

The history of moshing goes back to the 1970s. Travis Scott took this untamed energy in rap and made it his brand. Soon Soundcloud rappers like XXXTENTACION, Lil Uzi Vert, and Lil Pump would adopt the same energy and evolve it into the rage culture we see now. The ones to pioneer the raw punk energy in rap were Tyler, The Creator’s rap collective Odd Future and the A$AP Mob. The punk rock aesthetic in rap music was born in the early 2010s as a counter-culture to the mainstream. Rap shows nowadays match the energy of early punk rock shows in the ’80s and ’90s with all the mosh pits, stage diving, and rockstar personas. They dive deep into the nightlife of Eindhoven, while some dive into their beds to sleep as hard as they partied.Rap music has changed drastically in the last decade from head-bobbing pop beats into a new heavy, loud, and distorted style. "The guest don't come all the way to Eindhoven to sleep", says organizer Roman. From the mainstage the bands overlook a sea of metal horns, while they treat the revellers to a fierce set. The last few acts, among which are the beloved headliner My Dying Bride and Mgła, are ready to end the night with a bang. "At metal festivals I feel young again", he says with a smile. The metal scene is a mix of young and older people, and that is something he loves about it. "There is only one festival that I visit abroad, which is this one is Eindhoven", says Jean-Paul. It is already his tenth time attending Eindhoven Metal Meeting.

His friends go off to see the band, but the older man wants to save some energy to fully enjoy his favourite Mgła.

Their black metal buzzes through the walls, when Jean-Paul from Belgium takes a little break on the seats by the lockers. With solid riffs they ecstasize the packed crowd and here and there the boots of crowdsurfers appear. While the men discuss the shows further, the Greek band Rotting Christ start their brutal set on the mainstage. We only play aggressive music, that's all", Martin adds. "We are the most non-violent group of people you can find. Mika states that most metal is still underground, and it feels more like a bunch of 'music nerds coming together to discuss metal and the meaning of life'. The guys agree with each other that the metal scene is a healthy scene. You don't need a therapist", explains guitarist Martin. Afterwards you are calm for the rest of the day. "If you have troubles, you play metal music and let it out. Mika says: "The music has to feel like a punch to the face." For them, playing metal is the same kind of emotional outlet as for the listener. The Norwegian band Beaten To Death is set to take the stage on Saturday, but the musicians arrived early to enjoy some bands themselves. And only halfway through the evening they already name the band their favourite of Friday's line-up. Martin and Mika, band members of Beaten To Death, appreciated the outspoken character of Stallion. In support of Purple Friday and the lhbtqia+ community, the frontman holds up the Progress Pride Flag during one of their songs. An outspoken band from Germany, not only in terms of show, but also about societal issues. At the D19 Stage it is now Stallion's turn.
