Slipknot Unveils 2025 Knotfest Australia Lineup: A Heavy Metal Spectacle
The legendary masked metallers, Slipknot, have once again thrilled their massive fanbase by unveiling the lineup for their much-anticipated 2025 Knotfest Australia festival. Known for curating one of the most intense and energetic festivals in the heavy metal world, Slipknot’s Knotfest has grown to become a global phenomenon, with each edition promising unforgettable performances, larger-than-life production, and an immersive experience for metal fans across the globe.
This time, Knotfest Australia will span across three major cities: Melbourne on February 28, Brisbane on March 2, and Sydney on March 8. The lineup is packed with some of the heaviest and most exciting names in the metal scene today, with Slipknot headlining each show, delivering their iconic brand of chaos, theatrics, and brutality.
The 2025 Knotfest Australia Lineup
Alongside Slipknot, the festival’s lineup boasts an incredible array of bands that will undoubtedly deliver high-octane performances. Let’s take a deeper dive into the bands sharing the stage with Slipknot at Knotfest Australia:
- A Day to Remember
The American rock band known for their unique blend of pop-punk and metalcore is set to bring their electrifying live show to Knotfest Australia. A Day to Remember has built a loyal following with hits like “The Downfall of Us All”, “If It Means a Lot to You”, and “All I Want”. Their infectious energy and ability to connect with the audience will surely make them one of the festival highlights. They provide a melodic contrast to the more aggressive metal bands on the bill, making them a perfect fit for Knotfest’s diverse lineup. - BABYMETAL
The Japanese sensation, BABYMETAL, is back on the Knotfest stage, ready to dazzle Australian fans with their fusion of J-pop and metal, which they’ve termed “kawaii metal.” Known for their captivating performances, BABYMETAL blends choreography, high-pitched vocals, and crushing guitar riffs to create a one-of-a-kind experience. Songs like “Gimme Chocolate!!” and “Karate” have made them a global phenomenon, and their presence at Knotfest will add an extra layer of uniqueness to the festival. - Slaughter to Prevail
Bringing pure brutality to the lineup, Russian deathcore band Slaughter to Prevail is known for their relentless aggression and jaw-dropping breakdowns. With their menacing frontman Alex Terrible leading the charge, the band has quickly risen to prominence in the metal scene with songs like “Demolisher” and “Baba Yaga”. Their performance promises to be an explosive and intense experience, showcasing the raw power of modern deathcore. - Within Temptation
Representing the symphonic metal genre, Dutch band Within Temptation is sure to captivate Knotfest Australia attendees with their epic, melodic soundscapes and soaring vocals. Fronted by Sharon den Adel, the band has consistently delivered powerful performances and chart-topping albums. Songs like “Ice Queen”, “Stand My Ground”, and “Faster” combine heavy guitar riffs with orchestral elements, creating an atmospheric experience that adds a dramatic and hauntingly beautiful layer to Knotfest. - Hatebreed
A staple in the hardcore metal scene, Hatebreed is set to bring their aggressive, no-nonsense approach to the Knotfest stage. Known for their unrelenting live performances and empowering lyrics, Hatebreed has been a driving force in the metal world for decades. Their blend of hardcore punk and metal has produced anthems like “I Will Be Heard”, “Destroy Everything”, and “Looking Down the Barrel of Today”. Fans can expect a crushing set that will undoubtedly ignite mosh pits and fuel a sense of unity among the crowd. - Vended
One of the most anticipated acts of the festival is Vended, a band featuring the sons of Slipknot members Corey Taylor (vocals) and M. Shawn “Clown” Crahan (percussion). Vended has been steadily gaining attention with their raw, intense sound that evokes the early days of Slipknot. Their music is a mix of heavy riffs, emotional intensity, and guttural vocals that reflect their Slipknot heritage while carving out their own unique identity. Fans are eager to see how Vended’s live performance will stack up against the titans of the genre, and this opportunity at Knotfest could mark a defining moment in their career.
A Global Phenomenon
Knotfest is not just a festival; it’s a global movement in the world of heavy music. What started as a U.S.-based festival has grown into an international brand that has hosted events across South America, Europe, and Asia, bringing Slipknot’s unique vision of a metal carnival to fans around the world.
In September, Slipknot hosted their latest U.S. Knotfest in their home state of Iowa, a symbolic return to their roots that reminded fans of the band’s origins. The Iowa Knotfest featured a lineup that included the likes of Lamb of God, Killswitch Engage, and Trivium, drawing thousands of metalheads to the heart of America for a celebration of heavy music.
Internationally, Knotfest has been just as successful. South American editions have been held in Brazil and Mexico, while the European Knotfest events have taken place in countries such as Germany, France, and the U.K. Asia has also had its share of Knotfest madness, with Japan hosting several editions that were met with overwhelming enthusiasm from fans.
The expansion of Knotfest into Australia is part of Slipknot’s ongoing mission to bring their vision of heavy music to as many corners of the globe as possible. Australia has always had a passionate metal scene, and the 2025 edition of Knotfest will undoubtedly solidify its place as a must-attend event for metalheads down under.
What to Expect at Knotfest Australia 2025
Knotfest is known for more than just its lineup of bands. It’s an immersive experience that combines music with a dark carnival atmosphere, complete with attractions like fire breathers, carnival rides, sideshows, and interactive art installations. The festival also includes food vendors offering unique cuisine, as well as a vast selection of merchandise, including exclusive Knotfest items.
For fans attending Knotfest Australia, they can expect all of these elements to be present, making it more than just a concert—it’s a celebration of the metal culture that Slipknot has built over the years. The festival has a reputation for pushing boundaries with its production, and 2025 is sure to be no exception. From pyrotechnics and massive stage setups to intense lighting and video displays, Slipknot will ensure that the audience is fully immersed in the experience.
Final Thoughts
With Slipknot headlining and a powerhouse lineup featuring A Day to Remember, BABYMETAL, Slaughter to Prevail, Within Temptation, Hatebreed, and Vended, Knotfest Australia 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and diverse metal festivals of the year. Whether you’re a fan of hardcore, symphonic metal, or deathcore, there’s something for everyone on this bill.
The festival will provide fans with the opportunity to witness Slipknot’s legendary live performance alongside some of the biggest names in the metal world today. With stops in Melbourne, Brisbane, and Sydney, Knotfest Australia promises to be an unforgettable experience for fans down under, solidifying the festival’s place as a global institution in the heavy metal community. For all ticket information and the full lineup, be sure to visit Knotfest.com/australia.
