While the main stage drew its share of attention, the first day of Tuska 2025 also thrived across the Radio City Stage and Nordic Energy Stage. Friday’s lineup on these stages highlighted the breadth of contemporary heavy music, moving fluidly between sharp-edged attitude, dark pop sensibilities, and emotionally charged metalcore.

With standout performances from Blood Command, SKYND, Bambie Thug, and Imminence, these stages offered their own distinct atmosphere — intimate, intense, and driven by artists unafraid to push boundaries. Captured here are the moments that unfolded beyond the festival’s largest platform.