At this point, we all know METZ are loud. But there's something fresh about seeing a band like this at a traditionally folkier festival that makes their brand of noise rock that much noisier. Hillside's line-up has diversified greatly over the 30 years it's been around, previously featuring acts like Fucked Up and Japandroids, but METZ were undoubtedly the most raucous set of opening night this year. Storming through tracks from their acclaimed self-titled debut like "The Mule" and "Wet Blanket," the three-piece accomplished the rare feat of a mosh pit at Hillside. They also kicked off the collaborative spirit of the fest, when John O'Regan (aka Diamond Rings) hopped on stage to show off his Canadian tuxedo and sweet dance moves. O'Regan excitedly jumped around the stage and banged on the cymbals before tossing himself across and then into the crowd. It was a stand-out moment from an already memorable set.
Check out our gallery of photos from Hillside 2013 here.
Check out our gallery of photos from Hillside 2013 here.