Everyone has to remember Glenn's latest exposure (no, not the balls of steel

) This slot isn't going to be recognized as a true headliner, so throw out the Iced Earths, Helloweens, and Sym Xs (as much as I'd love either). We can also throw out the surprise reunions a la Crimson Glory or old school band returning such as Pretty Maids (which I would love).
Assume that this is going to be a repeat of a newer 3rd slot band from the past, or, more likely, be some up and coming band that other people think can't fill that slot.
I love the Nocturnal Rites suggestion, and think that this could be right for all the criteria. I also think the following bands could fill this bill:
Astral Doors - Only 3 albums out, but a lot of buzz.
Balance of Power - Not much done recently, but a big catalog and an established new singer
Falconer - Placed here only because I want to see them, but I don't think they are big enough to even be considered as a "made" headliner.
Labyrinth - Although I think they are already big enough to headline, but I thought Virgin Steele should headline, so what do I know anyway.
Masterplan - Only a few albums, and missing the Jorn star power, but still a solid band.
Mob Rules - My favorite pick, and in the exact same situation as Nocturnal Rites as far as catalog but not a lot of attention.
Mystic Prophecy - Another solid but smaller band, but may be too similar to be back to back with Primal Fear
Silent Force - Not a huge band, but they have DC Cooper and are coming out with their fourth album.
Savatage 25th reunion tour - Just seeing if you're paying attention.
For the record, I think it'll be NONE of the above, but that's along the lines of how I would guess Glenn is thinking.
The alternative to this whole post is that we've completely misread Glenn's words. When he said he was going to 'make a headliner', he didn't mean anything about raising a band up a notch. If I'm right here, we can look for the episodes of "Metal Idol" starting in January. The winning members will come together to form "Parrotheads of Steel", and close out the fest in Oct !
Steve in Philly