Midalidare Rock 2024 Festival gathered about 40.000 lovers of rock and metal music. The rock and metal Denim and Leather podcast traveled to Mogilovo, Bulgaria, to get the impressions in front of the festival’s stage. Together with Music Nonstop Today, we created and published this article that will be a legacy of the history of rock and roll festivals.
Midalidare Rock Lineup 2024 is outstanding and very carefully crafted. The headliners of the 4th edition of Midalidare Rock 2024 were Accent, Mr. Big, and Deep Purple.
This 3-day rock, metal, wine, and life celebration festival that gathered about 40.000 music lovers was well organized. There were no jams, the sound was perfect, and the necessary things related to the camping and parking places were well organized. There is nothing else to say/write but to congratulate the organizers of the 4th edition of the Midalidare Rock Festival. This festival puts Bulgaria on the world music festivals’ map.
Delain
Delain, the female-fronted powerhouse, was the opening act at the Midalidare Rock 2024 festival, delivering a performance that left the audience spellbound. Bathed in the soft glow of daylight, their presence was as commanding as it was mesmerizing. From the first chord, Delain infused the air with a beautiful energy that swept through the crowd, setting the tone for an unforgettable musical journey.
With her dynamic vocals, Diana Leah led the band with effortless charisma, captivating every ear within range. Her voice soared above the band’s powerful sound, filling the vast festival grounds with emotion and intensity. The energy among band members was palpable, each musician adding flair to create a cohesive and impactful performance.
The setlist was a carefully curated blend of fan favorites and newer tracks, each song showcasing Delain’s signature blend of symphonic metal and hard rock. The audience responded with enthusiastic cheers and applause, feeding off the band’s energy in a symbiotic exchange of passion and appreciation.
Delain’s music resonated as the sun set, leaving an indelible mark on everyone fortunate to witness their performance. Their ability to command the stage and connect with the audience was unparalleled, making them a standout act of the festival.
HammerFall
At the Midalidare Rock 2024, HammerFall stormed onto the stage while daylight still bathed the eager crowd, igniting an atmosphere charged with the essence of power metal. Known for their energetic live performances, HammerFall wasted no time delivering an outstanding show.
With his heavy, commanding vocals, Joakim Cans led the charge, his voice resonating with power and precision across the festival grounds. Backed by the twin guitar duo of Oscar Dronjak and Pontus Norgren, their riffs and solos cut through the air like a thunderous storm, blending seamlessly with Fredrik Larsson’s thundering bass lines and David Wallin’s precise drumming.
The band’s performance was a masterclass in power metal, each song delivering an adrenaline surge resonating with fans, old and new. From anthems that roused the audience to sing along with enthusiasm to epic ballads that swept emotions high, HammerFall’s setlist was a journey through their illustrious career.
HammerFall’s performance at Midalidare 2024 triumphantly displayed its prowess as one of Power Metal’s premier acts. For heavy metal fans and live music spectacle lovers, HammerFall’s performance under the setting sun was an unforgettable highlight of the Wine Valley festival in Mogilovo, Bulgaria.
Saxon
As darkness settled over the grounds, Saxon took the stage and unleashed a torrent of energy that transported the audience back to the golden age of heavy metal. With their trademark blend of old-school metal and hard rock, Saxon delivered a nostalgic performance.
Biff Byford’s heavy vocals reverberated through the night air, commanding attention and invoking a sense of timeless metal glory. The twin guitar attack was relentless, their riffs and solos weaving seamlessly together to create a wall of sound as powerful as melodic.
The setlist was a testament to Saxon’s storied career, featuring a selection of classic hits with the crowd singing and headbanging in unison. From anthems like “Wheels of Steel” to “Denim and Leather,” each song was delivered with precision and passion, showcasing the band’s enduring musical prowess.
The sound quality was perfect, ensuring every note and every drumbeat resonated with clarity and impact. Saxon’s performance celebrated everything that defines old-school metal: raw energy, powerful melodies, and a relentless drive to rock.
As the night progressed, Saxon’s presence on stage grew more robust, welcoming longtime fans and newcomers alike. Their ability to connect with the audience was palpable, creating an unforgettable atmosphere that surged with excitement and camaraderie.
What to say! Saxon’s performance at Midalidare 2024 was a masterclass in old-school metal greatness. With Biff Byford’s commanding vocals leading the charge and the band’s twin guitar attack driving the rhythm, they again proved why they are revered as genre pioneers.
Accept at Midalidare Rock 2024
Closing the first night of the Midalidare 2024 festival, Accept stormed the stage under the cloak of night, delivering an great performance that was a testament to their status as heavy metal legends. The air crackled with energy as the band launched into their set with precision and power.
Mark Tornillo’s commanding vocals cut through the darkness, carrying the weight of decades of metal history. His gritty, powerful delivery resonated with the crowd, setting the tone for a night of pure metal intensity. Backed by the twin guitar assault of Wolf Hoffmann and Joel Hoekstra, who filled in admirably, Accept unleashed a barrage of old hits and fan favorites.
The sound quality was impeccable, ensuring every riff, every drum fill, and every vocal line reverberated through the night air with clarity and force. Accept’s performance blended old-school metal grit and modern-day precision, captivating longtime fans and new listeners.
Songs like “Balls to the Wall” and “Fast as a Shark” ignited the crowd, their anthemic choruses echoing into the night sky. The band’s chemistry on stage was palpable, their camaraderie and passion evident in every note they played.
As headliners, Accept commanded the stage with authority, their presence was magnetic, and their performance was flawless. They proved why they remain one of the leading bands of the metal scene, delivering a set celebrating their legacy while showcasing their enduring relevance.
Accept’s closing performance at the festival was a triumphant celebration of old-school metal prowess. For fans of classic heavy metal like myself and those who appreciate a high-octane live show, Accept’s set was a fitting conclusion to an unforgettable first night.
Jelusick
Opening the second day of the Midalidare 2024 festival under the blazing daytime sun, Jelusick burst onto the stage with an energy that matched the sweltering weather. The band’s performance was a great blend of metal prowess and progressive elements, setting an atmosphere for the day ahead.
Led by Dino Jelusick’s remarkable vocals (according to my taste, currently one of the best in the world), which ranged from melodic hooks to powerful, guttural screams, Jelusick (Dino Jelusić) commanded the stage with authority. Dino’s vocal versatility added depth to their performance, drawing in the crowd with each emotive lyric. Ivan Keller’s intricate guitar work perfectly complements, weaving between heavy riffs and intricate solos showcasing technical skill and raw passion.
The band’s setlist included their hit song “Healer,” a crowd favorite that resonated with their fans. The combination of perfect sound engineering and Jelusick’s powerful vocals ensured every note reverberated through the festival grounds with clarity and impact.
Despite the daytime heat, Jelusick’s performance was relentless, fueled by their enthusiasm and the audience’s hunger for powerful music. The band’s chemistry on stage was palpable, their tight instrumentation and cohesive energy driving their prog-infused metal sound to new heights.
As they concluded their set, Jelusick left an indelible impression on the festival, setting a high standard for the day’s lineup. Their ability to merge heavy metal intensity with progressive nuances made them stand out, appealing to dedicated metalheads and those intrigued by more complex musical arrangements.
Jelusick’s second-day (July 13, 2024) opening performance at Midalidare 2024 was a testament to their talent and stage presence. The Croatian singer Dino Jelusić simply rocks!
Rhapsody of Fire
Rhapsody of Fire took to the stage on the second day of the festival, ready to unleash their brand of epic power metal. As Italian genre giants, they brought a reputation for high-energy performances and intricate musical arrangements that captivated audiences.
Despite some initial sound problems that tested their resolve, Rhapsody of Fire’s performance was mighty. Their fast rhythms and symphonic elements filled the air, transporting listeners to fantastical realms with every soaring melody and thunderous drumbeat.
Led by their charismatic frontman, whose operatic vocals soared effortlessly above the music, the band’s presence was commanding. Their setlist was a journey through their extensive discography, featuring fan-favorite tracks highlighting their mastery of storytelling through music.
The hot weather did little to dampen the band’s energy; if anything, it fueled their passionate delivery. The crowd responded enthusiastically to the band’s infectious enthusiasm, creating an atmosphere of unity and exhilaration.
As the sun dipped lower in the sky, Rhapsody of Fire’s performance peaked, culminating in a crescendo of sound and emotion. Their ability to merge classical influences with metal intensity was on full display, captivating both seasoned fans and newcomers alike.
Rhapsody of Fire at Midalidare 2024 proved excellent in performing a great show as a power metal band. That’s not something unusual. They are pioneers in the world of power metal. Despite the challenges posed by sound issues and the daytime heat, they delivered an energetic and unforgettable show that solidified their place as masters of their craft.
Primal Fear
At Midalidare 2024, Primal Fear, fronted by the formidable Ralf Scheepers, emerged under the relentless daytime sun, delivering a high-octane performance that epitomized the essence of power metal. Known for their energetic stage presence and blistering fast rhythms, Primal Fear wasted no time igniting the crowd with their powerful music.
Ralf Scheepers’ vocals, characterized by their range from soaring melodies to intense, heavy screaming, commanded attention from the outset. His powerful delivery cut through the hot air, matched only by the precision and intensity of the band’s instrumentation. The rapid-fire guitar riffs, thunderous drums, and driving bass lines created a wall of sound reverberating across the festival grounds.
Despite the challenging daytime heat, Primal Fear’s performance was relentless and full of raw energy. The band’s chemistry on stage was palpable, their tight-knit synchronization enhancing the impact of every song. Their setlist featured a mix of fan-favorite anthems and newer tracks such as “Another Hero,” each reminding the audience that they stay on top of the power metal genre.
Primal Fear’s appearance at Midalidare 2024 was a testament to their heavyweight status in the power metal scene. With Ralf Scheepers’ commanding vocals leading the charge and the band’s powerful instrumentation driving the rhythm, they left an indelible mark on the festival’s lineup. For fans of intense, fast-paced metal and those who appreciate a dynamic live performance, Primal Fear’s set was a highlight of the event, showcasing their relentless passion and musical prowess.
Stratovarius
At the scorching Midalidare 2024 festival, Stratovarius, fronted by the distinctive vocals of Timo Kotipelto, arrived under the blazing daytime sun to deliver a performance that epitomized the essence of power metal. Known for their energetic stage presence and intricate compositions, Stratovarius immediately captivated the audience with their powerful, fast-paced rhythms, such as “Speed of light.”
Timo Kotipelto’s vocals, renowned for their clarity and emotional depth, soared over the symphonic backdrop provided by Jens Johansson’s keyboards. The combination of Jens’ symphonic arrangements and the band’s dual guitar attack created a rich sonic tapestry that resonated across the festival grounds.
The band’s performance was relentless despite the sweltering heat. Their setlist featured a blend of classic hits and newer material, each song showcasing their technical proficiency and melodic prowess. The double bass drums thundered beneath soaring guitar solos, creating a dynamic and exhilarating atmosphere.
Stratovarius’ appearance at Midalidare 2024 was a triumph of musical skill and stage presence.
Axel Rudi Pell
As night descended upon the Midalidare 2024 festival, Axel Rudi Pell and his band, fronted by the charismatic Johnny Gioelli, took the stage amidst the lingering heat, delivering a performance that blended the raw power of metal with the anthemic spirit of hard rock. The atmosphere crackled with energy as they launched into their set.
Johnny Gioelli’s vocals were a force to be reckoned with, his powerful delivery adding a visceral edge to the band’s melodic metal sound. Whether belting out Axel Rudi Pell classics or delivering a soulful rendition of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah,” his versatility and expressive range captivated the audience, drawing them into every lyric and melody.
One of the highlights of their performance was the epic “Masquerade Ball,” a staple of Axel Rudi Pell’s repertoire that showcased the band’s ability to weave intricate guitar work with Gioelli’s commanding vocals. The combination of Axel Rudi Pell’s masterful guitar solos and Gioelli’s dynamic stage presence created a spellbinding experience that resonated long after the last note faded.
Axel Rudi Pell’s energy never waned despite the late hour and the lingering heat. The band’s chemistry was palpable, their tight-knit performance reflecting years of collaboration and musical expertise. Each song was delivered precisely and passionately, showcasing their commitment to providing a memorable live show.
Axel Rudi Pell’s appearance at Midalidare 2024 was a testament to their status as stalwarts of the metal and hard rock scene. Axel Rudi Pell’s set was a standout moment, celebrating the timeless appeal of their music and the enduring power of live performance.
Mr. Big at Midalidare Rock 2024
Headlining the great atmosphere of the Midalidare Rock 2024, Mr. Big, on their final Farewell Tour, took the stage late at night amidst a backdrop of lingering heat, delivering a performance that blended the raw power of hard rock with funk-infused energy. Led by the incomparable Eric Martin’s unique vocals, the band captivated the audience from the first note to the last.
Eric Martin’s soulful and versatile voice was a cornerstone of Mr. Big’s performance, effortlessly navigating from hard rock anthems to the funky rhythms that defined their sound. His stage presence was magnetic, drawing the crowd into every song with his charismatic delivery.
The band’s chemistry was palpable, with Billy Sheehan’s virtuosic bass playing anchoring the rhythm section and Paul Gilbert’s masterful guitar work dazzling with intricate solos and melodic hooks. Their “Shy Boy” performance showcased their technical prowess and tight-knit musicianship, while their cover of Cat Stevens’ “Baby Baby It’s a Wild World” added a poignant touch to the setlist.
One of the night’s standout moments was their rendition of “To Be with You,” their biggest hit from the MTV era, which prompted a wave of nostalgia and sing-alongs from the audience. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and memorable melody resonated under the starlit sky, creating a magical atmosphere.
Mr. Big’s tour, which is ongoing in 2024, is their last tour called the Farewell Tour. I’m glad that I had a chance to attend their performance at Midalidare 2024, celebrating timeless rock music and the enjoyment of life and good wine.
Steel Panther
As the night peaked at the Midalidare 2024 festival, Steel Panther took the stage right after the headliners, transforming the atmosphere into an electrifying after-party under the starlit sky. Known for their energetic performances and tongue-in-cheek humor, Steel Panther brought irreverent glam metal fun to close the evening.
With their trademark blend of hard rock riffs and over-the-top glam aesthetics, Steel Panther’s performance celebrated everything that defines the genre. The crowd was swept up in a whirlwind of high-energy anthems and infectious melodies, delivered with a wink and a nod to the excesses of 80s hair metal.
Frontman Michael Starr’s powerhouse vocals soared through the night air, complemented by the virtuosic guitar solos of Satchel and the thunderous rhythm section of Spider on bass and Stix Zadinia on drums. Their chemistry on stage was palpable, their banter and comedic timing adding an extra layer of entertainment to their dynamic set.
Songs like “Community Property” and “Death to All but Metal” elicited loud cheers from the audience, who eagerly participated in the band’s playful antics and sing-alongs. Steel Panther’s ability to balance hard-hitting rock with lighthearted humor created a party atmosphere that kept spirits high well into the night. In closing the festival with their unique glam metal spectacle, Steel Panther ensured that Midalidare 2024 second night ended on a high note. Their infectious energy and unabashed humor resonated with fans of all ages, leaving a lasting impression of a night filled with music, laughter, and rock ‘n’ roll revelry.
Deep Purple at Midalidare Rock 2024
The third day (Jul 14) was reserved for one of the best rock bands of the 80s, Deep Purple. Closing the curtains on the unforgettable Midalidare Rock 2024, Deep Purple took to the stage under cover of the night amidst the lingering heat to deliver a masterclass in hard rock excellence. With decades of experience and a legacy that spans generations, Deep Purple proved its enduring prowess with an energetic and powerful performance.
Led by Ian Gillan on vocals, whose gritty delivery and stage presence belied his age, the band launched into a two-hour set that showcased their skillful musicianship and timeless hits. Ian Paice’s drumming remained as precise and dynamic as ever, while Roger Glover’s bass provided a solid foundation for the band’s intricate arrangements.
Don Airey’s keyboards added layers of depth and melody, enriching classics like “Smoke on the Water” and “Highway Star” with his virtuosity. Alongside them, young guitar player Simon McBride impressed with his technical prowess and ability to channel the spirit of Deep Purple’s legendary guitarist.
Deep Purple closed the festival with a flawless performance, proving that age is no barrier to delivering a memorable show. Their ability to command the stage and captivate the audience underscored their status as true rock ‘n’ roll legends. In the end, Deep Purple’s headlining set at Midalidare 2024 was a fitting conclusion to a weekend of music and celebration. Their skillful musicianship and timeless classics left an indelible mark on all who attended, reminding everyone why they are revered as hard rock pioneers.
Deep Purple’s performance was a festival highlight for rock and musical excellence fans, closing it with a perfect blend of nostalgia and contemporary musical vigor.
You can hear people saying that their time has gone, but check their latest album, “=1“, released on July 19, 2024, and then make your thoughts about the people talks. I don’t think they are too old for life performance and producing new rock tracks.
The last day of the Midalidare lineup 2024, before the outstanding performance of Deep Purple, also performed Beast in Black, The O’Reillys and the Paddyhats, The Silent Wedding, and Soundtruck.
Similar Festivals to the Midalidare Rock Festival
The other similar festivals we recommend are the Nova Rock Festival held in Austria, Monsters of Rock Cruise held in the US, and Wacken Open Air held in Germany.
Midalidare 2024 Videos
It’s not easy to capture the festival’s magic with just words. We’ve recorded some short videos to help you feel the excitement and atmosphere of the Midalidare 2024 festival. We hope these clips give you a taste of the incredible experience. Enjoy!
Midalidare 2024 Photo Gallery
