Maryland Deathfest 2009 - the top 10 best and worst things

May 26, 10:32 PMAustin Metal Music ExaminerJeff Tandy

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MDF fans prepare to start the insanity. Photo courtesy of www.returntothepit.com

From May 22nd to May 24th, the Maryland Death Fest proved to be the shot heard ‘round the world this year as it was one of the first metal music events in years that stood tall against the numerous European festivals that strike across the mainland every summer. This time, “MDF” held all the cards with a brain-melting roster of acts from Europe and the States and brought in people from as far away as Australia. This particular edition of the festival boasted several rarely or never seen acts to American shores, and the 2,000 plus fans in attendance were ready. There were two stages – an inside stage for smaller and local acts, and an outdoor stage for headliners. The entire block was closed off for foot traffic, and there was plenty of camaraderie and metal mania at every turn. This event had its expected ups and downs but if you missed this, then you might as well sleep through the rest of the year!

The top 10 best things about MDF:

1. Martin Van Drunen – one of death metal's greatest voices reclaims the throne!
2. Aura Noir – Norwegian black thrashers for the win!
3. Bolt Thrower - they finally return to the States, then they play twice!
4. Absu – the Highland Tyrants attack!
5. Destroyer 666 – crikey, these Aussies were good!
6. Immolation – veteran death metal lords bring down the hammer!
7. The concert security – patient to the end!
8. The stage schedule – on time for a change!
9. The abundance of band merchandise – decisions, decisions!
10. Metal takes over Baltimore – warriors, unite!

The top 10 disappointments MDF:

1. The "return" of Atheist - nobody missed you!
2. Mayhem's audience – who are these people?
3. Collapsible barricades – look out below!
4. The heat – the sun hates everybody!
5. 11pm noise curfew – what is this, Russia?
6. Marduk cancels – curse the US embassy!
7. Sold out band merchandise – it pays to show up early!
8. No good bands before 4pm – we could have stayed in bed!
9. Extremely tall spectators – down in front!
10. The Red Chord and Cattle Decapitation – what smells in here?