Jerry Cantrell at HellFest 2025: A Masterclass in Rock Genius

If there’s one name that deserves to be etched in the pantheon of rock gods, it’s Jerry Cantrell. And on Sunday night at HellFest 2025, he reminded us exactly why. While he may not have headlined the main stage (a decision that will surely be questioned for years to come), Cantrell absolutely owned the Valley stage, turning it into a cathedral of grunge, heavy emotion, and musical mastery.

From the first haunting notes of Alice in Chains classics like “Them Bones” and “Would,” the crowd was locked in. Every guitar riff was razor sharp, drenched in that unmistakable melancholic snarl that only Cantrell can summon. It was more than nostalgia—it was a resurrection. But what truly elevated this set into legendary territory was how effortlessly he wove in his solo material, showing the world that his creative fire is as fierce now as it ever was.

Then came the ace up his sleeve: Greg Puciato. Known for his wild energy and unhinged stage presence, the former Dillinger Escape Plan frontman stepped into the role of supporting vocalist with passion, power, and a deep respect for the material. Puciato didn’t just complement Cantrell—he ignited him. His voice brought a visceral edge to the harmonies that defined the Alice in Chains sound, giving the performance a raw, emotional weight that rippled through the Valley field like a sonic shockwave.

Cantrell, ever the understated showman, let the music do the talking. No gimmicks. No ego. Just a pure, unfiltered connection with the crowd. His solos sang. His presence commanded. And as the final notes rang out into the humid French night, it was clear to everyone that they had witnessed something rare: a true master at work.

Should he have been on the main stage? Absolutely. But there was something poetic about seeing Cantrell in the Valley—shoulder to shoulder with the die-hards, every square inch of ground packed with fans who knew they were witnessing greatness.

Jerry Cantrell didn’t just play HellFest. He conquered it.