Norwegian extreme metal festival, Beyond the Gates, have just announced four new bands to the already stacked 2026 bill. The festival now welcomes US thrash veterans Testament, Greece’s Rotting Christ, French post black metal troupe, Alcest, and Icelanders, Vafurlogi. Read more below.
Bay Area pioneers, Testament, have just released a powerhouse of an album; the critically acclaimed Para Bellum. Speaking of legendary acts, Considered innovators of the black metal scene, Rotting Christ will compile a very exclusive old school set for Beyond the Gates, performing songs from the period 1989 – 1995. Alcest has steadfastly continued their ascent to the stars, with last year’s mindblowing Les Chants de l’Aurore album and their mesmerizing live shows as stepping stones. Vafurlogi from Iceland released their debut album Í vökulli áþján last year. The band helmed by former Svartidauden guitarist, Þórir Garðarsson, will be a most welcome treat to regulars.
On July 29 – August 1, Beyond the Gates will be held for the 14th time, showcasing why the festival has grown into the international metal gathering it has become. Attracting visitors from 50 different countries around the world, the extreme metal festival has become a global phenomenon. The festival takes place the city center of Bergen, using several venues spread across town, including the legendary Grieghallen and USF Verftet. Gold passes for the festival are running low! Welcome to four days of darkness in the heart of Bergen.