In celebration of their latest release Accelerator, the Californian indie rock giants BAD SUNS came back to London for the first time since 2019, and made a stop at the infamous Electric Ballroom. Supported by the rising star TALLY SPEAR and the crowd favourites SOAP, it was a given that the show will be a memorable one. TALLY SPEAR opened the night with her energetic set, joined by a drummer and a guitarist, and although the Electric Ballroom was only half full, she captivated the crowd almost immediately - to no surprise, as this was her hometown show. TALLY did not have much time on the stage, yet she still delivered a curated setlist that captured her style flawlessly. From songs like Where Do I Go From Here?, to Self Confessions, to her unreleased work called Typical Me, her raw vocals were absolutely on point and as emotional as ever. She did not only get a big approval from the London crowd, but received a huge support from LEAP, who was hiding amongst the fans, too. After the quick changeover, the four-piece SOAP took over the stage, followed by loud cheering. The Electric Ballroom kept rapidly filling as the British-based alt rock band deep-dived into their thirty-minutes long set, swinging through with their unmistakable charm and enthusiasm. Combining the frontman’s indie vocals with the kick of an aggressive riff and beat, the set started on a slower note, only to uncompromisingly bring the heavy side of the songs, resulting in many fans dancing around the floor and dancing. It was truly a beautiful sight as people just celebrated the music and fully enjoyed the moment. Even though their set was not very long, the impact of SOAP’s set was enough to leave the crowd even more excited for the upcoming headliners. Fans, now even more energetic, rapidly flooded the floor in the short span between the last support and the headliner, buzzing with excitement as the Californian trio was finally set to appear in the capital after seven years from their last performance there. BAD SUNS were welcomed with a cheer and applause that almost shook the whole building and transitioned right into synchronised singing, as the drummer Miles Morris, bassist and keyboardist Gavin Bennett and the vocalist and guitarist Christo Bowman took to the iconic stage with the first song Slow Karma. From there, the three-piece did not stop delivering and the audience did not stop singing and enjoying the set to the max, as many fans were just living in the moment dancing and jumping. In between those nineteen songs, Bowman expressed his and the band’s gratitude many times, ensuring the crowd knew how grateful they were to be back after so many years. As the evening progressed with songs like Madeline, Why Am I Like This? and Cardiac Arrest, the band was leaning into both the rock nature of their music, as well as the indie one, with Bowman’s typical vocals, that make BAD SUNS’ the band we love so much today. Closing the night with the proper kick that is Daft Pretty Boys, the band not only managed to win the hearts of everyone in the Electric Ballroom over the duration of their set, they also left the room emotional, but excited for the band to come back again in the future. Words: Katerina Stepanikova Photos: Subhaan Khan

PSYCHEDELIC PORN CRUMPETS have certainly been busy over the past year, releasing not just one album but two, with Carpe Diem, Moonman in May and Pogo Rodeo in late October, it was only right they return to London so their loyal fanbase did not miss out on all the new tunes, we headed down to the legendary O2 Forum Kentish Town to see how they would turn the place upside. Opening up the night were the very wacky, very weird, FLORAL IMAGE, who offered their audience a warm welcome, dressed to the nines in their sixties and seventies clothing, their eccentric BEATLES vibes and seriously intense riffs made for a really interesting set where the music felt like it did not fit the people playing it at all. Regardless of that fact their funky tunes and fun dancing, especially from their bassist and absolute nutcase of a drummer really added to the overall vibe this band put across. Not to mention this band needs a massive commendation for their endurance as the songs were really long and went through all sorts of waves and emotions as a lot of warping and distortion of the guitars made each section sound crazy in comparison to the last. Next up, Bristol Trio, WALDO’S GIFT, took to the stage and threw the audience straight into their wild experimental sound, ripping from all sides of music, jazz to metal, funk to hip hop, this band spare no expense in exercising their musical skill with a technical playing that is all at once clinical but passionate. During the set, the band explained how they met and how their sound was formed through constant improv that created their unique style; this then led to them having a completely improvised section of the set where the drummer went wild, the bassist slid across his fret board and the guitarist used one riff and the punching of his pedals to create a crazy warped sound that was fantastic to hear. Finally the long-awaited headliner PSYCHEDELIC PORN CRUMPETS walked out and immediately caused the crowd to split in two, while an unpredictable amount of crowd surfers began to come over the barrier, as these Aussies showed the UK that they really did not want low energy at their gigs down under. These guys had such an aura of fun about them, down tuning their guitars ever so slightly to make the songs that sound fun and light in recording go insanely hard in a live setting; it really is surprising when you see this band live how intense of a performance they give and how genuinely heavy some of the sound is. The crowd absolutely reciprocated this with such a strong energy from every single member, anyone close to the front definitely would have been hard pressed to stand still as the band worked through a pretty extensive setlist that covered their whole career thus far. The set came to a head when they closed with their absolutely iconic song Cornflake, whose riff the audience sung back to the band as it echoed through the iconic venue and as it built up to the final drop of the song which split the crowd in two for one last insane bout of sweat, energy and music that really sealed the deal on the true passion the band possess and the loyalty the fans has for them. Words and photos: Ben Blissett

Whilst we feel that emo seems to be having a resurgence at the moment, bands such as SHORELINE are reminding us that emo never left the scene. This German emo/pop punk band is the first band to release an album on US label Pure Noise Records, and for good reason - because they seem to be creating a host of playlist adding songs whilst on their rise in popularity. Since joining pals ARMS LENGTH on tour, they have released a single from their new album Is This The Low Point Or The Moment After? and their album release is hot on its heels. SHORELINE are a band that like their albums to tell you something. They enjoy a narrative and focus on heartbreaking lyrics and big anthemic sounds. The album focuses on the question, when will we know that things are getting better when we feel we're at rock bottom? The opening songs Worry Count and Brittle Bond leave you with a thought provoking, melodic slow introduction blended with powerful screams and sincere vocals. As the album plays through, it feels like you are listening to a story about the realisation of the road to recovery and the journey you embark on the way there. Is This The Low Point Or The Moment After? feels like an album of two halves in an intentional way with the song Forgive (featuring KNUCKLE PUCK vocalist JOE TAYLOR) being a turning point from hopelessness to hopefulness. Including lyrics that are shouting “I can only pray for your forgiveness 'cause I was wrong and you were right” you feel that this is a song fans will be chanting for years to come. As each song progresses through the album you feel the songs developing into a positive outlook that only an emo record can release. Single Paradox Man is full of crashing guitars and drums, which packs a punch in under 2 minutes and leaves you wanting to hear more. The rawness of singer HANSOL SEUNG’s vocals and screams throughout not only the single, but the whole album and rips through the tracks to create a devastating hardcore sound. Each song feels full of gut wrenching emotions from start to finish that is sure to be a staple on your playlist. By the time you reach Out Of Touch and Good Times, the songs feel lighter, more of a heartfelt optimism, which is a touching glitter in the greyness of the world. Ending with Phantom Pain; it’s a mix of sombre vocals and crashing drums that includes the lyrics ‘I think I’m doing just fine” amongst agonising screams and juxtaposing ukulele riffs. It feels like a fever dream, but it just makes sense to create something utterly brilliant. SHORELINE have created an album full of catchy songs that well versed songwriters could only dream of writing. Their songs feel like a perfect blend of pop punk nostalgia mixed with a new sound that is nothing short of a record for the history books. Score: 8/10 Is This The Low Point Or The Moment After? will be released on 13th March 2026 via Pure Noise Records. Words: Laura Davies Photos: Shoreline

It is difficult to quite classify POWERPLANT. One part concrete kaleidoscope, one part haunted surfboard, two-and-one-quarter something so profoundly unique in its psychedelic approach to the music as concept that it simply rejects classification, on principle. Many bands provide vast experiences in their songs and albums - POWERPLANT’s newest upcoming release, the Bridge of Sacrifice, however, is not such an experience. It is a trip. Cast in skulking, faded film shadow, a certain fantastical glimmer, and seasoned with spectacularly spooky dungeon-oriented visions of past and future, its a classic so different - yet so familiar - both to POWERPLANT’s other work and in a more base, nostalgic familiarity, to more than earn its psychedelic accolades. THEO ZHYKHARYEV's passion project has been releasing haunted distortions since its breakout People In The Sun album in 2019, inventing for the world an approach to post-punk rock sound that defies set genre norms in favour of a continuous experiment in, presumably, just how many ghosts, ghouls and assorted spirits can fit in one synth. Established in a realm of tinny distortion, POWERPLANT’s initial up-beat melancholies and garage-built soul attracted an audience that has been delightfully surprised at every turn. With each new EP, ZHYKHARYEV has added new ingredients and spices to his drum machines, often defying and sometimes defining how best to manipulate the electronic soundscape. Bridge of Sacrifice does not, however, simply add new spice. It is almost a new menu in unto itself. No longer an individual project, the second album of the powerhouse has felt the touch of STANLEY GRAVETT from Holy Mountain Studios - responsible for the fidelity, mastering and mixing of bands like IDLES, THE HORRORS, and HIGH VIS - and has erupted full-force into a truly professional, dungeon-synth metal, still partially haunted-surfboard riding masterpiece. With backing vocals, an expanded repertoire of orchestral samples, and even the ghostly acoustic cello performances of HANI HOOPER, this is POWERPLANT at its best production, and it shows. The expansion has also allowed ZHYKHARYEV to showcase his personal vocal abilities further: proving himself to be a brilliant singer even under the distortion; somewhere between the jaded mania of the VIAGRA BOYS’ SEBASTIAN MURPHY and an actual black-metal infused wizard that, for any other synth project, would be entirely unprecedented. As this is POWERPLANT, however, it is only par for the course. Bridge of Sacrifice does much to curate a palpable aesthetic, tone and thematic vibe as to nary require description. In tone, it is almost reminiscent of the music from the other side of the Carpathians, from Slovakian indie project Felvidek, composed by MARCEL GIDOTE’S HOLY CRAB: the novel blending of both unplugged and electronic, alongside a dedication to fantasy visuals creates an aesthetic based on perfect thematic mixing that works far better to sell the fantastical “dungeon” atmosphere than any strict commitment to “real” medieval music ever could. Totalling 11 tracks, the new album treks from punk to melancholy to metal as if it were all one winding forest road. While the titular Bridge of Sacrifice well extenuates its groovy, distorted punk credentials, each following song brings its own style to the table. Running Cross, with its melding of major and minor tones and hammering drum-machines sounds suspiciously like what you would expect an evil, lovestruck sorcerer, relaxed on mystical herb, singing of his woes to be like. Florida, meanwhile, heartily reintroducing sheer whimsy, recounts a vampire sick of his cold castle, wishing for the warmth of the gulf. Reinforced by the outright silly, hallucinatory psychotic break of Transaction, in only four songs you begin to understand the dungeon of Bridge To Sacrifice precisely. Then you remember this is a POWERPLANT project. The Fork is not silly. It is a revelation of POWERPLANT’s mastery of a kind of sombre gravel previous tracks do not prepare for, with fantastic bass and emotion only punctuated by curated dashes of absurdism throughout. Kept ever-guessing, the following Hall Of Wolves is instead a manic, warped battle hymn, growled and barked rather than sung; the hammering drum-machines being one of the few constants throughout the album to be held on to for safety. Bad Moon Motel follows more in The Fork’s tradition, providing a groovy, almost melting sound of colourful lamentation, before succumbing to the dungeon’s mania after one too many hellish nights at the titular motel, occasionally calmed by unplugged plinking of guitars. Last Wheel, Red Death and Wing Span buttress the album with POWERPLANT classics throughout, showcasing a continuum of distortion: Red Death prioritising a thumping, marching synth metal while Wing Span, curious for such black metal influences, sounds almost optimistic with its major keys. POWERPLANT here has reinvented itself as metal-infused mastery of synth, cast in garbling, warping distortion, and – even in such a medieval dungeon – still powered by a haunted surfboard. While some tracks may blend together throughout the gritty fuzz, It is still delicious thematically, and we cannot wait for more artisanal dungeon synth. Neither can we wait for POWERPLANT’s next reinvention; who knows, perhaps next, it will be a science-fiction inspired album, or one entirely dedicated to shrimp. With artists like ZHYKHARYEV, the sky is truly the limit. Score: 7/10 Bridge of Sacrifice will be released on the 13th of March 2026, via Arcane Dynamics. Words: Jakub Tomasz Czaicki Photos: Harry Rodgers and Hani Hooper

Manchester Punk Festival 2026 is doing what it does best, packing a ridiculous amount of punk, hardcore, ska and everything adjacent into one weekend across the city. The poster says it all, there are big international names, cult favourites, and loads of bands that are going to turn smaller rooms into the kind of chaos people talk about for months. With clashes basically guaranteed, the smartest approach is to pick a few non-negotiables, then leave enough space for spontaneous choices, late-night tips, and following the noise down the street. Below are ten acts from the MPF 2026 lineup that feel especially worth prioritising. It is a mix of headline-level draws and sets likely to punch above their slot, because MPF is always at its best when it is unpredictable. KILL LINCOLN KILL LINCOLN are a great reminder that ska punk can be both tight and totally unhinged in the best way. They bring fast songs, sharp hooks, and the kind of bounce that turns a venue into a moving floor. It is the sort of set where people who arrived planning to stand at the back somehow end up much closer to the front than expected. Their material lands well at festivals because it is immediate and energetic, and it suits a crowd that wants something fun without losing the punk edge. At MPF, a band like KILL LINCOLN often becomes a weekend glue moment, something that resets the energy between heavier sets and still feels like a proper event. If the schedule allows, this is a smart early pick to keep the weekend feeling bright, loud, and communal. PROBLEM PATTERNS There is something satisfying about seeing a band that thrives on grit and personality in a festival setting, and PROBLEM PATTERNS fit that slot perfectly. Their sound sits in that noisy, driving punk space where attitude matters as much as precision, and the live energy is the point. They tend to feel direct, immediate, and properly cathartic, which is exactly what works in a packed Manchester room when the weekend has already started to blur together. MPF crowds tend to reward bands who do not overcomplicate things and just go for it, and PROBLEM PATTERNShave the kind of presence that turns casual interest into full attention quickly. This is a strong choice for anyone who wants something loud, scrappy, and memorable without needing a massive stage to make it hit. THE MENSTRUAL CRAMPS THE MENSTRUAL CRAMPS bring a mix of punchy punk energy and stage presence that feels built for festival buzz. The appeal is not just the songs; it is the sense of a set that feels like a moment, with a crowd that gets pulled in fast. MPF always has bands that end up being the surprise highlight for people who wandered in on a whim, and THE MENSTRUAL CRAMPS have that exact potential. They suit the MPF format because the band can make a room feel involved quickly, and that matters when people are venue hopping and decision making in real time. If the weekend needs a set that feels lively, sharp, and a bit unpredictable in a fun way, THE MENSTRUAL CRAMPS are a very sensible pick to prioritise. RISKEE AND THE THE RIDICULE RISKEE & THE RIDICULE are a great booking for MPF because they sit in that sweet spot between punk urgency and wider appeal, without sanding off the edges. The sound is built for big choruses and big reactions, and the live shows tend to lean into that. In a festival environment, that means a set that can pull a mixed crowd together quickly, even if not everyone arrived as a diehard fan. At MPF, where people are bouncing between hardcore, ska, melodic punk and more, RISKEE & THE RIDICULE can act like a bridge set. There is enough energy to keep the room moving, and enough hooks to get people singing along by the end. For anyone trying to balance heavy picks with something more broadly crowd pleasing, this is a solid option that still feels properly punk. INNER TERRESTRIALS If the weekend needs a set that turns the room into a dance pit, INNER TERRESTRIALS are the obvious call. They bring that ska and punk crossover energy that fits MPF like a glove, and they tend to generate the kind of movement that is impossible to ignore. Even people who swear they are just there to watch usually end up bouncing, because the rhythm does not really offer an alternative. They also suit the MPF crowd because there is a strong sense of community around bands like this, people show up ready to participate. In a multi venue festival, those participatory sets can end up being the ones people remember most clearly, partly because they feel shared. INNER TERRESTRIALS are a great bet for anyone who wants sweat, movement, and the feeling of a room fully locked in together. LIGHTYEAR LIGHTYEAR feel like the kind of band MPF audiences naturally gravitate toward, because there is a strong combination of speed, melody, and personality that reads well in a busy festival schedule. When a weekend is stacked, a set that gets to the point and still feels like a party is invaluable, and LIGHTYEAR tend to deliver that. The appeal is that they can make a crowd feel involved fast, with songs that suit shoutbacks and a general sense of everyone being in on the joke. MPF is often about those communal bursts of joy in between the more intense moments, and LIGHTYEAR fit that role while still keeping the tempo up. If the aim is to catch something that feels celebratory, lively, and very in the spirit of a punk festival weekend, LIGHTYEAR are a strong pick. BRENDAN KELLY BRENDAN KELLY is a smart MPF booking because he brings a different kind of weight to the weekend, without losing the punk connection. Sets like this can be crucial at MPF, giving the line up some breathing room while still keeping it rooted in scene history and songwriting craft. In a festival full of fast decisions and loud rooms, that contrast can make a performance stand out even more. There is also the simple fact that BRENDAN KELLY tends to draw people who care about lyrics and delivery, which changes the room's vibe in an interesting way. It becomes less about constant motion and more about attention and reaction. MPF always benefits from having a few sets that feel like a reset, something that anchors the weekend and gives the crowd a different kind of intensity. IGNITE IGNITE are one of those bands that can lift the energy of an entire day, because they sit at the intersection of melody and power in a way that works brilliantly live. The set is likely to be fast, emotionally charged, and built for big crowd moments, which is exactly what a festival like MPF thrives on. They also have the kind of catalogue where people show up ready to sing, instantly changing the atmosphere of the venue. In a multi-venue festival, it is easy for sets to blur together, but bands with strong anthemic pull tend to cut through. IGNITE are very capable of being that kind of highlight, where the room feels fully committed from the first song. For anyone trying to lock in a guaranteed high-impact set, IGNITE should be near the top of the plan. FUCKED UP Booking FUCKED UP for MPF is a statement, because they are not the kind of band that quietly fills a slot and leaves. Their shows often feel like their own weather system, intense, physical, and unpredictable in a way that makes a festival crowd pay attention. That unpredictability is part of the appeal, especially at MPF, where discovery and surprise are built into the weekend. They also suit the MPF environment because the festival crowd tends to be up for something a bit wilder, something that does not feel polished or restrained. FUCKED UP have the kind of live reputation that turns a set into a talking point, the one people reference when trading stories at the end of the weekend. If the goal is to catch a performance that feels genuinely eventful, FUCKED UP are hard to beat. LAURA JANE GRACE At the top spot, LAURA JANE GRACE is the kind of name that can define an MPF weekend for a lot of attendees. There is a clear sense of occasion around seeing her on a festival line-up, and that matters at MPF where so many great bands compete for attention. A set like this can pull in different corners of the crowd, longtime fans, casual listeners, people who just know it will be worth seeing. What makes LAURA JANE GRACE a must prioritise is the combination of presence and songwriting, the feeling that the performance is going to land emotionally as well as energetically. MPF is not just about speed and volume; it is also about connection, and sets like this tend to deliver that in a big way. If there is one act to build a day around, LAURA JANE GRACE is a very safe bet. Manchester Punk Festival has never been about seeing everything. It is about the moments that stick, the packed rooms discovered by accident, the sets that turn strangers into friends, and the bands that soundtrack a weekend that somehow feels both chaotic and comforting. With a lineup this deep, MPF 2026 is guaranteed to deliver those moments in abundance. Whether the plan is to chase headline names, dive into smaller venue gems, or simply follow whichever crowd sounds loudest down the street, the real magic of MPF lies in participation. Show up early, stay out late, and leave space for the unexpected. Because at Manchester Punk Festival, the best set of the weekend is often the one that was never on the schedule. Words: Kelly Gowe Photo: Victim Unit at Manchester Punk Festival 2025 by Libby Percival

Big names, bigger riffs and battlefield brawls - we're going to claim that summer 2026 has been exceptionally fantastic for live music. Coming to a field near you is a dazzling display of rock, metal, punk, hardcore and alternative music that is ready and waiting to knock your socks off. The best thing about this guide is that it's all on your doorstep, no need to book an expensive holiday abroad, or get stressed about finding your passport. We've got it all here, in Argos catalogue format, for you to browse at your own pleasure. Where will you end up this year? Words: Alice Needham, Amber Brooks, Amy Smyth, Atoosa Salamat, Ben Blissett, Chloe Sodeau, Danielle Henderson, David Waites, Ellen Lovell, Erin Strom, Katerina Stepanikova, Kiarash Golshani, Kirsty Eighteen, Klaudia Skalska, Laura Davies, Lauren Wenham, Lou Viner-Flood, Oz Davies, Spencer Cunningham, Teala Linas and Zuzanna Pazola REALITY UNFOLDS FESTIVAL As always, we love and cherish Reality Unfolds Festival that takes place in early January. The future of the underground is curated and cultured at the New Cross Inn. We've already made the trip out to cover the brutality of that pit in all its glory this year, but the Real Life team put on fantastic gigs all year around. You can expect a defiant and eclectic roster of artists, both homegrown and international, in one of the best atmospheres locally. We're promoting 2027 early. Amber Brooks TAKEDOWN FESTIVAL Dates: April 3rd - April 4th Takedown Festival truly kicks off festival season and the 2026 line up is a jam packed celebration of rock, alternative, and metal acts to entertain new and old music fans alike. Based on the south coast, it is a festival that has always thrived on its community feel and aims to showcase heavy music from the old school to the contemporary. Hitting off the Friday with a stacked schedule of the nostalgic INME, local boys SOUTH OF SALEM, and rock pedigree PHIL CAMPBELL AND THE BASTARD SONS playing a MOTORHEAD set in full. The fun doesn’t stop there when Saturday hits however with brilliant metal band GRAPHIC NATURE, electronic rock duo WARGASM, and the transatlantic pop punk AS IT IS. Taking to the stage for their first ever festival headline slot on Saturday to close the festival is the mysterious masked collective PRESIDENT. Having already made waves since jumping onto the scene last year, they are one of the most exciting new bands on the circuit. Whether you are a veteran or a new music fan, Takedown Festival is the best way to start your 2026 festival season! Laura Davies MANCHESTER PUNK FESTIVAL Dates: April 3rd - April 5th The heart of Manchester’s grassroots music scene lies within a single stretch of road, mingled with student digs and noodle bars. For one weekend in April, the Punks take charge of the Oxford Road Corridor, flaunting leather jackets and making themselves accustomed to hair-raising bands, in at least six of the city's beloved venues. Rebellion begins with OOR favourites THE MENSTRUAL CRAMPS, MERYL STREAK and BEX. Fresh off their tour with DIE SPITZ, our hometown kid AERIAL SALAD oozes with confidence as loudmouths CLOBBER leave no room for explanation. At MPF, the party doesn’t stop until the punks do, often heading into the small hours of the morning, awash with comedy, blistering hardcore from GRAIL GUARD and BUREAU DE CHANGE, and the cathartic trills of the almighty SLASH FICTION. Amber Brooks NOIZZEFEST Date: April 25th Noizzefest returns to Cardiff for its third and biggest edition yet! It's quickly becoming one of Wales’ fastest-growing alternative and heavy music festivals. Held across two venues, Fuel Rock Club and Clwb Ifor Bach, the festival continues its mission to celebrate emerging talent, inclusivity, and the intimate chaos that can only be experienced locally. This year's headliner is CALVA LOUISE, who brings a blend of punk, alt-rock, and experimental electronica to Cardiff for an explosive set. They'll be joined by HAGGARD CAT and HELL HOTEL, along with a diverse support lineup that blends hardcore, gritty alt-rock, and melodic chaos from some of the most exciting emerging bands in the UK and Europe. With names like KNIVES, TAYNE, WORN OUT and a packed lineup featuring BICURIOUS, PEACH, ASIDHARA, OMOIA, and many more, Noizzefest continues to be a haven for discovery - a festival where you'll walk away with three new favourite bands, whether you planned to or not. Affordable, local, loud, and community-driven, Noizzefest is shaping up to be a standout grassroots festival in the UK's vibrant music calendar. Klaudia Skalska INCINERATION FESTIVAL Date: May 2nd London's premier extreme metal festival returns to Camden in 2026 with a titanic line-up of over 30 confirmed bands across 5 iconic local venues, from some of the biggest names in the genre, through to the most exciting emerging talent. The headline performance will be BLOOD FIRE DEATH, a supergroup tribute to BATHORY's Thomas ‘Quorthorn’ Forsberg, featuring members/ex-members of WATAIN, ENSLAVED, AURA NOIR, MAYHEM and EMPEROR. Other huge additions to the line-up include legendary Swedish death metal veterans GRAVE, HYPOCRISY, and VOMITORY, alongside local stalwarts GRAVE MIASMA. More death metal will come from FUMING MOUTH, VACUOUS, MUTAGENIC HOST, and INTERNAL BLEEDING. German prodigies DER WEG EINER FREIHEIT extend the black metal offering, as well as AFSKY and ONE OF NINE. The line-up is rounded out with sonic destruction from BELIEVE IN NOTHING and DRAGGED INTO SUNLIGHT and a hardcore/crossover fix from NEGATIVE FRAME and OVERPOWER and blackened punk locals FINAL DOSE. Oz Davies NORTHERN UNREST Dates: May 2nd - May 3rd Northern Unfest is returning for its fourth consecutive year, boasting an incredible lineup of hardcore heavy-hitters. This year we have NEVER ENDING GAME, DEMONSTRATION OF POWER, EVERYBODY GETS HURT, SCARAB, SPLITKNUCKLE and many more. The Glasgow festival, based in Woodside Halls, is one of the premier places to find the best hardcore talent from around the world. With a Friday pre-show still to be announced, as well as an after-party to come, this is without a doubt an unmissable event! Spencer Cunningham DESERTFEST Dates: May 15th - May 17th One of London’s annual wonders and best events for smaller bands - Desertfest, is coming back from 15th to 17th May. The metal festival, which takes place across five iconic Camden venues - Roundhouse, The Electric Ballroom, The Underworld, The Black Heart and The Devonshire Arms, already promises a stacked up lineup, with CLUTCH, GREEN LUNG and HERMANO being the main headliners, and THE SWORD, PIGS X7, EARTHLESS, TRUCKFIGHTERS, CAUSA SUI, CAPRICORNS and many more luring the fans in with a mix of doom, stoner and psych metal. As every year, the tickets offered are for the full weekend, as well as for individual days, and are valid in all five venues, offering the fans full flexibility to see the bands they fancy the most. Desertfest is the perfect opportunity to discover new music in the capital and enjoy three days full of moshpits, breakdowns and good music. Kat Stepanikova BEARDED THEORY Dates: May 20th - May 24th Historic festival on the River Trent! Bearded Theory in Catton Park, Derbyshire, might be for you if you enjoy scenic woodland walks, intimate cosy vibes, and damn good music. BT’s lineup for 2026 is nuts, with headliners PIXIES, GARBAGE, and SKUNK ANANSIE leading the charge. (Let’s hope Shirley Manson doesn’t mind it not raining.) The rest is nothing to sniff at either - Rage favourites like LAMBRINI GIRLS, KID KAPICHI, SPRINTS will be gracing the idyllic site, with buckets of attitude to get the foxes and voles two-stepping. The site itself is really beautiful, and certainly no shabby place to spend a weekend. Legendary acts and young up-and-comers alike will play to the surrounding forests and greenery. Main Stage “The Pallet” will be your go-to for all the biggest acts, but you’re welcome to take a stroll to “The Woodland” for some chill vibes, or even visit “Big Ed”’s big head for some rave-y business. This festival is celebrated for its family friendliness - you can even enrol your kids in “The Festival School” to enrich them with life lessons beyond the classroom. Maths, English, Slime Making, you name it. With an approximate 15k capacity, this is an intimate and community-focused fest. Bearded Theory knows that the best part of a festival is getting familiar with your neighbours, and sharing experiences that’ll last a lifetime. Erin Strom SLAM DUNK Dates: May 23rd (South) - May 24th (North) May Bank Holiday weekend sees the return of Slam Dunk Festival, this year marking the festival's 20th Anniversary, expecting over 50,000 fans across two fully outdoor sites in Hatfield and Leeds. Featuring anniversary sets from DEAF HAVANA (15th anniversary of Fools and Worthless Liars), TAKING BACK SUNDAY (20th anniversary of Louder Now) BOSTON MANOR (10th anniversary of be nothing) and TRASH BOAT (10th anniversary of Nothing I Write You), as well as GOOD CHARLOTTE’s European festival exclusive, Slam Dunk is bound to be the festival of the year. With bands spanning an incredible mixing pot of genres from pop-punk, emo, ska, metalcore, and alternative rock, there’s something for everyone. Lou Viner Flood DOWNLOAD Dates: June 10th - June 14th Donington Park's famous mammoth rock festival is back for another year of carnage. The three-day festival has a lineup packed with every genre the local metalhead could want, all the sounds from hard rock to death metal and more. This is the festival's 23rd year running and has become an annual event for all alternative fans across the country. When meeting someone in the scene, you're likely to be asked if you'll be attending the next one. The headliners include a return from LINKIN PARK. Having last headlined the festival in 2014, they are coming back 12 years later to headline the festival for the 5th time, their first with their new lead vocalist, Emily Armstrong, after the tragic passing of Chester Bennington in 2017. LIMP BIZKIT will also be marking their first ever headline set at the iconic Download Festival, as well as GUNS N ROSES returning for their 3rd headline slot. The June weekend is already set to be packed with the lineup not even completed yet, but it features huge names like ARCHITECTS, BAD OMENS, ICE NINE KILLS, BABY METAL, PENDULUM, BLACK VEIL BRIDES, and so many more! Amy Smyth ISLE OF WIGHT FESTIVAL Dates: June 26th - June 28th There’s something special about stepping off the ferry, feeling the sea air hit, and knowing four days of live music lie ahead. Sunshine, live music and thousands of like-minded music lovers, the Isle of Wight Festival isn’t just a weekend away, it’s a core memory. Taking place from 18th to 21st June 2026 in Newport on the Isle of Wight, the Isle of Wight Festival is once again set to be one of the highlights of the UK festival calendar. Held at Seaclose Park, the festival was first founded in 1968 before being revived in the early 2000s. Its legacy runs deep — the iconic 1970 edition welcomed legends including JIMI HENDRIX, THE WHO and THE DOORS, securing its place in British music history. Fast forward to 2026, and the line-up proves the festival still knows how to make an impact. Headliners THE CURE, CALVIN HARRIS and LEWIS CAPALDI lead a bill that blends iconic names with some of today’s most exciting artists. Indie favourites TWO DOOR CINEMA CLUB and THE KOOKS sit alongside pop superstar Perrie (of LITTLE MIX) and TEDDY SWIMS, with Rick Astley also set to take to the stage. Beyond the Main Stage, areas such as Cirque de la Quirk and Kashmir Café add to the festival’s character, creating a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere that welcomes both seasoned festival-goers and first-timers alike. Teala Lynas OUTBREAK (MANCHESTER) Dates: June 26th - June 28th Outbreak Fest, which has made its home in the BEC Arena for its Manchester edition, charges into its landmark 15th year in 2026; a milestone earned through years of unforgettable chaos and passionate community. Renowned for being the UK’s definitive worshipping grounds for hardcore, punk and alternative music, the festival has forged a solid reputation for delivering blistering lineups and an atmosphere few events can rival. What began as a 100-capacity DIY hardcore all-dayer in Sheffield has grown into an institution, and its rise has been anything but accidental. Its previous editions have welcomed industry heavyweights such as KNOCKED LOOSE, TURNSTILE and DENZEL CURRY, each setting new benchmarks for intensity and live energy. The crowds, now legendary in their own right, draw relentless pits and endless opportunities to two-step. In 2026, that energy looks set to hit new heights. Expect walls of distortion, sweaty sing-a-longs and the kind of catharsis only Outbreak can deliver. This year's bill is leaning into nostalgia and celebration, with artists such as headliner ALEXISONFIRE and acclaimed post-hardcore unit TOUCHÉ AMORÉ promising to perform their career-defining albums in full, offering a rare chance to revisit moments that helped shape their genres. Alongside other legends such as BASEMENT, SUICIDAL TENDENCIES and CONVERGE, all primed to tear open the stage this June, Manchester is set for another weekend of passion, volatility and unforgettable performances. Fifteen years in, Outbreak clearly isn’t slowing down. It’s louder, bigger and more formidable than ever before. Chloe Sodeau 2000TREES Dates: July 8th - July 10th Since 2007, 2000Trees Festival has quietly built a reputation as one of the UK’s most beloved alternative gatherings. Tucked away at Upcote Farm in Withington, Gloucestershire, it feels a world apart from the sprawling behemoths of the ‘typical’ summer festival circuit. Everything is close together and easy to navigate, which makes it ideal for first-timers or anyone intimidated by the scale of the bigger festivals. Musically, it casts a wide net without losing its identity. Punk rock, alt rock, indie, hardcore, electronic, and the in-between spaces all coexist happily on the same bill. The carefully curated lineup means the undercard is just as exciting as the headliners every single year - plenty of attendees leave the festival grounds with brand new favourite bands discovered by accident. What really sets 2000Trees apart, though, is its atmosphere. It’s often called the friendliest festival in the UK, and while that does sound cliché, it’s hard to argue otherwise. Many of the vendors are small, local businesses that care deeply about the scene, and the crowd feels like a genuine family, built around shared taste and mutual respect. Zuzanna Pasola RADAR FESTIVAL Dates: July 31st to August 2nd At RADAR Festival, it’s not uncommon to share a pit with a spaceman. The heavy side of sci/fi makes itself known at Manchester’s Victoria Warehouse. Celebrating the new and the progressive in rock and metal music, RADAR’s gravity-defying lineup lends itself to also championing progression in the live music sector. Recently, they became the first festival to donate £1 of every ticket purchased to grassroots venues. This year, the festival opted for a dizzying deathcore Friday, boasting Aussie heavyweights THY ART IS MURDER, alongside homegrown heroes CHELSEA GRIN and GRAPHIC NATURE. On the Saturday, SKINDRED take the stage, with NORTHLANE, SEETHING AKIRA and UNPEOPLE making just as much of a statement on stage as Sunday’s ANIMALS AS LEADERS, VOYAGER, and EMPLOYED TO SERVE. Amongst it all, there is a celebration of instrumentation in their infamous music and gaming market, as well as two stages of fantastic live music, devoid of any set clashes. Amber Brooks REBELLION FESTIVAL Dates: 6-9th of August Founded in 1996, the “largest independent punk festival in the UK” is a family-oriented festival that celebrates Punk in all its forms. Formerly known as Holidays in the Sun, then briefly as Wasted, Rebellion is held in August each year at the historic Winter Gardens at Blackpool. The stages now include an ‘introducing’ stage which promotes new acts, a literary and an acoustic stage; and there’s plenty of stuff to get involved with such as a magic show, Punk Bingo and an arts and crafts market selling music and merch. With over 300 acts confirmed for 2026, you’re guaranteed to find someone you want to see. Punk legends from the 70s rub shoulders with current bands, and you can join the fun early with a series of run-up events. ADAM ANT, THE UNDERTONES, and ALTERED IMAGES will play on Tuesday 4th August. NEVILLE STAPLE, and DEATH OF GUITAR POP play on Weds 5th, with the main festival starting on Thursday 6th August. Kirsty Eighteen BLOODSTOCK Dates: August 6th - August 9th Bloodstock is as close to a metal institution in the UK as a festival can get. Few of its festival peers can offer the sheer metal smorgasbord that this one has provided for the last 25 years, and for its quarter-of-a-century celebration, they have pulled out all of the stops. Expect to see more regulars to add to the famously friendly atmosphere, with inevitable appearances by potato-slinger Spudman and the Viking reenactors in the works. If you’re a mosher, with the addition of a Thursday main-stage headliner, you’d best pray that you’ve got the agility or the stamina to handle 4 days of absolute madness. For Thursday, SAXON make their grand return. Bloodstock staples, its only natural they come for the party. Joining them for the rest of the week are some heavy hitters: LAMB OF GOD, SEPULTURA (the band who played at the festival as part of their ‘final tour’… twice), and the mighty JUDAS PRIEST – who blew everyone away in 2021 with their three-hour-long set that made the two-week quarantine afterwards worth it. But there are some other surprises here, the re-vamped NEVERMORE will be making an appearance, as will CASTLE RAT, the doom-gens and dragons darlings that took social media by storm in 2025. This is just scratching the surface; many, many more wonderful surprises lie in store for the beloved festival, and as any yearly regular would likely tell you, it’s a guaranteed good time. Kia Golshani ARCTANGENT FESTIVAL Dates: August 20th - August 22nd Bringing you everything from Scandinavian folk to Instrumental doom, Bristol’s Arctangent yet again promises to house and champion the uncovered corners of experimental heavy music. If something akin to BJORK backed by METALLICA is your dream, you’ll find it here. A heavier and more diverse selection of headliners than previous years, CULT OF LUNA and JULIE CHRISTMAS will land on the main stage to perform Mariner in full for the first time in 10 years. CHELSEA WOLFE finally takes her rightful place as headliner after COVID cancellations, and PRIMUS provides our dose of late-night, familiar heavy chaos. Graduating from their soaring performance playing the ‘Bixler’ stage back in 2024, Manchester’s MARUJA are a guarantee to bring both rage and joy to the Arctangent crowd. OATHBREAKER return for a UK exclusive, part of their first run of shows since 2021. SVALBARD also take their final bow at the festival prior to disbanding later this year. Upcoming heavy hitters such as MEATDRIPPER, HANG LINTON, FORLORN and TERMINALS make their Arctangent debut this year, and many staples make their return with fresh material: PUPIL SLICER, PSYCHONAUT, and IGORRR. It’s shaping up to be one of Arctangent’s most exciting lineups yet, bringing together new blood and reinvigorated favourites. See you on Fernhill Farm! Alice Needham OUTBREAK (LONDON) Date: August 23rd For the second time in their 15-year run, Outbreak festival is venturing down south. Since 2011, the festival has been a champion of the counterculture, platforming artists in the hardcore space and beyond and blossoming to become one of the biggest hardcore festivals in the UK. In this partnership with All Points East, Outbreak is aiming to break through to the mainstream, whilst still catering to the underground. This iteration of the festival will see an eclectic bill of artists, with genres bouncing between hardcore, punk, trap and techno – as long as you like to dance (and/or throw your body around in the pit), there will be a corner of the festival for you. Last year, the inaugural Outbreak London saw the return of hardcore giants TURNSTILE, who played their first UK show at Outbreak festival in 2013 and now boast two Grammy awards. This year, the festival is going even bigger, with legendary metal icons DEFTONES headlining the festival in support of their critically acclaimed album Private Music, in their only UK festival appearance of 2026. Earlier sets from Australian punk darlings AMYL AND THE SNIFFERS and Scouse trap up-and-comer ESDEEKID, alongside Outbreak veterans SHOW ME THE BODY, DEAFHEAVEN and JPEGMAFIA, will keep the energy frantic from the second the gates open. Ellen Lovell ALL POINTS EAST - TWENTY ONE PILOTS HEADLINER Date: August 28th On their only UK stop of the year, TWENTY ONE PILOTS return to London for what could be the last show of the 10-year story the band have been building within their music. Last time they were here, we received the subtle reveal of the double album, so what happens at this show and what they have in store is anyone’s guess. With one of the most dedicated fanbases of any band in the world, this festival is sure to have an atmosphere that will be electric. Fans will be speculating and anticipating this very special show that they have prepared for us. It’s unknown how long the band are going away on hiatus after this, but they’re gonna make this show count. Ben Blissett READING AND LEEDS FESTIVAL Date: 27th - 30th of August For nearly three decades, Leeds and Reading Festivals have sat at the heart of the UK’s festival culture. Now, 27 years on, it’s evolving into one of the country’s most diverse and forward-thinking lineups, shifting its sound year after year while keeping its signature intensity intact. Held at Bramham Park in Leeds and Richfield Avenue in Reading, the twin festival remains a magnet for a younger generation drawn to its high-octane atmosphere and unapologetically rowdy crowds. This is not a laid-back weekend in a field — it’s loud, relentless, and built on pure energy. This year’s headliners reflect that evolution, spanning genres and generations. DAVE brings sharp-edged lyricism, CHARLI XCX delivers euphoric pop chaos, while FLORENCE AND THE MACHINE offer iconic, arena-sized moments. Add to that the raw post-punk force of FONTAINES D.C., and it’s clear the festival is targeting every corner of the modern music landscape. With more acts yet to be announced, Leeds and Reading Festival continues to prove why it remains a rite of passage — delivering standout performances, chaotic crowds, and some of the most uncompromising energy on the UK festival circuit. David Waites ALL POINTS EAST - TYLER THE CREATOR HEADLINER Date: August 30th We can almost say that TYLER THE CREATOR's Camp Flog Gnaw’s making its way over to London, as Tyler’s bill for All Points East is primarily made up of his previous collaborators, including CLIPSE, VINCE STAPLES, DANNY BROWN and LOVE SPELLS. Riding off the back of two studio albums released in one year, and performances that no one can ever forget, his ambitious two-day headliner slot for his All Points East debut will be exciting to see. This stacked set includes TURNSTILE, the US hardcore rock band who recently took home two Grammys, and are sure to put on a sensational performance for those who like the more alternative side of Tyler's music. FAYE WEBSTER is also not one to miss, a good friend of TYLER THE CREATOR and someone with a uniquely soothing voice and mesmerising instrumentals. Atoosa Salamat MANGATA Date: September 5th Nottingham’s festival offering comes from Mangata Promotions. Not too far away from the Asphodellic fields of Donington and Catton Park, the festival celebrates local businesses and talent from the Nottingham underground, whilst also implementing key values of sustainability and affordability. Across five venues, this year the festival celebrates French bodyslammers TEN56, alongside upstarts THE HARA and the gimmick-infused RAISED BY OWLS. There is also gold further down the lineup, with alternative superstars DACARA and South Coast legends RED METHOD. Amber Brooks BURN IT DOWN Dates: September 3rd - September 5th In the most unlikely of spaces, there is a fantastic alternative scene. Torquay, being all the way in sunny Devon, is the kingmaker of festival lineups, with Burn It Down taking place at the beginning of September. What is unique about this festival is that, as No Play and Reality Unfolds also seems to do, it curates a vibrant and off-the-wall lineup that furthers the future of the British music scene. With the first wave of acts already announced for the three-day festival, headlining duties are handed to the almighty DRUG CHURCH, for a hardcore-infused bill also featuring faves DEATH GOALS, GROVE STREET and THE CHISEL. Amongst it a fantastic selection of punk and metalcore, with SPLIT DOGS, SPCAED and THE MEFFS. If that is not intense enough to get the blood pumping, then the almighty DEAD WAX, LOVE RARELY, and NEGATIVE FRAME make the most of the bill. Devon is heaven with the fantastic Burn it Down Amber Brooks NO PLAY FESTIVAL Dates: 4th-5th of September No play closes out the summer for Liverpool punks, taking over the city centre Saturday 5th September, hosting emerging acts across hardcore, metal, punk and alternative rock throughout a growing number of venues . No Play focuses on affordable and grassroots live music; the guillotine sessions give smaller acts the stage to grow their presence in the iconic Jacaranda on the last Tuesday of every month for just £3 and on a larger scale, No Play draws the likes of LOATHE and STATIC DRESS into Liverpool and Sheffield. We're waiting with baited breath for the first wave of artists to be announced - the last couple years headliners have included GUILT TRIP, SPLIT CHAIN and SEEYOUSPACECOWBOY, with barrierless sets to see out the summer with a scream. Julia Brunton CORE FEST This November we have Core Festival, Glasgow’s own ‘celebration of noise’. This will be the fourth year running for the festival and is set to be the best yet. Over the course of the weekend and across three venues in the city’s centre, alternative artists from all corners of the earth can be seen. Alongside the expected music there will be fringe shows, an independent merch market, artist exhibitions, and community showcases with more to be announced. The venues this year include The Art School, Nice N Sleazy, and the Garnethill Multicultural Centre; all within a short distance of each other, so you don’t miss a thing from the lineup. PIG DESTROYER and EYEHATEGOD occupy the top spots on Sunday, with Incendiary taking the Saturday headliner slot. Saetia will be performing as a UK Exclusive on Friday, make sure you take up the opportunity to see them if you love old school screamo! The festival is well-suited for those who enjoy metal, sludge, hardcore, punk, and who want to soak up the culture of one of the UK’s most arty cities. Danielle Henderson BEYOND THE MUSIC FESTIVAL Beyond The Music returns in October to the heart of Manchester, spreading itself across the Northern Quarter and beyond. It feels less like a traditional festival and more like the city itself has been turned into a living, breathing music venue, with no lineup announced yet, the excitement sits in the unknown. Previous years leaned into everything from indie and electronic through to alternative and pop, creating a space where discovery is the main event and entertainment is the prize. What makes Beyond The Music stand out is the atmosphere. There is a genuine sense that you are seeing future headline acts long before they outgrow these rooms. You find yourself wandering between venues, catching the end of one set and stumbling into another that completely changes your night. It lives on positive energy, creative freedom, and the connection between artist and audience. Things which are what keep festivals and lifelong fandoms alive. The real selling point this year is trust. Trust in the curation, trust in Manchester’s reputation, and trust that you will leave with new favourite bands you did not expect. It is a festival built on moments, not names. It has a very homegrown feel to it, one which leaves you with a feeling of wow and nostalgia before it’s even become nostalgic. Lauren Wenham DAMNATION FESTIVAL We're back at the BEC Arena after our stint at Manchester's Outbreak for Damnation Festival. A more abrasive and blackened lineup when compared to their hardcore cousins, but arguably just as intense. Loaded with eclectic listens, this festival champions the extreme. Headliners HEATH present industrial-infused proportions to the lineup, supported by the stunning WALLS OF JERICHO and the return of WOLVES IN THE THRONE ROOM. Whilst the entire bill has not been announced yet, joining them are the wonderfully introspective HOLY FAWN and sludge veterans EYEHATEGOD, with Belgian shoegaze standouts SLOW CRUSH becoming an MVP at Europe's biggest metal festival. Amber Brooks *All posters are accurate at the time of publication

In spite of the weather and the TFL, UK fans fought tooth and nail to get to The Dome, London, for a night of crashing into each other to exhilarating alt-rock – there was no way this crowd were going to miss THE HAUNT and HIMALAYAS co-headline tour, with UK support from TALLY SPEAR. Barely taking a breather after their 2025 festival circuits and North American Tour, THE HAUNT and HIMALAYAS have vastly different sounds that work perfectly in tandem and have secured them as bands everyone should have on their radar. Fresh from an EU/UK tour support slot, up-and-coming London artist TALLY SPEAR is a force to be reckoned with, starting the night strong and keeping the vibes high. Showcasing tracks from her upcoming EP Bittersweet, TALLY swung about the stage belting out a sound that has her in the running for new pop-rock royalty. She looked genuinely happy to be there dancing with the crowd, and you could hear her passion for music in her lyrics and vocals, encouraging the crowd to jump around with her. Pacing across the stage to the anticipation-building Surrender, HIMALAYAS were there to prove they are a band to blast out your speakers, bringing precision and an edgy sound redefining alt-indie rock. With Joe Williams unleashing slick riffs and Mike Griffiths’ thrashing out guitar solos, best appreciated in Cave Paintings and Nothing Higher, their sound was perfectly complemented by Louis Heaps’ solid basslines that are designed to be heard and felt in your bones, while James Goulbourn delivered a sharp, snappy drumbeat. HIMALAYAS ran like a well-oiled machine of steady beats and rhythms hit flawlessly – they stayed connected with the music and their audience, Williams bringing a grounded tone that showed they were determined to provide a first rate show. Mosh and circle pits quickly broke out for Thank God I’m Not You, leaving no room for rest before HIMALAYAS launched into Hung Up, with an enthusiastic fan in a Where’s Wally costume encouraging the crowd to keep spinning. Firing from one song into the next, Williams and Griffiths harmonised their vocals, combining their talents with THE HAUNT’s vocalist Anastasia for their collaboration track What If…?, that brought a higher energy to the crowd, while Heaps had his trademark smile fixed firmly on his headbanging face, Goulbourn’s snare and cymbals crashing to the back of the room. HIMALAYAS rounded off their set with their commanding track From Hell to Here, featuring a smooth sample of COOLIOS’ Gangsta’s Paradise on guitar, while Williams strode into the middle of the pit to sing directly with the crowd. Leaving to wild applause, HIMALAYAS are headed for high goals. Sufficiently warmed up by the support act, first headliner and the circle pits, the crowd made it known they were not done yet as THE HAUNT took to the stage to loud cheers, vocalist Anastasia Haunt gliding in to belt out the opening bars of Bad Omen, while guitarist and backing vocalist Maxamillion Haunt and bassist Jacob riffed off with shredding riffs, all three making full use of the stage to twirl and headbang as they ripped through their electrifying sound with I’m Not Yours and Dead 2 Me. Drummer Joey Castro absolutely thrashed through the bass drum heavy songs, especially on Overdose and Worst in Me, while Anastasia showed off her powerhouse vocals with emotions lacing every word and vocal run, best felt during OK and reflected by the crowd getting their phone flashes in the air. Midway through the set, Maxamillion and Jacob swapped instruments before ‘squaring up’ with wide smiles on their faces, demonstrating the versatile talents of the band. Maxamillion stopped multiple times between songs to express their intense gratitude to everyone in attendance for their “Biggest headline show, it’s fucking insane!”, admitting to the room their agent was not convinced London on a Monday night was a good time for a gig, “But it turns out you all showed up!”. Teasing ahead of its Friday release, THE HAUNT propelled themselves into their new, at that time yet-to-be-released single GHOST, cheered on by the crowd and the return of the Where’s Wally? character who was perched on someone’s shoulders in order to praise the new track louder. After a high-intensity Going Under, the lights flashed in time to the mantra “One more song!”, echoed all the way to the back of the room – fans did not have to wait long as it was clear THE HAUNT would play through the night if they could and were not ready to say goodbye just yet. With demands from Maxamillion, “I need to see everyone moving, this is your last chance!”, they delivered their shattering track Wish You Stayed to a mosh pit where fresh faced moshers were encouraged to jump in and give it their all. This night will haunt fans’ dreams until their triumphant return. Words and photos: Julia Stark

Takedown Festival is the high-octane kick start to the festival season. Taking place at the Guildhall in Portsmouth across the 3rd and 4th April, the festival takes over the whole venue to give you three stages of non-stop music. Takedown is a festival that loves to showcase new talent alongside big-hitting names. With such a varied roster of artists, there is something for everyone, young and old, to enjoy alongside new names to discover and add to their playlists. It’s a festival that has always thrived on its community feel and aims to showcase heavy music from the old school to the contemporary. Here are some of the top 10 bands that we think should be on your watch list: ARTIO ARTIO are a Leeds-based queer alt band that is on everyone’s must-watch list. Since releasing their EP back in 2024, they have been firmly planted in support bills across the country. With enigmatic vocalist Rae Brazill commanding the attention of audiences, the lyrics touch on themes such as self acceptance and identity. With a musical style incorporating heavy breakdowns juxtaposed with melodic songwriting, if they aren’t on your playlist now, they will most certainly be soon. INME INME are a band that has been around for 30 years and counting. After 7 albums and countless singles, INME are a veteran British rock band that have stayed steady on the playlists on many for longer than some other bands on the bill have been alive. Fronted by guitarist Dave McPherson, this five-piece band knows how to make an impact on stage with classic hits such as 7 Weeks and Firefly. Headlining the Metal for Good stage on Friday, they will be celebrating 20 years of their hit album White Butterfly, so expect to hear classic anthems with as much energy as when they first played. SOUTH OF SALEM SOUTH OF SALEM hail from the south coast and are everything you would expect from a heavy rock band. With a nostalgic blend of 80’s sleaze and 90’s goth rock that combined with modern metal makes for a sound that hits just right. Frontman Joey Draper provides deep, powerful vocals whilst the band gives us glam rock riffs and relentless energy. A steady staple on the rock festival circuits and one not to be missed! GRAPHIC NATURE Headlining the Metal for Good stage on Saturday are British nu metalcore band GRAPHIC NATURE. They are on an undeniable rise to success since releasing two albums that have solidified their name in the metal world. They are never ones to shy away from emotional lyrics that tend to delve into the topic of mental health. Whilst these lyrics may seem touching, they are fuelled with guttural screams and a fusion of electronic notes and heavy guitar lines. You can tell that their influences lie in bands such as KORN, DEFTONES, and LIMP BIZKIT with their early noughties style. Every gig seems to be full of energy from start to finish, so if you want to know where the moshpit is? I think you’ll find it with this Kent-based band. THE BOTTOM LINE Bringing the pop punk flair to the festival are THE BOTTOM LINE. Bringing classic pop punk that fits in playlists alongside the greats, they are ready to get the festival jumping. Having been on last year's lineup, they are a festival staple and the perfect band that doesn’t take themselves seriously and makes songs to bring a smile to your face. They are a band that makes you remember that while you might be growing up, your music choice was never a phase. MOUTH CULTURE Bouncing onto the scene and finding notoriety through their viral TikTok videos and supporting pals, YOU ME AT SIX, MOUTH CULTURE seem to be everywhere and don’t seem to be stopping anytime soon. Aiming to make big noise songs with confessional lyrics and with a classic rock and pop punk feel, MOUTH CULTURE are a band like no other, and each song feels like banger after banger laced with big vocals, catchy choruses, and guitars to match. A live MOUTH CULTURE show is said to be nothing like you would expect, with frontman Jack Voss acting like he was born for the stage. Whether it’s a small stage or the mainstage at Takedown, MOUTH CULTURE is there to bring the vibes. WATERLINES WATERLINES describe themselves as ‘Northern Dirtbags' and wear this badge with pride. Blending nu-metal with EDM and metalcore, this genre-bending band are unapologetically ready to fill your ears with loud, fun music. Opening the festival on the Metal for Good stage on Saturday, be prepared for nostalgia-infused music that wouldn’t be amiss amongst the greats of KORN and SLIPKNOT, whilst also feeling like they are creating a sound of their very own. LASTELLE Having taken to the Takedown stage in 2025 and absolutely rocked the Metal for Good stage, they have now been promoted to the main stage. This atmospheric post-harcore band have 3 EP’s to their name and bring a blend of sublime vocals from three vocalists with crashing melodic guitars and drums to bring it together. Honing their craft into a performance that is slick and precise, LASTELLE are a band that feels like they are on the cusp of blowing up into something huge. CARSICK CARSICK are a band that stands out on this lineup for being uniquely different to the others. Whilst other bands seem to pay homage to metalcore or nu-metal, CARSICK wouldn’t be seen out of place on the lineup for THE STREETS. Blending indie with pop punk and a touch of britpop, they are high energy, gang vocals, and non-stop dancing. Whilst they don’t seem to take themselves seriously in their style, their lyrics touch on subjects such as drinking culture in young people and growing up in a modern age. Want a touch of fun alongside nu metal? CARSICK are the band for you. PRESIDENT After SLEEP TOKEN headlined the festival back in 2023, just before their meteoric rise to fame, it’s time for another masked collective to take to the headline spot. PRESIDENT are a masked alternative metal band who are taking the headline spot less than a year after their formation. Having only formed in 2025, this band is not only shrouded in mystery but is also making waves with a growing fanbase and songs that have already become iconic hits. Since releasing their EP King of Terrors in late 2025, their streams have already surpassed 50 million on Spotify and are growing by the day. After their packed-out performance at Download Festival and a collection of ‘Headline Rallies’ (aka gigs) under their belt, there is more than a murmur of excitement about them taking this slot; it seems to be all people are talking about and it’s a definite reason to get a ticket and be in the audience before they explode on the scene. Want to join the fun? The next presidential rally at Takedown 2026 will take place on the 3rd-4th of April. Tickets can be found here. Words: Laura Davies Cover Photo: Lastelle by James Smith

Hailing from the West Midlands comes a new British hardcore punk band with something to prove: GRAIL GUARD are steaming out of Coventry with spittle-flecked lyricism, shouting down the ridiculous yet sadly deep-rooted racism found among Britain’s streets, crying out for a change, and hoping for better for everyone who needs it. Debut album Still No Future takes its name from the infamous track No Future - released by the SEX PISTOLS in 1977 and yet still ringing true, it’s a fitting name for an album that is coming out 50 years from the start of British punk. Whilst it usually feels mundane and unnecessary to comment on the heritage of a band and its members for a multitude of reasons, in this case it does seem not only necessary but in fact specifically important. Lead vocalist RIAZ RAWAT grew up as a British Indian muslim, and listening to second single Our Streets takes you right through his and his family’s story, and why it’s as important as ever to combat facism, racism, and discrimination of any kind wherever it may be found. With a furiously frenetic approach to their music, the band play with the kind of frantic energy that can only come from the punk scene. Front foot forward bass lines run rampant underneath four-to-the-floor drums that pin the crunching guitars into place, whilst RIAZ’s yelled vocals hit like a truck and carry the potency of their message with both passion and a singularly commanding presence at once. Third and final single Anxieties is a clear highlight on the album, with the chant of “Fuck you, you fascist scum” being ever so enjoyable to yell along to, and for this writer Alan also found itself high on the list with its similarities to GALLOWS’ guitar style and tone feeling ever so nostalgic and intensely enjoyable. The Rotten takes plenty of satisfaction from rightfully putting down the hollow elite class, from the lack of emotion and compassion to their penchant for warmongering, whereas those looking for something a bit more abrasive and guttural will benefit from finale Rats.wav, where the harshness of more modern metallic hardcore bleeds through that bit further into an intensely aggressive finish to the record. The LP is built on foundations that were set five decades ago, and whilst to some that might sound like it’s being set up to sound old or nostalgic, the record feels as vital as anything else being released today. Whilst it certainly takes less influence from the current crop of hardcore heroes, and does hark back to an earlier sound, it’s written in a way that manages to be fresh and in-your-face, even without the pure assault on the senses of some of their peers. All this goes to say that GRAIL GUARD have not only come out of the gates swinging, but they’ve done so entirely on their own terms by embracing their own style. Proudly, defiantly standing up to so many of the issues that plague the world today, the group are on for a winner with Still No Future - ironically, it may well be cementing their own future. Score: 8/10 Still No Future will be released on March 6th 2026 via TNS Records. Words: Jasmine Longhurst Photos: Grail Guard

The term 'infernua' alludes to imagery of the underworld, where darkness takes over and decay sets in. AZKEN AUZI have embarked on an adventure of discovery following their last release three years ago. The group formed in 2021, with members of MANIAC and TOM IS FAT joining forces to explore something darker than anything they had done before. Infernua is a six track EP, showcasing their refined sound and hypnotic rhythms. Deep Hell is the longest track on the EP and thematically one of the darker tracks in tone, the repetitive riff encompasses the harsh vocals that talk of dark thoughts. There’s an excerpt of spoken word in the middle of the track, which is from the 1992 film Scent of a Woman, the famous quote of “Let him continue on his journey. You hold this boy's future in your hands, committee.” by the legendary Al Pacino. From here there’s a mellow section that falls into another similar riff that continues for the remainder of the song, with the film quote repeated again as the track ends. The intro to SK is inviting as the vocals roar into place, though the melody throughout is less typical sludge and more of a grunge sound. Mid song there’s a great bassline buzzing amongst the guitar, encroaching on old school nu-metal and post hardcore elements, before flowing back into the blurry fuzz of the track. Following the suit of its name, Black Mass is a six minute long (mostly) instrumental and ritualistic piece, featuring part of a monologue from the 1979 film Apocalypse Now. Spoken by character Colonel Kurtz the speech effectively states that they (in war) were able to achieve victory due to the fact that their men were able to put their morals aside and kill the enemy without feeling or judgement. Brought back into the heart of the track the true occult doom sound embraces the listener until another part of the speech is revealed. “And I thought: My God, the genius of that. The genius. The will to do that. Perfect, genuine, complete, crystalline, pure. And then I realised they were stronger than we. Because they could stand that these were not monsters. These were men.” The guitar that accompanies this is fascinating and haunting, launching fully into an unvarying pattern before gradually fading out. Tracks See You Next Tuesday and Reptilian (Featuring fellow doom/sludge artist Nico Zoidozer) follow classic doom tactics that produce familiar and safe sounds. See You Next Tuesday obviously has more hostile implications, although Reptilian is overall more intriguing. The interim guitar melody, the drum lead later on in the track, and the section that follows it make some of the most interesting elements of the EP. The final piece is From Hell, which takes you on an entrancing loop of gloom and occult doom. Towards the end we have another iconic quote from another film. This time from the 2001 classic From Hell, with an excerpt from Ian Holm’s Character Sir William Gull, “Below the skin of history are London's veins. These symbols, the mitre, the pentacle star, even someone as ignorant and degenerate as you can sense that they course with energy and meaning. I am that meaning. I am that energy.” As these words are spoken, they echo and whisper, inciting the conclusion of Infernua. Infernua is a captivating and ambitious listen, the merging of crossover genres with prominent parts of film culture make this an interesting mix. Although the melodies themselves are pulled off well and the EP flows, aside from parts of Reptilian there is nothing completely out of the box. Despite this, there are some worthy emotions and overall encompassing feeling that the EP emits that make it worth a listen. Score: 7/10 Infernua will be released on the 6th March 2026 via Argonauta Records. Words: Danielle Henderson Photos: Grand Sounds PR

GUILT TRIP’s surprise-drop EP, God Forgives, marks another triumph for the Manchester-based five-piece in the heavy music scene. Released on February 11th, the three-song EP showcases their evolving sound and artistic identity, offering fans a tantalising glimpse into their future. The EP opens with Dirt, a track that premiered on Daniel P Carter’s Radio 1 Rock show on February 9. It's gritty, groove-laden metallic hardcore style is a hallmark of GUILT TRIP’s sound, with JAY VALENTINE's raw and powerful vocals perfectly complementing the intense instrumentation. Dirt is a relentless assault on the senses, blending aggression with melody in a captivating and accessible way. Next up is Angel Eyes which premiered on SiriusXM Liquid Metal on February 10th. This track offers a different vibe with its dynamic structure and hauntingly beautiful melody weaving through the heavy riffs. The interplay between the guitars and rhythm section is particularly noteworthy, creating a soundscape that’s both intricate and powerful. GUILT TRIP’s versatility as songwriters shines through as they seamlessly transition from heavy driving sections to atmospheric passages. Rounding out the EP is a new mix of the previously released Burn. This reimagined track boasts fresh production techniques, giving it a new lease on life. While the original energy and intensity remain, the updated mix adds depth and clarity. Burn serves as a reminder of GUILT TRIP’s roots while also highlighting their growth as musicians. Accompanying the EP is a two-part music video event featuring Dirt and Angel Eyes. This visual treat offers fans a unique perspective on the songs. VALENTINE explains that the video translates lyrical themes into visuals and incorporates original metaphors to represent the subject matter. The result is an entertaining story that resonates with the music, allowing viewers to interpret it in their own way. It’s a testament to GUILT TRIP’s creativity and their desire to connect with their audience on a deeper level. VALENTINE describes God Forgives as a culmination of progress and a reflection of GUILT TRIP’s identity. The band consciously built on the style and song writing of their previous album Severance while embracing and evolving the sound they achieved. The songs were written with the aim of improvement, and Valentine hopes they’ve hit the mark for every GUILT TRIP fan. God Forgives is a powerful statement from a band clearly on the rise. It showcases their gritty, groove-laden metallic hardcore style and tantalises listeners with a taste of what’s to come in their forthcoming full-length album. With this release, GUILT TRIP has solidified their place in the heavy music scene, leaving fans eagerly anticipating their next move. As they continue to evolve and push the boundaries of their sound, it’s clear that GUILT TRIP is a band to watch in the years to come. Score: 9/10 God Forgives was released on 11th February 2026 via Roadrunner Records. Words: Lisa York Photos: Guilt Trip

Book of Churches, the debut solo album by FELIX MACKENZIE-BARROWS, is a minimalist and beautiful collection of songs that gently grip the heart and soul, leaving a lingering sense of peace and tranquillity. It’s an intimate journey through vast emotions - from love to grief, from dread to anger. Coming off the back of a very successful year with his band DIVORCE, this solo project moves in a completely different direction from the band’s trajectory, yet it works remarkably well. Even more astonishing is that the album was written and recorded in just two days. For a record of this quality to be produced in such a short time is mind-blowing. Using only two microphones, a guitar, and a phone full of notes written during some of the hardest moments of his life, MACKENZIE-BARROW created the ultimate DIY album in an untreated room - a raw and strikingly beautiful piece of production. Song By A Stranger, the first track he wrote, poetically opens the album and acts as a blueprint for the rest of the record. It captures the aftermath of a relationship ending - the gaps that suddenly appear and the pain that slowly begins to shift as the world’s quiet beauty returns. All The Good Things lifts the tempo with simple guitar riffs and a subtle banjo in the background. Its lyrics unfold the familiar experience of memories resurfacing after a breakup, and the effect is deeply moving. There You Go I Love You nods to artists such as LEONARD COHEN, whose influence can be felt throughout the album. The composition, particularly on this track, encourages reflection on love once held, desired, or lost. North Atlantic Ocean explores the disorienting feeling of being lost on life’s journey. Subtle triangle accents alongside the guitar create a drifting atmosphere, as though thoughts are slowly floating away. The track draws inspiration from the writings of BARRY LOPEZ, examining boundaries between time and dimension. Each song is crafted to evoke a distinct emotional response. The Quiet Was A Heron, channels anger - specifically at humanity’s treatment of the other species that share the Earth. It demonstrates how powerful lyrics alone can be, without the need for aggressive instrumentation. I Lean introduces electric guitar for the first time on the album, documenting loss through memory. The song drifts toward a melodic, amplified conclusion that leaves a lingering sense of reflection. In sharp contrast, Big Love opens with a high-pitched guitar intro and fuses a variety of sounds. Produced by RICHIE KENNEDY, it features distorted voice recordings that dissolve into an a cappella chorus. The result is a joyous and layered track that stands among the album’s highlights. Hard Ride captures the early days of a relationship - the excitement, uncertainty, and underlying fear of what lies ahead. Recorded sounds, including an accordion mirroring the guitar notes, create a dreamlike shift that transports the listener somewhere distant and tranquil. Catalpa In The Sky, initially inspired by a fear of flying, becomes a meditation on humanity’s instinct to look upward and wonder what lies beyond. The song itself feels dreamlike, with a slightly distorted piano that brings a sense of calm through headphones. The closing track, Stones In Your Bag, brings the album to a poignant conclusion. A harmonica weaves through dual vocals treated with a distorted, conversational effect, creating the feeling of both a farewell and a new beginning. As the song fades, there is a palpable sense of emotional release. BOOK OF CHURCHES is not intended to be perfect; it is meant to be raw, unfiltered, and emotionally honest. It invites listeners to relate, empathise, and feel something genuine and it succeeds. The album reveals a deeply vulnerable side of MACKENZIE-BARROW, with gentle guitar work and soft tones blending seamlessly with heartfelt lyrics. It stands as a reflection on life and the world: flawed and difficult, yet capable of profound beauty when stripped back to its essence. Score: 10/10 Book of Churches will be released on 6th March 2026 via Gravity / Capitol Records. Words: David Waites Photos: Book of Churches