Jera on Air 2024: Holland's finest punk, hardcore, and metalcore get together in Ysselsteyn

Attending Jera on Air 2024 was nothing short of exhilarating, especially alongside my close friend Kutay. From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement, drawing us into the vibrant world of live music and shared passion.

Setting the Stage for Memories

The festival grounds were alive with energy, filled with fans sporting band t-shirts, colorful hair, and an unmistakable camaraderie. We immersed ourselves in the atmosphere, wandering through the bustling stalls, sampling delicious festival food, and soaking in the sights and sounds of the various stages.

Epic Performances

As we made our way to the stages, we were met with an incredible lineup of bands. The heavy riffs and powerful vocals reverberated in the air, creating a palpable sense of anticipation. 

Creating Lasting Memories

Every moment spent at Jera on Air felt significant. Kutay and I found ourselves laughing, screaming lyrics, and even connecting with fellow festival-goers who shared our enthusiasm. The shared experience of watching our favorite bands perform live created a sense of unity that only festivals can foster.

We made it a point to capture our favorite moments, snapping photos and videos that would later remind us of the incredible time we spent together. Each act was not just a performance; it was a celebration of our friendship and love for music.

Reflections on the Experience

As the sun began to set and the festival lights twinkled to life, Kutay and I took a moment to reflect on the day. We talked about our favorite performances, shared our thoughts on the bands we had seen, and expressed gratitude for the chance to experience such a powerful event together. The energy of the crowd, the sound of guitars, and the thrill of live music blended into a memorable tapestry that we would carry with us long after the festival ended.

Jera on Air 2024 delivered a lineup packed with both heavy-hitting legends and fresh faces in the hardcore, metalcore, and punk scenes. Across the stages, the raw energy was nothing short of electric, and the lineup had something for everyone. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most unforgettable performances from this year’s festival:

GEL

GEL brought the raw and chaotic energy of hardcore punk straight to the festival, setting an early standard for intensity. Their short, blistering set delivered pure aggression with a no-frills, no-mercy attitude that had the crowd tearing it up in a whirlwind of fists and kicks. GEL's abrasive style and ferocity on stage reminded everyone of the pure, unfiltered spirit of hardcore.

The Acacia Strain

If there’s one band that knows how to turn a crowd into an unstoppable force of destruction, it’s The Acacia Strain. Their crushing deathcore sound filled the air with thunderous breakdowns and punishing riffs. "Beast" and "Wormwood" were absolute highlights, sending the pit into a frenzy. Vocalist Vincent Bennett commanded the stage like a battle-hardened general, driving the audience deeper into chaos with each earth-shaking drop.

Madball

The New York hardcore legends Madball brought their no-nonsense, streetwise brand of hardcore to Jera on Air, and it was as raw and visceral as you’d expect. Tracks like "Set It Off" and "Heavenhell" were the soundtrack to an ocean of stage dives and circle pits, with vocalist Freddy Cricien hyping the crowd and keeping the energy levels through the roof. Madball's set was a celebration of hardcore culture at its purest, reminding everyone why they’ve been at the forefront of the scene for so long.

Crosses (†††)

Crosses (†††) provided a break from the relentless aggression with their atmospheric and dark soundscapes. The band, led by Chino Moreno of Deftones, brought a haunting yet captivating vibe to the festival, blending dreamy melodies with eerie undertones. Their performance of "Bitches Brew" and "The Epilogue" created an immersive experience, offering fans a chance to soak in the deeper, moodier side of alternative rock. It was a hauntingly beautiful performance that stood out among the heavier sets.

Alpha Wolf

Australia’s Alpha Wolf came out swinging with their crushing breakdowns and high-energy set. The pit opened up instantly as they hit the stage, delivering fan favorites like "Akudama" and "Creep" with fierce precision. The band's blend of aggressive vocals and crushing riffs made for one of the more intense pits of the weekend, leaving the crowd breathless and hungry for more.

Architects

A personal highlight for me, Architects absolutely decimated the stage. Their live performance of "Animals" felt like a battle cry that echoed across the entire festival. The intricate balance of emotion and heaviness that they brought to the stage was truly something special. Sam Carter’s vocals were on point, and the crowd’s reaction was nothing short of cathartic. For those few moments, it felt like the entire festival was united under their monumental sound.

Bad Religion

Bringing a dose of punk rebellion, Bad Religion provided a refreshing break from the hardcore onslaught. Their set was filled with iconic tracks like "American Jesus" and "Sorrow," reminding everyone why they’ve remained legends in the punk rock scene for decades. It was impossible not to sing along, and their politically charged anthems struck a chord with the crowd, sparking a vibrant mosh pit and a sea of fist-pumping fans.

Biohazard

The reunion of Biohazard was another massive highlight. Their blend of hardcore and punk was ferocious, and seeing the original members back on stage was an emotional moment for many longtime fans. Classics like "Punishment" and "Shades of Grey" hit with the same force they did years ago, and the energy in the crowd was electric, with bodies flying through the air in a chaotic mix of joy and aggression.

Bleed From Within

Metalcore titans Bleed From Within brought a dark, melodic energy to the festival. Their live rendition of "The End of All We Know" sent waves of energy through the crowd, and their tight, polished performance showed why they’re rapidly rising in the metal scene. The melodic elements intertwined with brutal breakdowns made for a set that was both emotionally heavy and crushingly powerful.

Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes

Every time Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes take the stage, it feels like a wild, rebellious ride. Frank Carter’s boundless energy and connection with the crowd made their performance stand out. At one point, Carter jumped into the crowd, creating one of the most interactive and intimate moments of the festival. Their set was a mix of aggression and punk attitude, with highlights like "Crowbar" shaking the crowd to its core.

Ice Nine Kills

If you’re a fan of theatrical metal, Ice Nine Kills did not disappoint. Their horror-themed performance brought a fresh dose of theatrics to the festival, with hits like "The American Nightmare" turning the pit into a frenzy. They really know how to engage their audience, blending metalcore with cinematic elements to create an experience that feels as much like a horror movie as it does a concert.

Suicidal Tendencies

The legendary crossover thrash kings, Suicidal Tendencies, brought their signature mix of skate punk and thrash to the Jera stage. Their high-energy performance had the crowd going absolutely wild, with classics like "Institutionalized" and "You Can’t Bring Me Down" sending the circle pit into overdrive. Mike Muir’s charismatic stage presence and relentless energy made their set one of the most memorable of the weekend.

Sum 41

The nostalgia hit hard when Sum 41 took the stage. With their blend of pop-punk and heavier influences, they had the crowd bouncing and singing along to every word. Tracks like "Fat Lip" and "In Too Deep" transported us back to the early 2000s, while their newer material showed they still have plenty to offer. It was bittersweet knowing this could be one of their final tours, and their performance was filled with gratitude to the fans.

While She Sleeps

While She Sleeps brought their trademark intensity to Jera on Air with a set that felt like a celebration of community. Their anthemic tracks like "Sleeps Society" and "Anti-Social" had the crowd screaming every lyric back at them. The energy between the band and audience was palpable, and by the time their set ended, the entire crowd was united in a sweaty, satisfied mass of metalheads.

Show Me The Body

Show Me The Body delivered one of the most unique and electrifying performances of the festival. Known for blending hardcore punk with elements of noise, sludge, and experimental sounds, their set was raw and aggressive, but with an unmistakable sense of artistry. Tracks like "Madonna Rocket" and "Arcanum" sent shockwaves through the crowd, creating a primal, almost ritualistic atmosphere. Their ability to mix heavy, distorted sounds with eerie, industrial-like undertones captivated the audience, drawing everyone into their intense world. The sheer ferocity of their music, paired with frontman Julian Cashwan Pratt’s fiery energy, made their set unforgettable. Mosh pits raged throughout, with the band’s raw power leaving a deep mark on Jera on Air’s hardcore crowd.

Body Count

When Body Count hit the stage, they brought a whole different kind of heavy. Led by the legendary Ice-T, Body Count delivered a masterclass in merging thrash metal with hardcore punk and rap. The blend of heavy guitars, aggressive lyrics, and Ice-T’s commanding presence gave the performance a razor-sharp edge. Tracks like "Cop Killer" and "Body Count’s in the House" had the crowd losing their minds, with huge circle pits and relentless headbanging. Also, they played Slayer's unforgettable songs. Their socially conscious lyrics, dealing with issues like police brutality and racial inequality, resonated deeply, making the performance not just a musical experience but a powerful political statement. Ice-T’s charisma on stage was undeniable, and the band’s crushing riffs kept the energy sky-high from start to finish.

Scowl

A scowl came in like a force of nature, delivering one of the most talked-about hardcore punk sets of the weekend. This California-based band is known for their aggressive sound and confrontational stage presence, and they did not disappoint at Jera on Air. Frontwoman Kat Moss commanded the stage with an untouchable energy, and her snarling vocals cut through the chaos with precision. Tracks like "Retail Hell" and "Fuck Around" were greeted with wild mosh pits, with fans reacting to every breakdown and screaming with unfiltered aggression. Scowl’s performance was fast, furious, and full of attitude, blending classic hardcore punk vibes with a modern edge. Their raw, rebellious energy made them one of the standout hardcore bands of the festival, leaving a lasting impression on anyone who witnessed the carnage.

Shadow of Intent

Shadow of Intent unleashed an unrelenting force of symphonic deathcore at Jera on Air 2024, delivering a performance that was as brutal as it was theatrical. Their set was filled with intricate, crushing breakdowns, rapid-fire drumming, and symphonic elements that added a cinematic layer to their already devastating sound. Songs like "Gravesinger" and "The Heretic Prevails" had the crowd in a frenzy, with brutal mosh pits erupting from the first note. Vocalist Ben Duerr’s monstrous growls and shrieks cut through the wall of sound, commanding the audience’s attention. The blend of technical proficiency and dark, epic atmospheres made Shadow of Intent’s set one of the heaviest and most memorable of the festival. Their unique sound, fusing symphonic metal with deathcore brutality, stood out among the more traditional acts, creating a haunting yet crushing experience for everyone in attendance.

Silverstein

Canadian post-hardcore veterans Silverstein brought their signature mix of emotional intensity and melodic aggression to Jera on Air, and the crowd loved every second of it. Performing fan favorites like "My Heroine" and "Smashed Into Pieces," they seamlessly blended their early 2000s emo roots with heavier breakdowns and soaring melodies. Frontman Shane Told’s dual vocal abilities—switching effortlessly between powerful clean vocals and piercing screams—gave their set a dynamic energy that kept the crowd engaged throughout. The singalongs were massive, with the audience pouring their hearts into every chorus. Silverstein also showcased their newer material, proving that even after two decades, they remain relevant and innovative in the post-hardcore scene. Their set was a heartfelt and cathartic release for both the band and their loyal fans.

Movements

Movements provided a deeply emotional and introspective moment amidst the chaos of the festival. Known for their ability to blend post-hardcore with indie and emo elements, their set was a powerful mix of raw emotion and melodic energy. Songs like "Daylily" and "Colorblind" had the crowd swaying and singing along, with many visibly moved by the vulnerability in their lyrics. Vocalist Patrick Miranda’s heartfelt delivery brought a deep emotional resonance to the performance, connecting with the audience on a personal level. Their slower, atmospheric soundscapes were balanced by heavier moments, creating a dynamic set that took the audience on a journey through emotional highs and lows. Movements’ ability to convey complex emotions through their music made them stand out at a festival dominated by heavier acts, offering a reflective and immersive experience.

Guilt Trip

Representing the UK hardcore scene, Guilt Trip brought an intense, hard-hitting set to Jera on Air. Known for their heavy riffs and ferocious breakdowns, they wasted no time in turning the crowd into a swirling pit of chaos. Their blend of beatdown hardcore and metallic elements hit hard, with tracks like "Thin Ice" and "Tearing Your Life Away" sending the pit into overdrive. Guilt Trip's raw aggression and relentless energy on stage had the crowd moshing from start to finish, with no let-up in intensity. Frontman Jay Valentine’s harsh, aggressive vocals paired with the band’s crushing instrumentation made their set feel like a sonic punch to the gut. The UK hardcore scene has been growing rapidly, and Guilt Trip’s performance at Jera on Air showed exactly why they’re one of the most exciting acts in that space right now.

BANE

Bane took the stage with the intensity and passion that have made them legends in the hardcore scene. Their set was a nostalgic trip for long-time fans, featuring classics like "Can We Start Again" and "In Me." The energy in the crowd was electric, with mosh pits opening up as soon as the first notes hit. Frontman Aaron Bedard’s commanding presence and powerful vocal delivery ignited the audience, fostering an atmosphere of unity and collective rage. Known for their deeply personal and socially aware lyrics, Bane's performance was not just about the music; it was a celebration of hardcore culture and community. They encouraged crowd participation, urging fans to sing along and create a sense of togetherness that only hardcore can foster. The raw energy and sincerity of Bane's set left a lasting impression, reminding everyone why they are regarded as one of the most influential bands in the genre.

Counterparts

Canadian melodic hardcore band Counterparts brought a blend of aggression and emotion to their Jera on Air set, captivating the audience with their powerful performance. Opening with tracks like "No Servant" and "Ghost," they seamlessly transitioned between melodic passages and crushing breakdowns. Brendan Murphy’s raw, impassioned vocals resonated deeply with fans, who sang along passionately to every word. The band’s tight instrumentation and dynamic stage presence created an immersive experience, as they displayed their impressive musicianship throughout. Their ability to convey vulnerability through heavy music allowed the crowd to connect on a personal level, making songs like "Tragedy" and "Bound to the Floor" particularly moving. Counterparts' blend of melodic elements with hardcore intensity showcased their growth as a band while reaffirming their place in the genre. Their set was a testament to the power of hardcore music as a means of expressing raw emotion and strength.

Comeback Kid

Rounding out the day, Comeback Kid delivered a high-energy performance that had the crowd buzzing with excitement. The Canadian hardcore outfit is known for its relentless riffs and anthemic choruses, and they did not disappoint. Kicking off with classics like "Wake the Dead" and "Broadcasting," they quickly got the crowd moving and singing along. Andrew Neufeld's charismatic stage presence and engaging banter with the audience fostered an electric atmosphere, encouraging fans to let loose and join in the chaos. The band expertly balanced old favorites with newer tracks from their latest album, keeping the energy levels sky-high throughout their set. The mosh pits were relentless, with fans pushing and shoving, creating a chaotic but joyful environment. Comeback Kid’s signature sound—a mix of hardcore punk energy with melodic elements—was on full display, and their ability to connect with the audience made their performance one of the highlights of the festival. By the end of their set, they left fans exhausted but exhilarated, a true hallmark of a great hardcore show.

Thrown made a significant impact with their intense performance, captivating us with their raw energy and powerful sound. Their set was a perfect blend of heavy riffs and passionate vocals, leaving us wanting more.

Bury Tomorrow delivered a powerful performance, mixing heavy breakdowns with melodic hooks that resonated deeply with us. Their energy was contagious, and we found ourselves headbanging along with the crowd.

The Prodigy unleashed an electrifying set that had the entire crowd jumping. Their unique blend of electronic beats and punk energy was infectious, creating an exhilarating atmosphere that we couldn't resist.

Dropkick Murphys brought their Celtic punk sound to life, filling the air with anthems that made us feel connected to something larger than ourselves. Kutay and I joined the crowd in singing along, embracing the spirit of camaraderie that their music embodies.

More Highlights

Other standout performances included:

• Fit For a King: Crushing breakdowns and powerful melodies made their set an absolute juggernaut.
• Holding Absence: Their emotional, post-hardcore sound offered a moment of reflection amidst the chaos.
• Electric Callboy: Brought the fun with their energetic mix of metalcore and electronic music.
• Thy Art Is Murder: Dark, brutal deathcore at its finest. The pit was absolute chaos during their set.

Closing Thoughts

Jera on Air 2024 was nothing short of a metal and punk lover’s paradise. From legendary acts like Suicidal Tendencies and Bad Religion to rising stars like Bleed From Within and Holding Absence, the festival had something for every type of heavy music fan. The energy, the pits, and the unforgettable performances created an atmosphere that will leave lasting memories for years to come.

If you haven’t experienced Jera on Air yet, make it a priority for next year. Whether you’re into punk, hardcore, or metalcore, this festival promises an immersive and raw experience that stands out in Europe’s heavy music scene.

Conclusion

Jera on Air 2024 was more than just a music festival; it was a cherished experience that deepened my bond with Kutay and filled our hearts with joy and nostalgia. We left with sore feet and tired voices but with smiles on our faces, knowing that these memories would last a lifetime. Here’s to more adventures in the future—more festivals, more music, and more unforgettable moments together!