The Libertines will headline Reading and Leeds Festival 2015

Reading & Leeds Festivals are thrilled to announce The Libertines as the final of this year’s Main Stage headliners!  The indie-rockers will bring the good ship Albion to the Festivals this summer, cementing a Reading & Leeds legacy which dates back to 2002.  

Rising up through the Festivals’ billing, the legendary troubadours Peter Doherty, Carl Barât, Gary Powell and John Hassall made their Main Stage debut in 2003 and returned in 2004. The band blew the crowds away in 2010 when they famously reunited at the Festivals and now, for the first time, they will take their rightful place as Reading & Leeds headliners. With their long awaited new record in the works, their set will undoubtedly be one of the defining moments of Reading & Leeds 2015.

In an exclusive video message, Peter Doherty said

I’ve just woken up and I can’t stop thinking about playing at Reading & Leeds.”

John Hassall said

"Really excited to be playing Reading and Leeds this year. There is a great vibe in the band and we should be doing some new songs too. So it'll be the best Reading and Leeds ever!”

Gary Powell said

"We are all extremely happy to be playing Reading and Leeds this year.  As Reading and Leeds was the festival that graciously allowed us to perform back in 2010 at our first attempt at reforming, and the audience were amazing in their reception of us, it seems only right that we go back to the scene of the crime and do our best to not only replicate what we did back then – but do better, for the fans and friends we have met along the way. Here’s wishing 'us all' luck come R&L. We’ve all got a lot of work to do!!!!I for one am excited for the challenge and looking forward to seeing everybody!"

Festival boss Melvin Benn comments:

“What a band to announce as our third headliner. The Libertines are part of the Reading & Leeds family and I can’t wait for the boys to walk on to our Main Stages in their rightful place at the top of the bill.

“I’m excited to announce over 50 other phenomenally talented acts today who will bring amazing performances for our fans. I really think we’ve got the ultimate line-up this year. Where else can you see Kendrick Lamar on the same day as Deadmau5 and Years & Years, or Marmozets on the same day as Azealia Banks or Metallica, or All Time Low on the same day as Knife Party or Mumford & Sons!

“It’s almost exactly six months to the Festivals and I already can’t wait until August Bank Holiday weekend.

"Having spent some time reviewing the ticket price and talking to people about it I felt that where we had got to with the day price was too high and once I really examined it decided to go the whole hog and reduce it to £59.50. However, anyone thinking it’s a way to get the weekend including camping cheaper will be disappointed. It will not give access to the campsite as I'm creating new entrances for day ticket holders. It’s still great though for those that don't want to camp." 

 Over fifty further names are also revealed today, joining artists already announced for the Festivals including Main Stage headliners Mumford & Sons and Metallica, proving that Reading & Leeds is the Festival for true music fans.

MAIN STAGE

On the Friday at Reading and Saturday at Leeds, pop-punkers All Time Low will return to the Festival for the first time since 2012 with eagerly anticipated new album ‘Future Hearts’ in tow.

Sheffield’s Bring Me The Horizon have established themselves as the UK’s biggest and best metal crossover act, and will follow up their all-conquering sold out Wembley Arena headline show last year with a set immediately before Metallica on the Main Stage on Saturday at Reading / Sunday at Leeds. Their performance at the Festivals this summer is a European exclusive.

Grammy nominated rapper Kendrick Lamar will showcase his unparalleled ability and powerful wordplay in his debut performance at the Festivals, creative indie rock heroes The Maccabees will take the Main Stage and will play some tracks from their forthcoming album, Wakefield rock band and NME Outstanding Contribution to Music Winners The Cribs whose hotly anticipated new album ‘For All My Sisters’ will be released this March.

Panic! At The Disco will bring their incredible grown up pop-rock and infectious hooks back to the Main Stage, along with anthemic rock quintet Lonely The Brave, who return following their hugely successful set in 2014.

Pop Punk’s most exciting new band Neck Deep have set course for Reading & Leeds this summer to demonstrate exactly why they were named ‘Best Newcomer’ at last year’s Kerrang! Awards and West Yorkshire Festival favourites Marmozets will bring their incendiary live set back to Reading & Leeds as they graduate to Main Stage billing.

NME/BBC RADIO 1 STAGE

Following the release of their debut studio album ‘Abandon Ship’ late last year, electronic dance duo Knife Party return to the Festivals this summer for an extra special closing set on the Friday at Reading and Saturday at Leeds.

American rock band Limp Bizkit and rap prodigy Tyler, The Creator also join the bill, along with Birmingham indie poppers Swim Deep, inventive British art rock band Everything Everything, indie rock quartet Peace and North London production duo Gorgon City.Also revealed today are Math rock legends American Football, Liverpudlian band of the moment Circa Waves, beat-maker and prolificproducer Jamie XX, leftfield pop musicians Glass Animals, emotionally charged Pennsylvania four-piece The Districts and Punk duo Slaves.

BBC RADIO 1 DANCE STAGE

Boy Better Know featuring JME, Skepta, Wiley, Shorty, Solo 45, Maximum, Jammer & Frisco will be headlining the BBC Radio 1 Dance Stage on the Sunday at Reading and the Friday at Leeds.  Headed up by JME, brother Skepta and Wiley, they are the leading collective in Grime. 

 Also performing across the weekend are drum & bass duo Camo & Krooked, producer and techno artist Brodinski, Scottish production wizard Hudson Mohawke, mysterious R ’n’ B maestro Ben Kahn and My Nu Leng, who will bring their big bounding beats to the Festival. London based feel-good House duo Toyboy & Robin, New York electric pop duo Cardiknox, geek-step Midlander FTSE, electronic producer Porter Robinson presents his incredible Worlds live show, LA DJ Dillon Francis, and self-proclaimed ‘sad dance’ musician Tourist will also be performing.

THE LOCK UP/PIT STAGE

As one of the most influential pop punk bands of all time, and with a rich history at Reading & Leeds, New Found Glory return to headline The Lock Up on Friday at Reading / Saturday at Leeds. Three-time Grammy nominated titans of metal Mastodon will take top billing on Saturday at Reading / Sunday at Leeds.

Canadian hardcore heavyweights Cancer Bats also join the line-up, along with ex-My Chemical Romance guitarist Frank Iero, who brings his new project FrnkIero Andthe Cellabration. Swedish theatrical metallers Ghost, technical death metal band Gojira and reunited hardcore legends Modern Life Is War will rock the stage across the weekend. Anthemic punkers The Menzingers, Sheffield’s top metal band While She Sleeps, Southampton five piece Bury Tomorrow and rockers Simple Plan are also revealed for the Festival bill.

FESTIVAL REPUBLIC STAGE

All three Festival Republic Stage headliners are revealed in today’s announcement, with a very special set from Django Django closing the stage on Friday at Reading / Saturday at Leeds. Indie rock veterans The Wombats will headline the stage on Saturday at Reading / Sunday at Leeds and fan favourite Frank Turner will bring a special solo set to Reading on Sunday / Leeds on Friday.

Legendary Irish rockers Ash will make a welcome return to Reading & Leeds, building on a rich history with the Festivals dating back to their first performance at Reading in 1995. Having recently announced their new album, their set will be yet another classic performance providing the soundtrack to the summer.

Also performing on the stage will be Canadian indie-pop quintet Alvvays, fast rising rockers Coasts, grunge revivalists Darlia and Australian indie sensation DMA’s. The soaring melodies of Jake Isaac, folky Sydney trio Little May, the socially observant hip-hop/rock of Ratboy, American baroque pop band San Fermin, young South Londoners The Bulletproof Bomb, the soaring rock of We Are The Ocean, irish rock-pop five piece Walking On Cars and Missouri garage punk brothers Radkey make the Festival Republic Stage the one-stop shop for all things on the rise, alongside some of the biggest names in music.

BBC 1XTRA STAGE

Now a well-established feature of Reading & Leeds, the BBC Radio 1Xtra Stage will bring the absolute best in urban music across the three days of the Festival. Co-headlining on the Friday at Reading and the Saturday at Leeds are Harlem trap lord A$AP Ferg and hazy Brooklyn hip hop crew Flatbush Zombies, providing an incredible East coast double header of real rap music. Having finally dropped her long awaited debut album ‘Broke With Expensive Taste’ late last year, Azealia Banks returns to Reading & Leeds for one of her characteristically high octane live sets to headline the 1Xtra Stage on Saturday at Reading and Sunday at Leeds.

With one final headliner still to be revealed for the stage, the tent will host sets from Miami bass turntablist Craze, South London hip hop duo Krept & Konan, grime hero and UK trailblazer Lethal Bizzle and the fresh sounds of Essex rapper Nick Brewer. The line-up grows even further with the addition of genre-blurring urban DJ Oneman and the unique dream-rap of Pell. New York natives Ratking are one of the purest voices of modern underground rap music and this year marks their debut R&L performance alongside MOBO Award ‘Best Grime Act’ and BBC Sound Of runner up Stormzy. Brotherly hip hop duo Rae Sremmurd are also announced today.

Newly announced today:

The Libertines (Headliner)

 A$AP Ferg

All Time Low

Alvvays

American Football

Ash

Azealia Banks

Ben Kahn

Boy Better Know

Bring Me The Horizon (European Festival Exclusive)

Brodinski

Bury Tomorrow

Camo & Krooked

Cancer Bats

Cardiknox

Circa Waves

Coasts

Craze

Darlia

Dillon Francis

Django Django

DMA’s

Everything Everything

Flatbush Zombies

Frank Turner (solo)

Frnkiero Andthe Cellabration
 

FTSE

Ghost

Glass Animals

Gojira

Gorgon City

Hudson Mohawke

Jake Isaac

Jamie XX

Kendrick Lamar

Knife Party

Krept & Konan

Lethal Bizzle

Limp Bizkit

Little May

Lonely The Brave

Marmozets

Mastodon

Modern Life Is War

My Nu Leng

Neck Deep

New Found Glory

Nick Brewer

Oneman

Panic! At the Disco

Peace

Pell

Porter Robinson

Radkey

Rae Sremmurd

Rat Boy

Ratking

San Fermin

Simple Plan

Slaves

Stormzy

Swim Deep

The Bulletproof Bomb

The Districts

The Maccabees

The Menzingers

The Wombats

Toyboy & Robin

Tourist

Tyler, The Creator

Walking On Cars

We Are The Ocean

While She Sleeps

 

Already announced:

Metallica (Headliner and UK Festival Exclusive)

Mumford & Sons (Headliner and England & Wales Festival Exclusive)

Bastille (England & Wales Festival Exclusive)

Catfish and The Bottlemen

Deadmau5

Hannah Wants

Jack Garratt

Jamie T

Manchester Orchestra

Pierce The Veil

Pretty Vicious

Rebel Sound

Refused

Royal Blood (UK Summer Festival Exclusive)

Run The Jewels

Wilkinson (Live)

Wolf Alice

Years & Years

Sonisphere 2014 Friday Review – Prodigy

Limp Bizkits' fail of the night.

"Now you know what time it really fucking is. Limp Bizkit in the house, you ready for this." Screams lead singer Fred Durst after three lovely ladies harmoniously sang Rolling, introducing the band to the stage. Enticing the audience with Faith, the crowd enthusiasm rose. The excitement from fans came to a slight stop after a little hiccup from Durst, completely messing up what day it is. "You guys to get your Saturday night on?" Confusion, and a short moment of silence from the crowd the singer quickly styled out a response of "Well it's Saturday night in my book." This wasn't the only blip the Durst randomly shouted 'Oh, Shit' in the middle of his set. Whether these mistakes were a result of one too many, or just a lack of communication from the bands media side we will never know. I have to admit these were soon forgotten after the bands incredible stage presence and claiming thing such as "What a pretty fucking crazy crowd tonight." Anthrax over lapping their time slot with Limp Bizbit and performing on the Bohemia tent which was proving to be pretty dam popular after the tent was so full security was stopping people from entering, surely Anthrax needed a bigger stage.

Friday's Headliner: Prodigy.
The band everyone has been anxiously waiting for all day, 21.20 finally arrived and the fans loudly welcomed tonight's first headliner Prodigy. Entering the stage with a epic entrance, creating suspense after emerging from the smoke covering the stage the crowd were ecstatic to see and hear the first glimpse of the band. 'I can't fucking hear you!'  Sending the crowd into euphoria with "Breathe", the rain starts to lightly fall as Prodigy head into "Jetfighter".  This did not put a downer on the crowd epically after seeing all of the burnt faces in the crowd. Forcing the crowd to go crazier than they already were, it was fair to say the people of Soniphere did not stop moshing, dancing, jumping, fist pumping, air guitaring, which could of been to do the metal cover the band slightly adjusted a few of their own songs to fit with the genre of Sonisphere. The band defiantly pulled this off after slowing down "Thunder" giving it a deeper bass, Prodigy defiantly get points for these adjustments. Finishing their set with the massive anthem "Smack My Bitch Up", Prodigy return with the crowd still buzzing with an encore of 'Take me to the Hospital', "Hyperspeed", "New Beats", "Their Law".  Keith Flint is forever engaging the crowd with phases like "I know you know what to fucking do and All you people at Sonisphere where the fuck are my prodigy people, A little more music, turn the fucker up". The stage presence of the band as a whole were truly incredible; the visual topped it off. With little stage art but the way the band was shown on the screen was edited in a surreal kind of way. Showing the band live in different effect such as negative, black and white and mirroring, which made it look as if this was pre recorded as a short art film. The array of coloured lights reaching the night sky gave the band greater performance. This band lived up to its name, and was for sure the best performance  of the night.

Deftones only UK show will be at Sonisphere!

SONISPHERE welcomes DEFTONES to the superb bill for their only UK appearance of 2014. Groundbreaking and highly influential, the alternative metallers have been setting new standards in exciting rock performance since the seminal album ‘Adrenaline’ came out in 1995. With a reputation for being one of the most dazzling and uncompromising bands on the planet, DEFTONES have, throughout the years, been garnering praise, success, and too many accolades to mention, selling millions of records and winning the adoration of their peers. With classics such as ‘Back To School’, ‘My Own Summer (Shove It)’, ‘Change (In The House Of flies)’, DEFTONES are poised to set KNEBWORTH ablaze with a show to die for. Says drummer Abe Cunningham:
 
"Greetings to ALL!!! We are absolutely stoked to be part of Sonisphere's return and of course to have a chance to once again play a show with Iron Maiden, especially on the hallowed grounds of Knebworth. Until then…!!!!

FRANK TURNER has a work ethic like no other, climbing his way up from the dive circuit to the arena limelight, claiming widespread praise and critical plaudits along the way. Outside of his own live shows, Frank has also broken into mainstream consciousness with the honours of performing at the Olympic Opening ceremony, and more recently, appearing on TV’s Celebrity Mastermind. With SONISPHEREheadliners IRON MAIDEN as his chosen specialist subject, Frank – who boasts an Eddie tattoo – won the Mastermind challenge with his superior knowledge of the metal legends. It does not take much imagination to appreciate the delight he has on learning he will share a stage with his heroes for the first time:
 
Says Turner:
 
“I'm excited to be playing Sonisphere this year, and super excited to be playing the same stage as the first band I ever fell in love with – Iron Maiden; it's definitely going to be my festival highlight for 2014.” 
 
Turner will be appearing at KNEBWORTH with his band as FRANK TURNER & THE SLEEPING SOULS, having recently completed an incendiary UK arena tour in support of fifth album ‘Tape Deck Heart’.
 
Hot off the success of their recent UK Tour with Less than Jake, Californian Ska-punk pioneers REEL BIG FISH come to KNEBWORTH armed with a hyper-kinetic live show, juvenile humour and ironic covers of new wave pop songs. With a fun filled attitude and massive dancefloor fillers such as  ‘Sell Out’ and ‘Take On Me’, their set will undoubtedly prove once more that REEL BIG FISH is one of the most dynamic and accomplished bands of the genre, as they take to the SATURN stage for a Sunday Ska Punk Party.
 
PROTEST THE HERO have carved an identity for themselves that is thought of as profoundly revolutionary within heavy music and 2014 has already seen them complete a hugely successful UK headline tour, including a sold out show at London’s Electric Ballroom. The band effortlessly balances high-minded artistry with wit and whimsy, substantive viewpoints with wanton tomfoolery, and masterful musicianship with true song-craft. SONISPHERE can’t wait to see them spread the magic of their spider-fingered arpeggios, walloping bottom-heavy brutality and dynamically theatrical vocals as showcased on their fourth album ‘Volition’.
 
Says the band:
 
“Europe knows something about doing festivals right. We are blown away every time we come over in the summer and take part in the fun. One of the highlights this summer is going to be Sonisphere! We are just finishing a UK leg of a tour and the turn outs have been great so I can only imagine what it will be like at Sonisphere.”
 
Avast, ye landlubbers! Fans of the sonically adventurous will be delighted to see ALESTORM joining the festivities with their very own brand of True Scottish Pirate Metal. With a treasure chest of keytar laden, pirate themed, fist pumping folk metal, these scurvy dogs will have their most epic voyage yet as they sail the sea of SONISPHERE’s SATURN stage on the Saturday for a rum fuelled set of metal fun.
 
Since forming in 2001, Stoner/Psychedelic rock gods TRUCKFIGHTERS have released an impressive four albums, seven EP’s and a film depicting their lives named simply ‘Truckfighters’ in 2011.  With Josh Homme being one of their biggest fans, TRUCKFIGHTERS released fourth album ‘Universe’ earlier this year and are an exciting addition to the festival.
 
2014 is full of exciting promise from Ireland’s KERBDOG.  Having released two albums in the 1990’s to critical acclaim, disbanding and later reforming to sell out the London Garage on a special one off live appearance, 2014 will see the band release their first new material in seventeen years, and resurrect their electric live performance.  KERBDOG say it best themselves:
 
"We would have crawled naked across broken glass to play Sonisphere. To be invited to what is one of the greatest rock festivals on the planet as we release a new live album is a gift from the Gods. The Fans are in for an earth-shattering gig that will level buildings. End of."
 
Having landed support slots to The Stranglers and appearing alongside Billy Talent at the 2013 UK VANS WARPED TOUR, hotly tipped UK outfit MAX RAPTOR, who blend punk and rock to startling effect, are also confirmed to appear at SONISPHERE, where their hard-edge and angry sounds as shown on their debut album ‘Mother’s Ruin’ will resonate through the festival.

Says the band:
 
“Just had the awesome news we'll be playing Sonisphere 2014…. We used to go to a grubby rock club in Burton on Trent and listen to Maiden and now we're playing the same festival as them. Absolute dream come true.”
 
Bringing the kind of American punk rock that has drawn comparison to Black Flag for its hard hitting melodies and rhythm, ONLY CRIME will treat festival goers to a truly special show. With a line up led by Bill Stevenson (Descendants) and Russ Rankin (Good Riddance) the band looks set for a big 2014 with a new album in the pipeline and SONISPHERE is looking forward to sharing it with them. Checking in from the studio, the band said:
 
"We know it's been awhile since we have been overseas.  We have been working hard on the new record and are so excited to finally get back over there and give it all we've got."
 
Returning to SONISPHERE is one of the UK’s most anticipated new bands, BLITZ KIDS.  The outfit has been garnering praise from the likes of BBC Radio1 with their brand new album ‘Good Youth’ and single ‘Sometimes’. On the brink of big things, audiences would be wise not miss their appearance.
 
Says the band:
 
“It's a great honour to be playing at Sonisphere Festival for its big comeback to the UK! It feels like we're part of a big welcome home party. We played a few years ago on the smallest stage, and to be asked to play on the Bohemia Stage this year is a fantastic opportunity to step it up a few gears.”
 
SONISPHERE is excited to welcome Camden Town born and raised punk/rap artist ITCH to the weekend for the first time.  After fronting critically acclaimed, ground breaking band The King Blues for seven years, lyricist ITCH took his unique brand of poetry full force into the solo act he is today. Recent album ‘The Deep End’ sees his unstoppable ferociousness cemented in record and is sure to make an unforgettable live experience.
 
I'm so excited to be playing Sonisphere, it'll be my first time there.
It's an honour to be playing the same bill as metal gods such as Chas and Dave” jokes ITCH.
 
British electro/punk rockers HOUNDS join the bill after releasing their debut EP as a cover mount with Metal Hammer.  Having proved their live credentials on tour with Stone Sour, as well as at appearance at SONISPHERE 2011, and citing THE PRODIGY’s Liam Howlett in the list of people they’ve worked with, HOUNDS shouldn’t be missed. Says the band:
 
“We can’t wait to bring the noise to Sonisphere this summer, we have been locked in an Air Raid shelter for months writing and recording our debut album so we feel like caged animals. The stage ain’t gonna know what hit it….”

Limp Bizkit, Anthrax and more added to Sonisphere 2014 lineup

The Summer Fesitval Guide can reveal that Limp Bizkit will make a special guest appearance at this years Sonisphere UK which returns after a break away from Knebworth.

Also joining them is thrash legends Anthrax, Cranifex, Chas & Dave, Devin Townsend Project, Dropkick Murphys, Silverstein, The Virginmarys and Voodoo Six!

The inimitable LIMP BIZKIT return to Knebworth as special guests to THE PRODIGY. One of the biggest bands to emerge from the Nu-Metal scene of the 90s, LIMP BIZKIT’s insanely catchy and infectious rock has amassed them millions of album sales and the accolade of fastest selling rock album ever with “Chocolate Starfish & The Hotdog Flavored Water”. However, it is the live environment in which they truly shine – their upcoming sold out tour of the UK bears testament to that – and the prospect of mega hits like “Rollin”, “Nookie”, “My Generation” and “Gold Cobra” will provide the perfect warm up to the Friday night headliners at this exclusive festival appearance.

Limp Bizkit

 
TV has soap operas, literature has Shakespeare and Thrash… well Thrash hasANTHRAX. For 30 plus years, ANTHRAX have headbanged, stomped and moshed their way to the top end of the metal food chain, selling in excess of 10 million records, enjoying multiple Gold and Platinum albums and Grammy nominations, firmly cementing their position as one of THE BIG 4. Fast, furious and above all, fun, it just wouldn’t beSONISPHERE without ANTHRAX, who have graced the stage of every UK SONISPHEREto date, and continue the tradition to dose out the metal thrashing madness at their only UK festival of 2014. Scott Ian explains how it went down:
 
Phone rings…
Me: Hello. 
My manager: Do you want to play the 40th anniversary of Knebworth; Sonisphere Festival with Iron Maiden?
Me: (filling my pants with poo) Yes!
 
“It's one of those phone calls you only dream about. I'm so excited for Anthrax to be a part of the biggest and best Sonisphere ever! Can't wait to destroy Knebworth again!”

Anthrax 

Death metal has long been the most maniacal and viscous form of rock, but as each year passes, it becomes increasingly difficult to find new contenders to carry the torch and entice and surprise an audience that isn’t shocked or impressed by much. Fortunately for us, there’s CARNIFEX, who join this year’s line up for their first ever UK festival appearance. Last seen in the UK on the NEVER SAY DIE tour, where they punished audiences with their extremely brutal and superfast intensity, these San Diegans should enjoy a welcome return as they dish out the deathcore destruction at their first major UK festival.
 
"Carnifex is very excited to be a part of Sonisphere for the first time.” Says vocalist Scott Lewis. “We plan on bringing a massive set filled with your favourite Carnifex songs and tracks from the new album, you won't want to miss it."
 
In stark contrast to the chaos of CARNIFEXSONISPHERE continues to uphold its tradition of keeping the line up wide, varied and with the odd cheeky surprise by welcoming CHAS & DAVE to the bill. The last time the legendary duo graced the stage at KNEBWORTH was in 1979, opening for Led Zeppelin. Since then, their love of genuine Rock’n’Roll, proudly cockney vocals and exuberant good humour has seen them become a household name across the country. Thirty-five years later, CHAS & DAVE’s appeal has never been greater or more varied, with audiences getting younger and new bands citing them as a major influence. The ultimate party hosts, the promise of a good ol’ knees up and sing along at KNEBWORTH will ensure the kind of magical moments festivals were invented for. Say the duo:
 
"We went down well at Knebworth in '79. Not surprised we got a return booking!"
 
Truly one of a kind, DEVIN TOWNSEND is a natural born visionary, artist and entertainer and one of the most uniquely insightful musicians of the 21st Century. Over 20 years, he has given the world metal faves Strapping Young Lad and the best puppet show the world has ever seen in Ziltoid The Omniscient, not to mention the incredible works recorded under his own name. In 2012 he brought these all together for the first time for Devin’s Retinal Circus at a sold out London Roundhouse for the most ambitious show of his career. Now he brings the DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT to SONISPHERE for his biggest UK performance to date. The man himself checked in to tell us:
 
“Amidst a year of relentless writing and planning, we are fortunate enough to be invited to a select few shows, and among the most cool is undoubtedly Sonisphere UK! It’s an institution that is really exciting, among bands we absolutely love. We can’t wait to take a studio break and come entertain you there. Thank you Sonisphere for the opportunity! =)” 
 
Celtic punks DROPKICK MURPHYS make their way over from the state of Massachusetts for their SONISPHERE debut. Arguably one of the biggest genuine punk bands out there, the ‘MURPHYS continue to surprise industry pundits by outdrawing high profile mainstream acts as headliners on major tours around the globe. With anthems such as “Johnny, I Hardly Knew Ya”, “Rose Tattoo” and “I’m Shipping Up To Boston” – which provided the soundtrack to Hollywood smash The Departed –DROPKICK MURPHYS will no doubt have fists pumping and glasses raised high.
 
"We are psyched to see the Dropkick Murphys added to the list of amazing bands at this year's Sonisphere in historic Knebworth” says bassist Ken Casey. “We look forward to giving the equally legendary Sonisphere crowd a Dropkick Murphys show for the ages. See you in July!"
 
In 2011 SONISPHERE proudly boasted THE SISTERS OF MERCY’s first festival performance in 20 years. The result was a rammed to the rafters BOHEMIA, as Andrew Eldritch and his not so merry men gave spectators a late night feast of THE SISTERS’ unclassifiable blend of rock, pop, punk, dance and psychedelia. A rare occurrence,SONISPHERE is honoured and privileged to welcome back THE SISTERS OF MERCYfor their only UK festival of 2014. Says the band:
 
“We had such a good time playing Sonisphere in 2011 (for the Sisters' first UK festival in 20 years) that we're coming back, to celebrate 40 years of gigs at Knebworth. Christ, that's even older than us. We're looking forward to seeing you all (even though you might not see us).”
 
Post hardcore mob SILVERSTEIN join SONISPHERE 2014. Since their formation in 2000, the Canadian five-piece has become as close to a household name as you can get in the post-hardcore scene. After 5 full length albums, 3 EPs, a live album, mini album, and numerous 7” singles and collections, SILVERSTEIN have sold more than 1 million albums worldwide, played more than 1600 shows in 42 countries, and have been a staple on many festivals and tours.
 
“We are delighted to announce that we will be returning to the U.K. for a performance at Sonisphere.” Says drummer Paul Koehler. “This will be our only 2014 appearance, and we look forward to sharing the stage with some incredible bands!”
 
In 2011 THE VIRGINMARYS appeared on the SONISPHERE line up as an unsigned three-piece from Macclesfield. Fast forward three years and they are now considered one of this country’s brightest rock hopes. Tours with the likes of Slash, Skunk Anansie, Eagles Of Death Metal and Queens Of The Stone Age led to a deal with Double Cross/Cooking Vinyl who released their debut album last year, which in turn saw them earn the honour of Best Breakthrough Act at the 2013 Classic Rock Awards. Also enjoying huge success at radio in the USA, THE VIRGINMARYS progress shows no sign of slowing down, and we look forward to welcoming them back.
 
"Ace to have Sonisphere back in the UK and great to be a part of it again” chime the band. “Bring it on!"
 
Last but by no means least, London classic metallers VOODOO SIX join the 2014 line up. Releasing their latest album “Songs To Invade Countries To” in May of last year,VOODOO SIX spent the remainder of 2013 doing what any band with a new album would do, touring the hell out of it. However, the five-piece were in a slightly more enviable position than most, having the good fortune to play 28 shows in 18 countries to 300,000 people with SONISPHERE headliners IRON MAIDEN.
 
“We are very proud to be asked to play at Sonisphere UK”. Says bassist Tony Newton.“It is the 40th anniversary of live events at Knebworth, and will be a great celebration of rock music with a fantastic line-up. To be included in this event is a huge honour, and we will play our part in making it a memorable weekend”.

Limp Bizkit return for Sonisphere Knebworth 2011

Armed with new songs off of the forthcoming “Gold Cobra” album, the appearance marks the first opportunity for fans to hear the new songs live in this country, as well as smash hit singles like “Rollin”, “Nookie”, “Break Stuff”, “My Way” and many more.
 
The last time THE SISTERS OF MERCY played at an outdoor UK festival, shell-suits were being swapped for baggy jeans, home taping was the biggest danger to the recording industry and the world wide web had just been made publicly available on the internet for the first time. A lot has changed since then, but the unclassifiable blend of rock, pop, punk, dance and psychedelia that THE SISTERS OF MERCY are famous for has stood the test of time, becoming classic in its own right. It is with huge pride and excitement that we welcomeTHE SISTERS OF MERCY to SONSIPHERE for this rare festival appearance – their first in the UK in 20 years – and the midnight outing of unforgettable songs such as “Dominion”, “Temple Of Love” and “This Corrosion”.
 
Welsh rockers KIDS IN GLASS HOUSES join the SONISPHERE line up this year. As an unsigned band, KIGH garnered a huge amount of support from the rock press and media, more than many established bands could hope for. Having played alongside the likes of Lostprophets, Manic Street Preachers, 30 Seconds To Mars and many more , demand for the band was stratospheric by the time their debut album was released in 2008. In the few short years since then, their ascent shows no sign of slowing down and with work on a new album set to commence in the near future, there’s a chance fans at SONISPHERE could be hearing some brand new tracks alongside favourites such as “Me Me Me”, “Easy Tiger”, “Give Me What I Want” and “Matters At All”.
 
GALLOWS are no strangers to SONISPHERE, having lain waste to BOHEMIA last year. It’s been quite a year for the Watford punks; performing at RATM’s victory parade in London, secret sets at Reading and Leeds and revisiting their roots on the “Back To The Dives” tour, culminating in an extremely moving and emotional set at London’s Electric Ballroom at the end of last year. In 2011, the beast is being freed from the cage, with GALLOWS leaving the tent behind for the great outdoors. Guitarist Lags comments: 
 
Now we’re playing outdoors which means there’s even more space for you, yes YOU, to get wild with us on the Saturday.”
 
Towards the end of 2003, the UK lost one of its most prized possessions when ONE MINUTE SILENCE announced they were taking an indefinite break. With a fanbase built largely on the reputation of their live shows where anything could (and did) happen, where roofs were once raised and walls shook with the raw energy of OMS’s politically charged alt-metal their absence was felt in venues across the country,. Now, after an eight year hiatus, ONE MINUTE SILENCE return to fill the void at SONISPHERE. Frontman Yap warns:
 
“Been too long. Missing the pit, missing the vibe, missing the fans. Time for round two. Unfinished business. Expect mayhem.” 
 
Having performed at numerous shows on the European leg of SONISPHERE 2010VOLBEATmake their KNEBWORTH debut this year after being forced to cancel last year’s scheduled UK tour. Frontman Michael Poulsen can hardly contain his excitement:
 
“We’re delighted to be at Sonisphere in the UK this Summer; we did appear at some of the Sonisphere events in Europe last year, playing on the same bill as The Big 4, which was an amazing experience. And now we feel like spoilt kids cos we’re getting the chance to do it all over again in the UK! This show means a lot, because we had to cancel the UK tour we had lined up late last year. We were really upset not to be able to come over, but I saw the doctor after a show in Hamburg and he advised me not to continue with the tour – I was having terrible pains in my chest and down the left side of my body, I could hardly breathe… Anyway, we’re back on track now – see you at Sonisphere!”

Making their only UK festival appearance of 2011, French metal powerhouse GOJIRA join the line up at SONISPHERE KNEBWORTH. With sonically dense sounds and bludgeoningly heavy rhythms, GOJIRA have let their music do the talking, working their way through the underground while prolific contemporaries champion their cause, resulting in tours alongside the likes of Lamb Of God, Children Of Bodom and even being hand-picked by Friday night headliners METALLICA to support them on their US tour in 2009. Their set at KNEBWORTHpromises to be one of the hardest hitting of the weekend, and one not to be missed.

Homegrown heroes InMe return to SONISPHERE this year, after having had such a blast last year. “We’re honoured and absolutely over the moon to be returning to Sonisphere!” say the band, who ended 2010 performing all four studio albums in their entirety at four separate sold out shows. “The show last year was easily one of the best times we’ve ever had as a band and we hope to step things up even more in the Bohemia Tent this year. People overuse the word ‘epic’ but last year’s Sonisphere weekend was exactly that, in capitals. EPIC! Colossal love to all of the Sonisphere team from InMe!”

Fresh off a UK tour with Darkest Hour, Canadian prog-metal mentalists PROTEST THE HEROcome to SONISPHERE for the first time, armed with a heap of new songs from the forthcoming “Scurrilous” album, released next month. Guitarist Tim Millar states:
 
“We haven’t played many festivals in Europe and hear so many amazing things! I’m stoked to be a part of Sonisphere and getting a full European festival experience this summer. Not to mention all the great bands we will be performing alongside”

SONISPHERE KNEBWORTH
 takes place 8th – 10th July 2011 at KNEBWORTH HOUSE. For tickets and more info go to www.sonispherefestivals.com

Line Up So Far

THE BIG 4 – METALLICA, SLAYER, MEGADETH, ANTHRAX
BIFFY CLYRO
SLIPKNOT
AIRBOURNE
ARCHITECTS
DIAMOND HEAD
GALLOWS
GOJIRA
IN FLAMES
INME
KIDS IN GLASS HOUSES
LIMP BIZKIT
MASTODON
MOTÖRHEAD
ONE MINUTE SILENCE
PARKWAY DRIVE
PROTEST THE HERO
THE SISTERS OF MERCY
VOLBEAT
WEEZER