UPHEAVAL FESTIVAL DAY 2 PROVES THE TANK WAS FAR FROM EMPTY
Thankfully, the air quality improved overnight, and Saturday was shaping up to be a beautiful day. As in previous years, the energy shifted the moment the gates opened. Fans poured into the venue ready for another full day of music, and the atmosphere was electric from the very first note.
Kicking things off on the hill was Exit 73, who wasted no time getting heads banging and the first mosh pits of the day underway. Over on the main stage, Silly Goose absolutely blew us away. We'd heard the name before but had never caught them live, so we weren't quite sure what to expect. After seeing this set, we can confidently say that if you haven't seen Silly Goose yet, you're missing out. The band's energy was contagious, complete with nonstop singalongs, chaotic mosh pits, and an endless stream of crowd surfers. Even the vocalist got in on the action. Seriously, the amount of crowd surfers during this set was unreal.
Dying Wish followed with one of the heaviest performances of the early afternoon. Frontwoman Emma Boster looked like she was having the time of her life while absolutely leveling the crowd with punishing breakdowns and relentless aggression.
One of our biggest surprises of the weekend came from Autumn Kings. The band came out with their foot firmly on the gas pedal, feeding off an incredibly energized crowd that rewarded them with wave after wave of crowd surfers. We walked away from this set as brand-new fans.
Then it was Jinjer's turn to unleash total destruction. Walls of death erupted, circle pits formed throughout the crowd, and security barely had a chance to recover as an endless stream of surfers crashed over the barricade. It was pure controlled chaos.
Silent Planet delivered another standout performance, proving once again why they're one of the most emotionally powerful bands in heavy music. Garrett Russell's signature screams and passionate delivery created an incredible connection with the audience, who responded with nonstop movement from beginning to end. Thankfully, security kept their heads on a swivel as crowd surfers came flying over the barricade throughout the set.
If there was one band responsible for putting smiles on everyone's faces, it was Bilmuri. Their infectious energy immediately got the crowd moving, with fans rushing the barricade and singing along throughout the performance.
By the time Set It Off took the stage, the crowd somehow found another gear. After nearly two full days in the heat and sun, fans still had plenty left in the tank as the band delivered a high-energy set packed with both new favorites and older hits. Everyone left exhausted but satisfied, while somehow saving just enough energy for the night's headliner.
Closing out the festival was Papa Roach, who reminded everyone exactly why they've remained one of rock's most consistent live bands for more than three decades. Leaning into the grit and attitude that launched their career, the band delivered hit after hit while massive pyrotechnics lit up the stage. Thirty-three years into their career, Papa Roach continue to perform with the intensity of a band half their age.
AFTER PARTY
As if two full days of music weren't enough, we were lucky enough to head over to The Intersection for the official after party featuring Memphis May Fire.
You'd think everyone would be completely exhausted after spending two days walking between stages, battling the summer heat, and surviving countless pits. You'd be wrong.
The venue was packed with fans who still wanted more, and Memphis May Fire delivered exactly that. Their performance was pure adrenaline from start to finish. Standing still wasn't an option as crushing riffs, soaring choruses, and nonstop energy kept the crowd moving well into the early morning hours. The band didn't let up until around 1:30 a.m., and neither did the fans.
We've covered Upheaval Festival for four consecutive years now. Along the way, we've photographed legendary bands, discovered incredible up-and-coming artists, and met some truly amazing people. More than anything, what makes this festival special is the sense of family. Whether it's reconnecting with our friends at Black Sheep Media or meeting fellow music lovers from across the country, Upheaval brings together one massive rock and metal community. It's a reminder that music isn't just entertainment—it's a lifeline. We'll see you all next year. Until then, it's finally time to get some sleep and come down from one incredible weekend.
