After two intense days, we reached the final day of Tuska 2025.
The day kicked off with a fresh dose of local energy from Cyan Kicks. The band delivered a powerful performance with a polished, modern sound blending melodic hooks and infectious attitude from the very first song.
By that time, a sizeable crowd had already gathered in front of the Karhu Main Stage—and it was no coincidence: what came next was, for many, one of the most highly anticipated acts of the day. Turmion Kätilöt, the unstoppable veterans of “disco metal,” ignited the atmosphere with an absolutely explosive set full of humor, provocation, and an unstoppable rhythm.
Their early slot was surprising considering their fan-favorite status, but it didn’t stop them from delivering a proper party: electronic beats, crushing riffs, and a stage show that turned Suvilahti into an industrial dancefloor where everything—from costumes to catchy choruses—was designed to trigger endorphins.
One of the most unexpected discoveries of the day was undoubtedly Kim Dracula. I walked into the show with curiosity and skepticism—aware of their viral fame and extravagant covers—but found so much more.
Their performance was a creative whirlwind: theatrical, abrasive, and completely unpredictable. Mixing genres in a chaotic blend, defiantly theatrical, and even throwing in a saxophone amid the chaos, Kim Dracula shattered all my preconceptions. This wasn’t just a TikTok sensation covering Lady Gaga—it was a strong, provocative, and refreshing artistic statement that left many—myself included—utterly surprised.
On the other side of the grounds, the main stage was preparing to welcome an old favorite: Apocalyptica. Their performance was solid and dependable, centered around their classic set of Metallica covers on electric cellos.
Apocalyptica built their career decades ago by daring to fuse elegance and audacity in metal. Today, rather than reinventing themselves, they honor the legacy that made them unique, delivering a set that, while unsurprising, reminded everyone why they remain a Tuska staple. BTW: their set was also broadcast live by Yle.
While Battle Beast unleashed their grand power metal show on another stage, I chose a different path, heading to catch Whitechapel at the Nordic Energy Stage. I’d heard much about their intensity and reputation as a top-tier American deathcore act.
The show started heavy—brutal riffs, surgical precision, and Phil Bozeman’s guttural vocals weaving between abyssal growls and raw screams.
Yet, despite their flawless execution, the concert didn’t fully captivate me. Perhaps it was the contrast with the broader festival vibe, or simply a clash between expectation and personal connection. Technically they were impeccable, but emotionally something didn’t click. Still, the dedicated crowd proved Whitechapel continue to command fierce loyalty and raw intensity.
Although Sunday saw the festival’s lowest attendance—only 18,000 people, likely because the work week began the next day—it didn’t stop me from experiencing my standout moment (and one of the festival’s most intense): Motionless In White.
With a meticulously crafted stage setup and relentless energy, the band delivered a fierce, attitude-packed show where every song punched directly into the audience’s emotions.
A particularly touching moment came when Chris Motionless, visibly moved, told the crowd that their visits to Finland have only been recent but that the affection they’ve felt means they can’t imagine touring without including it in the future. It was a genuine, intimate instant that cemented a very real bond with the audience.
Before the headliner Lorna Shore took the stage, I headed to the Kvlt Stage—a space I’d unfortunately visited too little this year but which consistently offers rich and diverse acts. The small covered auditorium became a standout highlight thanks to The Vantages.
I was drawn to them through an indirect connection to one of my all-time favorite bands, HIM, which had me particularly excited about their performance. Their blend of Nordic melancholy, enveloping guitars, and dark romanticism struck me with subtle echoes of love metal—but with a contemporary twist.
The show’s most surprising (and brilliant) moment? Their daring cover of “Move” by TAEMIN, a bold choice for a ‘dark’ festival stage. The result was impeccable: elegant, sensual, and perfectly aligned with their sonic style. Huge props for the courage and flawless execution. My personal highlights came with “Alone” and “Dramatique”—two tracks that crystallize everything I loved about them: emotion, style, and a compelling artistic sensibility.
The grand finale of Tuska 2025 arrived with Lorna Shore, delivering a furious and fitting closing performance. With devastating sonic brutality, infernal visuals, and razor-sharp execution, Will Ramos and his band took the Karhu Main Stage to a collective climax of chaos, catharsis, and technical mastery.
An instant anecdote came from the photo pit: photographers were normally allowed to shoot for three songs, but this time only got one. Why? Will Ramos invited the audience to a massive crowd surf from minute one, instantly turning the pit into a frenzy of bodies cascading over cameras and photographers. Despite the madness, security acted swiftly and effectively, protecting fans and accredited personnel alike. A perfect example of how, even in utter mayhem, Tuska ensures every detail is handled.
Throughout the festival, logistical care was evident: staff monitored crowd capacities across zones to ensure public safety and flow. And as a beautiful counterpoint to the intensity, Sunday also saw the celebration of Pikku Tuska—a heartwarming initiative allowing free entry for children up to 12, accompanied by an adult. The family spirit was visible in every corner—including a little trainride for young metalheads-in-the-making. A perfect snapshot of how, at Tuska, metal is also about community, heritage, and the future.
Epilogue: The heart of Tuska beats in its people
Beyond the riffs, screams, and lights, what truly gives Tuska its soul is its audience. For three days, Helsinki transforms: on trams, on street corners, you see people dressed in their finest metal gear—chains, boots, makeup, patches, and unmistakable attitude—making their way to Suvilahti with excitement shining in their eyes. The festival spills into the city, turning into a nationwide celebration of metal identity.
Inside the festival grounds, diversity is everywhere: families with kids, fans from other continents, veteran headbangers, teens discovering their first bands, and people who live and breathe metal. Special respect goes to those in the front row, who hold their spot with unwavering devotion—because, for them, this isn’t just entertainment: it’s personal history, catharsis, faith.
That’s why we close this chronicle with a special gallery celebrating the fans—their creativity, energy, and passion are the very force that keeps Tuska alive year after year.
🎧 Don’t miss our special podcast episode
And of course, we couldn’t wrap up without sharing the special podcast we recorded with our friends from Headbanging MX, where we unpacked Tuska 2025 with anecdotes, reflections, and loads of metal passion. Listen below 👇
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