RIFFS, HOOKS & MEGALOMANIA

On September 20, 2024, the Swedish rockers Eclipse will present their highly anticipated new album "Megalomanium II" at Z7 in Pratteln. The brand-new single "The Spark" has already been released, showcasing the band in top form. The new album will be released on the day of the concert, promising to surpass the success of its predecessor, "Megalomanium". With over 100 million streams and countless sold-out shows, Eclipse is ready to rock the Z7 stage and thrill their Swiss fans once again.

They are known for their distinctive sound, characterized by massive hooks and the outstanding musical abilities of the band members. Eclipse has once again proven why they are one of Sweden's leading heavy rock bands with their latest single, "The Spark". Lead singer Erik Mårtensson describes the single as follows: "The song starts with a catchy riff and leads to a powerful chorus. It's perfect for the upcoming festivals." Guitarist Magnus Henriksson adds, "Musically, it's like a special blend of intense Eclipse sound and almost EDM-like melodies. I have no idea how we ended up here, but I know it's going to be fantastic to bring this track to the stage." Following the success of previous singles "Apocalypse Blues" and "Falling To My Knees," the band shows no signs of slowing down. "Megalomanium II" is filled with big choruses, beautiful melodies, and impressive guitar sound. In short, a must for any rock fan. In recent years, Eclipse has performed on the world's biggest stages, from Wacken to Alcatraz to Summer Breeze. They have toured South America, Australia, and Japan, shining as support for giants such as Aerosmith, Def Leppard, or My Chemical Romance. Their energetic performances and ability to create catchy anthems have made them one of the most influential acts in the scene. And now, they return with the brand-new album "Megalomanium II." Erik comments on the upcoming release as follows: "If you think the title of our previous album is proof that we suffer from megalomania, then you are absolutely right. The only way to surpass it was to raise the bar. Ladies and gentlemen, we present 'Megalomanium II'."

Doors open: 7:00 PM

THE BEAST OVER EUROPE

Battle Beast can't be tamed. Since 2022, the Finnish high-flyers have been on the "Circus Of Doom" tour and there is no end in sight. With their brilliant work, vocalist tornado Noora Louhimo and her band delivered a magnificent collection of power metal anthems with plenty of pop appeal in January 22, reaching new top values in the European charts. Since then, they have been rocking stages around the globe. Serenity and Brymir will heat up the crowd as special guests in the opening program of "Circus Of Doom Over Europe - Part 2."

"100% Heavy Metal - 0% Bullshit!" - Battle Beast's recipe is simple but effective. With catchy earworm hits full of crunchy riffs and Noora Louhimo's incomparable vocal range, the Finns have become the figurehead of modern heavy metal. The success story began in 2011 with the debut "Steel," but it wasn't until Noora Louhimo joined as the frontwoman and the self-titled second album "Battle Beast" (2013) that the number of fans skyrocketed. The band has since released six albums. The last four releases all reached the number 1 position in the Finnish charts. The current album "Circus of Doom" also made it into the Top 10 in Germany and reached number 5 in the Swiss album charts. Musicreviews.de concluded: "Pop Metal in perfection with a powerful voice in every sense of the word. Battle Beast reaches their temporary zenith with 'Circus of Doom,' and for those who want to hear powerful hits in succession, they should quickly hop onto the broad shoulders of the Finnish band to ascend to the highest heights." The mix is right. Catchy metal anthems, led by singer Noora Louhimo, whose voice also convinces 100% live and enriched with harmonious pop elements. The concerts of this band are a true celebration. Every song is a banger! Time to dance, raise fists, headbang, and sing along. A Battle Beast show is definitely not for those who stand still or tap their foot.

Doors open: 6:00 PM

DREAMY DUO

The sensation is perfect: Under the motto "Living The Dream - Together," Tarja Turunen and Marko Hietala are going on tour together for the first time in 19 years after their time together in Nightwish. For die-hard fans, there is a full package: Tarja will present her Greatest Hits, and Marko will review his own compositions. As if that weren't fantastic enough, there will also be a set with the Finnish power duo performing a duet.

It all began in the summer of 2023 in Pratteln! Fans were thrilled when Tarja Turunen and Marko Hietala stood together on stage for the first time in 18 years at the Z7 Summer Nights Open Air. It was a magical night - and many fans probably shed a tear when the two started singing "The Phantom Of The Opera." It was an especially emotional moment for the protagonists, who embraced each other intimately after the shared song. When Tarja whispered into the microphone, "We have more surprises in store for you in the future," hopes were finally ignited. And now the time has come. Just a few days after Tarja finished an extensive and successful tour in South America, she announced on her website the joyful news that she will be going on tour with Marko Hietala for the first time since 2005.

They had once released successful albums together with Nightwish and embarked on several acclaimed world tours. Now, they will finally perform together night after night as part of Tarja's "Living The Dream - The Hits" tour under the motto "Living The Dream - Together." Tarja will present a selection of songs that can also be found on her "Best Of" album, including fan favorites and some of her personal favorite songs. Marko, along with his bandmate, the talented guitarist Tuomas Wäinolä, will perform his own songs. As the highlight of the evening, Tarja and Marko will finally stand together on stage. To further enhance the anticipation, the two recently released the duet "Left On Mars." Inspired by a story of love and longing, this ethereal ballad combines Marko's emotional lyrics and powerful riffs with Tarja's hauntingly beautiful vocals, creating a symphony that resonates deep within the soul.

Doors open: 6:00 PM

THE PERFECT PROG ROCK JUKEBOX

The ultimate Prog Rock Experience is coming to Europe! Under the name ProgJect, drummer Jonathan Mover formed an all-star band a few years ago that makes all old-school proggies snap their fingers. Together with Mike Keneally, Ryo Okumoto, Alessandro Del Vecchio, and Pete Griffin, he presents a superlative set on stage with songs from Genesis, YES, ELP, King Crimson, Pink Floyd, Rush, Gentle Giant, and many others.

Five years ago, drummer Jonathan Mover (GTR, Marillion, Aretha Franklin, Alice Cooper, Joe Satriani, Mike Oldfield, The Tubes) received an emergency call from Genesis tribute band The Musical Box. Their drummer had to drop out just before the US tour, and Mover quickly stepped in for him. "I hadn't had that much fun on stage in a long time and remembered the time when I started playing prog rock," says Mover. "I felt fifteen again and felt the fire burning in me that flared up when I first picked up the drumsticks." Thus, the idea matured in him to bring songs from Genesis and other old prog rock heroes to the stage with an all-star formation. He quickly founded the group ProgJect with a handful of like-minded musicians, and in 2022, the first dates were played in the USA. More celebrated performances followed in 2023. Due to the touring schedules of the various musicians, there were eventually changes in the line-up. In 2024, ProgJect will tour Canada in the summer and come to Europe in September. In addition to Mover, guitarist Mike Keneally (Frank Zappa, Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, Devin Townsend), keyboardist Ryo Okumoto (Spock’s Beard, Asia, Phil Collins, Chris Squire), and bassist Pete Griffin (Dweezil Zappa, Edgar Winter, Dethklok) are on board. The right frontman was found in singer and multi-instrumentalist Alessandro Del Vecchio (Star One, Vanden Plas, New Trolls, James Labrie, Steve Lukather). Like a finely assorted prog rock jukebox, Jonathan Mover's high-profile ProgJect plays through selected classics of prog rock history in often more than two hours long shows.

Doors: 19:00

Unfortunately, the event has been canceled.

DEEP PURPLE MADE IN ITALY

Five musicians from Italy walk confidently in the footsteps of the rock legend Deep Purple. The world's only All Female Deep Purple Tribute Band Strange Kind Of Women brings the magic of the British hard rockers with an unstoppable joy of playing to Z7 on September 27th. At this intensity level, the timeless rock classics have long not been heard.

When Deep Purple let the hard rock scene emerge in the 1970s with songs like "Highway Star," "Child In Time," or "Smoke On The Water," the five musicians of the group Strange Kind Of Women were not even born yet. But for a few years now, they have been living their love for this music in passionate stage performances and conveying an authentic impression of the work of the iconic rock formation founded in London in 1968 with their energetic temperament. Few tribute bands actually manage to come close to their role models in show and sound. Strange Kind Of Women deliver excellent work, praised by fans and critics alike. Deep Purple drummer Ian Paice himself got to experience what the rock ladies are capable of. At a concert in Graz, he couldn't resist rocking out with Strange Kind Of Women. Afterwards, he said, "It's really great fun playing with them. They are doing a great job, have a fantastic sound, and give everything on stage. I really enjoyed the joint performance." The band members are all professional musicians who have already celebrated success with other formations in their home country. For example, singer Alteria, who tours the country with her eponymous alternative rock band, or guitarist Eliana Cargnelutti, the great new hope of the Italian blues-rock scene. They are accompanied by Chiara Cotugno (drums), Margherita Gruden (Hammond, Keys), and Elettra Pizzale (Bass).

Doors open: 7:00 PM.

POWER-METAL-STORM

Sonata Arctica return to their glorious beginnings with the new album "Clear Cold Beyond," delivering an album that sweeps through the ear canals like a powerful winter storm. In the fall, the Finnish power metal gods will tour Europe again. Supporting acts: Firewind and Serious Black, who will also deliver brand-new song material in 2024.

Power metal with an unmistakable sense for gripping melodies and anthem-like song structures that make you addicted at first listen. These are the typical trademarks with which Sonata Arctica has been enchanting the metal world for a quarter of a century. As part of the announcement of the new album "Clear Cold Beyond" (Release: March 8, 2024), the Finnish metal icons stated at the beginning of the year that they would prefer to bring the new material directly to the stage. Already with the first track of the new record, we get the keyboard-heavy power metal in our ears that we fell in love with during the band's early days. The progressive influences are put on hold, and mastermind Tony Kakko and his men show a level of playfulness that hasn't been seen in a long time. "It actually feels like a fresh start, returning to the metal of the early days," Kakko rejoices. "This is by far the most relentless Sonata Arctica album in a long time, and a spectacular revival of our lightning-fast, far, far north-forged power metal sound." Responsible for this return to old virtues is Mikko Karmilla, who produced the album and perfectly captures the magic of the past. "Clear Cold Beyond" is a fantastic album with various potential band classics that are likely to quickly become staples on the setlist. Sonata Arctica are going back to their roots, but also sound hungry, young, and fresh after 25 years. This work is at the forefront of contenders for "Power Metal Album of the Year."

Doors open: 6:00 PM

FEIER MIT UNS 10 JAHRE UP IN SMOKE

Are you ready for the ultimate stoner and psychedelic experience? From October 4 to 6, 2024, we will once again transform the Z7 in Pratteln into the epicenter of the most powerful sounds. You can be sure it will be a weekend full of breathtaking music and legendary performances.

For a decade, we have been proud to excite the Up In Smoke community, and now we want to celebrate our anniversary with you. Our lineup will, as always, cover a spectrum from psychedelic to stoner, doom, and sludge, taking you on a wild journey through the diverse world of heavy sounds.

Already confirmed bands:
Pentagram (last Swiss show)
Truckfighters - Monolord - Lowrider - Greenleaf - Slomosa - Messa - Wolvennest - Gnome - Psychlona - Djiin - Tar Pond - Preamp Disaster - Norna - No Mute - Glue

& many more

Doors: 16:00

FEIER MIT UNS 10 JAHRE UP IN SMOKE

Are you ready for the ultimate stoner and psychedelic experience? From October 4 to 6, 2024, we will once again transform the Z7 in Pratteln into the epicenter of the most powerful sounds. You can be sure it will be a weekend full of breathtaking music and legendary performances.

For a decade, we have been proud to excite the Up In Smoke community, and now we want to celebrate our anniversary with you. Our lineup will, as always, cover a spectrum from psychedelic to stoner, doom, and sludge, taking you on a wild journey through the diverse world of heavy sounds.

Already confirmed bands:
Pentagram (last Swiss show)
Truckfighters - Monolord - Lowrider - Greenleaf - Slomosa - Messa - Wolvennest - Gnome - Psychlona - Djiin - Tar Pond - Preamp Disaster - Norna - No Mute - Glue

& many more

Doors: 16:00

FEAST WITH US 10 YEARS UP IN SMOKE

Are you ready for the ultimate stoner and psychedelic experience? From October 4 to 6, 2024, we will once again transform the Z7 in Pratteln into the epicenter of the most powerful sounds. You can be sure that it will be a weekend filled with breathtaking music and legendary performances.

For a decade, we have been proud to excite the Up In Smoke community, and now we want to celebrate our anniversary with you. Our lineup will cover a spectrum from psychedelic, stoner, and doom to sludge, taking you on a wild journey through the diverse world of heavy sounds.

Confirmed bands:
Pentagram (last Swiss show)
Truckfighters - Monolord - Lowrider - Greenleaf - Slomosa - Messa - Wolvennest - Gnome - Psychlona - Djiin - Tar Pond - Preamp Disaster - Norna - No Mute - Glue

& many more

Doors: 1:30 PM

FEAST WITH US 10 YEARS UP IN SMOKE

Are you ready for the ultimate stoner and psychedelic experience? From October 4 to 6, 2024, we will once again transform the Z7 in Pratteln into the epicenter of the most powerful sounds. You can be sure that it will be a weekend filled with breathtaking music and legendary performances.

For a decade, we have been proud to excite the Up In Smoke community, and now we want to celebrate our anniversary with you. Our lineup will cover a spectrum from psychedelic, stoner, and doom to sludge, taking you on a wild journey through the diverse world of heavy sounds.

Confirmed bands:
Pentagram (last Swiss show)
Truckfighters - Monolord - Lowrider - Greenleaf - Slomosa - Messa - Wolvennest - Gnome - Psychlona - Djiin - Tar Pond - Preamp Disaster - Norna - No Mute - Glue

& many more

Doors: 1:30 PM

PROG-METAL ROYALS

For more than three and a half decades, the British Progressive Metal royalty Threshold has consistently delivered high-quality material. Since 2017, the band has been on the road again with the return of frontman Glynn Morgan, and in their current lineup, they have created two absolute genre milestones with "Legends Of The Shires" (2017) and "Dividing Lines" (2022).

Founded in 1988 by guitarist Karl Groom in Southern England, Threshold was always a unique endeavor from the start. Driven by youthful self-confidence and enthusiasm, the band quickly developed into Britain's leading force in the field of Progressive Metal and has remained at the top for three and a half decades. From early works like "Wounded Land" (1993) and "Psychedelicatessen" (1994) to the success with more recent albums like "For The Journey" (2014) and "Legends Of The Shires" (2017), the band has always demonstrated its impressive songwriting qualities, never influenced by fleeting trends. Thus, the band remains a driving institution within their genre. Threshold also proves this with their latest album "Dividing Lines," released in November 2022. Described by the band as the darker, moodier big brother of "Legends of the Shires," it sounds darker, harder, and even more adventurous than its predecessor. The twelfth studio album showcases a band presenting their most imaginative and melodically powerful material ever recorded. Metal.de writes: "On album No. 12, Threshold once again consolidate their strengths into a stadium-ready, prog-spiced metal gem." And metal1.info adds: "'Dividing Lines' rockets straight into the top 5 of the band's own discography – with the potential to rise even higher in the long run." And the final verdict is: "For those who enjoy melodic Prog Metal, Power Metal, or harder Melodic Rock, this is a full service. What a blast!"

Doors open: 7:00 PM

SOUNDTRACK TO THE END

The Rostock punk-rock institution Dritte Wahl celebrates its 35th anniversary with brand new songs. Thematically, the quartet remains at the forefront with their 12th album "Urlaub in der Bredouille," bluntly naming the miseries of our time. Musically, the journey goes through the punk, metal, and indie world. Ska-heavy beats collide with hard guitars, high speed with up-tempo, and Dritte Wahl indicates with their new album that they are far from the end of their path.

Finally vacation, finally sun, finally a break from the hamster wheel. The supposed pleasure trip to the place of longing turns into a real horror trip. The route passes by abysses, reveals mined fields, stinking plastic trash mountains, and fenced-off private beaches full of dead fish. Between glass monuments of late capitalism and dense chimney fog, campaign posters at the roadside hail the free market. Next to it, an old woman rummages through the trash. The described "Urlaub in der Bredouille" essentially only serves as a semi-ironic metaphor, yet Dritte Wahl's new record astonishingly comes close to the described odyssey in its character. The album of the deserving punk band resembles a relentless sightseeing tour through dystopian landscapes. "Urlaub in der Bredouille" does not rely on rebellious pathos and simple opposition, but names the major problems of our time: climate catastrophe, wealth distribution, corruption, housing shortage, inflation, corporate overpowers, and machines. The album is a soundtrack to the end, a furious attempt to break out of the matrix and a creative motivator at the same time. A loud, courageous hybrid of anger, dark humor, idealism, and comedy. The constant dance between resignation and lingering hope, as well as the confrontation with political imbalances, is deeply ingrained in the DNA of Dritte Wahl. Founded in 1988, the band played their first concerts on the ground of the former GDR. After the reunification, they organically rose to become one of the most successful German-speaking punk rock ensembles. The close connection to the subculture has never been lost by the band.

Admittance: 7:00 PM

AGGRESSION AND BEAUTY

In April 2023, Soen played one of their exclusive "Atlantis Live" shows at Z7. Now they are returning to Pratteln with their new album "Memorial" to dive into emotionally charged soundscapes and embark on a breathtaking journey through fascinating soundscapes with their Swiss fans. On their latest work, the Swedes present themselves a bit heavier, more progressive, and angrier than before. Soen has managed to step it up with "Memorial" and present an album that goes deep under the skin.

On September 1, 2023, Soen's album "Memorial" was released. The new release, in which the musicians once again address current societal confusions, is characterized by a powerful drive. The crisp riff rage combines with Soen's unique blend of progressiveness, aggression, and beauty. "Memorial" is full of melodies, intense guitars, and rhythms. The opener "Sincere" starts with an unstoppable drive, while the sheer power of the title track is provided with a steady groove that underscores Joel Ekelöf's intricate vocals. The album closes with the ballad "Vitals," reminiscent of Pink Floyd. Without a doubt, Soen shows their best side on "Memorial" so far. They have worked towards this for years, and now they present another inspiring modern rock classic. After the outstanding "Imperial" (2021), "Memorial," the Swedes' sixth studio album, also became the Metal Hammer Magazine's Album of the Month: "And why? With Right, Power, and Finesse. What the quintet offers here once again caters to everything the discerning metal enthusiast seeks," the critic concludes. "Crushing riffs that sound both heavy and modern, but not completely overcompressed. Songs that are neither too complicated nor too simple. Hymnal melodies that do not drip with pathos in the most ingratiating way but rather embrace you with melancholy."

Doors Open: 7 PM

STRONGER THAN EVER

For four decades, the German metal legend Doro Pesch has been on stage, captivating fans in clubs, venues, or at festivals around the globe with her high-energy show. On October 15, 2024, the Düsseldorf Metal Queen will return to Z7 to present her latest work "Conqueress - Forever Strong And Proud" to her Swiss fans.

Doro Pesch, the most successful German female rock singer of all time, can look back on a unique career in the music business. In numbers, this means: gold and platinum awards for over 10 million records sold. More than 2,800 live performances on four continents and in 60 countries around the world. 20 studio albums and various live releases. In addition, awards from "Echo" to "Metal Hammer Legends Award," countless cover stories on all relevant music magazines, and millions of enthusiastic fans around the world. In October 2023, the tireless frontwoman released her new album: "Conqueress - Forever Strong And Proud" is a big, bold heavy metal album that the singer recorded for her 40th anniversary. And it has long been a good tradition that Doro can attract top guests for her works. This time, her Metal God Rob Halford of Judas Priest personally honored her. There is also a duet with Sammy Amara of the German rock heavyweights Broilers. "Conqueress - Forever Strong And Proud" once again confirms the result of intensive studio work, which led the incomparable singer back to Miami, New York, and Hamburg. "It was a lot of work, but it was worth it and a lot of fun," says Doro. "We recorded 19 songs, and each one has its own magic. There are classic metal tracks, many epic anthems, great rock songs for radio, and of course, beautiful Doro ballads again!" The album impressively confirms that even after 40 years, Doro is at the peak of her creative power. The critic from Metalfactory.ch awarded a proud 8.5 out of 10 points: "On her fourteenth studio album, Doro has mixed the best from all of her phases and composed a work that will not disappoint any Doro fan even in the slightest." No doubt: "Conqueress - Forever Strong And Proud" is another milestone in Doro Pesch's long and successful career and will certainly rock on stage.

Doors open: 7:00 PM

THE BANJO-ROCKERS ARE COMING

Ten years ago, Steve’n’Seagulls quickly evolved from a YouTube phenomenon to a live sensation on club and festival stages. The Finnish hillbilly rockers transform hits from AC/DC, Metallica, Iron Maiden, Led Zeppelin, ZZ Top, Guns N’ Roses, Mötley Crüe, and many more into gritty bluegrass tunes with great attention to detail. On their "More Than A Tour 2024," the Northern lights are bringing a new album to Z7.

It all started as a whim. A few friends in Finland simply felt like interpreting the AC/DC song "Thunderstruck" in a bluegrass version and recording a video of it. Dressed in redneck attire, they sat on the front porch of a farmhouse and played away with instruments like banjo, mandolin, double bass, and accordion. The music video, shot with just one camera, was then uploaded to YouTube. In the next moment, the performance of the farmer boys, who went by the band name Steve’n’Seagulls, went viral and garnered over five million views within a few weeks. International music sites like Revolver, Loudwire, Metalsucks, and Blabbermouth caught wind of the situation and praised the cool tunes. Thanks to the successful video showcasing the Finns' live skills, some of the biggest festivals on the planet invited them to perform. These included Wacken Open Air, Rencontres Trans Musicales, Nova Rock, Sweden Rock, and many more. Just the debut "Farm Machine" (2015) resulted in an astonishing 170 shows in Europe and the USA. Over the last ten years, Steve´n´Seagulls have thrilled their fans in over thirty countries and on four continents. The "Thunderstruck" video has been viewed 170 million times to this day, and all the band's songs combined have garnered well over 280 million clicks on YouTube. Four albums have been released so far, with the fifth to follow this year. The journey continues and in October, the banjo rockers with their unique cover songs will also come to Z7.

Doors open: 7:00 PM

THE SYMPHONY OF THE PIRATES

Experience the Symphonic Metal Masters Visions Of Atlantis live on their captivating Armada Tour! On October 17, 2024, they set sail at the legendary Z7 and take you on a breathtaking musical adventure.

From the depths of the oceans, the PIRATES rise! With their latest successful album, Wanderers (2019), and the band's first live Blu-Ray/DVD, A Symphonic Journey to Remember, Visions Of Atlantis have already proven to be at the pinnacle of Symphonic Metal. The latest studio album, Pirates (May 13, 2022), marks a turning point, showing the band confidently and more openly than ever. Embark on a cathartic journey through fascinating soundscapes and captivatingly beautiful melodies, paired with symphonic toughness. The album Pirates musically and lyrically embodies a transformation and the search for self-discovery. The band states: "We can now definitively declare to the world that we are pirates." Experience hits like the epic opener "Pirates Will Return", the powerful "Melancholy Angel", or the majestic "Master The Hurricane". Visions Of Atlantis bring the salt of the sea, the wind on the skin, and boundless independence to the stage of Z7. Freedom, unusual paths, and mastering their world - experience a musical journey without boundaries. Get ready for an unforgettable evening with the pirates of Symphonic Metal! Secure your tickets now for the Armada Tour on October 17, 2024 at Z7!

Doors open: 6:30 PM

30 YEARS OF FULL SPEED AHEAD

With alternative rock hits like "Open Your Eyes" and "Lords Of The Boards," Guano Apes shook up the international music scene in the 90s. Since then, they have been touring with unabated energy as one of the most important and successful rock exports from Germany. In October 2024, the band will come to Z7 to celebrate their biggest hits and commemorate 30 years of Guano Apes with their Swiss fans.

In March 1998, Guano Apes rocked Switzerland for the first time on three consecutive days - at ISC Bern, Luv Zürich, and Bolgenschanze Davos. Those who were present at one of the gigs remember a hurricane in human form named Sandra Nasic, who captivated everyone in the audience. Their three bandmates rocked out until sweat was pouring and dripping from the ceiling. This live energy and explosive mix of hard sounds with catchy melodies, combined with Nasic's impressive vocals, had an impact. The album "Proud Like A God" skyrocketed. It sold around three million copies worldwide and is still considered the most successful English-language debut album by a German rock band. A career kick-off in style.

Henning Rümenapp, Dennis Poschwatta, Stefan Ude, and Sandra Nasic had put together an album with youthful nonchalance in the outskirts of Göttingen in 1997, which subsequently led to a triumphal procession through the rock charts of the world, giving Generation X a voice and laying the foundation for a career that has lasted for three decades. Nasic became an icon as the first and loudest woman in the genre, with "Open Your Eyes" and "Lords Of The Boards" becoming global anthems. The band received several platinum and gold awards, an Echo award, and the MTV Europe Music Award for "Best German Act" - to name a few accolades. But that was just the beginning. The following three albums consistently hit number 1 on the German charts. More single hits like "Pretty In Scarlet," "Big In Japan," "You Can't Stop Me," or "Sunday Lover" followed. In the fall of 2024, the Guano Apes, still performing in their original formation, will return to Switzerland to properly celebrate their band's 30th anniversary with the fans.

Doors open: 7 pm

PROG ROCK WITH WORLD MUSIC INFLUENCES

Those who have experienced Lazuli's incredible musical blend live must inevitably become enchanted by it. Elements from Progressive Rock, Chanson, Folk, and World music come together with the most incredible sounds and intense percussion storms. There are not enough categories to contain Lazuli's music. For those who still need comparisons for this unparalleled music, a rough and yet insufficient description might be "King Crimson meets Peter Gabriel."

The five-piece band also utilizes an exceptional array of instruments: Marimba and Vibraphone are already rare representatives on rock stages, but these instruments are not as unique as the strange string instrument called "Leode," which Lazuli themselves have developed and of which there is only one in the world. The band's sound is enriched by a complete, never-before-heard sonic cosmos.

The upcoming tour is named after the current album, "11 Onze Onze." The prog work was created during the lockdown in the own studio of the brothers Dominique and Claude Leonetti in Southern France.

It is the eleventh album – naturally with eleven tracks. According to the band, who this time also flirts with many world music and acoustic as well as very time-critical elements, this album hides further messages: "This number is a mirror number. It often symbolizes the inner struggle, a 'losing oneself.' And at the same time, it can be seen as a rebirth. Indeed, a melancholy, a 'spleen.' A gray shadow permeates these eleven compositions like a series of images from these uncertain times, like a light-dark painting."

The concerts that Lazuli have performed in Germany, Poland, the UK, Switzerland, and France so far left audiences amazed and completely enchanted, and critics sung the band's praises. The band has long outgrown the status of insider tip. They have earned an excellent reputation among a demanding and appreciative audience. Lazuli is a band for curious people. Those who embrace this music will be rewarded a thousandfold for their openness.

Doors open at 7:00 pm

EXPLOSIVE LIVE SHOWS AND STADIUM ROCK ANTHEMS

The German rock sensation Kissin' Dynamite is ready to rock and with great anticipation announces their next headline tour across Europe. After successfully conquering major stages all over Europe with "Not The End Of The Road", the powerhouse rockers are back to thrill their fans with a breathtaking show full of familiar radio hits and brand new songs.

The tour will span over 15 dates throughout Europe and promises to ignite a firework of charged energy, infectious atmosphere, and massive hit melodies. Kissin' Dynamite, known for their explosive stage presence and anthemic songs, guarantee an unforgettable experience for all rock enthusiasts - and beyond.

Frontman Hannes Braun comments on the tour with the following words: "Europe, get ready for an unforgettable night full of adrenaline and rock 'n' roll! We can't wait to party with you and set the venues on fire."

Don't miss the chance to experience Kissin' Dynamite live and let yourself be swept away by their magnificent performance!

Doors open: 6:00 PM

BOMBASTIC AWAKENING

Kamelot are undoubtedly one of the most influential and innovative melodic power metal bands worldwide. Last year, the Americans once again set standards with the brilliant album "The Awakening." This fall, they are coming to Z7 for the fifteenth time to thrill fans with classics and new song material. The Swiss band Ad Infinitum and the Dutch band Blackbriar will join as special guests. The metal night will kick off with Frozen Crown from Italy.

In spring 2023, Kamelot were guests at Z7 leading a fantastic band package shortly before the release of the album "The Awakening." This year, they are back as headliners of a high-caliber metal quartet. Kamelot are considered one of the most important representatives of modern symphonic metal. With standout works like "The Fourth Legacy" (1999), "The Black Halo" (2005), "Silverthorn" (2012), "Haven" (2015), or the 2018 release "The Shadow Theory," the band achieved top chart positions internationally. After extensive headlining tours and performances at the world's largest festivals, Kamelot made a loud comeback on March 17, 2023, after a five-year album break with "The Awakening." In Germany, the bombastic rockers reached their highest chart entry of their career at number 9, while in Switzerland, they achieved their second-best result at number 15.

Kamelot are one of the few bands in the symphonic field fully dedicated to darkness. However, without darkness, there can be no light. "The Awakening" focuses on themes such as determination, strength, overcoming personal conflicts, and personal development. Musically, "The Awakening" once again proves that Kamelot remain true to the sonic foundation that fans have appreciated for decades. The unique sense for bombastic sounds and their harmonious connection with symphonic theatricality make "The Awakening" an inspiring milestone that expresses more emotionality than ever before. In addition, some of the hardest tracks in their discography are included. As is customary with Kamelot, several prominent guests are featured on the 13th studio album, including Melissa Bonny from Ad Infinitum. A guest appearance by the singer can be expected.

Doors open: 5:30 PM