"Yes, No you can't, but you can if you know why" (Questions And Answers-Sham 69. Released as a single and from the U.K. Punk band's third album, The Adventures Of Hersham Boys. Released 9-13-79 on Polydor Records)

Why do Chicagoland area original metal bands do it? Because of their massive and growing fanbases. There is still a big audience for all day and night local metal fests. The skies over Peotone are scorched with the gritty power chords and fierce grunting vocals of 15 bands blazing a trail of headbanging precision at Burn Burner 26. From the diverse progressive metal of Maes, the intense pile driving hardcore of Downcore 26. The razor-sharp bluesy harmonica soaked groove of Wolfdozer, and the swamp countrified punch of Redneck Remedy, the Chicago area Metal scene lives and thrives in this exclusive showcase indoor and outdoor of Hansen's Dugout inside Peotone Bowl.

Chris Pancho Cirullo made a name for himself as lead guitarist of Redneck Remedy. A long time before they were melting faces with their unique brand of Southern Fried Metal, he put together Downcore, with a grunting distinct unclean vocal style and abrasive guitar sound. I talk with Pancho and mike the drummer as they finally officially release Downcore's self-titled album, 28 years after first recording and mixing it.

1. Maes describes its sound as mind blowing nu metal. Inspired by such heavy acts as Sevendust, and Korn, Maes closes out the extravaganza on the outdoor stage. I talk with drummer/co-founder David Carroll
2. Great rock for many good causes, to appeal to the headbanger and mosher in us all, and to supply the music that stirs one away from such serious personal issues as severe drug addiction and suicide. This Saturday, the annual Celebration addresses those issues amongst a rich local music atmosphere. Including Barn Burner headliners All Outta Gum and Spamicidal Jelly. I have a preview of the third annual charity event, at The Forge In Joliet.
3. Fire up your device of choice, crank it up and watch the celling of your barn, apartment or vehicle sizzle to this blazing original Chicagoland metal soundtrack:
4. Downcore 26-Downcore
5. Downcore 26-Sewn Shut
6. Maes-What If
7. Maes-Schizo
8. Nomad Zero-Lost Valentine
9. Redneck Remedy-When It Rains It Pours (Live)
10. Redneck Remedy-War Or Silence
11. Spamicidal Jelly-Painkiller