Controversial and at the same time adored heavy metallers W.A.S.P. are returning to Zagreb after a long 21 years to put on a concert and spectacle to remember! This can be confirmed by their fantastic concert in mid-July in Belgrade, which was talked about in superlatives for days afterwards. Led by the charismatic Blackie Lawless, on this occasion, as part of the “Album ONE Alive” world tour, they will play their entire debut album on 28.10. at Boogaloo, thus marking the 40th anniversary of its release. Along with hits such as “I Wanna Be Somebody”, “School Daze” and “L.O.V.E. Machine”, many other songs from their rich career are expected. A limited contingent of early bird tickets priced at 44 euros will be available from Friday, 22 August at 10 am on the Hangtime website. The pre-sale price of tickets is 49 euros, and if there are any left, they will cost 55 euros on the day, but realistically, don’t count on that. Hard copy tickets will also be available soon at the Dirty Old Shop.
But, as it was in Belgrade, from the pen of Darija Đumić (Balkanrock):
“It is very rare that after the end of a concert by a band of this caliber, there is always that part of the audience that seems to be purposefully looking for something to criticize and highlight as bad, and to diminish and spoil the experience. In this case, however, it is almost an impossible mission, because last night was one of those when absolutely all the pieces fit together. In 2025, to witness a magnificent revision of the chapter of heavy metal that is crucial, is a true privilege, honor and happiness. Being yourself and being consistent with yourself, despite and in spite of all the pressures from outside and the norms that are mercilessly served, is a universal foundation for all those who want to be someone. Blackie Lawless broke countless rules and laws long ago, opposed a cold and calculated system, and all this through his music, as an essential reflection of his being. Thanks to this, he is a kind of icon today, and the fruits of his rebellion are still being harvested and will be harvested – fiercely, deliciously, passionately, just as befits us, “wild children.”
W.A.S.P. is an American heavy metal band formed in 1982 in Los Angeles, and the meaning of the acronym itself remains unknown to this day, or as Blackie himself says: “We Ain’t Sure, Pal.” The band quickly became known for its controversial lyrics, theatrical performances that included raw meat, chainsaws and pyrotechnics, as well as the provocative image that they still cultivate today. During the 1980s, W.A.S.P. was under attack from conservative groups for various forms of “explicitness,” which made them a symbol of freedom of expression in heavy metal and related genres. Albums such as “The Last Command” (1985) and “Inside the Electric Circus” (1986) solidified their popularity on a global scale, especially while touring with bands such as Iron Maiden, Slayer and Saxon.
They have released 16 albums in a very fruitful and colorful career, and Lawless says of their debut album: “A furious album recorded by a furious band. It not only reflected the attitude of the band members who created it, but also the spirit of the times in which it was created.” This album became one of the leaders of the metal scene of the 80s and remains one of the best debut albums of all time. In addition to Blackie, the band today consists of bassist Mike Duda, guitarist Doug Blair and drummer Aquiles Priester. See you at Boogaloo on October 28th, secure your tickets in time! The event is organized by the Hangtime agency.