THE GATHERING WITH ANNEKE VAN GIERSBERGEN

The Dutch successful rock band The Gathering is celebrating their groundbreaking 1995 album on the "Mandylion 30th Anniversary Tour" with singer Anneke Van Giersbergen in the old lineup. Attention: there will be no reunion, but only a few selected exclusive shows during which the band will celebrate songs from "Mandylion" and other classics from the Anneke era. A must for all fans!

Originally, The Gathering only wanted to play two anniversary shows in August 2025 for the 30th birthday of the album "Mandylion" at the Club Doornroosje in Nijmegen. In the 1100-capacity venue, where the live album "TG25: Live at Doornroosje" was recorded ten years ago, the demand for tickets for this 2-Night-Only spectacle with former singer Anneke Van Giersbergen and original guitarist Jelmer Wiersma was so great that three additional shows were announced. The five concerts sold out in no time! It was then decided to book more dates for 2026. To quell any rumors, it was immediately clarified: this will not be a reunion tour, but merely a few selected shows to celebrate the 30th birthday of the album with the original lineup. We are, of course, very pleased that the Z7 gets to host one of these exclusive concerts. To warm up for the events, various anniversary editions of the album will be released in September. "Mandylion" was the first release with Anneke Van Giersbergen, who had joined the band a year earlier. With the new singer, a deal was made with the German label Century Media, and the first joint work ultimately brought the breakthrough for the band. 20th place and gold certification in the Netherlands, followed by tours throughout Holland, Belgium, and Germany. The rest is history. On the "Mandylion 30th Anniversary Tour," the temporarily reunited formation will play songs from the anniversary album as well as other titles from the Anneke phase. Old fans can reminisce, and the younger generation has the unique opportunity to experience the feeling of a concert from the period of 1994-2007 when the band celebrated their first successes. The Gathering announced on their social media channels for the anniversary tour: "You can look forward to all 'Mandylion' tracks and more from our Anneke era. After so many years, we are very excited to celebrate this anniversary together. 'Mandylion' is an album that still means a lot to us. Cheers! Frank, Hugo, Anneke, Jelmer, Hans & René."

Copyright: Unknown

Doors: 7:00 PM

Culinary enjoyment and a thrill: Guests at Hotel Seepark Thun in Thun are offered a lot: Das Kriminal Dinner – a delicious multi-course menu in a stylish ambiance surrounded by an exciting crime play:

´Prêt-à-Morter - The Last Scream´

Silvie Breton, an aspiring fashion designer, receives a seemingly dream internship with the famous fashion icon Charlotte Sandler. However, the glamorous job turns out to be a nightmare. Silvie has to do all the work for the new collection while Charlotte shines at events. Just before the long-awaited fashion show, Charlotte forces Silvie to completely renovate the event hall in a midnight operation. Moreover, she demands that Silvie give up her hotel room to the band "The Dark Fairground." Last but not least, she hands Silvie her lap dog FrouFrou and leaves for her next vernissage. When a blood-curdling scream echoes and the police cannot arrive in time, Silvie remembers her father, village policeman Luc Breton, and starts her own investigations. What has happened? Were there deaths?

The finest culinary skills will be served to you with a multi-course menu by the kitchen team at Hotel Seepark Thun. The thrill for nerves and palate starts at 7 PM, with entry starting at 6:30 PM.

Entry: 6:30 PM / Menu and theater play are included in the price / Table and seating will be assigned on-site

The big SEOM tour takes you on a journey to yourself and to your essence.
Prepare yourself for a truly special evening that touches your heart and reminds you of what really matters: connection, healing, and humanity.

SEOM, musician, poet, and author, represents music that opens up a vast space.
A space for emotions, for understanding, for courage, and for deep humanity.

In his concert, he takes you on a journey through depth and lightness, carried by powerful lyrics, healing melodies, and the invitation to simply be yourself.
Music as medicine. Words as a way.

His songs tell of connectedness, of overcoming inner boundaries, of remembering our true power.
They open doors to a life of love, consciousness, and inner peace.

Touching stories, a lot of humor, lived spirituality, depth, and of course: music.
On this evening, there will be laughter, dancing, and shining.

It is more than music.
A soundtrack of memories. A homecoming to yourself.
A concert for all ages. An experience you won't forget. Promised.
Come by, let yourself be inspired, and be part of a concert that impacts far beyond the moment.

Note for families:
Our concerts also include quiet, meditative moments and sensitive passages.
To enable all visitors to have a deep experience, we recommend bringing children only from about five years old.
Please be mindful of appropriate hearing protection as the music can be loud at times.
Thank you for your understanding and mindfulness.

Photo: Soul portraits

Admission: 18:00 hours

THE KINGS OF MODERN METAL

Since their beginnings in the metalcore underground, Trivium have steadily evolved from album to album and quickly became the spearhead of the modern metal genre. Today, the band represents a versatile, contemporary, and arena-compatible heavy metal sound of the highest quality. In the summer of 2026, the Americans will come for an exclusive Summer Nights Indoor Show at Z7.

Sweden Rock, Rock im Park, Nova Rock, Rock am Ring, Download – Z7! The modern metal masters Trivium will rock the big European festival stages in 2026. Here, you have the opportunity to experience the band in the intimate setting of a Z7 Summer Nights Indoor Show. Trivium undoubtedly ranks among the leading metal bands of our time. With their milestone album "Ascendancy" (2005), the Floridians gained worldwide fame. Their blend of melody, thrash power, and high-energy live shows captivates metal fans as well as a wider audience. At the beginning of 2025, Trivium were on a major retro trip through Europe. On the joint tour with Bullet For My Valentine, they celebrated the 20th anniversary of their groundbreaking album "Ascendancy." The tour was supposed to continue worldwide until the end of the year, but BFMV suddenly left the tour. Thus, Trivium decided to release an EP for the first time in their career with the 3-track monster "Struck Dead." Bassist Paolo Gregoletto: "The new songs somehow channel the angry energy of 'Ascendancy.' The result is really heavy. I think some moments might be a bit proggy, but there are many really good hooks and great riffs." In the meantime, frontman Matt Heafy and his guys have started working on a new studio album set to be released in 2026. Guitarist Corey Beaulieu: "The last album 'In The Court Of The Dragon' came out in 2021. That's our longest gap between two full-length albums. So new music is definitely on the way. We've been working on a few things and are turning the page to the next chapter. There will be a new album in 2026 with an accompanying tour, festivals, and everything that comes with it. It's going to be another busy year. We're leaving nostalgia behind and looking to the future. We’re excited for that."

Doors open at 7:00 PM

FINGERSTYLE LEGEND FROM DOWN UNDER

For guitar gourmets worldwide, Tommy Emmanuel's status as a driving force in the contemporary six-string scene is undeniable. The Australian guitar icon has once again impressively demonstrated his instrumental and compositional skills with the album "Living In The Light" released in the fall of 2025. In the summer of 2026, Tommy Emmanuel CGP will showcase his extraordinary live qualities on the stage of Z7.

Tommy Emmanuel is unstoppable. The 70-year-old musician released his new album "Living In The Light" in the fall of 2025 and is still touring the world. The award-winning, twice Grammy-nominated artist from Down Under is among the most renowned fingerpickers in the world, with his unique guitar style and outstanding technique, very much in the spirit of the great Chet Atkins. Over his six and a half decades-long career – Tommy was considered a guitar prodigy and played at a professional level as a child – the Australian has refined the music of diverse artists like Air Supply and Michael Jackson and shared the stage with legends Les Paul and Eric Clapton. With his various influences ranging from country, jazz, blues, and folk to African and Latin American styles, as well as Spanish and classical elements, Emmanuel is open to all genres and cultures, which also made him a musical ambassador between people from all nations at the closing ceremony of the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney. Renowned guitarists rave about Tommy Emmanuel. "The best guitarist I've ever seen play," says Eric Clapton. Colleague Joe Satriani notes, "He plays the same 12 notes that are available to all of us. He uses the same 6 strings. He doesn't play the most unusual guitars in the world. Essentially, he needs the same tools we do, but what he achieves with them is monumental."

Tommy Emmanuel CGP: The acronym CGP stands for Certified Guitar Player and is an honorary title invented by guitar legend Chet Atkins (+2001) that has been bestowed upon only a handful of select guitarists. Although this is an unofficial recognition, it is a great honor for the holders to have received this acknowledgment of their achievements from Atkins. Tommy Emmanuel has had the three letters engraved into the necks of some of his guitars.

Copyright: Alyssa Gafkjen

Doors: 7:00 PM

The event has been canceled.

DEATH-METAL-LEGACY

Three former members of the influential band Death jointly manage the musical legacy of the much too early deceased Florida death metal legend Chuck Schuldiner. With their tribute band Death To All, the musicians are coming to Switzerland as part of the "Symbolic Healing Tour 2026".

Founded in 1984 by Chuck Schuldiner in Altamonte Springs, the band Death, alongside the Californian band Possessed, is considered one of the most famous pioneers of death metal and was regarded as a co-founder of the genre-defining death metal scene in Florida. After the death of mastermind Schuldiner in 2001, Death was disbanded. About a decade later, three former members of the band decided to take over Schuldiner's musical legacy and form the tribute band Death To All. Drummer Gene Hoglan (Death, Dark Angel, Testament), bassist Steve DiGiorgio (Death, Testament, Sadus), and guitarist Bobby Koelble (Death) teamed up with singer and guitarist Max Phelps (Exist, Cynic). Death to All offers a new generation of metalheads the opportunity to experience the genius of Death and Chuck Schuldiner up close. Currently, two groundbreaking albums are the focus of the concert setlists. The "Symbolic Healing Tour" celebrates the anniversaries of the albums "Spiritual Healing" (35 years) and "Symbolic" (30 years). For two hours, Death To All impressively demonstrates in their shows how timeless Schuldiner's music is. It is a powerful and respectful homage that challenges the audience while simultaneously thrilling them and reminding them once again of what the pioneer has accomplished for the death metal scene. Setlist highlights include songs like "Spiritual Healing," "Symbolic," "The Philosopher," "Zero Tolerance," "Voice of the Soul," and "Crystal Mountain." During the last tour in Germany, a metalhead asked on a relevant internet portal: "Is the band worth going to the concert?" Another fan promptly replied: "Absolutely! I've seen them twice and both times were super shows. The singer does a great job and the rest of the band is fantastic too. Hearing the music live, played pretty close to the original, is 100% worth it for me. I will go again whenever they tour near me." On to Pratteln!

Copyright: n/a

Doors: 6:00 PM

RIFF-MONSTER RELOADED

The singer, songwriter, and guitarist Zakk Wylde is coming back to the Z7 in the summer of 2026 with his riff monster Black Label Society. And he is bringing fresh song material: a new long player is set for early 2026. As part of the subsequent album release tour, the BLS Express will roll into Pratteln.

Zakk Wylde is a busy man. Recently, he was on tour with the reformed Pantera or his all-star project Zakk Sabbath and played big at Ozzy Osbourne's farewell show in Birmingham in July. In addition, he also found time to produce new songs for his formation Black Label Society. In spring 2026, the long-awaited twelfth studio album will be released, followed by a major tour. From February, an extensive journey through the United States and Canada is initially planned. In summer, the new tracks will also be presented in Europe. Three singles have already been released in advance: "The Gallows" premiered in September 2024, followed by "Lord Humungus" in February 2025, and Black Label Society released their third advance single for the upcoming studio album, "Broken And Blind," in autumn 2025. Zakk Wylde commented on the release in his typically quirky and humorous way: “What's up, guys? This is Zakk Wylde from Black Label Society. This is a new song called ‘Broken And Blind’. The song is about peanut butter and chocolate and what happens when I don’t have either. My soul is broken and I’m blind with rage when I don’t have peanut butter and chocolate. So here you go, the new song is called ‘Broken And Blind’. Thanks, have a great day.”

Black Label Society was founded in 1998 by Zakk Wylde in Los Angeles, California. The debut album “Sonic Brew” was released the same year. The latest album, “Doom Crew Inc.,” was released in 2021. Metal Hammer stated: “Of course, the ultra-cool guitar riffs of master Wylde are at the center of all tracks, always wonderfully garnished with acoustic guitars or piano and even organ sounds. The best part: Zakk Wylde has never sung as compellingly and diversely as on ‘Doom Crew Inc.’!” To date, the band has released eleven studio albums, two live albums, and an EP. Album number twelve will be released in spring 2026. Plenty of monster riffs guaranteed. “The main component of every Black Label track is the riff,” says Zakk. Black Label Society builds their music on that, which recently cracked the Billboard Top 5 Albums chart three times in a row. The BLS discography is like a manual for finely crafted American hard rock music and should thus be a must for all blues-based rock 'n' roll musicians. The new songs were once again recorded in Zakk's own Black Vatican Studio. Their simplicity is due to the ultimate lesson Wylde learned from Black Sabbath's 76 work “We Sold Our Soul for Rock’N’Roll”: “Less is often more. Except for the guitar solos.”

Doors open at 18:30.

ROCKING IN THE ROMAN THEATER

The Roman Theater Augusta Raurica is the best-preserved ancient open-air stage north of the Alps and has been the venue for Z7 concerts for many years. In 2014, the Swiss Pink Floyd tribute band Crazy Diamond provided one of the most impressive concert experiences here, followed by performances from artists such as Tangerine Dream, Nena, Mike & The Mechanics, Nick Mason, and Beth Hart. Anyone who has experienced a concert in the 1600-seat semi-circular arena knows the incomparable atmosphere of this historical setting. In 2026, Z7 returns and presents for “Augusta Raurica – Live in Concert” Crazy Diamond, Apocalyptica, and Eluveitie as high-profile headliners.

CRAZY DIAMOND - THE PINK FLOYD TRIBUTE

We are celebrating 25 years of Crazy Diamond! “Run, run, run, run – you better run!” Since its founding in 2001, Crazy Diamond has rocked across Switzerland from corner to corner. “Year after year, running over the same old ground.” More than a hundred thousand fans have experienced this band live over the years. Presenting the unique music of Pink Floyd is one thing; adding that certain something to the sound is another. Apparently, the musicians repeatedly hit a nerve. Powerful, forceful, and mighty, the songs are served with a touch of uniqueness. These are the right ingredients to take the listener on a time travel journey that spans from the 60s to the 90s. Whether it’s the first single “Arnold Layne” or one of the last highlights, “High Hopes,” hits like “Another Brick In The Wall” and “The Great Gig In The Sky,” or gems like “Sheep” or “Careful With That Axe Eugene.” Crazy Diamond gives their all with every song to captivate the audience with an unforgettable show. The bombastic sound is further highlighted by fantastic visual effects. To get a sense of “one of the best Pink Floyd tributes,” as the band has been enthusiastically labeled, you must experience Crazy Diamond live. Preferably in the unique atmosphere of the theater in Augusta Raurica, where the band already delivered two magnificent shows in 2014, referencing Pink Floyd's “Live At Pompeii.”

Doors open: 18:00

Tickets possibly still available directly at Z7 at the box office. Info at Tel. +41 61 821 48 00.

ROCKING AT THE ROMAN THEATER

The Roman Theater Augusta Raurica is the best-preserved ancient open-air stage north of the Alps and has been the venue for Z7 concerts for many years. In 2014, the Swiss Pink Floyd tribute band Crazy Diamond provided one of the most impressive concert experiences here, followed by performances from artists such as Tangerine Dream, Nena, Mike & The Mechanics, Nick Mason, and Beth Hart. Anyone who has experienced a concert in the semicircle with 1,600 seats knows the incomparable atmosphere of this historical setting. In 2026, Z7 returns and presents for “Augusta Raurica – Live in Concert” Crazy Diamond, Apocalyptica, and Eluveitie as high-profile headliners.

APOCALYPTICA – PLAYS METALLICA LIVE

Thirty years ago, a completely unknown band from Finland emerged in the music scene, catching the attention of both classical and metal fans. With the album “Apocalyptica Plays Metallica by Four Cellos,” classically trained musicians from the far North let loose on stage. Headbanging while playing the cello was something the music world had never seen before. The concept was continuously expanded. Soon, three cellos and a drum set appeared on stage at concerts. With guest singers, more bands were covered, and eventually, original songs were composed. In 2024, however, they returned to their old love and released the album “Apocalyptica Plays Metallica Vol 2.” This work continues the journey that began in 1996 when cellists from the world-famous Sibelius Academy in Helsinki created their symphonic tribute to the metal titans Metallica. The tenth Apocalyptica album features several surprises. For example, the stunning reinterpretation of one of the greatest musical Metallica moments, the song “One” from the milestone album “And Justice For All.” Additionally, James Hetfield and Rob Trujillo can also be heard on the new Apocalyptica album. With this release, Apocalyptica has once again outdone themselves. On the current tour, the band exclusively plays Metallica songs to the delight of fans. The unleashed cello metallers with a best-of-Metallica set promise a wild summer night in Augusta Raurica.

Doors open: 6:00 PM

ROCKING IN THE ROMAN THEATER

The Roman Theater Augusta Raurica is the best-preserved ancient open-air stage north of the Alps and has been the venue for Z7 concerts for many years. In 2014, the Swiss Pink Floyd tribute band Crazy Diamond provided one of the most impressive concert experiences here, followed by performances from artists such as Tangerine Dream, Nena, Mike & The Mechanics, Nick Mason, and Beth Hart. Anyone who has experienced a concert in the 1600-seat semi-circle knows the incomparable atmosphere of this historic setting. In 2026, Z7 returns and presents for "Augusta Raurica – Live in Concert" Crazy Diamond, Apocalyptica, and Eluveitie as high-profile headliners.

AN EVENING WITH ELUVEITIE – PURE FOLK METAL

Eluveitie has written Pure Folk Metal on their banner. Since 2002, the band led by mastermind Chrigel Glanzmann has been combining melodic death metal with Celtic folk music to create a distinctive sound. With this exquisite mix in their luggage, the Winterthur band has been traveling all over the world for years, enjoying steadily growing success. When it comes to metal from Switzerland, Eluveitie has been the benchmark for years. With sold-out tours and celebrated releases, the pioneers of the New Wave Of Folk Metal have become the most successful Swiss metal export of all time. It's even more wonderful that the band loves to return to their homeland to celebrate extravagant parties with the fans who made them big. In April 2025, Eluveitie released their long-awaited new album "ÀNV". Chrigel says: "We are really proud of it. From the beginning of this project, we aimed to create a very real, honest album – similar to our early works. And that's exactly what we achieved with ÀNV. Raw and brutally honest. At the same time, it's a modern and uncompromising album that reflects the depth of its lyrics musically: sincere, profound, and more relevant than ever!" The last tour with Arch Enemy, Amorphis, and Gatecreeper was a true triumph throughout Europe, and we are immensely excited to celebrate and enjoy "An Evening With Eluveitie" in the summer of 2026.

Copyright: Organizer

Entry: 6:00 PM

Tickets possibly still available directly at Z7 at the box office. Info at Tel. +41 61 821 48 00.

DARK-ROCK-GIANTS AT THE ROMAN THEATER

Three albums in a row at #1 on the Official German Album Charts, a "Darkness Tour" that was nearly sold out everywhere even before it started – and now the next chapter of this unique success story follows: in summer 2026, Mono Inc. unleash all their energy on an open-air tour through Germany and a very special performance in Switzerland. As a special guest, the Liechtenstein melancholia masters The Beauty of Gemina will open this fantastic concert evening in the ancient walls of Augusta Raurica.

The giants of Dark Rock conquer summer 2026 with spectacular open-air shows. Those who know Mono Inc. understand: it's not just about concerts – it's about experiences that resonate deeply and remain unforgettable. With the songs from their current successful album "Darkness," the Hamburg-based band once again shows that darkness does not mean the end, but rather strength, hope, and pure emotion. But that's not all: for their summer shows in 2026, the band will include a "Best Of" from over 20 years of career. A setlist that has everything from anthems to goosebumps moments. After their two #1 albums "The Book Of Fire" and "Ravenblack," another completely sold-out Symphonic Tour, and headliner slots at various festivals, Mono Inc. released an electrifying ode to the strength within us all with "Darkness" in summer 2025. Profound and multi-layered like never before. The lyrics and sound of the first single "In My Darkness" radiate deeply from within. "Just as we can always shine for ourselves when the world around us sinks into chaos," says band leader Martin Engler. Solidarity and tolerance, love for others and self-love: "Darkness" revolves around everything that has carried the ever-growing Raven Community through all storms and valleys for years. "Darkness" brims with epic power while simultaneously creating intimate moments. This aligns with the conclusion from our friends at Metalinside.ch regarding the last completely sold-out Mono Inc. show in Pratteln in November 2025. The conclusion was: "An evening full of emotions, energy, and a sense of community, a mix of pathos and melancholy."

Tip for all fans: In 2027, Mono Inc. will take a break from rock touring. So if you want to experience the band once again in a loud and powerful way, you have the last chance to do so for a long time in summer 2026.

Copyright: unknown

Entry: 5:00 PM

EXPLOSION OF EMOTIONS

Few singers can convey their deepest feelings in such an inspiring way through songs like the American blues, soul, and rock singer Beth Hart. With her album "You Still Got Me," she has released another very personal work in October 2024 that encompasses a true explosion of emotions. Her performance on the open-air stage of Z7 Summer Nights promises to be a highlight of the concert year 2025.

This passionate musician must be experienced live. Beth Hart not only captivates with fantastic songs that blend earthy blues, soulful soul, and gripping rock, but also with a voice that is unmatched. Powerful and expressive, she reveals her deepest emotions during concerts brimming with devotion and passion. When Beth Hart sings in the title song of her new album "You Still Got Me": "He asked me if I need a hug, I said I got nothing inside left to love and then he said, but baby ya still got me," you can really feel it. Anyone who has seen Beth Hart live or immersed themselves in her music knows that she pours every gram of her being into her songs. Beth Hart is more authentic than ever. In a music industry filled with glossy productions and retouched photoshoots, she is the artist who lays her cards on the table and reveals her darkest secrets. Once again, the Grammy-nominated talent showcases her most vulnerable side on a record and gives listeners insights into her personal successes and setbacks in life. "My inner healing process took a very long time, but now I feel very comfortable with my dark side, my craziness, and the things I was ashamed of for so long." Beth Hart truly has nothing to be ashamed of. Certainly not for her fantastic music.

Doors open: 6:00 PM

TOBI TOTAL: Z7-SUMMER NIGHT WITH AVANTASIA

Avantasia is back! Tobias Sammet is coming to Pratteln with his celebrated all-star metal opera project. The "Here Be Dragons Tour" will make a stop at the Z7 Summer Nights Open Airs in 2026 and invites us on a fantastic musical journey between reality, dreams, exuberance, and melancholy.

"Here Be Dragons" is the tenth studio album of the metal opera project Avantasia. And it has made quite an impact again: Number 1 in Germany and Austria, number 3 in the Swiss charts. Tobias Sammet's all-star parade is still a guarantee for success a quarter-century after the first output. The album, released in spring 2025, offers absolute Avantasia essentials like the big choruses and bombastic symphonic metal elements, while also surprising old and new fans with fascinating new soundscapes. "Here Be Dragons" enhances the continuously evolving and globally celebrated Avantasia sound that has been refined over more than 25 years with exciting and powerful facets. It has resulted in the most consistent and distinctive work in the band's history. All ten tracks on "Here Be Dragons" were written and composed by Tobias Sammet himself. In typical Avantasia fashion, the album creates cinematic atmospheres and brings grand stories to life – brought to life by absolute musical extraordinary artists. Among the guests on the album are Ronnie Atkins (Pretty Maids), Bob Catley (Magnum), Tommy Karevik (Kamelot), Michael Kiske (Helloween, Unisonic), Geoff Tate (Operation: Mindcrime, former Queensrÿche), and Kenny Leckremo (H.E.A.T). Some of these fantastic voices will also be welcomed in Pratteln for the grand Avantasia Summer Nights Open Air. And Tobias Sammet promises: "The shows of our 'Here Be Dragons' tour offer a journey into a world full of wonders, where people can forget everything else in their real lives and join us on the other side. It’s a captivating experience with special effects and a huge production, bigger and better than anything we’ve ever done. There are anthemic, epic songs seamlessly fitting with our classics and some almost forgotten songs that have made it into the live setlist. I can’t wait to present 'Here Be Dragons' to the world in 2026 and bring this stage spectacle back on the road." Yes, indeed: Avantasia is back!

Copyright: Photo by Kevin Nixon

Entry: 6:00 PM

With over 4000 concerts across Europe, he is one of the most popular Italian singer-songwriters. Pollina captivates with his boundless creativity, which has continually surprised his many loyal fans for over 35 years.

Whether it's with lyrical ballads, poetic protest songs, or rockin' tracks: Pollina's language always remains sensitive and delicate.

In addition to his concerts with his band, he has also collaborated with countless international artists, such as: Georges Moustaki, Franco Battiato, Inti Illimani, Konstantin Wecker, Rebekka Bakken, Charlie Mariano, or Werner Schmidbauer & Martin Kälberer.

Pippo Pollina cheers and reasons, chats and reflects, with a rough yet sonorous voice, sometimes a touch laconic, but never without the fundamental reverence for the beauty of sounds and the power of art.

Because music is a gift. That is the foundation, despite all doubts.

Line-up
Pippo Pollina – vocals, piano & guitar
Roberto Petroli – clarinet & saxophone
Mario Rivera – bass, double bass & vocals
Gianvito Di Maio – keyboard, accordion & vocals
Edoardo Musumeci – electric guitar & acoustic guitar
Fabrizio Giambanco – drums & percussion

Copyright: Lena Semmelroggen

Doors open: 18:00

SAVATAGE & NEVERMORE: PROG-METAL-SOMMERFEST

After the celebrated stage comeback in the summer of 2025, Savatage will return to Europe in 2026 with the "Prelude To Madness" tour. In addition to various festival appearances, there will be a few selected headliner shows. One of them will take place as part of the Z7 Summer Nights Open Airs on August 3, right at our doorstep! As special guests, we are thrilled to welcome none other than the newly reformed Nevermore, featuring Jeff Loomis and Van Williams.

Tampa Florida, November 3, 2025: The prog-metal pioneers Savatage announce their eagerly awaited "Prelude To Madness" tour 2026. The launch will begin on July 19 in Istanbul, marking the long-awaited return to Europe. The concerts promise an explosive setlist, featuring songs from the entire catalog of the band, including classic anthems and deep cuts that underline Savatage's appreciation for their legendary fanbase, aka The Legion. Singer Zak Stevens states: "After the fantastic tours through South America and Europe last year, I am very much looking forward to the upcoming Savatage shows in Europe. It’s going to be great." Savatage is regarded as one of the most influential bands in Progressive Metal. Throughout their remarkable career, the band from Tampa has released eleven groundbreaking albums and performed hundreds of concerts worldwide. With their unique blend of thrash, prog, power metal, and classic hard rock, they have had a lasting impact on heavy metal. Their innovative approach to concept albums and rock operas has influenced countless artists and garnered them a loyal fan base all over the world. The passionate following continually advocated for the band's return during the nearly two-decade-long touring hiatus. Their one-time reunion performance at Wacken Open Air 2015 thrilled 80,000 fans and confirmed both the legendary status of Savatage and the unwavering dedication of their audience. Building on the success of the Wacken triumph, Savatage made international headlines in 2025 with their first headline shows since 2002. The Europe tour successfully united multiple generations and was a highly emotional experience for both old and new fans. It is with even greater excitement that we present one of the few headliner shows of Savatage in the summer of 2026. The "Prelude To Madness" tour will feature the current powerhouse lineup of Zak Stevens (vocals), Al Pitrelli and Chris Caffery (guitars), Johnny Lee Middleton (bass), and Jeff Plate (drums).

Nevermore:
In spring 2025, news spread like wildfire through the metal scene: Nevermore is making a comeback! Founding member Jeff Loomis (guitar) and long-time drummer Van Williams aim to revive the prog-metal legend with new collaborators. At the end of March, they announced: "The wait is over! After a long selection process, we have assembled a lineup that honors our legacy while also charting a new path into the future. We are very happy about this." The identities of the chosen ones will likely be revealed soon. Currently, preparations for the band's long-awaited return are in full swing: "We are getting ready for the next chapter of Nevermore, and we promise it will be worth the wait." Formed in 1992 from the ashes of the band Sanctuary, Nevermore established themselves in the metal Olympus between 1995 and 2010 with seven fantastic albums and a compelling stage presence. In the summer of 2026, the newly formed prog/thrash metallers from Seattle will come in a double bill with Savatage to Pratteln. It promises to be a high-profile summer night on Kraftwerkstrasse. Savatage frontman Zak Stevens can hardly wait: "We are very excited to welcome our old friends Nevermore as special guests."

Doors open: 6:00 PM

META-SUMMER THUNDER WITH SAXON

The mighty Metal Eagle spreads its wings once again and lands on our outdoor stage in August 2026. The tireless NWOBHM legend Saxon comes for a show as part of the Z7 Summer Nights in Pratteln. Frontman Biff Byford still shows himself to be in impressive form even after five decades and once again brings his timeless Heavy Metal Thunder to Switzerland.

Saxon are the absolute hard workers of the metal scene. Founded 50 years ago in Barnsley, England as Son Of A Bitch, they have written Heavy Metal history up to today. Together with Iron Maiden, they were among the pioneers of the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal in the early 80s and brought 5 albums into the Top 20 of the UK charts – at a time when you still had to sell quite a few physical records to have a chance in the charts. Saxon have since released 24 studio albums and countless live albums, and with their regular releases and seemingly endless tours, they remain a sure bet in the hard rock business. Saxon are one of the very few formations that have remained true to themselves and their sound throughout their entire career. And that is appreciated by the fans. With their latest work "Hell, Fire And Damnation," Saxon has once again exceeded all expectations in 2024 and created another Heavy Metal classic that walks the perfect line between confident, contemporary power and a respectful homage to the glorious New Wave of British Heavy Metal. Every performance oozes confidence. Biff Byford delivers his best vocals in years, drummer Nigel Glockler and bassist Nibbs Carter provide thunderous power for the rhythm. The guitars of Doug Scarratt and Brian Tatler are fresh, fiery, and complement each other perfectly. Musically, Saxon brings everything to the table that keeps the denim-and-leather crowd entertained. Singer Biff reflects on the album produced by Andy Sneap (Judas Priest), where for the first time Diamond Head guitarist Brian Tatler contributed. "Brian brought a new dynamic to the songwriting. It worked excellently. 'Hell, Fire And Damnation' was chosen as 'Album of the Year' on quite a few websites. So we must have hit it quite well. I hope the next one will be just as good, if not better. But 'Hell, Fire And Damnation' will be hard to top. I consider it a pretty perfect album." The songs for a successor are definitely already in the works, and a new work is expected by the end of 2026. It is quite possible that a brand new Saxon song will find its way onto the Summer Night setlist.

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Entrance: 18:00 Uhr

ROSE TATTOO: LAST SHOWS IN EUROPE

Rose Tattoo, together with AC/DC, has shaped the international rock scene like few other Australian bands. With the "Rock'n'Roll Outlaws – One Last Ride" tour, the formation led by legendary singer Angry Anderson celebrates its 50th anniversary. At the same time, the performance at Z7 Summer Nights Open Air is the last opportunity for Swiss fans to experience the band live one more time.

The Australian rock 'n' roll outlaws Rose Tattoo are writing the final chapter of their extraordinary band history: After five decades on the road, the band fronted by Angry Anderson announces its last European tour for 2026. Since their founding in 1976, Rose Tattoo has loudly shaped the international rock scene. With their uncompromising blend of blues, hard rock, and pub rock, they created an unmistakable sound that has influenced generations of musicians and fans. Hits like "Rock 'n' Roll Outlaw," "Bad Boy for Love," and "Nice Boys" are now classics of the genre. Angry Anderson, the charismatic and indestructible voice, still leads the band after half a century with the same energy and passion that made Rose Tattoo one of the most respected live acts in rock history. The farewell tour will crisscross Europe one more time in 2026 and promises an emotional journey through five decades of rock history – from the early pub rock anthems to the later classics. With his well-rehearsed band, Angry will once again deliver what Rose Tattoo became famous for: explosive live energy, authentic rock 'n' roll attitude, and the certainty that true rebellion never dies. The "Rock'n'Roll Outlaws – One Last Ride" shows are more than just concerts; they are a farewell to an important piece of music history and a tribute to the timeless spirit of rock 'n' roll. Angry Anderson will celebrate his 79th (!) birthday the day before his performance in Pratteln. However, instead of enjoying a well-deserved retirement, the indestructible rock 'n' roll veteran travels around the world once more to convey his gritty messages to the fans.

Doors open: 6:00 PM

REGGAE VIBES IN PRATTELN

The Wailers are back! The perhaps most famous reggae band on the planet brings a taste of Jamaica to Pratteln for a summer night. At the Z7 Summer Nights Open Air, we celebrate timeless reggae classics without end. The setlist reads like the definitive "Best of Bob Marley & The Wailers" compilation.

Together with Bob Marley, The Wailers have written reggae history. With over 25 million copies sold, "Legend," the best-of collection of Bob Marley & The Wailers, is the most successful reggae album of all time. The compilation spent over 700 weeks on the Billboard 200 chart and is the only representative of the genre on the list of the 100 best-selling albums worldwide. In addition to physical sales, the music of the Wailers has reached click numbers in the tens of billions, with nearly 30 million monthly listeners on Spotify alone. The list of hits is like a reggae encyclopedia: “No Woman No Cry”, “Is This Love”, “Three Little Birds”, “Buffalo Soldier”, “Redemption Song”, “Exodus”, “I Shot The Sheriff”, “One Love”, “Stir It Up”, “Could You Be Loved”, a enumeration far beyond the borders of reggae. After the untimely passing of Bob Marley in 1981, it was Aston “Familyman” Barrett who continued the Wailers and breathed new life into them. Now under the experienced leadership of his son, Aston Barrett Jr., The Wailers have lost none of their magic and continue to deliver intergenerational, electrifying performances full of energy and charisma, where the classic hits are brought back to life on stage. Fans will be treated to a unique mix of nostalgia and modern reggae anthems that make each concert an unforgettable experience. A summer night packed with hits, emotions, and loads of positive groove awaits.

Doors open: 6:00 PM

99.9 % RAMMSTEIN – 100 % VÖLKERBALL

In 2026, Völkerball – the most authentic Rammstein tribute band in Europe – will literally take flight. With faithfully recreated props, the band will bring the perfection of a Rammstein show closer to you than ever before and turn it into breathtaking reality.

Like no one else, Völkerball brings the concert experience of the Berlin rock giants to the stage with explosive power and unprecedented perfection. Völkerball: 99.9 % Rammstein – 100 % Völkerball is more than a promise: The band is a guarantee for goosebumps, a highly impressive pyro show, and musical precision at the highest level.
In 2026, Völkerball will again set new standards in show design and fidelity to their great role model: Familiar and beloved props such as the fire arc and the flamethrower in the song ‘Mein Teil’ will alternate with new elements like the oversized, confetti-spewing phallus in the song ‘Pussy’. And according to the name ‘Engel’ tour, René - alias Till - will rise into the air with mighty wings, high up to the roof of the stage – only to initiate the grand finale of the 2.5-hour tribute show in a brutal pyro storm.
In 2026, Völkerball will once again succeed in bringing an incredible production to the stage, which seeks its equal in dynamics, power, and authenticity. Thus, every Völkerball concert, with perfect sound, spectacular lights, and massive pyrotechnic effects, will be a fascinating extraordinary experience for every concert visitor.

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Doors open: 7:00 PM

99.9 % RAMMSTEIN – 100 % VÖLKERBALL

In 2026, Völkerball – the most authentic Rammstein tribute band in Europe – will literally take flight. With faithfully recreated props, the band will bring the perfection of a Rammstein show closer to you than ever before and turn it into breathtaking reality.

Like no one else, Völkerball brings the concert experience of the Berlin rock giants to the stage with explosive power and unprecedented perfection. Völkerball: 99.9 % Rammstein – 100 % Völkerball is more than a promise: The band is a guarantee for goosebumps, a highly impressive pyro show, and musical precision at the highest level.
In 2026, Völkerball will again set new standards in show design and fidelity to their great role model: Familiar and beloved props such as the fire arc and the flamethrower in the song ‘Mein Teil’ will alternate with new elements like the oversized, confetti-spewing phallus in the song ‘Pussy’. And according to the name ‘Engel’ tour, René - alias Till - will rise into the air with mighty wings, high up to the roof of the stage – only to initiate the grand finale of the 2.5-hour tribute show in a brutal pyro storm.
In 2026, Völkerball will once again succeed in bringing an incredible production to the stage, which seeks its equal in dynamics, power, and authenticity. Thus, every Völkerball concert, with perfect sound, spectacular lights, and massive pyrotechnic effects, will be a fascinating extraordinary experience for every concert visitor.

Copyright: n.a.

Doors open: 7:00 PM