Andromeda--Provided that they put out their new album sometime soon, these guys would slay! Johan Reinholdz is a very underrated talent, and "II=I" was one of the best prog releases of the last five years.
Archetype--I saw them at the Chicago Powerfest this year, and they kicked all forms of ass! They have major crossover appeal for fans of power, progressive, and even death metal.
Artension--This band doesn't get mentioned enough on this forum. The best band of overplayers that hasn't played a single show. It would be awesome to make ProgPower their debut!
Attention Deficit--This fest needs an instrumental act! I don't know how well this band would fare, but they're certainly progressive.
Crimson Glory--After seeing Conception, I believe that anything's possible.
Eidolon--Quite possibly the heaviest power metal band on the planet. Their next album should make a few waves, especially with Nils K. Rue on vocals.
Freak Kitchen--They could be the Pink Cream 69 of next year's fest. Awesome musicians, great satirical lyrics, and heavy grooves.
Ion Vein--Representing Chicago! They haven't played since the first show! Their new material is their heaviest yet. They'd make a great opener.
On a final note, my band would love to play the kick-off party. We're called Vulture. You can check out a couple of our songs at
www.myspace.com/vulturechicago. I encourage everyone to check it out. We should have a couple more songs up within the next month.
Stay metal. Never rust.
Met-Al