“Often under-estimated, but always a force to be reckoned with. Canada has forged such heavyweights as Exciter, Annihilator, Skull Fist, Devin Townsend, Voivod, Anvil, Razor, Into Eternity and more. The Quebec region, renowned for their love of extreme metal, has spawned the likes of Kataklysm, Cryptopsy, Martyr, Gorguts and Quo Vadis. Not to mention an impressive new wave of modern metal including Alexisonfire, 3 Inches of Blood, Protest The Hero, Cancer Bats, Baptized In Blood and Despised Icon.

Canada continues to be a strong supporter in the global metal scene by offering such contributions as the Brave Words & Bloody Knuckles publication, filmmaker Sam Dunn’s series of Metal documentaries including the critically acclaimed Metal: A Headbanger’s Journey, and the Heavy MTL festival.

In 2013, Canada’s own Crimson Shadows were crowned the Metal Battle international winner. A feat not easily achieved, and one of which we take much pride. It launched the band to an international level and earned them a record contract with Napalm Records.

In 2015, Canada re-lived that success with Vesperia, once again taking the 1st place at Wacken. In 2016, Canada followed up with Profaner taking the 2nd place win.

The year 2018 will be Canada’s 5th participation in the Wacken Metal Battle and will include 13 major cities in total: Toronto, Hamilton, London, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City, Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver, Victoria and BC Interior. Canadian Final to be held on June 9th at The Opera House in Toronto.

Only the strongest of contenders will be chosen to participate, to yield one true champion, and represent their nation with highest honor at the Wacken Open Air Festival. Let the battle begin!”