Billy Strings Brings Metal to Ionia Freak Fair

Music News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jun 26, 2026 · 1m

Billy Strings is turning up the volume at this year’s Ionia Freak Fair with a jaw-dropping metal stage lineup—featuring hardcore legends Bane and death metal titans Cryptopsy—curated personally by Strings after decades of deep ties to the scene. While bluegrass staples like Greensky Bluegrass and Leftover Salmon headline the familiar acts, this new “Pyramid Scheme Pinball and Metal Tent” reveals a darker, heavier side of Strings’ musical soul, complete with past collaborations and onstage Tool moments. Recovering from a skateboarding injury, he’s back on tour with a packed summer and fall…