10 Must-See Metal Concerts of 2021: From Legends to Emerging Talent
In the world of music, metal remains a genre that has been continually evolving. This year, we’ve seen an exciting array of events featuring both iconic bands and newcomers. As we delve into the top 10 must-see concerts of 2021, let’s explore the rich tapestry of talent from legends to emerging artists in the realm of metal.
1. Megadeth with Lamb of God and In Flames
Date: March 30 – April 8, 2021 (North America)
Venues: Various locations in North America
Headliner: Megadeth
Supporting Acts: Lamb of God and In Flames
The year kicked off with a bang as Megadeth, alongside two titans of metal, embarked on their “World Tour: The Metal Tour of the Year.” This 10-date tour spanned across North America, offering fans a chance to witness a powerhouse lineup of metal heavyweights in action.
2. Slayer’s Final World Tour with Lamb of God and Testament
Date: May 6 – September 12, 2021 (North America)
Venues: Various locations in North America
Headliner: Slayer
Supporting Acts: Lamb of God and Testament
It was the end of an era when metal icons Slayer embarked on their final world tour. Fans rushed to see the legendary band perform, along with fellow heavyweights Lamb of God and Testament for a memorable experience.
3. Black Sabbath Reunion Concert
Date: July 9 – July 16, 2021 (Europe)
Venues: Various locations in Europe
Headliner: Black Sabbath
After a brief hiatus, heavy metal pioneers Black Sabbath reunited for a limited number of performances in 2021. Their European tour gave fans the chance to witness an iconic band’s return and rediscover their classics on stage.
4. Iron Maiden “Legacy of the Beast” Tour with The Darkness
Date: September 3 – October 17, 2021 (North America)
Venues: Various locations in North America
Headliner: Iron Maiden
Supporting Acts: The Darkness
British rock legends Iron Maiden returned to North America for their “Legacy of the Beast” tour. Supported by fellow metal enthusiasts The Darkness, this concert series paid homage to Iron Maiden’s incredible discography and theatrical stage performances.
5. Gojira with Deftones
Date: July 13 – August 28, 2021 (North America)
Venues: Various locations in North America
Headliner: Gojira
Supporting Acts: Deftones
French metal band Gojira embarked on a tour alongside fellow rockers Deftones in 2021. The combination of two powerful bands provided an unforgettable experience for fans eager to see their favorite musicians perform live.
6. Korn with Evanescence
Date: May 27 – August 1, 2021 (Europe)
Venues: Various locations in Europe
Headliner: Korn
Supporting Acts: Evanescence
Legendary bands Korn and Evanescence joined forces for a European tour that brought together fans of both rock and metal genres. Their electrifying performances showcased the best of each band’s diverse soundscapes.
7. Mastodon with Sturgill Simpson and Particle Kid
Date: April 30 – May 15, 2021 (North America)
Venues: Various locations in North America
Headliner: Mastodon
Supporting Acts: Sturgill Simpson and Particle Kid
Atlanta-based metal quartet Mastodon teamed up with country music artist Sturgill Simpson and psychedelic rock band Particle Kid for a unique tour that combined various genres to create an unforgettable live experience.
8. A Pale Horse Named Death with Goatwhore
Date: May 14 – June 6, 2021 (North America)
Venues: Various locations in North America
Headliner: A Pale Horse Named Death
Supporting Acts: Goatwhore
Underground metal bands A Pale Horse Named Death and Goatwhore joined forces for an intense North American tour that showcased their respective styles and darker musical leanings.
9. Within Temptation’s “Worlds Collide” Tour with Evanescence
Date: April 1 – June 4, 2021 (Europe)
Venues: Various locations in Europe
Headliner: Within Temptation
Supporting Acts: Evanescence
Female-fronted symphonic metal band Within Temptation embarked on a European tour with fellow rockers Evanescence. This unique collaboration brought together two bands who shared a passion for powerful music and memorable live performances.
10. Ghost’s “A Prequel to the Sequel” Tour
Date: April 16 – May 3, 2021 (North America)
Venues: Various locations in North America
Headliner: Ghost
The year saw Swedish band Ghost hit the road for their “A Prequel to the Sequel” tour. With their unique blend of metal, rock, and theatrical elements, they captivated audiences across North America, showcasing their talent as both musicians and performers.
As 2021 comes to an end, these must-see metal concerts have proven that even amidst the pandemic, music can continue to bring people together. With a rich tapestry of performances from legends and emerging artists alike, it’s evident that the world of metal continues to evolve and thrive.
Conclusion
As we look back on the year that was 2021, it’s clear that live music has remained a force for connection and entertainment. The diverse range of metal concerts showcased here highlights the genre’s ongoing growth and popularity, promising an exciting future filled with innovation and unforgettable performances.