Dark Pilgrimage Continues: WAVE – GOTIK – TREFFEN 05–09/06/2025Review by Malice F. & George P. for Electrowelt.com
Electrowelt.com keeping up with its tradition, as the only Greek Dark alternative Online Magazine to cover the biggest dark happening for 18 consecutive years, presents the most important moments of the 32nd Wave-Gotik-Treffen festival in Leipzig, Germany.
For yet another year, during the Whitsun holidays, Leipzig was transformed into the absolute meeting point of the international gothic family, gathering thousands of devoted fans from all over the world — from Europe to the USA, Japan and beyond, making it again THE biggest international gathering of the dark family. More than 50 venues across the city hosted over 200 bands, covering every aspect of the dark scene: from EBM and darkwave to neofolk, post-punk, gothic rock and minimal synth.
But WGT is far more than just a music festival: The city itself becomes part of the experience. Visitors once again had the chance to explore Leipzig’s stunning historical architecture, while WGT guests enjoyed free access to museums, concerts, and cultural events. The famous AGRA Messepark transformed into the biggest gothic marketplace in the world — a paradise for every dark soul, filled with clothing, accessories, vinyls and rare treasures.
The visitors painted once more the city black and had the chance to attend the impressive medieval market and the pagan village at Heidnisches Dorf, where they could step back into the romantic atmosphere of ancient times at the medieval market place at this famous Pagan Village, the impressive Victorian Picnic at Clara Zetkin Park attended by a great number of visitors dressed in historic clothing and costumes and many parties at the wonderful Moritzbastei. For four days a large hall at the AGRA -Messepark transformed into the biggest Gothic-wares marketplace in the world, literally a Goth’s paradise, where you can find a huge variety of clothes, shoes, accessories, and of course many CD & Vinyl stands, where you can spend hours and hours to explore thoroughly (as I always make time to do so).
For all goth fans who are planning their visit, it’s useful to know that the inhabitants of Leipzig are extremely friendly, as well as familiar, with the Festival and its’ visitors, gothic guests are very welcome here. The most fascinating aspect of the Wave-Gotik-Treffen is surely the unique magic atmosphere that covers the whole beautiful city of Leipzig. Cheap and entertaining accommodation is available at the huge Treffen camping ground, with a special ticket (called Obsorgekarte). Free use of all public transportation for all WGT visitors really helps too, as long as they present their WGT bracelet or band in German, which also applies for all WGT concerts, performance, as well as free museum entrances. One of many reasons we love the WGT festival: apart from famous bands of the scene, the WGT program always includes several hidden treasures and discoveries regarding lesser-known bands that delivered outstanding concerts.
Therefore, before visiting the WGT, we definitely advise everyone who ask us to take a closer look into the program and to listen to some sample tracks of the artists you do not know. The WGT app proved to be especially helpful too, to check schedule times and gigs on the road.
WGT organizers and press office make the best effort to organize matters efficiently, with the utmost care and respect to all the loyal WGT fans, who keep returning to Leipzig year after year to enjoy themselves and witness the biggest dark gathering of the scene.
What makes WGT truly special, however, is something beyond organization or lineup.
It is the feeling.
From the moment you arrive in Leipzig, you become part of a world where music, art and identity merge, where strangers become friends and where the dark scene from all over the globe unites as one.
And this is exactly why we keep coming back.
Our main agenda and concern are to report to our readers about the music and as many as possible live events and unique concerts that take place at the WGT and that’s what we try each year to achieve.
We would like to take this chance and thank you for all of your support and kind words throughout the years 🖤
Thursday 05/06/2025 – Arrival & Warm-Up Ritual
by Malice F
Buzz Kull (AUS), KREIGN (USA), Kontravoid (USA), Absolute Body Control (B)
This year we arrived earlier than usual, on Thursday instead of Friday, something that instantly filled us with excitement and allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the WGT atmosphere from day one.
Our first stop was Felsenkeller for the warm-up event, which WGT-goers had the chance to attend for free as part of the WGT 2025 festival. The venue was already full of WGT fans dancing and cheering, amazing festival atmosphere, we hang out with friends from England and of course Greece, wonderful festive atmosphere, we had a blast!
We were just in time for Buzz Kull; emerging from Sydney’s underground scene, the one-man project has built a strong reputation over the past years with his distinctive blend of EBM, synth-pop and post-punk melancholy. Marc Dwyer’s hypnotic and emotionally charged performance was the perfect introduction to the festival mood. We listened to hits like “We were Lovers”, the fantastic “Into the Void”, “Burning Ground”, “Last in the Club”. Awesome performance that excited us even further for the project’s upcoming appearance at Death Disco open air festival in Athens in September!
Next it was time for KREIGN, an American Electronic Body Music (EBM) project based in Phoenix, Arizona. The duo, Xiån Austin and Ryan Hutman, created KREIGN to pay homage to the raw energy and pioneering spirit of old-school EBM. However, their sound goes beyond mere tribute. Their tracks are a fusion of classic EBM elements with a modern edge, combining dynamic basslines and aggressive beats. The result is a sound that is both nostalgic and innovative, in a theatrical performance with raw industrial energy, they appeared wearing costumes and masks on stage. The crowd really enjoyed their performance, I personally liked “5 Layers of Chaos”, “Lost Purpose”, “Don’t Force the Hand”.
Kontravoid followed, one of the most respected contemporary acts of the dark electronic scene. The Canadian artist, also known for his involvement with projects like Parallels and Sextile, delivered a powerful set combining EBM, industrial and darkwave elements, with his characteristic minimal yet intense stage presence. Bombastic sounds with “Death Shot”, “Reckoning”, “Too Deep” among others.
The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly Absolute Body Control. Formed in the early 80s by Dirk Ivens and Eric Van Wonterghem, and closely connected to projects like The Klinik, they are among the true founders of the minimal electronic sound. Watching them live is always a reminder of the roots of the scene — raw, authentic and timeless. ABC’s set list included hits like “Is there an Exit”, “Figures”, “Love at first Sight”, “Give me your Hands” and the encore was a cover of New Order’s “Blue Monday”.
A perfect beginning, surrounded by friends and familiar faces, including our dear Dirk from ABC.
Friday 06/06/2025 – Between Ritual & Nostalgia
by Malice F
In Gowan Ring (USA), Mars (D), Death in Rome (AQ), Alphaville (D), Kite (S) – Mitternacht special
We started our day at Volkspalast, this wonderful, beautiful ancient Greek inspired venue, for the American folk band, In Gowan Ring. They delivered a deeply introspective performance. Active since the late 90s and also connected with Birch Book, B’eirth has established himself as a key figure of the neofolk scene, although the band musically is not of the neofolk kind, blending traditional instrumentation with mystical and pagan elements. Full band on stage with acoustic guitar, flute, violin, lyre, organ and percussion, combined with harmonious singing and female vocals in some songs. The atmosphere was almost ritualistic — subtle and immersive. They performed live for the first time, as the front man shared with us, a new composition named “Wonderous Stubborn Liar” –that began with a German spoken word part performed by the lyre player, so melodic and beautiful. I also really liked “What the Crows Know”.
We made a short stop at Kantine to catch Mars, a German band with apocalyptic folk sounds. The duo of musicians on stage performed neofolk at its’ best , with a dreamy and melancholic sound that satisfied a lot the fans attending.
Next it was time around 20:30 for Death in Rome at the Kuppelhalle, a project known for transforming hit mainstream songs into dark neofolk versions, often walking a fine line between irony and artistic provocation — always interesting and fun to witness live. They also cause stir among neofolk fans, with a band name referring to Death in June neofolk pioneers, which many don’t like at all. The front man always performs wearing a type of mask creating a mystery, so that fans won’t recognize him. The venue was full as expected for their gig, we listened to “Barbie Girl”, “No Limits” and “Careless Whispers” covers among others.
Later, always in a rush to be on time, we headed to AGRA for Alphaville who were scheduled at the main stage for 22:10. Formed in 1982 and responsible for shaping the sound of European synth-pop, with timeless hits such as “Forever Young” and “Big in Japan”, they delivered an emotional and nostalgic performance. Front man Marian Gold remains charismatic, and hearing these songs live within the WGT atmosphere was truly special. The venue was packed and the fans were of different age spectrum, Alphaville are legendary. The sound was crystal clear and powerful and the lightshow also complimented their performance. We did see them live in Athens some months ago and we were a bit disappointed by the sound and singing, but this time it was completely different, the show, performance, sound etc were great. When “Big in Japan” and “Sounds like a Melody” first tunes began, everyone started singing and dancing, the energy was so positive and playful, that’s why bands and songs like that will never die and they still, after so many decades, remain always relevant. My personal favorite that they played the way that should be played and not in a annoying remix way was “A Victory of Love”.
The night closed with the Mitternacht Spezial by Kite. Active since 2008, the Swedish duo of Nicklas Stenemo and Christian Berg has built a reputation for cinematic, emotionally intense performances. Their committed fans showed up, the venue was no longer packed, since it was already late, after midnight. Their set was powerful and immersive — one of the strongest midnight specials we have experienced in recent years. Difficult task for photographers, as usual, since they don’t have any lights, but mainly strobe lights in darkness. We listened to “True Colours”, “Dance Again”, “Jonny Boy”, “Panic Music”.
Saturday 07/06/2025 – Old School Spirit & Our Night
by Malice F & George P
Christ vs Warhol (USA), Shrouds (USA), Lucas Lanthier`s Cinema Strange (USA) EVA O (USA), Turquoise Days (UK), Electrowelt.com DJ set @Darkflower
Saturday was a big day for us, as it also included our Electrowelt DJ set later that night. We started early at Täubchenthal, focusing on darker, old-school death rock sounds.
Christ vs. Warhol delivered a raw and energetic performance, strongly rooted in the classic deathrock tradition of the US scene. Their set was exactly what you would expect — intense, unapologetic and full of attitude, vocals by the front woman were awesome, resembling Siouxsie Sioux at times. Highlights included “Cross of Lorraine”, “Back From Dead” and “Paper Dolls”, with the crowd responding immediately, especially to the more aggressive tracks, creating that familiar chaotic but beautiful deathrock atmosphere we all love.
Shrouds, the death rock band from the southern California dark alternative scene followed. Members Grimm Beat (Belltower Bats, ex. Only Theatre of Pain, Vision of the Void), Ludwig Wilde (Belltower Bats), and Ana Thema (Warsaw Pact, ex Shadow Image) bring an energetic, percussive dread back into the death rock genre, with over a decade of musicianship behind each member, Shrouds stands out as a band with an unrelenting vision for the future of the genre with utmost respect for the qualities that shaped the Deathrock sound in the past. Their melancholic and atmospheric sound created a deeply emotional setting, transporting us to a more introspective mood. Songs like “Ophelia” and “Falling Dream” stood out, with the audience clearly connected to their signature dark romanticism — one of those moments where you just stand still and let the music take over. Our favorite moment was without question the Christian Death cover of “Romeo’s Distress”, it was awesome, thank you guys!
A truly special moment was meeting Lucas Lanthier of Cinema Strange — an exceptional artist and a wonderful person, one of those encounters that make WGT unique. Many fans filled the venue for him, Cinema Strange is an established and much beloved band of the genre. Later on stage, we listened to covers of Cinema Strange and The Deadfly Ensemble tracks, material such as “Speak, Marauder”, “Unlovely Baby” and “En Hiver” reminded us why Cinema Strange remain such an important and distinctive act within the goth/deathrock scene, with their theatrical and slightly surreal aesthetic still intact and captivating. Unique performance and a WGT highlight for sure!
22:30 and it was at last time for the Californian goddess Eva O, a legendary figure of the deathrock scene, the other half of the legendary Rozz Williams, known for her work with Christian Death, Shadow Project and Super Heroines. I was so looking forward to see her live at last! Her performance was intense, theatrical and emotionally powerful, exactly what one would expect from such an iconic artist. She was so impressive on stage, mesmerizing, dominant, accompanied by William Faith at the bass, there was also a dancer to amplify the whole performance. Drawing from her long history in the scene, moments inspired by tracks like “Blood Lust” and Shadow Project material created a strong emotional response, especially among long-time fans who clearly felt the weight of her presence and legacy. My absolute favorites were “Demonicah” and “Children of the Light”.
We rushed afterwards to Haus Leipzig for Turquoise Days, a project rooted in the early 80s cassette culture and minimal wave scene, offering a nostalgic and authentic electronic sound. Tracks such as the 80s anthem “Grey Skies”, and “Distant Years” brought that unmistakable minimal synth feeling, with the audience appreciating the rarity of seeing such a cult act live — a truly special and atmospheric ending to the concerts’ evening.
Electrowelt.com (Malice F & George P) DJ Set @ Darkflower
Later that night, we had the pleasure of performing at Darkflower.
George P. started the set and I took over after midnight. The turnout was impressive, the club was packed and the atmosphere incredible. From post-punk and darkwave to EBM, Industrial and minimal synth, we aimed to cover all aspects of the scene.
We spin music for you — not for us.
And once again, the dancefloor proved it. Thank you all 🖤
Sunday 08/06/2025 – New Wave & Emotional Highlights
by Malice F & George P
Plastique Noir (F), Darkways (E), Deceits (USA), French Police (USA), Silke Bischoff (D), PIL (UK) – Mitternacht special
Concert Sunday started for us once more at the beautiful Volkspalast.
Plastique Noir was our first gig for the day and an Europepremiere for the band, they delivered a strong performance full of dark romanticism and classic post-punk aesthetics. Formed in Fortaleza, Brazil, they have built a solid reputation in the international scene with their melodic yet dark sound. Highlights of their set included “Creep Show”, “Desert Sand” and “Ashes”, with the audience clearly enjoying every moment, especially during “Creep Show”, which created a great connection with the crowd and set the tone for the rest of the evening.
I was looking especially forward to see the Spanish goths Darkways, they were scheduled at Kuppelhalle at 18:00, the venue was already packed — a clear sign of how popular they have become among goth and darkwave fans in recent years. Their modern, atmospheric sound combined with strong stage presence made a big impression. We danced to a fantastic version of “A Forest” by The Cure, which was received with great enthusiasm by the audience, while my personal highlights were “I Like the Night” and “Resonance”, both delivering that perfect balance between emotion and dancefloor energy.
At Kantine, while we were waiting for the French Police much anticipated gig, we checked out another WGT special suggestion; Deceits represented the new wave of post-punk revival, bringing fresh energy and confirming that the genre continues to evolve. Their performance was dynamic and emotionally charged, with highlights such as “If There’s No Heaven”, “Darkened Eyes” and “Run”, all very well received by the audience, especially the first one, which created one of the strongest crowd reactions of their set.
At about 19:50 it was time for French Police, one of the rising names of the current post-punk wave, coming from Chicago. Their sound, heavily influenced by classic coldwave and minimal post-punk, worked perfectly live. Songs like “Club de Vampiros” and “Empty Room” stood out, with the crowd fully engaged and dancing, proving once again their growing popularity within the scene.
We rushed as usual to get to AGRA. After a short absinth break and a quick chat with the wonderful Vlad from Nosferatu and his wife and my friend, Lisa, we entered the main stage for the cult darkwave, synth, goth German band, Silke Bischoff. Thousands of fans were waiting for this tribute performance and moving commemoration of SB front man, Felix Flaucher, after he tragically passed away in 2017. His partner opened the tribute to Felix, then beloved guest artists entered the stage as singers, Veljanov from Deine Lakaien, Sven from Solar Fake, taking away the singing part. The band delivered an emotional performance, touching long-time fans with their nostalgic sound and presence. During the songs performed impressive SB projections complimented the performances. I really loved the opening with “Northern Lights” and Veljanov’s respectful and heartfelt performance, one of favs was also “Sometimes”. But guys, when the first tunes from “On the Other Side” were heard in the Agra Halle, we all went ballistic! We listened to the original vocals by Felix and his image was also projected, it was so moving and utterly breathtaking. There was not a single soul in the venue that was left unmoved and without shedding a tear.
The night closed with the Mitternacht Spezial by Public Image Ltd. at 1.00 am. Formed in 1978 by punk icon John Lydon after the Sex Pistols, PiL remain one of the most influential acts of the post-punk movement. Entry at the photo pit, required signing a waiver and receiving a special wristband for PiL. Their performance carried that legacy — bold, unconventional and full of attitude. Highlights included “This Is Not a Love Song”, “Public Image”, “Death Disco” and “Rise”, with the audience responding strongly, especially during the more recognizable tracks, proving that their impact remains timeless.
Monday 09/06/2025 – Final Day & Farewell
by Malice F
A Cloud of Ravens (USA), L’ Âme Immortelle (A), The 69 Eyes (FIN), Camouflage (D), New Model Army (UK)
The final day always comes with mixed emotions.
We started at Haus Leipzig with A Cloud of Ravens, a project that has steadily gained recognition within the modern darkwave scene. Blending electronic elements with post-punk aesthetics, their sound is both atmospheric and dynamic. Tracks such as “World of the Void” and “The Blackest Mantra” stood out, creating a strong connection with the audience, who seemed fully immersed in their dark and hypnotic sound — a great way to begin our final festival day.
The rest of the day was dedicated to AGRA. L’ Âme Immortelle, active since the late 90s and one of the most recognizable names of the darkwave scene, delivered an emotional performance. Combining harsh electronic elements with melodic and lyrical depth, they once again proved their lasting appeal. Well known by their other projects too, founders Thomas Rainer and Sonja Kraushofer delivered a powerful set with classic tracks. Highlights included “5 Jahre”, “Stumme Schreie”, “Bitterkeit” and “Was wäre, Wenn”, with the crowd singing along and clearly emotionally involved, especially during their older, classic material.
Then at about 20:00pm it was time (and I was so excited!) for the wonderful The 69 Eyes — one of my absolute favorites. Formed in Helsinki in 1989, they created their signature “goth ‘n’ roll” sound by blending gothic rock with glam and sleaze influences. Their performance was exactly what we hoped for: stylish, dark and full of attitude. Frontman Jyrki 69, charismatic as always, led a performance that was stylish, dark and effortlessly cool — one of my personal WGT highlights. We enjoyed “Devils”, “Lost Boys”, “Brandon Lee”, “Gothic Girl” and of course “Dance D’Amour”, which got the crowd fully engaged, singing along and dancing — one of the highlights of the day for me personally. Goth n’ Roll Amazing!
Camouflage followed, one of the most important German synth-pop acts since their formation in 1983, often compared to Depeche Mode in their early years, yet always maintaining their own identity. The Agra Halle by now it was packed, their performance was elegant and timeless, with songs like “The Great Commandment”, “Love is a Shield” and “Strangers’ Thoughts” creating a beautiful atmosphere, the audience clearly enjoying every moment and responding warmly to these classic tracks. They also gave us a New Order cover of “Blue Monday” and the crowd went ballistic!
Finally, New Model Army closed our WGT experience. Formed in 1980 by Justin Sullivan, they have built a unique career blending post-punk, folk and politically charged rock, always maintaining a strong and independent identity. Their performance was powerful and emotional, the violinist delivered an awesome performance, with highlights including “51st State”, “Vagabonds”, “Poison Street” and my absolute favorite “Here Comes the War”, leaving the audience fully engaged and bringing our WGT journey to a meaningful and memorable end.
Final Impressions & Conclusion
Attending the WAVE GOTIK TREFFEN (WGT) in Leipzig is each and every year an experience that surpasses all expectations. As a confluence of the macabre, artistic expression, and diverse musical genres, this goth festival stands as a testament to the vibrant subculture it celebrates.
But, rest assured, Wave-Gotik-Treffen is not just a festival; it’s a celebration of all things alternative and fans of dark culture coming together from all over the globe. The diverse events ranged from art exhibitions that pushed boundaries to thought-provoking lectures, to the Victorian Picnic in Clara Zetkin Park which always a highlight, a surreal gathering where attendees showcased elaborate costumes and embraced the festival’s atmosphere of eccentricity.
Leipzig’s historic architecture and cobblestone streets provide an enchanting backdrop for the sea of black-clad attendees. Walking through the streets, one is able to see a beautiful fusion of fashion, art, and identity. The atmosphere is always an inclusive one; no judgment, only acceptance, and strangers becoming friends united by a shared passion and celebrating music.
The lineup was a mesmerizing tapestry of musical genres, from ethereal darkwave to thundering industrial and EBM, offering an electrifying array of established bands, as well as many rising stars and hidden gems. The passion of the performers echoed through the venues, creating an intense connection between the artists and the audience.
Attendees from all corners of the world come together in Leipzig, sharing stories, experiences, and a deep appreciation for the gothic culture. Leipzig opens its arms to embrace the enigmatic in a romantic sense, and the extraordinary, making WGT an unforgettable journey.
This is why we return.
Every year.
We hope you enjoyed our coverage and lived a part of this journey through our words.
Thank you WGT, for sticking to quality with always really unique band selections.
We are already looking forward to the 33rd WGT special edition and celebration of the black gathering next year, which will take place from May 22nd to May 25th 2026!
We will again host a warm up WGT celebration party in Athens and roster presentation of next year’s edition as always.
Please check out our Electrowelt.com YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@ElectroWeltonlinemusicmagazine/videos with wonderful videos from all of our favorite bands, the festivals and concerts we visit and of course our extended photo gallery.
See you all again in dark Leipzig next year for the 33rd edition of the No1 dark festival in the scene, WGT!!!
See you again in dark Leipzig.
Take care and control. 🖤