I think repeat bands, especially in the headline slots, are inevitable. There just aren't enough "gettable" bands that can fill those shoes, as you currently have the festival formatted. However, I have a different take on the necessity for a "true headliner" than you. Obviously, you know a lot more about this than I do, and I certainly wouldn't presume to tell you your business. But I don't believe you need a "true headliner". Not a single headliner has held much interest for me, with the possible exception of Angra (this year) and they were unimpressive. To me, having 10 quality bands is the key. I believe you have enough of a following, that you're going to fill Earthlink every year, regardless of whether you have a Gamma Ray or a Nightwish. I'd prefer to see bands of Tad Morose's and Brainstorm's level in in the four top slots. As an example, would the following line-up not sell out Earthlink (in no order):
Tad Morose
Brainstorm
Redemption
Primal Fear
Zero Hour
Vanden Plas
Pyramaze
Lanfear
Freak Kitchen
DragonForce
Not a headliner in the bunch. And obviously, five return bands for one fest is a bit much. These bands just best represent the status of the bands I had in mind. And I'm not cheerleading for these particular bands, just trying to illustrate my point.
As for repeat bands in all other slots, it's all a matter of you have back. But that's more a matter of taste than it is about format.
I'm not sure if that feedback is useful. I thought PPIII was the most unappealing line-up of the 5 PPs I've been to. Fact of the matter is, I'm buying my GBs blind every year, because I know you'll give us a quality show, so in the end, it matters very little to me.
Zod