The year 2023 saw some notable festivals in New England but there’s one that slipped under the radar of a lot of folks. Die hard southern New England metal heads know of Capulet Fest and so should you! Located in the Northeast corner of Connecticut lies Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park which is the home of this outstanding festival. Yes, it’s a bit out of the way, but worth the travel!
Mother Nature dished out some weather issues last year but the festival regrouped and overcame them. The minor issue on Saturday was heat, but water was available so attendees could stay hydrated. The major issue was rain on the second day. The rain toyed with festival goers on and off all day but severe thunderstorms were predicted for the late day festivities. To the credit of the organizers and the bands, schedules were juggled bringing headliners All That Remains to the outdoor stage earlier than expected.
Lineups for both days had bands that were both well known and those just starting to get their feet under themselves but all were excited to be performing at this riotous festival. Longtime Connecticut Metal band Dead By Wednesday played to an enthusiastic crowd on the indoor stage dubbed The Montague Stage (read Romeo & Juliet). Magnets For Maniacs lead singer Jay Corradino wanted to get the circle pit going into full gear so he jumped off the stage and joined in! Crown the Empire were surprise guests on Saturday and really won the crowd over. Norma Jean and Memphis May Fire where the co-headliners on the first day and both bands put on inspired sets!
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As mentioned, day 2 was a bit of a jumbled line-up due to impending bad weather. The show went on as planned throughout most of the day with those bands playing the outdoor Capulet Stage braving the wet conditions. Little Us kicked the day off with a more melodic set than most of the acts at the festival but they were well received. Contrasting Little Us was Florida based Kill The Imposter. Led by Johnny Nobody, this in your face, growling from the depths of hell, hardcore band stunned the crowd at first but eventually won them over. Side note, no offense to other acts, they were this reviewer’s favorite band of the weekend! Gina Fritz proved to everyone that metal is not strictly a man’s game. Brothers Zak and Rex Cox brought their A game as New Jersey’s Uncured delivered their brand of progressive metal. With the afore mentioned weather of doom approaching rapidly, the decision was made to move All That Remains up in the lineup so they could play the main stage. The crowd was certainly appreciative and the band was too I’m sure. Remaining bands played the indoor stage keeping everyone safe, sound, and dry!
