Marius - Metal Platform Operator

 

What is Gelsen Metal Alliance (GMA)? How long have you been around and how and where do you have your fingers in the pie?
Marius: GMA started as a Facebook page years ago where I wanted to support different artists from all kinds of genres. Over time I focused more on metal because it felt the most natural to me. The name quickly connected with local bands and metal fans in Gelsenkirchen, and from there the whole thing grew step by step into a community project that kept expanding.

To what extent is „metal“ a flexible term for you? Do you shy away from thinking outside the box or do you also show a certain openness to related styles? Where are the limits?
Marius: Metal is my life, but I also love anything that carries real rock energy. Rock’n’Roll is the attitude behind everything I do. It can be bluesy, it can be old school hardcore, it can be anything with heart and power. Our main focus is metal in all its forms, but we stay open to related styles as long as they have the rock spirit.

What’s the deal with your festival Gelsen Metal Attack? How did that come about, is this the first edition of it and do you have any other festivals planned here?
Marius: The first edition was created together with IKM Gelsenkirchen, where I’m now also a member. We’ve known each other for about twenty years, and I’ve taken on the metal side of things there. After a few smaller shows we felt ready for something bigger, and the motivation to keep growing the festival is definitely there.

Release date: 24th of May, 2026
Instagram account: https://www.instagram.com/gelsenmetalalliance/