On Friday, fans at France's Hellfest were left dismayed as Manowar, one of the headlining acts, canceled at the last minute. While the promoters claimed the band pulled out at the last minute, Manowar released their own statement saying the promoters "obstructed our efforts to put on the epic show we had promised." We might have a better idea what Manowar's idea of obsctruction really is.
MetalSucks is reporting a rumor that Manowar's main gripe was that they couldn't play loud enough! The venue would not allow the band to crank it to 11 due to local regulations on decibel levels. On top of that, Manowar felt the Hellfest stage was too small. The same stage that would see bands like Kiss, Tool and Slipknot perform that weekend was too small for the defenders of steel.
So instead of making due and delivering a promised performance, Manowar felt they would just pull out of the affair. Sabaton were asked to fill in at the last moment, despite vocalist Joakim Brodén blowing out his voice the night before during the Knotfest event. Guitarist Chris Rörland stepped in on vocal duties and Brodén just sat on the stage, taking in the performance while eating and drinking with friends.
