Photos By Courtney Stark Imagery
Sydney’s Metro Theatre became a battlefield as hardcore legends Hatebreed tore through a Knotfest side show that will be remembered for years to come. With a legacy spanning over two decades, Hatebreed have solidified their place as one of the most influential bands in the hardcore and metal scenes. Their ability to blend bone-crushing riffs, anthemic lyrics, and raw aggression has made them a staple for fans seeking the ultimate adrenaline rush—and on this night, they delivered in full force.
Joining them were the next generation of heavy music, Vended, alongside local heroes Shinto Katana and Hell On Earth. Each band brought their own flavor of intensity, setting the stage for what would become an all-out war in the pit.
Vended—the fast-rising powerhouse featuring Griffin Taylor and Simon Crahan—kicked off their set with unrelenting fury. Though Simon was absent due to a family emergency, the band still powered through with tracks like Nihilism, The Farside, and Serenity Asylum, proving why they are a force to be reckoned with.
Then came Hatebreed, and from the first notes of To the Threshold, the Metro erupted into chaos. Frontman Jamey Jasta commanded the stage with his signature intensity, leading the crowd through a relentless set packed with anthems like I Will Be Heard, Perseverance, Destroy Everything, and Looking Down the Barrel of Today. Every breakdown hit like a sledgehammer, and the energy in the room was nothing short of electric.
The night saw some of the most insane crowd surfing of the tour, with wave after wave of bodies being carried across the pit. Our incredible photographer Courtney even got caught in the crossfire but, like a true warrior, powered through to capture every moment.
For fans of hardcore and metal, this was more than just a concert—it was a testament to the power of heavy music and the unwavering spirit of the community.
Full gallery below!
Hatebreed
Vended
Shinto Katana
Hell On Earth
