In an Adelaide Guitar Festival first, Freedom of Fear, an Adelaide-based metal band, takes the stage for their long-awaited debut.

This exceptional group has captivated audiences nationwide with their mesmerising and electrifying live performances, earning them a well-deserved reputation among the leading names in the metal scene.

With their dual guitar shredding, extraordinary musicianship, and captivating stage presence, Freedom of Fear has emerged as one of Australia's best-kept secrets within the thriving underground metal community.

Leading the charge are Corey Davis and Matt Walters, the band's prodigious lead guitarists, whose skills on the electric guitar have left audiences awestruck. What sets them apart is their lesser-known connection to the classical world, with both guitarists receiving their musical education at the Elder Conservatorium of Music right here in South Australia.

While Matt, who was trained and educated in the jazz department initially delved into rock and gradually gravitated towards extreme metal, Corey pursued a more classical path. Immersing himself in the study of classical guitar at the conservatorium, Corey chose to further his knowledge on the prestigious instrument by joining Adelaide Guitar Festival Orchestra from 2014 to 2016. In explaining his choice, Corey expressed his fondness for the harmony and sound of classical guitar, along with the opportunity to delve into music theory and history.

Slava Grigoryan, the Artistic Director of the Adelaide Guitar Festival, has divulged his secret passion for heavy metal guitar playing, recognising the remarkable skill level and musicality displayed by metal guitarists.

You can enjoy a highly skilled performance by Matt, Corey, and the rest of Freedom of Fear at the upcoming Adelaide Guitar Festival this July.

Find out more or book tickets here.

More information from the 2023 Adelaide Guitar Festival edition of WeekendPlus: