Punk’s the word

It is, by and large, Malta’s only punk festival, and while over the years, it has evolved to embrace other alternative genres, the spirit driving Malta punkbands, the team behind Festaħwid, remains staunchly rooted in the original punk ethos.

Now in its ninth edition, Festaħwid owes its notorious success to a mixture of authenticity and passion, both elements reflected in the way the festival is presented and in the choice of bands performing.

Spread over two nights and supported by Reciprocal Records and Alternative Obsessions, Festaħwid 9 will kick off this Friday at V-Gen in Paceville with five of Malta’s most energetic acts taking the stage, namely Three Stops to China, Kontroll, Dripht, BNI, and the welcome return of The I-Skandal, and there is a possibility of a bonus surprise opening act on the night.

The second night will feature six bands; a selection that stretches from the indie rock of Clandestines to the eclectic upbeat music of Zalza Kukkanja via newcomers Wyrd Animals, Saving Alexis, local hardcore punk veterans RAS, once again fronted by Cut My Skin’s Patti Pattex and special guests Popperklopper from Germany.

Tickets for the event cost €7 (per night) or €10 (for both nights) and will be available at the door. Doors open at 8pm, with the first band starting at 9pm.

For more information, look up the Festaħwid 9 event page or Malta punkbands on Facebook.