Kreator, Destruction, Sodom and Tankard to Play a Festival Celebrating the German Big Four

When talking about the Big Four of thrash metal, there are often two different categories. Obviously, there are the Americans: Metallica, Megadeth, Anthrax and Slayer, given credit for pioneering the genre and making it a worldwide phenomenon. Hell, Metallica are the biggest metal band on the planet and a cry of “SLAAAAAYERRRR!!” is basically the equivalent of the devil horns at this point. Then, there exists a smaller but very important Big Four: the German scene that created the Teutonic thrash style.

It’s widely accepted that the Teutonic Big Four is Kreator, Destruction, Sodom and Tankard. Now, for the first time, those bands are getting together to play a concert celebrating their legacies and immense influence. Klash Of The Ruhrpott will take place in Gelsenkirchen, Germany on July 20.

Kreator frontman Mille Petrozza expressed his excitement for the show:

“I’m so happy we have an opportunity to present this package in the best way possible! It’s going to be a really special day, full of love and respect…and the most extensive Kreator set ever…prepare for some DEEP CUTS!”

Sodom’s Tom Angelripper added:

“I am very happy to finally be able to share the stage with my old companions and friends again. A meeting with these four fantastic bands cannot be surpassed in terms of cult status. It will be a very special event for us and our fans. Until then, please stay healthy and confident. See ya soon… Cheers, Tom.”

Last year, Angelripper told Blabbermouth that he didn’t think the possibility of a Teutonic Big Four show was realistic because he felt Kreator were less interested than the other bands.

“We’re friends, but I’m good friends with Schmier. But Mille…it’s different. He’s not more in the scene. I never see him when we go into any metal bar here in Essen. It’s completely different. We’ll need to talk about the ‘Big Three’ touring. It doesn’t have to be a tour. All the bands have a packed schedule touring, but we can do a big show. This package is good for three, four or five thousand people.”

Clearly that’s been resolved and this festival seems like it’ll be an unforgettable experience!