LUSH TEAMS UP WITH DOWNLOAD FESTIVAL TO BRING YOU THE ULTIMATE FESTIVAL REVIVAL KIT

May 19, 2025 by Anna Hyams

DIVE INTO THE WASH PIT

This summer, Lush is turning up the volume on an unexpected collaboration that celebrates
both getting dirty and self-care! Introducing the Lush x Download Festival kit: a limited-edition, festival-revival trio of products crafted in celebration of Download Festival’s legendary community and the unapologetic spirit of alternative music culture.

This exclusive kit includes a bath bomb, a body spray and soap all designed for festival goers, from mosh pit to that first wash back home! Housed in a reusable box styled to look like a roadie’s flight case and plastered in playful stickers representing Download Festival, music lovers and Lush fans, this collab is as collectable as it is practical.

“This partnership is about more than just products – it’s about identity, belonging, and
celebration. Download Festival and Lush might seem like an unexpected duo, but our
communities are built on passion, creativity, and challenging the status quo. That shared ethos makes this collaboration feel not just natural, but necessary.” – Kalem Brinkworth, Concepts and Collaborations Lead at Lush.

With the Kit, Lush continues to push the boundaries of brand collaboration—demonstrating
how day-to-day self-care routines can find harmony even in the loudest spaces. This launch
aims to strengthen connections between Lush and subcultures that value authenticity,
individuality, and social connection. For Download Festival, it’s a chance to give fans a new
sensory dimension to their experience, while amplifying their reach beyond the mosh pit.

“We’ve always championed our Humans of Download. The partnership with Lush lets us bring the Download spirit into a whole new sensory space. This isn’t just about smelling great after the pit, it’s about celebrating the freedom, creativity and community that defines Download and our fans. The team are excited to debut a limited collection onsite at the Megastore and online.” – Glen Littlewood, SVP Marketing Live Nation.

The limited edition Lush x Download Festival Kit will be available online at lush.co.uk from the 19th of May and between 13 – 15 June at the Megastore on-site in Download Festival.

Download 22 Soap
Make washing the apex of your day by lathering up with this soapy opus. An avalanche of
scrubby activated charcoal and fresh, herbal basil oil washes away your post-festival blues.

Circle Pit Bath Bomb
Open up that pit! As the beat drops, descend into a vortex of bold fennel and bright tangerine oils. You bring the riffs; we’ll bring the relaxation.

Ace of Sprays Body Spray
If you like to gamble, this arresting and downright filthy blend of sultry sandalwood, spicy
tarragon and invigorating spearmint is always a safe bet.

Wash Pit Kit
The circle pit swept you up and spat you back out while epic riffs boomed in the background — now for the wind down. In one epic box, a refreshing fennel bath bomb, a crisp herbal soap and a spritz of sultry sandalwood body spray. Post-festival blues? No chance.

Download Festival 2025: Hit List

May 8, 2025May 6, 2025 by Anna Hyams

With just over one month to go, here’s the skinny on 10 things SFG are planning to tick off our DLXXII bucket-list…

See the most divisive Headliner in Download history

Yeah yeah we’ve read all the whinging bros on the forums and comment sections, but let’s face it – Sleep Token ran a sold out tour, are bringing a different sound, and have an actual stage show to offer. I could name a lot of headliners who’ve come before who were boring as fuck, so I’m going in fresh and ready to experience something new. If your sensitive lil temperament can’t take it, go elsewhere – the beauty of Download is, there’s always something else on!

2. Grab a craft beer to drink on the fancy shmancy roof terrace of the Mercian Axe Brewery Bar

Ok, so this is probably a tall order with how many people are also going to be clamouring to do this… but doesn’t a lovely cold bev, in a rooftop beer garden, overlooking one of the 7 wonders of the world, sound absolutely divine? Pray for sunshine everyone.

3. Wear everything Adidas to watch KoRn

No. I didn’t get any of the actual Kornidas collaboration merch. Yes, I do want to live my best 90’s sportluxe life anyway.

4. Extracurricular activities

Apparently Download is the place to revisit the joy of Primary school this year, so catch me at a Live Blacksmithing workshop and then running the Egg-and-Spoon race at the Heavy Metal School Sports event. Jk, I think the Séance is probably more my speed, bring it on demonkind.

5. Get a giant bucket of churros and feel sick for the rest of the night

There is nothing more exciting than receiving your giant bucket of hot fried sugar on a cold festival night… and nothing more humbling than eating two and immediately regretting your decisions. Best shared by a group, friendly warning. I will however, be avoiding the fuck outta the Yorkshire Puddings after last years’ heavily reported Brownload fiasco.

6 .Ooo-weee-oooo with Weezer

Come on, you’ve got to admit this is a class booking. Everyone likes Weezer, even people who pretend not to. If they bring merchandise I’m absolutely cooked.

7. Get brackish with Kittie and try out our MJ moves with Alien Ant Farm

This line-up is the stuff of my teenage emo dreams honestly, but the likelihood of me throwing my back out moshing, or falling flat on my face trying to do ‘the lean’ is feeling quite high.

8. RockFit mornings in The Village

So I read some comments on the FB group from people who are worried that they’ll be missing a few workout days while they’re living at Download. First of all – can’t relate. If you’re out running a circuit of the campsites before 8am, I both salute you, and wish you many hours of therapy. What I will stand by though, is the very silly fun time that RockFit presents. Will I actually drag my tired hungover ass there? TBD.

9. Live the cult Vengaboys experience.

For whom the Vengabus tolls; it tolls for thee. This is the single most brilliant booking Download have ever made, because it is 100% a very silly joke that has reached it’s pinnacle. My applause will be undying, and you must believe me when I say; hey now hey now, hear what I say now, happiness is just around the corner.

10. Finally find out who PRESIDENT are

Look, if it’s a national address from the Cheeto-in-Chief I’m going to be very upset. Please don’t be shit after all this hype, ok?

See you there, fellow field-dwellers – cross your fingers for a dry one!

BLOODSTOCK reveal EMP stage line-up

May 6, 2025 by Anna Hyams

BLOODSTOCK is thrilled to be partnering with premier alternative lifestyle and merchandise brand EMP to unveil the next wave of rising metal talent set to storm the EMP Stage this August.

EMP declare, “After last year’s success, we are absolutely thrilled to announce our partnership again with BLOODSTOCK 2025! As proud sponsors of the 4th stage, EMP is ready to rock alongside the best in metal. Stay tuned for exciting giveaways and exclusive content in the lead-up to the festival. As Europe’s #1 for music, films & TV, gaming merchandise & alt fashion, EMP is honoured to be part of the UK’s biggest independent Metal Festival once again and can’t wait to join forces with BLOODSTOCK to make history on the EMP STAGE!”

A powerhouse mix of fresh faces and underground favourites, these bands represent the fierce diversity and raw energy of the UK and European metal scene.Get to know the bands who’ll be igniting the EMP Stage:
Joining Friday’s bill:

DESOLATOR – High-speed, high-impact thrash from Yorkshire, proudly flying the old-school flag.

LUST RITUAL – A doom-laden descent into occult ceremony, invoking heaviness with haunting atmosphere.

INSIDIOUS VOID – Belfast death metal trio unleashing old-school brutality with fresh venom.

SHRIKE – Ambient, orchestral, and utterly epic, if you like cinematic metal this band is for you!

HELLDOWN – South Wales thrash newcomers combining aggression and precision in lethal doses.

Added to Saturday’s line-up:

CROWN SOLACE – Scottish symphonic metalheads boasting soaring vocals and cinematic grandeur.

TIBERIUS – Edinburgh’s prog rockers, whose infectious energy and technical finesse have already earned them a cult following.

BAD SMELL – Raw, no-frills metal that hits like a pub brawl.

THRASHIST REGIME – Aberdeen’s thrash commandos bringing riff-fuelled chaos with a punk edge.

RITES TO RUIN – Classic metal stylings from a band built for festival stages.

Livening up Sunday’s proceedings:

THE FIVE HUNDRED – Nottingham’s melodic metalcore juggernauts, fresh off a sold-out show at Rescue Rooms and riding high with their latest blistering single.

Z MACHINE – Sax-driven Sheffield heavyweights blending groove and innovation – perfect for Bloodstockers with adventurous ears.

MAATKARE – Metal warriors bringing Egyptian history and mythos to life with fierce riffs and empowering presence.

ORME – Hertfordshire’s slowest power trio, dealing in drone, sludge, and tectonic-level heaviness.

PHON – Worcester’s heavy sludge/grunge trio delivering thick riffs and angsty hooks.

Known for championing emerging artists and killer festival style, EMP returns to BLOODSTOCK with some special offers…

WANT TO WIN WEEKEND TICKETS?

EMP is giving you the chance to win a highly sought after, sold out pair of full weekend tickets to BLOODSTOCK! Head here for how to enter and join the action this summer!
GET BLOODSTOCK READY!

To celebrate 2025’s partnership, EMP is helping fans gear up with a 20% discount at their online store. Whether you need band tees, boots, or camping essentials, just use the code BOA20 at checkout and get 20% off your order (minimum spend £39.99).

Head to EMP UK and stock up now!

T&C: 20% off / MOV £39.99. Valid until 21.05.2025. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotional codes. Only redeemable once per customer. After entering the code, the discount will be automatically deducted from your shopping basket. Books, media, tickets, Rammstein, Die Ärzte, Die Toten Hosen, Feine Sahne Fischfilet, Broilers, New Balance, Böhse Onkelz, Funko Pop!, vouchers & items that include a donation in the price are excluded from the promotion.

Join us for the UK’s most spectacular weekend of metal and mayhem with your mates this August – and discover the future of metal live on the EMP Stage!

USE CODE BOA20 AT EMP TO SAVE 20%

DLXXII: BEYOND THE BANDS

May 6, 2025May 1, 2025 by Anna Hyams

With less than two months to go until the mighty return of Download Festival, DLXXII has unleashed its ‘Beyond The Bands’ offerings, giving Download-goers an even more exciting experience onsite with brand new food, drink, wellness and sport options. Taking place on 11-15 June 2025 at the hallowed grounds of Donington Park, Download will be headlined by Green Day, Sleep Token and Korn. You can buy the last remaining tickets here: www.downloadfestival.co.uk.

Brand new for this year’s DLXXII are the Mercian Axe brewery bar where you can find locally brewed beers, the Hair Of The Dog pub complete with roof terrace and beer garden, and brand new arena bar The Iron Harp. Our Low & No bar, Bar Zero returns, as well as the Raven Records’ pop-up vinyl store, which also offers alcohol-free options, coffee and heavy metal talking therapy.

For the first time, Download will see live blacksmithing workshops, new immersive experience Darkfield Séance and a Heavy Metal Sports Day. There will also be axe throwing, skate ramps, a new and improved wellness, yoga and talking therapy offering, wrestling, RockFit, live fire cooking demos, daily themed quizzes, and a bigger and better Download Megastore. Old Sarum Tattoo will also be returning to Download this year.

This year will see over 160 fantastic food traders across the festival, with returning festival favourites and some brand new ones, with more than ever catering to vegan, vegetarian and gluten free dietary requirements. There will be a huge variety of options on display, from Rock & Roll Toastie to C’est Cheese to Halloumination to late night shawarma at Kebab Kartel to puddings at Custard & Crumble and Yay Churros.

Additionally, the Welders Yard food and drink area will be returning to the top of the main arena on an even larger scale, complete with Beer Hall, the aforementioned Bar Zero, and an array of food options, including authentic American smokehouse BBQ, homemade Spanish churros and Bangladeshi / Indian street food.

Following on from the recent District X announcement featuring live sets from the likes of Vengaboys, DJ sets, comedy and live podcasts, the DLXXII’s Beyond The Bands offerings prove that Download is much more than just its stellar band line-up, with truly something for everyone to enjoy across the five days. More information and tickets at www.downloadfestival.co.uk

DOWNLOAD FESTIVAL UNVEILS THREE-DAY STAGE AT THE GREAT ESCAPE 2025

May 6, 2025April 23, 2025 by Anna Hyams

THE GREAT ESCAPE ANNOUNCES FULL 2025 FESTIVAL SCHEDULE

May 6, 2025April 16, 2025 by Anna Hyams

Today The Great Escape, taking place from 14-17 May 2025 in Brighton, unveils its full festival schedule for this year’s edition, which can be accessed via the official The Great Escape mobile app. The Great Escape mobile app helps fans navigate the mammoth line-up of 450+ artists and allows festival and conference-goers to build their own personal schedule. It also offers live updates on site and is available to download for free here.

Additionally, The Great Escape announces its 2025 stage hosts including media partners BBC Introducing, Billboard UK, Clash, DIY, Dork, Notion, So Young, The Independent, Ticketmaster New Music, Upset, renowned brands including Download Festival, live agencies WME, ATC Live and independent record labels FatCat Records, Moshi Moshi, Nice Swan Records, Bella Union, PIAS, and many more.

Synonymous with new music discovery and acting as a springboard for rising artists, The Great Escape is the festival for new music. Playing host to over 450 up-and-coming artists and hotly tipped talent across 35+ walkable venues, alongside the music industry-led TGE conference, the festival will kick off the 2025 season from 14 – 17 May in Brighton, England. Tickets for The Great Escape festival start from £81.24 and are on sale here.

WEDNESDAY 14 MAY STAGE HIGHLIGHTS

For 2025, The Great Escape is expanding into the Wednesday of the festival and will feature four full days of music programming for the first time ever. To kick off the festivities, Platform B will once again be hosting The Great Escape’s special Opening Party on Wednesday 14 May at Jubilee Square including performances from Congratulations, SLAG, Goodbye, Bea Maher, asiedu, and REA.

Over at the Paganini Ballroom, BBC Introducing Sussex and Surrey will present performances from Lonnie Gunn, Frances Mistry, Bones Ate Arfa, and CURRLS, hosted by Melita, whilst Brighton based record label FatCat Records will showcase new artists including Water Machine, Heavy Lungs, Abdomen, TRAAMS, and Holiday Ghosts at Patterns, and fellow independent label Nice Swan Records will welcome Mount Palomar, Westside Cowboy, Stringrays, Fuzz Lightyear and Jagged Baptist Club to The Hope and Ruin.

Additionally, Wednesday will see renowned singer-songwriter and co-frontman of The Libertines Peter Doherty perform alongside eccentric post-punk six-piece Warmduscher, Welsh indie-punks Trampolene, Real Farmer, GANS, Vona Vella, Junior Brother, and Evan Williams, as part of a very special showcase from Strap Originals, Doherty’s own independent record label, to celebrate the arrival of Doherty’s new album Felt Better Alive. With a curated line-up of hotly tipped new artists, this separately ticketed show will take place at The Deep End as part of a The Great Escape Brighton Beach takeover.

THURSDAY 15 MAY STAGE HIGHLIGHTS

On Thursday 15 May, The Great Escape continues its city-wide celebration of new music with a further eclectic lineup of showcases across Brighton. At the Paganini Ballroom, BBC 6 Music and BBC Introducing are returning to the festival to present a hotly tipped selection of upcoming talent hosted by Huw Stephens, Steve Lamacq and Emily Pilbeam, including Westside Cowboy, Holybones, The None, and Brighton’s very own Welly. So Young will take over Charles Street Tap with performances from Man/Woman/Chainsaw, Westside Cowboy, Rabbit Foot, Men An Tol, and Green Star. At Komedia, agency ATC Live will bring together a dynamic mix of new artists featuring Debby Friday, Adult DVD, Tyler Ballgame, Total Tommy, Woody, and Joshua Idehen.

Players hosts The Great Escape Presents, spotlighting genre-defying acts like Angry Blackmen, namesbliss, Demae, Kabeaushe, and She Her Her Hers, while iconic venue the Royal Albert Hall’s stage at Revenge will showcase corto.alto, Sirens Of Lesbos, Oreglo, and Common Goldfish. Over at Deep End, Ticketmaster New Music offers a jam-packed lineup including The K’s, Chloe Slater, Brògeal, Sunday (1994), Nxdia, Laurie Wright, and Florence Road. UTA’s industry showcase at The Arch will feature RUBII, Clara La San, Tough Cookie, Maleigh Zan, and Punchbag, while independent label Moshi Moshi return to Matinee Revenge with Nadeem Din Gabisi, Chinese American Bear, and Alice Costelloe.

The Great Escape Presents will also head to the Old Market for a diverse bill including Donny Benét, The Bug Club, TV Death, and Hello Mary. Patterns will see a full venue takeover from Clash, with upstairs performances by Up : Y, Franek Warzywa & Młody Budda, REDD., Curtisy, Disgusting Sisters, Chameleon Lime Whoopiepie, Loshh, Saina, and Jessy Blakemore, while downstairs the night continues until the early hours with Mount Palamar, Canblaster, Black Fondu, JD Cliffe, Grace Gachot, Chloe Qisha, Betty, Sex Mask, and Maya Delilah.

FRIDAY 16 MAY STAGE HIGHLIGHTS

As the weekend approaches, Friday 16 May brings another wave of standout showcases across the city, with a vibrant mix of breakthrough artists and established names lighting up Brighton’s best venues. LOUD LDN and TNAM.UK will join forces at Daltons for an exciting night featuring charlieeeee, Just For Fun, DellaXOZ, and SLAG. Over at the Old Market, The Independent will host a headline performance from legendary British rock band Skunk Anansie, offering a rare chance to see the iconic group in an intimate setting. The Arch will be taken over by Notion, presenting a cutting-edge blend of R&B, pop, and electronic with performances from Jordan Adetunji, Nia Smith, Akemi Fox, and Tay Jordan, alongside late-night sets from sim0ne, Mechatok (LIVE), Meyy, and Mina Galán.

Deep End will host newly announced media partner Billboard UK’s curated bill including headliners English Teacher, RabbitFoot, Daffo, Courting, My First Time, Westside Cowboy, and Polly Money. Meanwhile at the Paganini Ballroom BBC Radio 1Xtra will present an array of fresh talent including Hulton, Lola Moxom, and Billy Khan with host Angelle Joseph. At Revenge, Earth will bring together a genre-defying lineup with Getdown Services, Ruthven, Olive Jones, and Quiet Light, and tastemaker platform Pigeons and Planes will shine a spotlight on some of the most talked-about names in new music, including Arz, Kaicrewsade, Swank Mami, and Koteri.

AWAL’s showcase at Komedia will present a selection of its diverse roster, with James Marriott, Keo, Luvcat, Miss Kaninna, and Orlando all taking to the stage. DIY Magazine will bring their signature energy to Hortaio’s with a lineup featuring WELLY, Total Tommy, Mandrake Handshake, Ideal Living, and Paige Kennedy, whilst powerhouse label Transgressive returns to Chalk with an unmissable night featuring The Moonlandingz, HotWax, Miso Extra, The New Eves, and Greg Freeman, plus DJ Huw Stephens closing out Friday with a dose of raw energy and alternative brilliance.

SATURDAY 17 MAY STAGE HIGHLIGHTS

Bringing the festival to a thrilling close, Saturday 17 May rounds off The Great Escape 2025 with a final burst of bold new sounds. Over at Daltons, Global Local will present a genre-blending lineup featuring She’s Got Brass, Headmix, and Town of Cats. At Chalk, Brighton’s own CLT DRP will take the reins for a full venue takeover, performing alongside a fierce and unapologetic lineup that includes debasement, LIONSTORM, and The Darklings, promising a night of high-intensity live music and experimental punk.

The festival’s flagship Closing Party will be held at The Deep End, where Dork offers an unmissable send-off featuring a special 45-minute set from genre-bending provocateur LYNKS, alongside Piri & Tommy, and Kabeaushe, with more surprise guests to be revealed. Jubilee Square will once again come alive thanks to the MNX Stage, showcasing a forward-thinking lineup of future stars including Blue Lab Beats, Orla Rae, Dred, Hatter, Lori Asha, and REA. Additionally, acclaimed label Bella Union will host a stage at The Arch featuring Divide + Dissolve, Goddess and Cubzoa, and Kamran Kaur, bringing this year’s expanded four-day celebration of new music to an unforgettable finish.

The Great Escape’s official after-hours programme The Late Escape will run throughout the duration of the festival, spotlighting cutting-edge electronic and club talent. Running from 11:30pm to 4am across key Brighton venues, the line-up includes euphoric sets from Sim0ne, Mechatok, Meyy, Badger, IRAH, Mina Galán, Pretty Girl (DJ) and SWIM, with special guests still to be announced. Stand-alone tickets are on sale now, with TGE wristband holders granted access subject to capacity. Additionally, the legendary rock festival Download Festival will host a stage at Volks from Thursday 15 May until Saturday 17 May, featuring performances from artists including Luna Kills, Bruise Control, Twenty One Children, Mouth Culture, Artio, Wayside, Zetra, Karen Dió, JAYLER, Letters Sent Home, Last Train, Angel Number, LOWEN, Defences, BEX, James and the Cold Gun, and VOWER.

FULL CONFERENCE SCHEDULE REVEALED

The full schedule is also now available for The Great Escape’s industry-leading music conference. Joining a packed programme, newly announced sessions include The Money Trench podcast, with Mark Sutherland in conversation with Romain Vivien, Global Head of Music and President Europe at Believe and Alice McLean, Head of Label & Artist Solutions at Believe UK, as they discuss the company’s success developing artists and how to work independently in 2025.

Two big advocates for the music community within Westminster – Alex Sobel MP and Anneliese Midgley MP – will review the recent debates and discuss how the music industry can ensure its voice is heard within Parliament. And finally, Red Bull Records presents ‘Tapped In: The Power of Short-Form Content for Artists on the Rise’ – an insightful discussion with leading marketing experts diving into the strategies behind short-form content and the pivotal role it plays in helping artists break through the noise.

They join an incredible line-up of speakers including Skunk Anansie’s Skin, Rizzle Kicks’ Jordan Stephens and Cocteau Twins’ Simon Raymonde.

Skunk Anansie – Birmginham O2 Academy 2025, REVIEWED!

April 8, 2025 by Anna Hyams

So Good

Tonight’s musical aperitif is a cheeky dip into the brat-punk pool of London artist So Good, backed up by band members in pink balaclavas, and singers in stompy doc marten boots. Frontwoman Sophie is decked out in pleated denim, neon pink socks and a matching Beret, spitting feminist anti-fascist lyrics with wild abandon – but giving distinct Leslie Knope’s Pawnee Goddess girl-guide energy.

© Anna Hyams Photography – Do not use without permission

I’m absolutely here for it, this infectious riot grrrl fun is coming back around, thanks (no thanks) to the state of the world around us right now, and we need more of it. “Her ex boyfriend is from Birmingham you know” Sophie points at one of her singers, “…so this one goes out to him, middle fingers up!” and the crowd obliges by joining in with the salute.

‘I Hate It Here’ about our repeatedly shit Prime Minister situation is very tongue in cheek funny, but also hits the nail on the head in so many ways. The line “…you ain’t stopped abortion just abortion that’s safe…” comes at a time where our news is full of professional victims hiding behind religion and free speech, to attack women in lawfully protected safe zones. Again, this kind of nonsense needs disrupting – and if it comes in the loud bright fun packaging of women’s rage-music, all the better in my opinion.

Just to break up the political discourse for a minute, “I heard a rumour that people from Birmingham have big dicks?” Sophie giggles before launching into ‘If I had A’ – a hilarious lament on penises and a very 70’s-porn twangy backing track.

Finishing up with a dose of blasphemy, ‘I Rewrote The Fucking Bible’ is the ultimate angry girl theme tune. There’s a hint of Lady Sovereign, a bit of Bikini Kill, and a lot of London. Straight on the protest playlist. So Good might already be my biggest band recommendation of the year, and it’s only April.

Skunk Anansie

It’s a packed-out shoulder-to-sweaty-shoulder affair in the O2 tonight, a sold out show for the return of Brit-rock royalty Skunk Anansie. The stage, moody with fog and blue lighting, centres on a drum riser crowned with black inflatable spikes. Drummer Mark Richardson makes his way to the centre of the sea urchin structure to immediate roars of appreciation from the crowd, as Cass and Ace take to the stage below.

The electric opening bars of ‘This Means War’ provide the perfect promenade for a duffel-coated Skin to enter the stage. Like some kind of menacing caterpillar waiting to break free, she bounces in on gigantic metal-plated boots, with a huge hood obscuring her face as she tears through the call-to-arms lyrics. Swapping into trainers and ditching the sleeping-bag for ‘Because of You’, we are treated to the soaring top notes Skin is famous for, the awed silence of the crowd as she holds an impossibly long note mid-song is truly something to behold.

Wearing a hybrid Adidas track top-turned tailcoat with the bouffant arms of a retro Nike shell-suit, and a swathe of leather and fabric kilt-ish skirts, Skin is known for her quirky stage dress – but this might be the one I would most like to own. It is hitting all the right nostalgia buttons for a fairly homogenously aged crowd – big up the 90’s teen crew, I see you all.

“Wonderlustre was released 15 years ago, this is the first single from that album… it’s called ‘God Loves Only You’. They’re loud. You know those Christian nationalists who think God loves only them? How can God love only you? With all the different races and genders?”

A huge roar of agreement erupts as Skin laments,

“They’ve aligned themselves with the far right, the KKK, fascism and Trumpism… which to me seems the opposite of religion. They want to go after immigrants, after women… the only way to defeat them is to go into our communities and families, and BRING EVERYONE BACK TOGETHER!”

“We are Skunk Anansie, we believe everybody is always equal. SMASH FASCISTS, SMASH RACISTS” comes the rallying cry. The following frenzy of the crowd serves a cathartic purpose for the pent-up anger and energy for the current state of the world, it’s obvious everyone needs this.

‘Weak’ is undeniably the anthem of the night, Skin’s voice is stunningly vibrant, perhaps better than I’ve ever heard her – but there is no vying for attention nor eclipsing of the band, who are non-stop pumping the energy as well. It may be as close to a perfect balance as I’ve come across in music, they just deliver on all fronts. The crowd is eventually singing along so loud that Skin gives over the spotlight to the voice of the masses.

Caressing the bald head of one of the security guards, before jumping down to the pit barrier to sing with the crowd during ‘Twisted (Everyday Hurts)’ it doesn’t take long before she has jumped into the melee full throttle.

Another Wonderlustre classic ‘My Ugly Boy’ keeps the hits coming with barely room to breathe, and the room is an absolute furnace with all the jumping. So much so that someone appears to have suffered a collapse near the middle of the room. Skin stops the show to check staff can get out to retrieve the person, and it’s all very quickly and efficiently done. Rolling onto a track from the new album (releasing on May 23rd – ‘The Painful Truth’) called ‘Animal’ – a full heavy metal moment, with a NIN-esque dirty beat behind it. I can tell this is going to be one of my most played albums of the year.

‘Yes It’s Fucking Political’ sees Skin calling for a circle pit, and the momentum of the night shows absolutely no sign of dropping. After a short exit, the encore houses another new one ‘Cheers’ which tiptoes the pop rock line in a very accessible way. I think this is going to be the one that draws in new Skunk fans for the 2020’s.

The iconic ‘Hedonism’ is followed by Led Zep’s ‘Whole Lotta Love’ for a bit of riffy fun while doing band introductions. ‘The Skank Heads (Get Off Me)’ gives another opportunity for Skin to dive into the crowd, in which she calls for “all the girls to the mosh pit!”. Closing out with “We’ll do one more. Something loud? Something fast? Something delicate?” as she puts it, is another new song ‘Lost and Found’ – a slow, but gorgeous almost operatic wind-down, to a furiously dynamic show. As they thank the crowd and send set-list paper aeroplanes shooting out to grabbing hands, I think I can safely conclude that this might rank as my top gig of 2025 already.

As the new ‘Lost and Found’ lyric goes “Heavy is the crown” – but Skunk Anansie are really out here, 31 years into their career – seemingly lifting that crown higher each time I see them.

Setlist

This Means War
Charlie Big Potato
Because of You
An Artist Is an Artist
I Believed in You
Love Someone Else
God Loves Only You
Secretly
Weak
I Can Dream
Twisted (Everyday Hurts)
My Ugly Boy
Animal
Yes It’s Fucking Political
Tear the Place Up
Little Baby Swastikkka

Encore:

Cheers
Hedonism (Just Because You Feel Good)
Whole Lotta Love (Led Zeppelin cover)
The Skank Heads (Get Off Me)
Lost and Found

Nights out with BLOODSTOCK + more bands announced

April 1, 2025 by Anna Hyams

With 4 months still to go before you can shout BLOODSTOCK is next week, festival HQ has got all the details of some raucous nights out to help you pass the time and get a sneak peek at some of the freshest talent to perform at BLOODSTOCK this August, in rock clubs around the country and at the Metal 2 The Masses tour dates which kick off imminently! Plus, even if you can’t make any of those events, read on for the low down on 8 hellacious acts who’ve already seen off all the challengers to claim spots on the Timothy Taylor New Blood stage, so you can discover your new favourite band right now.

Have you been following the earlier events of BLOODSTOCK’s phenomenally successful Metal 2 The Masses (M2TM) scheme? If not, now’s the time! The final 31 tour dates are locked and loaded! With a different line-up every show, one band from each night will be selected to join the line up on the Timothy Taylor New Blood Stage this August.
With 31 regions taking part, across the UK, Poland, Norway, and Cyprus, 2025 marks the biggest Metal 2 The Masses scheme yet! The first final kicks off in Cyprus on April 11, but you can get details of all venues and dates on BLOODSTOCK’s website, Facebook, or by clicking the region below.

LONDON | CYPRUS | BRISTOL | COVENTRY | BURNLEY | DEV & CORNWALL | MERSEYSIDE | BRIGHTON | OXFORD | NORTHANTS | NOTTINGHAM | STOKE | CHELTENHAM | KENT | NEWCASTLE | HITCHIN | SOUTH WALES | NORTH WALES | NORWAY | SOMERSET | BIRMINGHAM | EAST ANGLIA | ESSEX | MANCHESTER | SOUTHAMPTON | LEICESTER | SHEFFIELD | LEEDS | BELFAST | SCOTLAND | POLAND

Kicking off at the beginning of May are this year’s riotously fun BLOODSTOCK CLUB NIGHTS! Another fun way to get out there and support your local venues and perhaps take home some BLOODSTOCK tickets while you’re at it! With only a very small handful of festival tickets left available to buy, every club night will have a ticket competition on the night and you might just be the lucky winner!

Party nights line up as follows, air guitaring is optional:

Sat 3rd May – York, Bluebox – Deadbolt
Sat 10th May – Manchester, Rebellion – Deadbolt
Sat 17th May – Bristol, Basement 45 – Apocalypse
Sat 31st May – Brighton, Above – Apocalypse
Sat 31st May – Southampton, Sobar – Apocalypse
Fri 6th June – Glasgow, Cathouse Fridays
Fri 6th June – Guildford, All Bar One – Schism
Fri 20th June – Cardiff, Metros – Heresy
Sat 28th June – Stoke-on-Trent, The Sugarmill – Devil’s Night
Sat 12th July – Nottingham, The Sal – Hexx
Fri 18th July – Exeter, The Cavern – Altern8
Fri 25th July – London, Elektrowerkz – Voodoo

The best (days and) nights out in August are of course those you can spend at BLOODSTOCK! With such high quality acts applying to the festival this year, here’s the low down on 8 bands who have already been locked in to make everyone wish the New Blood tent was twice the size.

Friday welcomes Mancunians THE MACHINEST (video), offering up a particularly gnarly and intense flavour of industrial extreme metal, for fans of Anaal Nathrakh and The Berzerker. They’ll be joined by Hertfordshire-based squad LOWDOWN (video), firm believers in riffing like their lives depended on it, who’ve just signed to Damage Records for their debut. If you’re a fan of Amon Amarth, Arch Enemy, Ghost, Heilung or Nightwish, save some space in your schedule to catch Northern powerhouse LN (video) and their transcendental blend of Pagan/Viking metal.
Did they foresee they’d be joining Saturday’s bill? FORTUNE TELLER (video) is the power metal brainchild of Ross McLennan (Ingested, Viscera, Abhorrent Decimation), paired with Meyrick De La Fuente, Ian Rockett, and Theresa Smith (Metaprism). Saturday also adds prog metallers HEKZ (video), who’ve been splendidly described by Prog magazine as sounding like “Queen having a barney with Dream Theater as Rush and Iron Maiden duke it out on the sidelines.”

Local Derbyshire lads THE CARTOGRAPHER (video) clinch a spot on Sunday’s line up, a spine-shattering embodiment of modern deathcore. Also part of Sunday’s affray, the evocatively named SPITTING TEETH (video) are sure to wake up the pit – if you dare – with their filthy riffs and relentless and punishing live set.

For a change of pace that day but no less captivating, why not check out Belfast’s alt rock tribe PREYRS (video), featuring singer Amy Montgomery. The group were previously nominated for both Best Live Act and Best Artist at the Northern Ireland Music Prize and are sure to make new fans at BLOODSTOCK!

Did you snap up a ticket yet? Day tickets are now running VERY low (only Friday left!), and weekend tickets have also already sold out, so don’t hang about if you want to join the fun this summer! If you already have a weekend ticket, a limited number of Wednesday early access passes are available for an add-on cost of £25 for those who want to max out their BLOODSTOCK experience, staying in any of the standard campsites (including Kyrr if you have a Kyrr-specific ticket) or the campervan field. This option is not available at present for the VIP or accessible campsites.

Head to the ticket store to see all currently available options including pre-bookable car parking.

If you’ve missed out on your preferred ticket type, sign up to official resale partner Tixel. Simply set an alert for notification if your tickets of choice become available, or pre-authorise your card in advance, so no need for constant checking back. Tixel also allows you to safely re-sell tickets to a new home if plans have changed. You can sell ALL ticket types, including instalment plan purchases, plus any tickets sold via Ticketmaster or other third party ticket outlets. Click through to https://tixel.com/uk/bloodstock-tickets for more information on how it works.

If you’re thinking about travel options and your dinosaur isn’t giving you a lift, perhaps consider Big Green Coach, for the closest drop off on site. Check out routes here.

Get more festival information over at bloodstock.uk.com. Watch a trailer here.

BLOODSTOCK will take place at Catton Park, Derbyshire on 7th-10th August 2025.

BLOODSTOCK’s 2025 Ronnie James Dio stage headliners are TRIVIUM, MACHINE HEAD, and GOJIRA. Headlining the Sophie Lancaster stage will be ME AND THAT MAN, KATAKLYSM, STATIC-X, and OBITUARY. You’ll also be able to see MASTODON, NAILBOMB, MINISTRY, EMPEROR, FEAR FACTORY, LACUNA COIL, HERIOT, ORANGE GOBLIN, CREEPER, KUBLAI KHAN TX, CAGE FIGHT, RIVERS OF NIHIL, FLOTSAM & JETSAM, THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, FEUERSCHWANZ, LORD OF THE LOST, PALEFACE SWISS, AUGUST BURNS RED, WARBRINGER, UNDEATH, SPIRIT ADRIFT, THROWN, ALL FOR METAL, BREED 77, HIGH PARASITE, and 3 INCHES OF BLOOD.

Joining them are SHRAPNEL, FAMYNE, KONVENT, THE SPIRIT, GHOSTS OF ATLANTIS, ONE MACHINE, MY DILIGENCE, SHADE EMPIRE, EIHWAR, WATERLINES, PHOENIX LAKE, NEONFLY, WALL, DOGMA, SIGLOS, DEADFLESH, FOURWAYKILL, GNOME, TURIN, LOCK HORNS, OFNUS, ROUGH JUSTICE, IREOSIS, BA’AL, FRAYLE, PENGSHUI, VNDER A CRVMBLING MOON, APATHY UK, and BARBARIAN HERMIT.

Stay tuned for many more bands and on site activities to be announced over the coming months.

DLXXII: District X unleashes biggest line-up yet

April 1, 2025March 27, 2025 by Anna Hyams

With less than three months to go, Download Festival has revealed its thrilling line-up for District X – Download’s renowned festival within a festival. Featuring iconic pop legends Vengaboys, special DJ sets from festival favourites, intimate acoustic performances, electrifying secret sets, new quizzes, live podcasts, comedy, and unique entertainment experiences, District X promises to take Downloaders into another dimension. Taking place from 11–15 June 2025 at the legendary Donington Park, Download Festival continues to redefine festival experiences beyond the main arena. Last remaining weekend tickets are available now at www.downloadfestival.co.uk.

District X expands the Download experience with entertainment running around-the-clock, creating another dimension that sets Download apart. Offering a wide range of activities beyond the music, from immersive performances to interactive events, it ensures festivalgoers have something to enjoy at any hour. This year’s diverse programme makes District X an essential part of the Download weekend, giving fans a richer, broader weekend that extends beyond the main arena.

Headlining this year’s District X programme as one of the most requested bookings of all time, the legendary Vengaboys will take to Donington Park by fan demand, bringing their iconic hits and high-energy performance for a nostalgic and unforgettable party experience.

Joining the party, Cradle of Filth frontman Dani Filth will take to the decks for a blistering DJ set. Expect a nightmarish mix of gothic anthems and metal classics, curated by one of the most recognisable figures in heavy music. Further bolstering the Friday night schedule, Aled Phillips from Kids In Glass Houses joins the District X DJ line-up, kicking off the evening ahead of a special acoustic set from Welsh post-hardcore icons Funeral For A Friend, followed by McFly’s bassist Dougie Poynter who will promise a setlist packed with crowd favourites and unexpected gems. Liam Cormier of Cancer Bats also steps up for a heavy-hitting DJ set with high energy late into the night with a high-octane performance from MODESTEP (DJ Set) – the bass-driven powerhouse known for fusing dubstep with rock and metal – rounding off the night in explosive style.

Further District X highlights include Now That’s What I Call A 00’s Mixtape – a full-throttle throwback party hosted by Sophie K, packed with the biggest noughties anthems and alt-rock favourites. DJ sets from Zoe London and Hang The DJs will bring high-energy genre-spanning selections to the late-night crowd, while She They Press Play delivers a bold and boundary-pushing celebration of alternative culture.

A special highlight for wrestling enthusiasts, District X welcomes the renowned Lucha Britannia wrestling showcase in an exclusive collaboration with festival favourites Slay Duggee. Taking place on Wednesday night, this unique fusion brings an edgy twist to classic wrestling entertainment.

Returning favourites like Emo Drag Karaoke, Silent Disco, and the End of The World Party will ensure the party never stops, while new additions such as live podcasts with special guest appearances including an eagerly anticipated session with rock royalty Justin Hawkins (The Darkness). His acclaimed YouTube series, ‘Justin Hawkins Rides Again,’ has captivated music fans worldwide, making his District X appearance a must-see festival highlight. On Wednesdays We Wear Black, who champion inclusivity in the heavy music scene through their sharp humour and unfiltered takes, will also be bringing their much-loved podcast to Download.

District X will also feature a range of brand-new experiences, including interactive quizzes including Green Day, Sleep Token and Korn-themed quizzes with Kitty Cowell, wrestling showcases, bingo with an alternative twist, Never Mind The Download pub quiz, comedy sessions from rising stars, aerobics and sports day events. With surprise secret sets scheduled across the weekend, as first revealed by the exclusive Download Family inner circle newsletter earlier this month, attendees can expect the unexpected at every turn.

Download Festival welcomes back DARKFIELD following last year’s surreal EULOGY show, this time with their flagship experience, SÉANCE—an immersive encounter guaranteed to unnerve and captivate. This intense 20-minute sonic performance places 20 festivalgoers inside a pitch-black 24ft container, transformed into a Victorian séance room where immersive 3D audio manipulates the senses. blurring the line between reality and the supernatural.

Flow State Wellness returns to Download with an expanded offering for 2025, providing festivalgoers with a perfect, calming way to start their day at the Outpost. Running every morning, these immersive sessions will guide attendees through breathwork, gentle movement, mindfulness meditations, and sound healing. In addition to morning sessions, Flow State Wellness will also offer daily drop-ins within the main arena, creating space for relaxation and grounding between sets.

New for 2025, Blink will be hosting wellbeing tents in District X, offering a dedicated space to unwind, take part in mindfulness activities, and have open conversations about mental health. Attendees will also have access to free professional single-session talking therapy with qualified psychologists and counsellors, providing vital support in a relaxed and inclusive environment.

Diverse UK is expanding its presence at Download this year, increasing from one space in the arena to two. Their sensory calm spaces offer a vital retreat for neurodivergent festivalgoers and those in need of a quiet, regulated environment, ensuring Download remains a festival that welcomes everyone.

District X is bigger and better for 2025, with enhanced décor, vibrant lighting, and a transformed festival space. The popular ‘Ace of Spades’ venue has been expanded, now welcoming crowds of up to 2,000 fans, while the all-new ‘Gravers Return’ bar and food area offers festivalgoers a lively spot to unwind and recharge. Thrilling skate ramp demos across District X & the Main Arena, and improved accessibility throughout the festival guarantee an unrivalled experience from start to finish.

Families aren’t forgotten at Download DLXXII, with the dedicated Mini Moshers campsite (application required) offering a family-friendly environment to ensure even the youngest rockers have an incredible festival experience. Packed with fun and excitement, Mini Moshers can look forward to live performances from the much-loved Slay Duggee, known for transforming children’s favourite songs and theme tunes into high-energy metal anthems and Rock Kids, whose energetic, interactive shows include everything from epic singalongs and snow machines to their famous ‘wall of hugs’.

This packed line-up confirms that District X remains the ultimate late-night entertainment hub, offering Downloaders an unforgettable festival experience from dusk until dawn.
Tickets and full information available at www.downloadfestival.co.uk. Sign up for exclusive news and offers as part of the Download Family at https://downloadfestival.co.uk/family/.

DLXXII will see Green Day, Sleep Token and Korn headline the festival with the likes of Jimmy Eat World, Weezer, Rise Against, Shinedown, Bullet For My Valentine, Spiritbox, Don Broco, Palaye Royale, Meshuggah, Within Temptation, Sex Pistols featuring Frank Carter, Steel Panther, The Darkness, Eagles Of Death Metal, Myles Kennedy, McFly, Jerry Cantrell and many more joining them on the bill.

Book your tickets now: www.downloadfestival.co.uk.

Bloodstock gives back…

April 1, 2025March 18, 2025 by Anna Hyams

BLOODSTOCK’s motto has always been, “by the fans, for the fans.” A new initiative starting in 2025 and being announced today typifies this perfectly. Not only that, BLOODSTOCK is pleased to share two very well-deserving charity partners for 2025’s event, and confirm the return of the CD & t-shirt amnesty, as part of some fund-raising efforts. Read on for more details…

BLOODSTOCK is excited to announce The 100! A lucky 50 weekend ticket holders will be chosen at random to be a part of a range of special experiences at this summer’s event!

The 50 metalheads selected will have the option of inviting a +1 to join them, providing they are also in possession of a weekend ticket, to enjoy the following complimentary experiences and perks with them:
Backstage tour and meet & greet with one of the Festival Directors!Load-in tour – high chances of bumping into and watching one of the headliners load in on the main stage!The 100 Goody-Bag. Includes collectable merchandise and limited edition rarities!Your own chill-out undercover area exclusively for The 100 in the arena! Join the private Facebook group for The 100 and get to know your future friends in advance!

As the brain child of the former Rock Soc squad, these unique experiences for The 100 are part of the festival’s way of continuing to give back to you – the best fans a metal festival could ask for. Please note, this experience is not for sale or resale. If you miss out on this year’s perks though, don’t worry, as each year BLOODSTOCK will pick at random another 50 weekend ticket holders to be included in The 100! So keep an eye on your email inbox, because it could be you…

Festival HQ can also announce that this year’s charity beneficiaries will be The Sophie Lancaster Foundation and Metal For Good.

The ever important work of THE SOPHIE LANCASTER FOUNDATION to stamp out prejudice, hatred, and intolerance everywhere is something BLOODSTOCK have been glad to support ever since 2009 when the second stage was renamed the Sophie Lancaster Stage. Their educational work in primary and secondary schools is second to none, but they also work with university/college students and adult learners, as well as offering outreach activities, training, workshops, and presentations. Learn more at: https://www.sophielancasterfoundation.com/.

METAL FOR GOOD is a registered charity that uses the positive values of rock, metal and other alternative subcultures to make a positive difference in communities. They provide grants to incredible community groups and organisations who use the transformative power of music to change lives, helping to fund ideas to end inequality, improve wellbeing, and provide life-changing opportunities. Their core values include togetherness, individuality, passion, integrity, and belonging – something we can all get behind. Learn more at: https://metalforgood.org/.
Both charities will have stands at BLOODSTOCK for information as well as selling merch to fundraise, so be sure to stop by and show them some support.

Katy Baker, Metal For Good, states, “Metal For Good are absolutely delighted to become one of Bloodstock’s charity partners for 2025. Bloodstock has become such an important annual event for the metal community, and this year’s festival is set to be one to remember. We already know that the Bloodstock community cares greatly about the transformative power of music, and we are excited to get the chance to share our story, and raise funds for incredible community projects using music for good!”

The Sophie Lancaster Foundation add, “BOA is a very special festival that feels like home for us, the work behind the scenes to give the fans a better experience year on year is mind-blowing! We cannot thank Bloodstock, their brilliant team and all who attend and support us enough.”
WIN THIS!!

The Sophie Lancaster Foundation will also have a very special, ultra rare item to raffle off at this year’s event, donated by owner Adam Carruthers – an artist-signed BLOODSTOCK backdrop from 2005!

Adam shares the history of this astonishing raffle prize, remembering, “I first went to Bloodstock back in 2004 when it was held in the Derby Assembly Rooms. I remember my friend and I were desperate to see Children of Bodom for the first time, and when we saw that they were headlining this festival we thought it was a no brainer, we needed to go! It was a great festival with lots of bands to see over the two days, it was such a friendly atmosphere, and we got to meet some amazing like-minded metal fans. So the following year when they announced an outdoor festival as well as an indoor festival, I knew it was something I needed to go to. I’d been a fan of metal for a number of years before hearing about Bloodstock, and I think another reason for picking this festival over many other metal festivals was that it has such a friendly atmosphere and Bloodstock has bands playing that no other festival in the UK would put on their bill.

The performances over that weekend were great, from what I can remember as it was almost 20 years ago! Haha! There were a lot of bands there that I had not heard of before, so it was great to check them out and see what they were like. Evergrey was a highlight for me, so much so that I bought their entire back catalogue at one of the stalls in the festival grounds! I can still remember Edguy’s singer climbing up the stage scaffolding to the top and still performing brilliantly! Friday night headliner Sebastian Bach was also great to watch, as he is such a great front man! Again it was Children of Bodom that stole the weekend for me! Alexi Lahio is one of my biggest influences as a player and it was just amazing to see him play, and to see the entire band play an amazing set!

That weekend my friend and I entered a raffle to have the chance of winning the BOA festival backdrop which was to be signed by every band playing the festival. The ticket cost £1. They asked us to put our phone number on the back of the raffle ticket so they could contact us if needed, but the winner would be announced on the Main Stage once it had been drawn. My friend and I watched a few more bands and then headed back to the tent to get some food and have a rest. While at the tent I heard my phone ringing, I didn’t recognise the number and usually I wouldn’t pick it up, but this time I did. When I answered I was told that my ticket had been drawn and I’d won the banner! When I got backstage I saw the banner and had a photo taken, and met Edguy too, before going to watch more bands. I couldn’t believe how lucky I was, it didn’t feel real at the time! The banner was displayed on a wall at my house for a number of years!

I’ve always been to festivals with friends, and we’ve always met up with other people while there. I always feel with Bloodstock that you could go to the festival on your own, but you would never feel on your own. It has always had that amazing friendly atmosphere that had attracted me to this festival. I also think that the range of different bands that are on the bill makes me want to come back to Bloodstock rather than any other festival.
I thought now was the perfect time, 20 years since then, to donate such a great piece of Bloodstock history for a great cause. The Sophie Lancaster Foundation is such an important charity in trying to stamp out prejudice, hatred, and intolerance, and I feel honoured to be able to donate this piece of Bloodstock history to be raffled off to hopefully raise a sizeable amount so the charity can keep on with this work.

Bloodstock has been such an important festival to me. I’ve got a lot of great memories from going there with friends and seeing some amazing music.”

Visit their stand in the main arena this year to see if you can win it!

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DIVE INTO THE WASH PIT