This year’s Wacken Metal Battle Sub-Saharan Africa Final was not without its share of controversy. Very valid concerns around representation were raised during the weeks leading up to the final. Concerns about fairness for African participants, particularly given South Africa’s dominant representation, and about the judging process.
Are there flaws? Absolutely. Nevertheless, Wacken Metal Battle is still a meaningful initiative, shining a light on African metal. Could representation of what African metal looks and sounds like be broader? Maybe. But this is what we’ve got at the moment—and this year’s competition proved that there’s still more to be unearthed.
This year’s final duel for the coveted spot in Germany took place on May 3rd, on a chilly Joburg afternoon. Sognage once again hosted the event, delivering with their excellent sound and lighting setup, and despite a poorly managed food stall and some eyebrow-raising drink prices, the venue continues to prove itself as one of the best places in the country to see live music.
The 12-hour affair showcased an eclectic mix of bands and styles—everything from black metal to reggae-infused metal. Compared to last year, the lineup was even more diverse, a sign that the scene is broadening in exciting ways.
Botswana’s black metal band, Raven in Flesh, draped in theatre, delivered a performance that, while imperfect in places, stayed true to the essence of the genre. On the opposite end of that were Kenyan outfit Irony Destroyed who impressed with a blistering set featuring killer vocals that flew the flag for their country’s metalcore scene.
Reflecting on their experience, they shared, “The show was nothing short of phenomenal. Every single band brought the house down, and being our first time here, it was the experience of a lifetime. Sognage felt like home. The battle felt like dinner with friends. Magical bands, magical shows. We definitely want to come back for more”
Returning for the second year in a row, Namibia’s As Night Fades elevated their performance by including electronic and hip hop elements into their set, proving that boundary-pushing has a place in African metal.
On the local front, my long-held belief that the scene can be a bit one-dimensional was thoroughly challenged, and I couldn’t be happier about this. Ill System brought their reggae-metal hybrid to the stage while Hilliker gave us nightmare-fuelled horror metal, and Walk These Skies delivered a tight, energetic performance that earned them a well-deserved third place.
Reflecting on the experience, guitarist Matthew Nijland said, “It was an absolute thrill to be part of the WMBSSA 2025 experience! Having seen so many incredible Sub-Saharan bands rep Africa in Germany over the years, we were honoured to compete for the same opportunity. Every band brought their A-game. Placing third out of twelve insane bands was special. It marks nearly a year of non-stop graft. From here, we’re pushing harder. Better songs, tighter shows, deeper connection with our fanbase. Thanks to everyone who supported us on this journey!”
Other highlights included comeback kids Hiraeth, and Pretoria’s favourite sons, Die Gemeente, who took second place with a performance that had the crowd eating out of their hands.
But the night belonged to Cape Town thrashers Halvar, who stole the show with a flawless and memorable set. They didn’t just sound the part, they looked like it too. In a scene where presentation is often overlooked, Halvar proved that showmanship still matters.
“It’s honestly unbelievable,” they said. “We’re so grateful to everyone who came out to support us and to everyone who made this happen. We can’t wait to represent the sub-Saharan region and fly the South African flag at the holy ground. Hopefully, Toyota sees us now and gives us that Hilux! What an amazing night—top-shelf metal from top to bottom!”
But there’s more. The crowd was as diverse as the lineup, as old-school fans rubbed shoulders with younger metal heads. Much of the crowd came specifically to see last year’s champions Sunken State, who once again reminded everyone why they’re often considered the best metal band in the country.
No Closure’s Kyle Robertson reflected on the experience, saying, “The Wacken Metal Battle Final was unforgettable! It gets bigger and better every year. The organisation was top-notch, and the lineup was killer. Massive respect to the entire crew behind the scenes, what an electric atmosphere!”
It’s important to acknowledge the tireless work done by Emalyth Events, especially Lana Britz and Sash Northey, who rarely receive the credit they deserve. From organising regional heats across the continent to handling logistics and running the final without a hitch, their dedication is what makes this event possible.
As Sash put it, “The finals were more than a competition, they were an opportunity for bands from across the continent to learn, collaborate, and network. It was a mighty showcase of the talent we have on the African continent.”
Whether or not you’re a fan of how the competition is run, Wacken Metal Battle remains one of the few meaningful platforms for African bands to gain exposure. And that platform is bigger than just the chance to play in Germany—it’s a stepping stone toward building community, visibility, and momentum.
All photos courtesy of Stefan and René from Black Rock Studio.
