Prestige: Tuska Festival 2024

Prestige, a venerable force in Finland’s thrash metal scene, commanded the packed confines of the KVLT stage with seasoned authority. Formed in 1987 in Tampere, the band has carved out a legacy marked by four studio albums and a steadfast following. As I entered the hall, the air was thick with anticipation, the space bursting at its seams with fervent fans. Armed with my media pass, I seized the opportunity to capture the frenzy through my lens during the initial two songs. Yet, the intensity inside drove me to seek respite in the open air, yielding my spot to eager enthusiasts clamouring for entry.

Prestige’s music embodies the essence of thrash metal, defined by ferocious riffs, thunderous drumming, and vocals that resonate with raw power. Their ability to infuse traditional thrash elements with their distinctive style has endeared them to metal enthusiasts, particularly in Finland. Despite their occasional hiatuses, Prestige’s influence endures, underscoring their pivotal role in shaping the thrash metal landscape and maintaining their esteemed status within the Finnish metal community.