Set to take place this weekend in the UK, Hammerfest (aka Hard Rock Hell or HRH) was once one of the premier independent fests for metal every year. One Ghost Cult has covered and respected previously. With the fest just days away, we have received notice that 31 bands (and counting) have now dropped off the fest, many citing unfair practices by the fest, including pay-for-play and gouging bands with fees. As of now, the fest is going forward with Unleashed, Holocaust, and Evile still slated to perform. The festival organizers have not made a statement and plan to hold the fest with just a reduced lineup as of now. Thanks to some sleuthing of our staff, a few fans on social media, and the work of bloggers The Rock Fairy and Manchester Rocks for sharing the story and helping to track the progress. See some notes from bands about the fest and their status.