What it is

Emissions from the Monolith is an independent music festival focused on the heavy underground. There are no sponsors dictating the lineup and no corporate backing. Just 2 dudes sharing their vision of what a festival should be.

History

Founded in 1999 by Greg Barratt out of his want to put a festival on with emerging and premiere underground heavy bands using undiagnosed ADHD and sheer will as his superpower, he ran 8 succesful festivals in Youngstown, OH - Chicago, IL - Austin, TX from 2000-2007. Fast forward to 2025 and Greg Barratt teamed up with Nate Offerdahl of Westside Bowl fame to bring the heavy back, keeping to the core principals of all killer, no filler.

2026 event

The festival will take place October 8–11, 2026 at Westside Bowl in Youngstown, Ohio. The venue provides a straightforward environment with solid sound, fair treatment for performers, and space for people to connect around music—not branding or spectacle.

Principles

• DIY and non‑corporate: independently organized and self‑funded.
• Artist and fan focused: curated lineup of acts of all levels and styles.
• Community over hierarchy: no VIP tiers or exclusive areas.
• Respect and inclusion: everyone should feel safe and welcome.

Thanks

Emissions is built by the same people who attend it—bands, fans, and volunteers who believe in loud, independent music. If you were part of it before, welcome back. If this is your first time, you’re in for a treat.