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Day Eight, August 28: Final Thoughts

Since today was my flight day, absolutely nothing happened. So I’ll use this entry to give my final thoughts about Bergen and Hole in the Sky.

One of the most epic group shots ever: (from left) Henrik, Nunslaughter's Jim Sadist, Christoffer, Pär Arvidsson, Karina Thorsen Eikeland and Yuan, Photo by Christoffer Jonsson

Like I said before, Bergen is a beautiful place to visit. I regret not having the time to do more exploring. I didn’t get a chance to visit the Fantoft Stave Church, which is the church that was burned down by Varg Vikernes located south of Bergen. Many people that I encountered went to visit it, and I’m bummed that I didn’t. I also didn’t get a chance to go up to Mount Fløien. This is the mountaintop situated right above Bergen and is easily accessible by a cable car.

Another epic view of Bergen

I did, however, go to the Leprosy Museum that was recommended to me by Adam of Enforcer/Tribulation/Repugnant. That was a pretty sweet place and right next door to the hostel.

Only in Bergen: the Leprosy Museum

A display in the Leprosy Museum

As for the Hole in the Sky Festival itself, what started out as a simple tribute to the late Erik “Grim” Brødreskift (Immortal, Gorgoroth, Borknagar) 11 years ago, has evolved into one of the most excellent metal festivals in the world. It’s Norway’s first-ever annual metal festival and it sells out every year. The fact that there’s a commitment to quality over quantity adds to its unique charm, and there’s a powerful sense of camaraderie within everyone in attendance. From the fans to the bands, and from the staff to the locals, it feels like one big family.

Yuan with Martin Larsson of At the Gates and Henrik, Photo by Christoffer Jonsson

Though this is an expensive country, the five days of metal made it totally worth it. Where else can you get to see all your dream bands play together in an intimate setting? I mean, if someone told me I would be seeing Angel Witch in a packed club of 400 people, I would’ve laughed. Only at Hole in the Sky.

Until next year, hails!

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