Every summer, Austin, Texas hosts Oblivion Access, a festival celebrating uncommercial, loud, and experimental music. Formerly known as Austin Terror Fest, this event brings together downtown clubs to showcase metal and experimental sounds, reminiscent of the punk-inspired Chaos in Tejas. The festival stands out in the States for its eclectic lineup and heavy-minded performances, offering a unique experience for music enthusiasts.
This year’s edition of Oblivion Access featured headliners like the slowcore band Duster and German experimental legends Faust. However, the highlight for many attendees was the industrial metal pioneers Godflesh. Fronted by vocalist and guitarist Justin Broadrick, the band delivered a crushing performance at Empire Garage, showcasing their ability to blend underground dance music with a metallic edge. Broadrick’s influence in both metal and electronic music was palpable throughout the festival.
Aside from Godflesh, Broadrick also mesmerized the audience with solo sets under his JK Flesh and Final aliases. His diverse musical projects showcased his versatility and innovation, drawing fans into a sonic journey that ranged from hard techno to ambient soundscapes. Broadrick’s presence loomed large over Oblivion Access, reflecting his enduring impact on the music scene.
One of the festival’s poignant moments was the farewell performance of San Francisco black metal outfit Ludicra. Known for their urban themes and punk roots, Ludicra pushed boundaries in black metal, paving the way for a new wave of expressive and genre-defying acts. Their final show symbolized a victory for musical diversity and a testament to the enduring legacy of innovative bands like Ludicra.
Throughout the festival, a diverse array of bands captivated audiences with their unique sounds and energetic performances. From the avant-metal label The Flenser showcases to the thrilling mishmash of artists like Cloud Rat and Chat Pile, Oblivion Access offered a platform for boundary-pushing music that challenged conventions and delighted fans.
As the festival unfolded over four nights, attendees were treated to a mix of doom, post-metal, and experimental sounds that defied categorization. Bands like Succumb, Elizabeth Colour Wheel, and Midwife delivered powerful performances that resonated with the audience, showcasing the depth and diversity of the metal and experimental music scene.
Overall, Oblivion Access proved to be a celebration of musical innovation and artistic expression. While bidding farewell to iconic bands like Ludicra, the festival also paved the way for a new generation of artists to carry the torch of creativity and experimentation in metal and experimental music.
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