“Especially in metal, it’s important to show there’s always a new breed of great players on the rise,” says Cates. “But it’s also important to represent those who have been doing it forever, to show younger people what real classic players sound like.”
For Greg Musgrave of Calgary grindcore act Exit Strategy, the festival was like a one-day music camp. “I like comparing what’s on the record to how they do it live, and I’m always intrigued to see new blood,” said Greg. “New ideas come forth whenever you see new techniques. You can’t help but go home and try them.”