THE RETURN OF PROGRESSIVE POETRY

The French formation Lazuli is one of the most fascinating phenomena in the European prog rock scene. With their unique blend of progressive rock, chanson, folk, and world music, the five musicians create a sound cosmos that is both mystical and powerful. On their upcoming tour, they will present their new album "Être et ne plus être" – and once again prove that musical magic cannot be confined to boxes.

Anyone who has experienced Lazuli live has fallen under their musical spell. Their sound combines lyrical melodies, robust percussion, and finely crafted sound textures into a captivating whole, where the boundaries between progressive rock, world music, and French chanson blur. The result is a poetic, powerful, and deeply emotional sound language that defies categorization – comparisons like "King Crimson meets Peter Gabriel" are too simplistic to capture the creative diversity of this extraordinary band. An essential part of their magic lies in the instrumentation: alongside marimba and vibraphone, which are rarely found on rock stages, it is primarily the "Leode" – a unique string instrument developed by the band themselves, of which there is only one in the world – that provides an unmistakable tone. This mix of craftsmanship and innovation expands the spectrum of prog rock into entirely new sound dimensions, where organic warmth flows together with futuristic sounds. Their new album "Être et ne plus être" ("To Be and Not to Be"), which will be released on January 30, 2026, is the artistic centerpiece of the upcoming tour. In the best Lazuli tradition, it is more than just a collection of songs – it is a journey through light and darkness, doubt and euphoria, a musical reflection of life itself. The band describes the creative process as a chaos of emotions and inspiration from which twelve pieces were born – "a bit of organized noise, interrupted by sighs and silence." With this blend of depth, experimental spirit, and dedication, Lazuli has evolved from a secret tip to a fixed presence in the European prog rock scene. Their concerts captivate both audiences and critics alike, and those who engage with their music are rewarded with a unique experience – a sound journey between dream and reality, intellect and emotion.

Doors open: 19:00

DEATH METAL MASTERPIECE

Kataklysm returns to Pratteln in 2026 with their "Freedom or Death" tour! The Canadian-American melodic death metal giants bring along their current studio album "Goliath" – a monumental work full of rage, power, and unwavering energy. As special guest, the Polish death metal pioneers Vader will energetically play along.

With "Goliath," Kataklysm delivered a death metal album for the history books in 2023. A milestone of modern extreme metal that combines brutal aggression with technical precision and emotional depth. Frontman Maurizio Iacono explains: "There is a lot of anger, but also a lot of darkness on this record – it reflects the current mood on our planet. 'Goliath' is a modern David versus Goliath work: it's about standing up, fighting back, even when it seems impossible." Songs like "Bringer of Vengeance," "Die As A King," or "Dark Wings of Deception" show Kataklysm in top form – unyielding, haunting, and captivating.

Since their founding in 1991, Kataklysm has never wavered in evolving their sound while maintaining their distinctive style. The kings of Northern hyperblast have internalized one thing since the early days: stagnation leads to decay. Therefore, they continuously deliver first-class extreme metal albums, are as present and popular live as arguably no other band in this sector, and relentlessly send waves of powerful metal sound across the globe. To sound so fresh after such a long time is a feat that very few bands achieve. Kataklysm definitely belongs to that select group.

Doors open: 6:30 PM

The name sounds bombastic, and in fact, COLOSSEUM is something like a dinosaur in the history of rock music: a collective of incredibly virtuosic soloists, yet with a closed, compact sound and musically always very innovative in various constellations. The double album "Colosseum Live" can certainly still be safely regarded as a gem in the history of rock history today. In 2026, the "colossus" is back in motion to the delight of numerous fans. Under the motto “Out Into The Fields”, the originals Chris Farlowe, Clem Clempson & Mark Clarke will present alongside Colosseum classics like “Lost Angeles” & the “Valentyne Suite” also songs from the new studio album “XI” (Repertoire Records). Line-Up: Chris Farlowe (lead vocals), Clem Clempson (guitars & vocals), Mark Clarke (bass & vocals), Malcolm Mortimore (drums), Nick Steed (keyboards), Kim Nishikawara  (saxophones).

Since 2020, the British legend Colosseum, featuring original members Clem Clempson, Chris Farlowe, and Mark Clarke, has been increasingly active in the studio and on stage. In 2026, the seasoned musicians will go on tour again. They will bring numerous classics and the colossal new album "XI" from 2025, which once again dynamically and inspiredly covers a wide spectrum of blues, jazz-rock, and prog.

The fusion pioneers Colosseum were founded in 1968 and were revived for the second time in 2020 by guitarist Clem Clempson (since 1969), bassist Mark Clarke (since 1970), and R&B legend Chris Farlowe (since 1970). The current lineup also includes keyboardist Nick Steed (Van Morrison, PP Arnold), saxophonist Kim Nishikawara (Michael Bublé, Maggie Bell, Jack Bruce), and drummer Malcolm Mortimore (Tina Turner, Tom Jones, Gentle Giant). Together, they released the comeback album "Restoration" in 2022. In March 2025, they followed up with another long player. The simply titled "XI," the eleventh studio work by Colosseum, opens another exciting chapter in the band's history, which began in 1969 with their debut "Those Who Are About To Die Salute You." The nine songs on "XI" showcase the current lineup of Colosseum at their best. A group of friends, long-time colleagues, and like-minded individuals who honor the memory of the founding members Jon Hiseman and Dick Heckstall-Smith without sounding dusty. The album includes seven self-penned songs, with keyboardist Nick Steed standing out as a songwriter alongside Clem Clempson. The almost 9-minute "English Garden Suite" recalls the Colosseum masterpiece "The Valentyne Suite" with its length and title. Selected covers of Van Morrison's "Ain't Gonna Moan No More" and Jack Bruce's "Out Into The Fields" round off "XI." Muskreviews.de states: "An album that sounds like the best times of the band – which were in the 70s – and still arrives in the middle of 2025 without any exaggerated nostalgia factor, blending jazz and progressive rock with blues and soul, hitting the mark perfectly."

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Doors open: 19:00 Uhr

Emotional blues rock from Sweden with a female soul voice meets the raw seventies rock of the Dutch band DeWolff. The co-headliner tour of these two live giants promises a night of pure retro power.

Blues Pills from Sweden have always been the somewhat different band of the great retro rock wave. Instead of focusing like many of their peers on the influences of Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath, the quartet appears more playful, vibrant, and groovy than the competition. The quartet creates a rock’n’roll atmosphere that directly leads to their musical ancestors: the early Fleetwood Mac, Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, or Cactus. It’s hard to believe that these time travelers based in Örebro, Sweden, are quite young. The voice of singer Elin Larsson is often compared to Aretha Franklin or Janis Joplin. Together with the second original band member Zack Anderson, she writes most of the band's lyrics. They address big themes like the search for the soul, the meaning of life, but also family and friends. The Blues Pills come across as authentic and maintain their own identity alongside their love for everything that had prominence in San Francisco in the late sixties. With their current album "Birthday", they again reach for the stars with high-energy rockers and soulful ballads, achieving a new emotional depth. "Birthday" is a celebration of life and music - and you are warmly invited to the party. Don’t miss how the band captures the audience from the very first second with shimmering guitar, eruptive vocals, smooth bass, and precise drumming.

DeWolff:
The trio DeWolff from Limburg is fully dedicated to the rock sound of the 70s and celebrates another exciting retro rock party with their current album "Muscle Shoals". With this latest work, the hottest live act from Holland returns to Switzerland. Founded in 2007, the trio has evolved since their teenage beginnings into a force in the international vintage rock scene, thanks to outstanding albums and passionate live performances. Started in a time when no trend guru was shouting "retro", DeWolff can confidently be seen as a pioneer of this scene. The musical brothers Luka (drums, vocals) and Pablo van de Poel (guitar, vocals), along with the skilled Hammond organist Robin Piso, have long proven their ability to not only storm the charts but also to tear apart the biggest festival stages. In May 2024, they traveled to Muscle Shoals in Alabama to record their tenth album with Grammy-winning producer Ben Tanner (Alabama Shakes) in two legendary studios. In FAME Studios, Aretha Franklin was born as the Queen of Soul when she sat at the piano and recorded "I Never Loved A Man (The Way I Love You)"; also heard there were Arthur Conley, Wilson Pickett, and Etta James. A little more than two miles up the road are the Muscle Shoals Sound Studios, where Cher, the Rolling Stones, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and Bob Dylan performed, and where The Black Keys recorded the Grammy-winning "Brothers" in 2010. Thus, the new DeWolff album exudes the unique vibe of these historic places. With "Muscle Shoals", DeWolff celebrates the seventies in every note of their refined tracks and plays raw psychedelic southern rock of the highest level.

Doors open: 19:00 hours

MASTER OF MODERN BLUES ROCK

Henrik Freischlader is still considered a hidden gem for all those who have never heard of him. The German guitarist and singer has shared the stage with B.B. King, Gary Moore, Peter Green, Johnny Winter, Joe Bonamassa, and the Tedeschi Trucks Band, and after numerous tours across Europe, he is now an indispensable part of the international blues scene.

His virtuosic and passionate guitar playing, his rough distinctive voice, and a knack for good grooves have shaped his unmistakable style over the years. The multi-instrumentalist has released 11 studio albums and 7 live albums since 2006, and there is almost always a new album in planning on his label Cable Car Records.

"You can hardly celebrate handcrafted and musically virtuosic blues rock better than this. ... For me, it’s the concert of the year and yet another proof that the magic of a live concert in smaller clubs cannot be replaced by anything." (Chris Strieder, Darkstars.de)

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Doors: 19:00

LAST CURTAIN FOR OPERATION MINDCRIME

Exceptional singer Geoff Tate brings an iconic piece of rock history to Pratteln with "Operation: Mindcrime – The Final Chapter." The former Queensrÿche frontman comes to Z7 with his current band and performs the acclaimed prog-metal concept album "Operation: Mindcrime" one last time in its entirety.

Geoff Tate is undoubtedly one of the most colorful figures in the international metal scene. The multi-platinum awarded and Grammy-nominated singer and songwriter is primarily known for his over 30 years of work as a creative and driving force behind the progressive metal band Queensrÿche. Under his leadership, Queensrÿche has sold over 20 million albums worldwide and performed in more than 50 countries. Geoff is regarded as one of the most talented singers in the entire genre, and hundreds of modern, popular artists cite him and his former band as major influences on their careers. With a unique combination of socially critical and masterfully written lyrics as well as energetic, melodically complex compositions, Queensrÿche gained worldwide recognition under Tate's leadership as a rock band for a discerning audience. The 1988 album "Operation: Mindcrime" holds a very special place in Tate and Queensrÿche's rich back catalog. The elaborate metal opera is compared by critics to rock historical masterpieces such as "Tommy" by The Who or "The Wall" by Pink Floyd as one of the most important concept albums in music history. An opus that is unmatched not only in the metal realm. On the current tour, which started in January in the United States, Geoff Tate presents the entire album "Operation: Mindcrime" from start to finish and brings the epic story of revolution, betrayal, and redemption to life one last time. Fans will experience the full power and emotion of this groundbreaking album in a gripping performance that perfectly captures the spirit of the original recordings and showcases Geoff Tate in top form. "Operation: Mindcrime – The Final Chapter" is a live event not to be missed.

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Doors open: 7:00 PM

MELODIC DEATH & BLACK’N’ROLL
It has been a long time since the Swedish melodic death kings Hypocrisy made the Z7 tremble to its foundations. But now the band led by Master Peter Tägtgren returns as the headliner of the "Mass Hallucination Tour 2026". And they have a few fat surprises in tow. The lineup of this relentless metal bash is completed by Norwegian black metal icon Abbath, the veteran Swedish death riff machine Vomitory, and the Norwegian black’n’roll command Vreid.

Google says: "A hallucination is the perception of non-real stimuli, which, for those concerned, have a character of reality. It can affect all senses." When Sweden's death metal icon Peter Tägtgren kicks off the "Mass Hallucination Tour 2026" with his death metal institution Hypocrisy, the auditory canals are especially challenged in a considerable way. The singer, multi-instrumentalist, and producer can look back on three and a half decades of band history, during which more than a dozen albums have been released, hundreds of gigs played, and the hearts and souls of countless fans around the world conquered. The influential Swedish death metal band has evolved from an underground act in the early 90s to one of the most respected and successful groups in the genre. Hypocrisy's trademark sound is a unique blend of aggressive death metal and an unmistakable sense for rich textures, catchy melodies, massive grooves, and versatile vocals. Whether listening to the extremely morbid "Osculum Obscenum" album (1993), the legendary track "Roswell 47" (1996), the record "The Arrival" (2004), or the much-praised 2021 work "Worship", Hypocrisy offers an exciting and dynamic metal journey that has produced a discography that is unparalleled in its quality and artistic diversity. After all these years, Tägtgren and his band continue to prove that they remain one of the most innovative and significant melodic death formations in the entire scene.

Doors open at 5:30 PM

MONUMENTAL DARK-ROCK TRILOGY

Whether modern metal, industrial groove, or dark rock: Lord Of The Lost can do it all. The band led by mastermind Chris Harms brilliantly masters the art of reinventing themselves with each album while remaining 100% true to their essence. With "Opus Noir – Volume 1," Lord Of The Lost kicked off a monumental trilogy in August, to be continued in December 25 and completed in spring 26. Following that, the innovative Hamburg band will come to Pratteln as part of their "Tour Noir" to celebrate the three-part monumental work with the fans.

A work, a change, a re-entry into the melancholic self. "Opus Noir," the album trilogy by Lord Of The Lost, is neither at risk of being understated in title nor in musical opulence. The band, now operating as a sextet, presents itself with the current songs more intense and multifaceted than ever before. Each volume contains 11 songs, totaling 33 songs, which not only conclude the wonderfully quirky chapter surrounding "Blood & Glitter" but also embark on an uncompromising journey back into the band's dark interior and represent a confident dive into previously untouched emotional depths. That this is not just an exciting musical step but also a bold one is made clear by a look at the immediate past of the Lord Of The Lost career: support from Iron Maiden on two European tours, followed by their first North American shows in over a decade, sold-out headliner tours, participation in the finale of the Eurovision Song Contest 2023, #1 chart entry with the album "Blood & Glitter," celebrated performances at the biggest festivals around the world. Even a meeting with King Charles was on the agenda. Hand on heart: how easy would it have been to ride that successful horse a little further? But that’s not how Lord Of The Lost operate. The only constant remains change. But what is the LOTL essence in 2025? Once again, the band proves not only musical excellence but also top-class craftsmanship: produced by band founder Chris Harms, the tracks hit the room with a force and brilliance that sweeps us compositional straight into a dark and colorful ballroom. From there on, the tone is set: dark wave metal in amphitheater size. Everything is new yet every note feels familiar. Behind each chorus awaits a surprise, in every line a new door opens to further open ends of the LOTL universe. This band takes the expectations of their ever-growing fanbase and pours them into new songs that break genre boundaries and transform moments into monuments that touch us all. Metal.de judges the start of the album trilogy: "'Opus Noir Vol. 1' is a strong opening. If Lord Of The Lost can maintain this strength in the upcoming volumes, the entire work could go down in the band's history as their magnum opus. Rarely has the hit density on an album by the band been as high as here." We are sure that the live implementation will leave no wishes unfulfilled.

Doors: 18:00

THE ULTIMATE HENDRIX EXPERIENCE

In recent decades, American guitarist and singer Randy Hansen has earned a reputation as one of the world's best Hendrix interpreters. The string virtuoso is also one of the very few artists officially recognized by the Hendrix family. On the occasion of his "Tribute To Jimi Hendrix – European Tour 2026," Randy Hansen brings the spirit of the influential guitar legend back to life with his passionate performance at Z7.

Since Jimi Hendrix's death in 1970, there have been musicians who tried to interpret his music as identically as possible. However, initially, no one quite managed to authentically reproduce both the musical and show characteristics of the exceptional artist. In the 80s, a musician from Hendrix’s hometown of Seattle emerged, who stood out from the hordes of Hendrix clones and was indeed capable of remarkably replicating Jimi's unique guitar sounds: Randy Hansen. But that's not all. When Hansen sings, you believe you are hearing Jimi's voice. Randy Hansen has absorbed every detail of Hendrix and breathes new life into the spirit of the exceptional artist. Not for nothing is he referred to as the reincarnation of Jimi Hendrix by music magazines and critics around the world.

At just twelve years old, Hansen heard the first Hendrix album "Are You Experienced." His ambition to master Jimi's extraordinary feedback sounds determined his life from then on. Through years of work and tireless perfection of his craft, he has earned a reputation as a world-class guitar hero who creates soundscapes filled with the spirit of Jimi Hendrix with unbridled passion. Throughout his long career, Hansen has played with many greats in the music scene such as Paul Rodgers, Sammy Hagar, Herbie Hancock, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Robert Cray, and also with former Hendrix companions Noel Redding, Mitch Mitchell, and Buddy Miles. In his explosive tribute shows, the bundle of energy sweeps across the stage like a dervish, offering a top-notch Hendrix experience.

Doors open: 7:00 PM

THE GATHERING WITH ANNEKE VAN GIERSBERGEN

The Dutch successful rock band The Gathering is celebrating their groundbreaking 1995 album on the "Mandylion 30th Anniversary Tour" with singer Anneke Van Giersbergen in the old lineup. Attention: there will be no reunion, but only a few selected exclusive shows during which the band will celebrate songs from "Mandylion" and other classics from the Anneke era. A must for all fans!

Originally, The Gathering only wanted to play two anniversary shows in August 2025 for the 30th birthday of the album "Mandylion" at the Club Doornroosje in Nijmegen. In the 1100-capacity venue, where the live album "TG25: Live at Doornroosje" was recorded ten years ago, the demand for tickets for this 2-Night-Only spectacle with former singer Anneke Van Giersbergen and original guitarist Jelmer Wiersma was so great that three additional shows were announced. The five concerts sold out in no time! It was then decided to book more dates for 2026. To quell any rumors, it was immediately clarified: this will not be a reunion tour, but merely a few selected shows to celebrate the 30th birthday of the album with the original lineup. We are, of course, very pleased that the Z7 gets to host one of these exclusive concerts. To warm up for the events, various anniversary editions of the album will be released in September. "Mandylion" was the first release with Anneke Van Giersbergen, who had joined the band a year earlier. With the new singer, a deal was made with the German label Century Media, and the first joint work ultimately brought the breakthrough for the band. 20th place and gold certification in the Netherlands, followed by tours throughout Holland, Belgium, and Germany. The rest is history. On the "Mandylion 30th Anniversary Tour," the temporarily reunited formation will play songs from the anniversary album as well as other titles from the Anneke phase. Old fans can reminisce, and the younger generation has the unique opportunity to experience the feeling of a concert from the period of 1994-2007 when the band celebrated their first successes. The Gathering announced on their social media channels for the anniversary tour: "You can look forward to all 'Mandylion' tracks and more from our Anneke era. After so many years, we are very excited to celebrate this anniversary together. 'Mandylion' is an album that still means a lot to us. Cheers! Frank, Hugo, Anneke, Jelmer, Hans & René."

Copyright: Unknown

Doors: 7:00 PM

THE KINGS OF MODERN METAL

Since their beginnings in the metalcore underground, Trivium have steadily evolved from album to album and quickly became the spearhead of the modern metal genre. Today, the band represents a versatile, contemporary, and arena-compatible heavy metal sound of the highest quality. In the summer of 2026, the Americans will come for an exclusive Summer Nights Indoor Show at Z7.

Sweden Rock, Rock im Park, Nova Rock, Rock am Ring, Download – Z7! The modern metal masters Trivium will rock the big European festival stages in 2026. Here, you have the opportunity to experience the band in the intimate setting of a Z7 Summer Nights Indoor Show. Trivium undoubtedly ranks among the leading metal bands of our time. With their milestone album "Ascendancy" (2005), the Floridians gained worldwide fame. Their blend of melody, thrash power, and high-energy live shows captivates metal fans as well as a wider audience. At the beginning of 2025, Trivium were on a major retro trip through Europe. On the joint tour with Bullet For My Valentine, they celebrated the 20th anniversary of their groundbreaking album "Ascendancy." The tour was supposed to continue worldwide until the end of the year, but BFMV suddenly left the tour. Thus, Trivium decided to release an EP for the first time in their career with the 3-track monster "Struck Dead." Bassist Paolo Gregoletto: "The new songs somehow channel the angry energy of 'Ascendancy.' The result is really heavy. I think some moments might be a bit proggy, but there are many really good hooks and great riffs." In the meantime, frontman Matt Heafy and his guys have started working on a new studio album set to be released in 2026. Guitarist Corey Beaulieu: "The last album 'In The Court Of The Dragon' came out in 2021. That's our longest gap between two full-length albums. So new music is definitely on the way. We've been working on a few things and are turning the page to the next chapter. There will be a new album in 2026 with an accompanying tour, festivals, and everything that comes with it. It's going to be another busy year. We're leaving nostalgia behind and looking to the future. We’re excited for that."

Doors open at 7:00 PM

FINGERSTYLE LEGEND FROM DOWN UNDER

For guitar gourmets worldwide, Tommy Emmanuel's status as a driving force in the contemporary six-string scene is undeniable. The Australian guitar icon has once again impressively demonstrated his instrumental and compositional skills with the album "Living In The Light" released in the fall of 2025. In the summer of 2026, Tommy Emmanuel CGP will showcase his extraordinary live qualities on the stage of Z7.

Tommy Emmanuel is unstoppable. The 70-year-old musician released his new album "Living In The Light" in the fall of 2025 and is still touring the world. The award-winning, twice Grammy-nominated artist from Down Under is among the most renowned fingerpickers in the world, with his unique guitar style and outstanding technique, very much in the spirit of the great Chet Atkins. Over his six and a half decades-long career – Tommy was considered a guitar prodigy and played at a professional level as a child – the Australian has refined the music of diverse artists like Air Supply and Michael Jackson and shared the stage with legends Les Paul and Eric Clapton. With his various influences ranging from country, jazz, blues, and folk to African and Latin American styles, as well as Spanish and classical elements, Emmanuel is open to all genres and cultures, which also made him a musical ambassador between people from all nations at the closing ceremony of the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney. Renowned guitarists rave about Tommy Emmanuel. "The best guitarist I've ever seen play," says Eric Clapton. Colleague Joe Satriani notes, "He plays the same 12 notes that are available to all of us. He uses the same 6 strings. He doesn't play the most unusual guitars in the world. Essentially, he needs the same tools we do, but what he achieves with them is monumental."

Tommy Emmanuel CGP: The acronym CGP stands for Certified Guitar Player and is an honorary title invented by guitar legend Chet Atkins (+2001) that has been bestowed upon only a handful of select guitarists. Although this is an unofficial recognition, it is a great honor for the holders to have received this acknowledgment of their achievements from Atkins. Tommy Emmanuel has had the three letters engraved into the necks of some of his guitars.

Copyright: Alyssa Gafkjen

Doors: 7:00 PM

The event has been canceled.

DEATH-METAL-LEGACY

Three former members of the influential band Death jointly manage the musical legacy of the much too early deceased Florida death metal legend Chuck Schuldiner. With their tribute band Death To All, the musicians are coming to Switzerland as part of the "Symbolic Healing Tour 2026".

Founded in 1984 by Chuck Schuldiner in Altamonte Springs, the band Death, alongside the Californian band Possessed, is considered one of the most famous pioneers of death metal and was regarded as a co-founder of the genre-defining death metal scene in Florida. After the death of mastermind Schuldiner in 2001, Death was disbanded. About a decade later, three former members of the band decided to take over Schuldiner's musical legacy and form the tribute band Death To All. Drummer Gene Hoglan (Death, Dark Angel, Testament), bassist Steve DiGiorgio (Death, Testament, Sadus), and guitarist Bobby Koelble (Death) teamed up with singer and guitarist Max Phelps (Exist, Cynic). Death to All offers a new generation of metalheads the opportunity to experience the genius of Death and Chuck Schuldiner up close. Currently, two groundbreaking albums are the focus of the concert setlists. The "Symbolic Healing Tour" celebrates the anniversaries of the albums "Spiritual Healing" (35 years) and "Symbolic" (30 years). For two hours, Death To All impressively demonstrates in their shows how timeless Schuldiner's music is. It is a powerful and respectful homage that challenges the audience while simultaneously thrilling them and reminding them once again of what the pioneer has accomplished for the death metal scene. Setlist highlights include songs like "Spiritual Healing," "Symbolic," "The Philosopher," "Zero Tolerance," "Voice of the Soul," and "Crystal Mountain." During the last tour in Germany, a metalhead asked on a relevant internet portal: "Is the band worth going to the concert?" Another fan promptly replied: "Absolutely! I've seen them twice and both times were super shows. The singer does a great job and the rest of the band is fantastic too. Hearing the music live, played pretty close to the original, is 100% worth it for me. I will go again whenever they tour near me." On to Pratteln!

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Doors: 6:00 PM

RIFF-MONSTER RELOADED

The singer, songwriter, and guitarist Zakk Wylde is coming back to the Z7 in the summer of 2026 with his riff monster Black Label Society. And he is bringing fresh song material: a new long player is set for early 2026. As part of the subsequent album release tour, the BLS Express will roll into Pratteln.

Zakk Wylde is a busy man. Recently, he was on tour with the reformed Pantera or his all-star project Zakk Sabbath and played big at Ozzy Osbourne's farewell show in Birmingham in July. In addition, he also found time to produce new songs for his formation Black Label Society. In spring 2026, the long-awaited twelfth studio album will be released, followed by a major tour. From February, an extensive journey through the United States and Canada is initially planned. In summer, the new tracks will also be presented in Europe. Three singles have already been released in advance: "The Gallows" premiered in September 2024, followed by "Lord Humungus" in February 2025, and Black Label Society released their third advance single for the upcoming studio album, "Broken And Blind," in autumn 2025. Zakk Wylde commented on the release in his typically quirky and humorous way: “What's up, guys? This is Zakk Wylde from Black Label Society. This is a new song called ‘Broken And Blind’. The song is about peanut butter and chocolate and what happens when I don’t have either. My soul is broken and I’m blind with rage when I don’t have peanut butter and chocolate. So here you go, the new song is called ‘Broken And Blind’. Thanks, have a great day.”

Black Label Society was founded in 1998 by Zakk Wylde in Los Angeles, California. The debut album “Sonic Brew” was released the same year. The latest album, “Doom Crew Inc.,” was released in 2021. Metal Hammer stated: “Of course, the ultra-cool guitar riffs of master Wylde are at the center of all tracks, always wonderfully garnished with acoustic guitars or piano and even organ sounds. The best part: Zakk Wylde has never sung as compellingly and diversely as on ‘Doom Crew Inc.’!” To date, the band has released eleven studio albums, two live albums, and an EP. Album number twelve will be released in spring 2026. Plenty of monster riffs guaranteed. “The main component of every Black Label track is the riff,” says Zakk. Black Label Society builds their music on that, which recently cracked the Billboard Top 5 Albums chart three times in a row. The BLS discography is like a manual for finely crafted American hard rock music and should thus be a must for all blues-based rock 'n' roll musicians. The new songs were once again recorded in Zakk's own Black Vatican Studio. Their simplicity is due to the ultimate lesson Wylde learned from Black Sabbath's 76 work “We Sold Our Soul for Rock’N’Roll”: “Less is often more. Except for the guitar solos.”

Doors open at 18:30.

EXPLOSION OF EMOTIONS

Few singers can convey their deepest feelings in such an inspiring way through songs like the American blues, soul, and rock singer Beth Hart. With her album "You Still Got Me," she has released another very personal work in October 2024 that encompasses a true explosion of emotions. Her performance on the open-air stage of Z7 Summer Nights promises to be a highlight of the concert year 2025.

This passionate musician must be experienced live. Beth Hart not only captivates with fantastic songs that blend earthy blues, soulful soul, and gripping rock, but also with a voice that is unmatched. Powerful and expressive, she reveals her deepest emotions during concerts brimming with devotion and passion. When Beth Hart sings in the title song of her new album "You Still Got Me": "He asked me if I need a hug, I said I got nothing inside left to love and then he said, but baby ya still got me," you can really feel it. Anyone who has seen Beth Hart live or immersed themselves in her music knows that she pours every gram of her being into her songs. Beth Hart is more authentic than ever. In a music industry filled with glossy productions and retouched photoshoots, she is the artist who lays her cards on the table and reveals her darkest secrets. Once again, the Grammy-nominated talent showcases her most vulnerable side on a record and gives listeners insights into her personal successes and setbacks in life. "My inner healing process took a very long time, but now I feel very comfortable with my dark side, my craziness, and the things I was ashamed of for so long." Beth Hart truly has nothing to be ashamed of. Certainly not for her fantastic music.

Doors open: 6:00 PM

TOBI TOTAL: Z7-SUMMER NIGHT WITH AVANTASIA

Avantasia is back! Tobias Sammet is coming to Pratteln with his celebrated all-star metal opera project. The "Here Be Dragons Tour" will make a stop at the Z7 Summer Nights Open Airs in 2026 and invites us on a fantastic musical journey between reality, dreams, exuberance, and melancholy.

"Here Be Dragons" is the tenth studio album of the metal opera project Avantasia. And it has made quite an impact again: Number 1 in Germany and Austria, number 3 in the Swiss charts. Tobias Sammet's all-star parade is still a guarantee for success a quarter-century after the first output. The album, released in spring 2025, offers absolute Avantasia essentials like the big choruses and bombastic symphonic metal elements, while also surprising old and new fans with fascinating new soundscapes. "Here Be Dragons" enhances the continuously evolving and globally celebrated Avantasia sound that has been refined over more than 25 years with exciting and powerful facets. It has resulted in the most consistent and distinctive work in the band's history. All ten tracks on "Here Be Dragons" were written and composed by Tobias Sammet himself. In typical Avantasia fashion, the album creates cinematic atmospheres and brings grand stories to life – brought to life by absolute musical extraordinary artists. Among the guests on the album are Ronnie Atkins (Pretty Maids), Bob Catley (Magnum), Tommy Karevik (Kamelot), Michael Kiske (Helloween, Unisonic), Geoff Tate (Operation: Mindcrime, former Queensrÿche), and Kenny Leckremo (H.E.A.T). Some of these fantastic voices will also be welcomed in Pratteln for the grand Avantasia Summer Nights Open Air. And Tobias Sammet promises: "The shows of our 'Here Be Dragons' tour offer a journey into a world full of wonders, where people can forget everything else in their real lives and join us on the other side. It’s a captivating experience with special effects and a huge production, bigger and better than anything we’ve ever done. There are anthemic, epic songs seamlessly fitting with our classics and some almost forgotten songs that have made it into the live setlist. I can’t wait to present 'Here Be Dragons' to the world in 2026 and bring this stage spectacle back on the road." Yes, indeed: Avantasia is back!

Copyright: Photo by Kevin Nixon

Entry: 6:00 PM

SAVATAGE & NEVERMORE: PROG-METAL-SOMMERFEST

After the celebrated stage comeback in the summer of 2025, Savatage will return to Europe in 2026 with the "Prelude To Madness" tour. In addition to various festival appearances, there will be a few selected headliner shows. One of them will take place as part of the Z7 Summer Nights Open Airs on August 3, right at our doorstep! As special guests, we are thrilled to welcome none other than the newly reformed Nevermore, featuring Jeff Loomis and Van Williams.

Tampa Florida, November 3, 2025: The prog-metal pioneers Savatage announce their eagerly awaited "Prelude To Madness" tour 2026. The launch will begin on July 19 in Istanbul, marking the long-awaited return to Europe. The concerts promise an explosive setlist, featuring songs from the entire catalog of the band, including classic anthems and deep cuts that underline Savatage's appreciation for their legendary fanbase, aka The Legion. Singer Zak Stevens states: "After the fantastic tours through South America and Europe last year, I am very much looking forward to the upcoming Savatage shows in Europe. It’s going to be great." Savatage is regarded as one of the most influential bands in Progressive Metal. Throughout their remarkable career, the band from Tampa has released eleven groundbreaking albums and performed hundreds of concerts worldwide. With their unique blend of thrash, prog, power metal, and classic hard rock, they have had a lasting impact on heavy metal. Their innovative approach to concept albums and rock operas has influenced countless artists and garnered them a loyal fan base all over the world. The passionate following continually advocated for the band's return during the nearly two-decade-long touring hiatus. Their one-time reunion performance at Wacken Open Air 2015 thrilled 80,000 fans and confirmed both the legendary status of Savatage and the unwavering dedication of their audience. Building on the success of the Wacken triumph, Savatage made international headlines in 2025 with their first headline shows since 2002. The Europe tour successfully united multiple generations and was a highly emotional experience for both old and new fans. It is with even greater excitement that we present one of the few headliner shows of Savatage in the summer of 2026. The "Prelude To Madness" tour will feature the current powerhouse lineup of Zak Stevens (vocals), Al Pitrelli and Chris Caffery (guitars), Johnny Lee Middleton (bass), and Jeff Plate (drums).

Nevermore:
In spring 2025, news spread like wildfire through the metal scene: Nevermore is making a comeback! Founding member Jeff Loomis (guitar) and long-time drummer Van Williams aim to revive the prog-metal legend with new collaborators. At the end of March, they announced: "The wait is over! After a long selection process, we have assembled a lineup that honors our legacy while also charting a new path into the future. We are very happy about this." The identities of the chosen ones will likely be revealed soon. Currently, preparations for the band's long-awaited return are in full swing: "We are getting ready for the next chapter of Nevermore, and we promise it will be worth the wait." Formed in 1992 from the ashes of the band Sanctuary, Nevermore established themselves in the metal Olympus between 1995 and 2010 with seven fantastic albums and a compelling stage presence. In the summer of 2026, the newly formed prog/thrash metallers from Seattle will come in a double bill with Savatage to Pratteln. It promises to be a high-profile summer night on Kraftwerkstrasse. Savatage frontman Zak Stevens can hardly wait: "We are very excited to welcome our old friends Nevermore as special guests."

Doors open: 6:00 PM

META-SUMMER THUNDER WITH SAXON

The mighty Metal Eagle spreads its wings once again and lands on our outdoor stage in August 2026. The tireless NWOBHM legend Saxon comes for a show as part of the Z7 Summer Nights in Pratteln. Frontman Biff Byford still shows himself to be in impressive form even after five decades and once again brings his timeless Heavy Metal Thunder to Switzerland.

Saxon are the absolute hard workers of the metal scene. Founded 50 years ago in Barnsley, England as Son Of A Bitch, they have written Heavy Metal history up to today. Together with Iron Maiden, they were among the pioneers of the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal in the early 80s and brought 5 albums into the Top 20 of the UK charts – at a time when you still had to sell quite a few physical records to have a chance in the charts. Saxon have since released 24 studio albums and countless live albums, and with their regular releases and seemingly endless tours, they remain a sure bet in the hard rock business. Saxon are one of the very few formations that have remained true to themselves and their sound throughout their entire career. And that is appreciated by the fans. With their latest work "Hell, Fire And Damnation," Saxon has once again exceeded all expectations in 2024 and created another Heavy Metal classic that walks the perfect line between confident, contemporary power and a respectful homage to the glorious New Wave of British Heavy Metal. Every performance oozes confidence. Biff Byford delivers his best vocals in years, drummer Nigel Glockler and bassist Nibbs Carter provide thunderous power for the rhythm. The guitars of Doug Scarratt and Brian Tatler are fresh, fiery, and complement each other perfectly. Musically, Saxon brings everything to the table that keeps the denim-and-leather crowd entertained. Singer Biff reflects on the album produced by Andy Sneap (Judas Priest), where for the first time Diamond Head guitarist Brian Tatler contributed. "Brian brought a new dynamic to the songwriting. It worked excellently. 'Hell, Fire And Damnation' was chosen as 'Album of the Year' on quite a few websites. So we must have hit it quite well. I hope the next one will be just as good, if not better. But 'Hell, Fire And Damnation' will be hard to top. I consider it a pretty perfect album." The songs for a successor are definitely already in the works, and a new work is expected by the end of 2026. It is quite possible that a brand new Saxon song will find its way onto the Summer Night setlist.

Copyright: n/a

Entrance: 18:00 Uhr

ROSE TATTOO: LAST SHOWS IN EUROPE

Rose Tattoo, together with AC/DC, has shaped the international rock scene like few other Australian bands. With the "Rock'n'Roll Outlaws – One Last Ride" tour, the formation led by legendary singer Angry Anderson celebrates its 50th anniversary. At the same time, the performance at Z7 Summer Nights Open Air is the last opportunity for Swiss fans to experience the band live one more time.

The Australian rock 'n' roll outlaws Rose Tattoo are writing the final chapter of their extraordinary band history: After five decades on the road, the band fronted by Angry Anderson announces its last European tour for 2026. Since their founding in 1976, Rose Tattoo has loudly shaped the international rock scene. With their uncompromising blend of blues, hard rock, and pub rock, they created an unmistakable sound that has influenced generations of musicians and fans. Hits like "Rock 'n' Roll Outlaw," "Bad Boy for Love," and "Nice Boys" are now classics of the genre. Angry Anderson, the charismatic and indestructible voice, still leads the band after half a century with the same energy and passion that made Rose Tattoo one of the most respected live acts in rock history. The farewell tour will crisscross Europe one more time in 2026 and promises an emotional journey through five decades of rock history – from the early pub rock anthems to the later classics. With his well-rehearsed band, Angry will once again deliver what Rose Tattoo became famous for: explosive live energy, authentic rock 'n' roll attitude, and the certainty that true rebellion never dies. The "Rock'n'Roll Outlaws – One Last Ride" shows are more than just concerts; they are a farewell to an important piece of music history and a tribute to the timeless spirit of rock 'n' roll. Angry Anderson will celebrate his 79th (!) birthday the day before his performance in Pratteln. However, instead of enjoying a well-deserved retirement, the indestructible rock 'n' roll veteran travels around the world once more to convey his gritty messages to the fans.

Doors open: 6:00 PM