If IDOW is a tad quiet for your tastes, take refuge in maximum volume output at Gus’ Pub all weekend long. Hell Freezes Over 2012 is two packed nights of metal (and one cozy metal brunch) that brings the community together to discuss tricks and tips for staying warm in a leather studded jacket. Friday, January 27 features Quebec’s Kaotic, Hellacaust, Obsydian, Cottus, Ignightor and Intoxicide
And on Saturday, January 28th, prepare thine eardrums for Montreal grind core masters Soil of Ignorance, Napalm Raid, Burnt Church, Fredericton’s Hard Charger, Spew and whoedness
“It’s just an excuse for a fun weekend,” says co-organizer Graham Ferguson. “It’s good as a reminder of what we have here and what we should not take for granted."
The Halifax metal scene is closely knit and as productive as they are fiercely protective. This weekend is just one of many where fans have a chance to come out in packs to support what means so much to them. “I think the Halifax metal scene is the definition of 'true',” says Ferguson. “As is most music being made in the Maritimes. The music and the fans bleed authenticity, Halifax is not contrived by big city trends, it’s genuine and that comes across at shows or just walking down the street.”
This weekend continues in the grand tradition of Quebec metal bands making the journey to Halifax to share their love of the music. “Music bridges the language barrier between us,” says Ferguson. “Lots of the quebec metalheads are more familiar with classic lyrics than I am because thats how they learned English. Geography is a factor as well, but they share the same enthusiasm for music (as we do).”
After Friday night’s bonanza, recuperate with the Hell Freezes Over brunch—with Suicide Scrambled Eggs served with Hellish Hash Blacks and Suicide Sausage. Adorable!—Saturday, January 29th at 1pm. The Art of Rebellion will be preforming an afternoon of Suicidal Tendencies covers to soothe that hangover. But this brunch isn’t only a good way to soak up last night’s sins, it’s also a way to give back to a longtime metal scene supporter of 25+ years, Nita Lavers. “Nita Lavers has been a supporter of the Halifax punk/metal scene for decades,” says Ferguson. “She has opened her home and heart to a number of people whom needed a place to stay or party. She is considered the scene’s mother. Unfortunately she let the wrong person into her home and was robbed of her purse containing her identification and money so we are having a benefit to help her get back on her feet.”
Advance passes available at Gus' Pub (call 423-7786). Doors 8pm, Saturday brunch 1-4pm. $10 cover each night/$20 advance weekend pass (HFO t-shirt with each ticket). Weekend pass includes the brunch. $4 cover for brunch without pass. 19+ ID req.