The Norwegian band MAYHEM – true Black Metal legends, shrouded in shocking stories and scandals, are setting dark clouds over KILKM ŽAIBU for the very first time. This performance will be exceptional, covering all periods of their 40 years long existence.
A literal once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
If you’re at least a little into the metal scene, MAYHEM needs no introduction. It’s not just a band. It’s a phenomenon, and a legend. Namely these Norwegians were the pioneers and shapers of the second wave of Black Metal. You could say that they gave meaning to Black Metal as a genre and cultural phenomenon as we know it today. ‘Extremism and mysticism in music, stage theatricals, rumours, myths and scandals – the story of Mayhem is full of secrets and intrigue.
The metal giants MAYHEM celebrated their 40th anniversary with a few special performances, covering all periods of their work, ranging from the début with Deathcrush through "De Mysteriis Dom Sathanas" – probably the most monumental Black Metal album of all times – to the modern time. Having already delivered a few of these performances this year, the Norwegians will hold one of the last concerts of the anniversary programme in Lithuania.
They are coming to KILKIM ŽAIBU not only with their extraordinary setlist, but also stage arrangements, historical images, and other surprises. This is a special show that will close a certain page in their history and will not be repeated ever again. A literally once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!
MAYHEM has gone down into the history of dark, extreme and occult metal not just for their music. You could say that this band has one of the most scandalous and tragic histories in the entire music world. The works of the godfathers of Black Metal have been undoubtedly shaped not only by searching for a unique sound and inimitable ideas, but also a dreadful past.
The stormiest Summer Solstice.
KILKIM ŽAIBU festival, taking place on the weekend that is closest to the Summer Solstice, will celebrate its 25th anniversary with an audience that enjoys not only extreme music, but also the Baltic culture.
Besides MAYHEM, the stages of the largest heavy music festival in the Baltic States will feature bands like SÓLSTAFIR from Iceland, FINNTROLL from Finland, another well-known Norwegian black metal band – TSJUDER, HIGH PARASITE – led by the vocalist of the legendary British doom metal band, American death metal founders – INCANTATION, progressive avant-garde metal composer from Hungary – THY CATAFALQUE, and dozens of other musicians.
Families and anyone looking for something less extreme will be able to take a closer look at the authentic life and warfare of the ancient Baltic tribes and enjoy a few ancient fighting rounds, or test their hand and accuracy with throwing weapons. The fiercest festival goers will take part in the traditional match of Viking football, which looks pretty much like rugby (just replace the ball with a heavy log).
To commemorate the anniversary edition of the festival, we’ll do all our best to make sure that everyone goes home with memories of the stormiest Summer Solstice of all times. Although KILKIM ŽAIBU has reached a respectable age, we’re not stopping, but growing stronger every year.
KILKIM ŽAIBU festival will take place in the territory of the Manor Museum of the President Antanas Smetona in Ukmergė district on 20-22 June 2025, that is, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, and we say farewells on Monday.
