RITS OF HADES 2026

The Hades abyss stares back at you again! Mark the date: 20-21 February 2026, when the Rift will spew forth a select assembly of Old Grave Fest alumni and bands that have never played a festival in Romania. Here wo go:

Dead Congregation - Official, the elusive death metal terror from Greece, return triumphantly to Bucharest, 11 years after their famed 2015 Old Grave performance. You know what’s lying in wait. No further introduction necessary.

Danish thrash legends Artillery (The Official Page) also make their comeback, and this time it’s a very special anniversary: four decades have passed since their seminal debut Fear of Tomorrow was unleashed unto the world. Prepare for a blistering old school set.

Blasphemous doom masters Angel of Damnation return as well. They’re a veritable ensemble of top German underground musicians, most of whom you’ve already seen with their other bands at past OGFs: Avenger (Nocturnal) on guitars, Doomcult Messiah aka Gerrit (Dawn of Winter) on vocals, Neudi (Manilla Road) on drums and Forcas (Cross Vault) on bass.

New Polish sensation Visteria will bring their maniacal speed/punk to Bucharest (come see what the buzz is all about!), and they won’t be alone. The Silesian bastards of Brüdny Skürwiel, fresh off the release of their long-awaited debut album, join the madness.

And, finally, the Teutonic black/thrashing force Necromancer complete this first half of the lineup. The other half and more details will be disclosed in the coming months.

Flyer layout and design: Soldier Of Hell Designs

Original painting: Anuta Ogefescu