Cebu’s very own SHVRIKEN made waves at the Wacken Open Air Festival on July 31, 2024, bringing the island’s metal scene to the global stage. Wacken Open Air is an annual heavy metal music festival that has been celebrated since 1989. It takes place on the first weekend of August in the village of Wacken, located in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany.

The band draws inspiration from various musical influences, creating a sound characterized by powerful riffs, groovy rhythms and high-energy performances. SHVRIKEN is a metal band formed in 2016, known for its unique blend of modern metal and progressive elements. The band’s lineup includes Shawn “Shin” Talacero (vocals), Dave “Gyobu” Orat (guitar), Pormz “Katsumoto” Porminal (bass), Jom “Kai” Perpetua (drums) and Earl “Tenzen” Borres (guitar).

The band members reflected on their unforgettable experience and the significance of representing Cebu at one of the largest metal festivals in the world. “My experience at Wacken Open Air 2024 will forever be a part of me for the rest of my life, and I will make sure that my grandkids will not forget it. LOL,” shared Perpetua.

SHVRIKEN made it to Germany by winning the Wacken Metal Battle Philippines on June 16 at the MetroTent Convention Center in Pasig. This competition is a national qualifying event for the prestigious Wacken Open Air Festival, allowing the band to represent the Philippines on the international stage. Its victory was a significant achievement, as.