the crowd a breather before launching into the heavier breakdowns, and this dynamic kept the audience engaged. Fans sang along to the emotional choruses, creating a strong sense of camaraderie within the crowd.

Despite a few minor sound issues that slightly muddled the vocals early on, the set was a triumph. Imminence’s ability to connect with the audience on both an emotional and musical level made their performance one of the more memorable ones of Tuska 2025.

In Flames

In Flames’ performance at Tuska 2025 was undeniably solid, but the shadow of their unforgettable set at South of Heaven loomed large. That show was a pinnacle moment in their live career, and it would be difficult to top. However, In Flames came very close. The crowd at Tuska was clearly excited to see them again, and the band wasted no time in delivering a crushing, high-energy performance. Opening with “Cloud Connected” set the tone for a relentless set, and the crowd was immediately immersed in the band’s signature blend of melodic death metal, catchy hooks, and explosive riffs.

Vocalist Anders Fridén was as charismatic as ever, leading the charge with his signature growls and clean vocals. His connection with the crowd was electric, urging them to sing along and engage with the music. His performance on tracks like “Only for the Weak” and “Take This Life” was particularly strong, drawing on the emotional intensity that has made these songs fan favorites over the years.

The band’s performance was tight and cohesive, with their guitarists delivering amazing solos that perfectly complemented the heavier riffs. The rhythm section, with bassist Tobias Englund and drummer Joe Rickard, provided a rock-solid backbone that anchored the band’s sound, keeping the pace up throughout the show.

The lighting and stage visuals added to the epic feeling, enhancing the overall experience.

While the South of Heaven performance may have set a high bar, In Flames’ Tuska set proved that they are steady at the top of their game. Their blend of melody, aggression, and memorable hooks never gets old, and they continue to deliver one of the best live experiences in the metal world.