Express & Star

Local bands win spot at Bloodstock Festival 2019 in Metal 2 The Masses - review with pictures

Metal 2 The Masses started in 2008, giving self-signed and unsigned bands an opportunity to play on the New Blood stage at Bloodstock Open Air Festival.

Published
Metal 2 The Masses, KKs Steel Mill, Wolverhampton. Pictures by: Klare Sherwood

Since February, 28 bands have been battling it out for a slot on stage at Bloodstock 2019 at Wolverhampton's KKs Steel Mill.

We’ve seen some amazing upcoming bands battle it out over the last few months, leaving six bands at the city final - Atarka, Blood Church, Elyrean, Eyes Of The Raven, Rustlung, and The Black Hounds.

Metal 2 The Masses, KKs Steel Mill, Wolverhampton. Pictures by: Klare Sherwood
Metal 2 The Masses, KKs Steel Mill, Wolverhampton. Pictures by: Klare Sherwood
Metal 2 The Masses, KKs Steel Mill, Wolverhampton. Pictures by: Klare Sherwood
Metal 2 The Masses, KKs Steel Mill, Wolverhampton. Pictures by: Klare Sherwood
Metal 2 The Masses, KKs Steel Mill, Wolverhampton. Pictures by: Klare Sherwood

Ashen Crown, were a mid competition guest band. These metal hybrids won their place at Bloodstock last year and happily displayed what the competitors were up against.

All the bands played amazingly, captivating the crowd and putting on a great show. Two bands stood out from the others, gaining themselves a spot on the Bloodstock line up this year - with big congratulations to Elyrean and Eyes Of The Raven.

“We’re very excited to be a part of this year’s Bloodstock," said Asa Jones of Elyrean.

Metal 2 The Masses, KKs Steel Mill, Wolverhampton. Pictures by: Klare Sherwood

"Being die-hard fans of the festival for many years and having spent many hours dreaming of such a moment to arise where we can grace the hallowed grounds of Catton Park.

"It’s a big honour for us to share a bill with bands we adore and we can’t wait to Trash the New Blood Stage to pieces as we lay waste to the festival grounds.

Ross Pickett of Eyes Of The Raven added: “We did what we set out to do, drink all the beer and play heavy as hell music.

Metal 2 The Masses, KKs Steel Mill, Wolverhampton. Pictures by: Klare Sherwood

"Oh, and one more thing - play Bloodstock. Bucket list ticked.

As headlining guest band, Evil Scarecrow, completed the evening. Their entertaining set had the crowd interacting enthusiastically, doing robot dances and crab movements to the music.

We’ve seen some amazing talent and upcoming bands this year, it’s been great to see so many people support local unsigned bands, hopefully see many more faces at next year’s competition.

By Klare Sherwood