3)  Behemoth w/At the Gates & Wolves in the Throne Room – Washington, DC @ The Fillmore – 11/02/2018

Behemoth!  This band lives up to the hype.  And yeah, they are THAT good live.  Actually, they’re better!

2)  Judas Priest w/ Saxon  & Black Star Rides – Washington, DC @ The Anthem – 03/18/2018

Saxon is probably the most underrated metal band in the metal universe.  Their most recent records have been amazing and Thunderbolt is their highest charting in the States.  If you haven’t given them a try, now is the time.  Priest of course, is Priest.  And yes, I love Andy Sneap and I love Richie Faulkner.  And I’ll say it – I’d much rather see Richie Faulkner playing guitar live than KK Downing.  So put that in your phone and re-tweet it.

1) Watain w/ Destroyer 666 – Philadelphia, PA @ TLA – 03/28/2018

Maybe the most non-politically correct tour in 2018. That’s not the only reason why I picked it as my #1.  Destroyer 666 is one of the best metal bands out there playing live.  Period.  Their sound is incredible as is their delivery.  Watain, of course, is Watain.  Watain is a ritual… an experience.  And you have to be right in the front.