The big return of the live metal festivals in North America with Psycho Las Vegas later this month has been dampened significantly by the emergence of the Delta Coronavirus variant spreading among the unvaccinated masses. Emperor, Mayhem, Satyricon and Watain are just a few of the acts that have to be canceled while traveling to the US from most European countries is still quite difficult. This was of course canceled after the 2020 event (also with Emperor).
But there is good news for visitors: Mastodon has replaced Emperor as headliner, and Violence, Goatwhore, Mutoid Man and Knocked Loose are among the other new bands joining. Other acts already on stage include Mayhem, Obituary, Satyricon, The Sword, Cannibal Corpse, Dying Fetus, Red Fang, Exodus, High on Fire and MANY more.
Anecdotally, I’ve heard from many people who have canceled their plans to participate amid the current virus surge. And I’m not blaming them: gathering shoulder to shoulder in large groups, even outdoors, feels risky right now (and I believe some of Psychos’ shows are indoors too). The number of Covid-19 cases in Nevada is currently at its highest level since February, albeit still well below its early winter peaks, with vaccination in the state at 67% for people 18 and over (as far as people from other locations traveling to Psycho, I cannot put a figure). However, if you are vaccinated, not immunocompromised, and do not live with someone who is unvaccinated (or have children who are not vaccinated), Psycho should be a fun release for you after a year and a half without shows.
Psycho Las Vegas takes place August 20-22. Tickets and further information are available here.
