On September 13, 2025, Adelaide’s Lion Arts Factory transformed into a battleground of sonic warfare as the Southern Death Fest returned for its second installment. Organized by Ironjaw Bookings, this all-ages event featured an explosive lineup of 21 metal acts, including headliners Gravemind, Ashen, Nicolas Cage Fighter, and the international sensation Dharma from Taiwan.
The festival kicked off at noon, with doors opening at 12:00 PM and bands starting at 12:30 PM, continuing late into the night. The crowd was a sea of black attire, headbanging, and raised horns, as each band unleashed their unique brand of metal.
Gravemind, the Victorian deathcore heavyweights, delivered a performance that left the audience in awe, while Ashen brought their atmospheric black metal to the stage with intensity. Nicolas Cage Fighter’s chaotic energy was palpable, and Dharma’s fusion of Buddhist sutras with death metal offered a unique auditory experience and my pick for the day (and yes, I even got the chance to jump on stage with them for a song, singing alongside Joe!).
Local acts like Anggrath, Impetus, Vapours, and Sickness (in their farewell show) showcased Adelaide’s thriving metal scene, proving that the city’s underground talent is as fierce as ever.
The atmosphere was electric, with fans moshing, singing, and losing themselves in the music. The Lion Arts Factory’s intimate setting allowed for an up-close experience with the bands, making the chaos feel personal and immersive.
As the final notes echoed into the night, it was clear that Southern Death Fest 2025 had once again solidified its place as a cornerstone of Adelaide’s heavy music calendar.
Big shoutout to Ironjaw Bookings for the chance to shoot this.
This is gospel
I bite crowd surfers
killer.
