On what was perceived as perhaps the hottest day of the summer so far, the weather at times seemed to take control of the overall performance by each band on the night. But they walked away unbeaten, having played at what seemed to be a sell-out gig at Islington's The Garage venue.

Sweating buckets inside the crowed waited patiently for the first band to make their music heard, unleash the London mob Savage Messiah with their elaborate mix of Power Metal vocals with Thrash Metal embodiment, despite the heavy heat which led to the water jugs being handed out like sweets, the crowd enlivened themselves to the almighty blast that was being constructed in front of them. It was a decent and solid performance from the lads and served up nicely as a light appetizer for later metallic explosions later.

As for the band performance, Savage Messiah gave a much better performance than their Bloodstock set and by far wiped the smirks off of a lot of people's faces. Fueled by the unrelenting fluidity of water being passed around, with their riffs echoing across the whole borough and their atmosphere raising hell from beneath the crowds feet, the atmosphere inferno was only going to get hotter as the bad shifted into the shadows for another band to make their way onto the sweat-soaked stage.

[8/10]

https://www.facebook.com/SavageMessiahMetal?ref=ts&fref=ts

Another ex-Bloodstock band made their furious domination sound across the venue without any problems, except they seemed a little slack in this performance. I refer 'they' as to Bloodshot Dawn, the Pompey Melodic Death / Thrash armada that set sail to crush the controlling heat that was now taking its toll on people as they went outside to cool off.

By this point the room was so hot that demand exceeded supply at the bar and beer was being downed in the gallons, well you get the idea. None the less Bloodshot Dawn did what they were geared to do and brought the house down with their menacing and inescapable complex algorithm of brutal melodies and fast acceleration on not only the drums but the guitars too. However at times it did seem as if the heat was getting to them, thus affecting their playing and whilst that can't be helped, what can be helped is the seeming lack of movement on stage, whether they melted so much they became bolted to the ground, or they just could not find the right note to do so in remains anyone's guess.

Credit is given though to them for performing a damn good set, just it was not as good as most in the crowd expected, ironically worse was to come as before the headlining act Wintersun came on, the unwitting sound technician or the like accidentally knocked over a bottle of water near the guitar pedal and thus delaying Wintersun's set for around 10-15 minutes, leading to one fan being impromptu and displaying his anger towards the band for not coming out yet (come on mate it's not there fault you spilled your beer in the venue). Hark, the time had come....

[7/10]

https://www.facebook.com/BloodshotDawn?ref=ts&fref=ts

(Interview with Kai Hahto, drummer of Wintersun; also drummer of Swallow The Sun)

Despite the heat, Wintersun's fan had decided not to work tonight which was a shame, however the Finnish quartet did justice after the various issues and unleashed a frost-bitten wind of wintry proportions. Delivering that icy and cold feel to the atmosphere, Wintersun tore the room apart with their epic style of Melodic Death Metal. Interweaving between the new album 'Time' and their old self-titled album, eight years of a hard-long wait came out in one night for the attending crowd to let their hair down to (not implying the guys had their hair done up).

It was rather interesting to see how Wintersun not once mentioned about how hot it is in the room unlike the other bands, perhaps they didn't feel it as much - or the more likely scenario was that they smothered the venue in a brilliant blueish-white with the feeling of cryogenics biting at everyone's ears. It's been a long time since the lads made their journey across the British lands in a tour setup; albeit their Bloodstock appearance a few years ago.

You know the wait was entirely worth it, sure some were impatient; probably the same people were impatient for the second album, but as the saying goes 'good things come to those who wait'. In the end the overall feeling was all round satisfaction and one that certainly put the band in great stead for their next lot of gigs on the tour schedule, as for tonight Wintersun did the honor of not only cooling the crowd down (just), but making what could be the best live performance they have ever done in London.

It may have taken eight to nine years to play their new album live, but Wintersun made it 101% perfect tonight and in doing so, won a whole host of new fans over, we await for the next time they set foot in the London area.

[9/10] RHYS STEVENSON

https://www.facebook.com/wintersun?ref=ts&fref=ts

Who are these masked people, clad in balaclava's and wearing a lot of black and camouflage, well it can only be the international band The Way Of Purity of whom support the Animal Liberation Front, so cross their path wrongly and they will kill you. As I found out when questioning them under sincere torture.

Is this your first time playing a major British music festival? If no where have you played before?
 
Well, this is the first time we are playing such a big festival in the UK and I believe in general since we played a few festivals, but none of them were that big. By the way we played Deathfest in Leeds in 2010 and we enjoyed that.

Out of all the bands playing this year what ones will you look forward watching?
 
I would love to watch the bands we know and played together already like Belphegor and Gama Bomb which both feature really cool people. As a fan I will watch Devildriver and Slayer for sure.
 
What can fans expect from your set at Bloodstock? Any new songs? Stage antics?
 
We just returned from the Euro tour with Cryptopsy, Cattle Decapitation, Decrepit Birth and we are quickly reaching the end of the promotion of our current album "Equate" so we will play the same songs of the tour since these festivals will be the last shows before we enter the studio to record the new album. The songs are taken from all our releases but no new song will be played live this summer. The set will be insanely violent.
 
How does it feel to know you're playing the same stage on the same day as fellow countrymen Scar Symmetry?
 
I think they are a good band but I don't know them yet so I am looking forward to meeting them!
 
For those who are not knowledgeable of your music, please describe it without genre tagging or cliche using?
 
Like we always say, it can be described as new wave played with hardcore urgency, or hardcore played with a new wave attitude and influence, it's up to you to judge.
 
If you had to choose only three things to take for the festival, what would it be and why?
 
Raw meat to be thrown on people, my mask since nobody knows who I am plus one AK-47. (Ed: In that case everyone better wear Kevlar)
 
Finally any hello's, thank you's etc you wish to issue?
 
Thank you for the space, thank you to Jonathan Mazzeo and Alfeo Ginetti that will play with us as guest musicians, thank you to everyone involved in the animal liberation front that everyday represent the glorious struggle against animal and human tyranny.

The Way Of Purity will be performing on Friday 9th August, on the Sophie Lancaster Stage

https://www.facebook.com/thewayofpurity

Next to take the hot seat is Londoners Diesel King, for this one Bill (drums) was fastest on fastest finger first, let's play who wants to be smashing Bloodstock.

First off how does it feel to be playing Bloodstock 2013?

It's amazing, If we had to choose any UK festival to play It would be this one so we are stoked to have the opportunity.

During Metal 2 The Masses (if you did play in it), was you more nervous or more optimistic about winning?

Well we can't really say as we didn't take part in the M2TM competition. We sent our CDs to Bloodstock directly and were asked to play.

Is this your first major festival appearance? If yes what is the mood in the camp? If no, where did you play before?

Yes it is our first major festival, we played The Desertfest last year but that is much smaller scale than Bloodstock. We are looking forward to tearing the stage a new one!

What can fans expect from you when playing your set, any new songs? Stage antics?

Bloody sweaty fury. No crazy antics just 5 greasy guys kicking your arse.

Finally are there any hello's, thank you's, greetings etc you wish to issue?

Just a huge thanks to Simon for asking us to be a part of it, a hello to all the awesome bands and promoters we work / play with regularly (far too numerous to name you all) and extra thanks to anyone who has listened to us and supported us these last couple of years! (Ed: Let's hope Simon sees this)

Diesel King will be performing on Saturday 10th August on the New Blood Stage

https://www.facebook.com/Dieselkinguk?fref=ts

Still in London and I spoke to Thrashers Kremated who persistently and rightfully told me that 'Thrash Aint Dead', interviewee's were Pete Dee, Phil Roberts and Marcus Bjoro

So guys how does it feel to know you are going to play on New Blood Stage?
  
Pete: Stoked! It is a great feeling to have been asked to play this amazing festival, and also to see Kremated on the same poster as some of my idols, especially Voivod and Anthrax!

Phil: Never in all my history did I ever expect this to happen to us, just a really brilliant thing that is happening to us all now

Marcus: Amazing. It has been a goal of mine for some time and it feels great to have achieved it!

When you got the notification that you are playing BOA, what was your reaction and how did you celebrate?

Marcus: I had to sit down for a good 10 minutes and wait for it to start sinking in but it didn't work because it still hasn't.

Pete: What Marcus said! Still reeling.
Phil: Speechless

What should crowd attenders watch out for in your set?
All: Neck injuries. Spilt pints. Banter.

What bands are you looking forward most to watching and who would you love to meet?

Pete: Voivod, Death Angel, Bull Riff Stampede, Beholder, Dishonour The Crown, Diesel King, Evil Scarecrow. I'd like to say hello to the legendary Scott Ian if I get the chance, he kinda influenced my playing more than anyone else.

Phil: Exodus, Death Angel, Wolfsbane, Accept, Slayer, Anthrax.
Marcus: Really looking forward to seeing Dying Fetus and Dark Funeral and would love to meet Gary Holt.

When are you playing and why should festival goers go to see your set?

We are opening the New Blood stage on Sunday lunchtime. We are fairly close to Gama Bomb as far as the timings go, but the New Blood stage is 100 yards from the main stage, and its a LOT cooler in the New Blood area as it is under cover, and next to a BAR. I reckon we are worth a look, no? give us 2 songs and see what you think. For many people, this will be their first chance to see Kremated and what all the fuss is about. We bring pure Thrash, unpolished and unhinged, the way it should be!

Finally are there any hello's, thank you's, greetings you wish to send to friends, family and fans?

Far too many people to list, but special mentions to Simon Hall and Beholder, Jim Beerman, Adam Fillary, Miranda Yardley, Bull Riff Stampede, The Stubbs Brothers, Colin Tyler, Ashlinn Nash and the entire Kremated Army for helping us get here!!!

Kremated are playing the New Blood Stage on Sunday 11th August

https://www.facebook.com/Kremated/info

Shifting north into Hertfordshire and the town of Hemel Hempstead, GMA stopped by to have cake and tea with Second Rate Angels and natter about their upcoming Bloodstock expedition. Was nice cake too...

First off how does it feel to be playing Bloodstock 2013?

We are all extremely proud, honored and excited to be a part of this years Bloodstock. We said when we started the band a couple of years ago, that our aim would be to play Bloodstock. It doesn't seem real yet, but we can't wait to play at the only true major Metal Festival in the UK.

During Metal 2 The Masses, were you more nervous or more optimistic about winning?

We played a lot of gigs this last year all over the country, so we knew we were gig ready and could hold our own on stage against the best bands at our level. I think we were confident that if we played well we might stand a chance, but you never know how hard the other bands have been working.  Nerves are always gonna be there if you want to do well, but you have to believe you can win, as confidence is a very important part of a good performance.

Is this your first major festival appearance? If yes what is the mood in the camp? If no, where did you play before?

Yes, this our first major, I think the general mood is a bit of disbelief that we are actually playing, but mainly excitement.

What can fans expect from you when playing your set, any new songs? Stage antics?

Well it's a very big stage, so without giving too much away, we intend to use every square inch of it.

What advice would you give bands thinking of doing Metal 2 The Masses next year?

I can only say what worked for us and that is play as many gigs as you can. Video as many shows as you can, watch them back and analyze your performance.

Finally are there any hello's, thank you's, greetings etc you wish to issue?

I think we just wanna thank everyone that's either booked us for a show, come and seen us live, checked us out online, spoken our name in passing. In fact anyone and that's given a shit about us and/or the world of unsigned metal.

Second Rate Angels are playing the New Blood Stage on Friday 9th August

http://www.facebook.com/SecondRateAngels

First off how does it feel to be playing Bloodstock 2013?

I have to say, for many of us, the fact we are playing Bloodstock hasn't fully sunk in. It's such an unbelievably fantastic opportunity! Being our first festival appearance, you cannot imagine the sheer excitement going around the entirety of the band.

During Metal 2 The Masses, was you more nervous or more optimistic about winning?

During the first 2 rounds of metal to the masses, we weren't nervous at all, as we figured we probably wouldn't get far. But then we suddenly found ourselves at the semi finals, and for each of us there was a sudden reality that we possibly could do this, and at that point the nerves began to kick in, and it all got serious. But still at each round we didn't expect to get through. The other bands were just so good, and in our eyes, so much more advanced than us!

What can fans expect from you when playing your set, any new songs? Stage antics?

As for what to expect, to be honest, even we never know what is going to happen at each song. We have a newish song we have only played at 3 previous shows. But there isn't a lot i can say to expect other than a hell of a lot of sweat!!

What advice would you give bands thinking of doing Metal 2 The Masses next year?

If there are bands going to enter into Metal to the masses, I say go for it! It's the fairest battle of the bands we have ever done and the judges recognize real passion on stage. So just give it your all.

Finally are there any hello's, thank you's, greetings etc you wish to issue?

We would all like to say a huge thank you to all who came down and supported us at each show, they all know who they are. Along with all our families. To all the new friends we made along the way. And to the bands, Fires of Tartarus and Edge of Ruin, who made each round so much fun! And who equally deserve this opportunity as us!

Black Emerald are playing on the New Blood Stage on Sunday 11th August

https://www.facebook.com/BlackEmeraldBand?fref=ts

Focusing on bands from up north, traveling up the M6 to the Lancashire town of Preston, Xentrix the legendary underground British Thrash Metal mob were the next lot to be assimilated. GMA spoke to members Chris and Stan about the band's upcoming Bloodstock appearance and what this means for one of the earliest UK Thrash Metal bands.

So guys how does it feel to be playing the best metal festival in the UK?


It feels awesome to be included onto the Bloodstock line up this year, it’s by far the best metal festival in the UK and the 2013 line up is killer.

I see this is your first festival in 20 years, bet you're very elated you're playing?

Back in the day we didn’t get to play that many festivals, to be fair there weren’t as many as there is now, so to get to play on the same billing as Slayer, Anthrax, Exodus, Death Angel (The list goes on)… is a real honor for us and we’re massively looking forward to it.

What advice could you pass down to those bands who are just starting out? Especially the new blood bands?


I would say, make sure you’re on time and ready to play, time is always tight at festivals and you don’t want to piss anyone off by being late.

Who are you most looking forward to watching play at Bloodstock and meeting especially?


We’re all looking forward to seeing Death Angel, Anthrax, Exodus, Accept and of course Slayer and Lamb of God. I don’t know if we’ll get to meet any bands but it would be cool to say hi to the guys from Anthrax and Slayer as they influenced us so much back when we started out.

For those younger metal fans who haven't got a clue who Xentrix are please give a brief summary on the style of music you play, what made you form a band and what key events have occurred in the band's career?



We are a UK Thrash band that formed in 1988 and were signed to Roadrunner Records and released four albums including ‘Shattered existence’ and ‘For whose advantage?’ We also released a thrash version of the Ghostbusters theme tune. We played with bands such as Testament, Sepultura and Annihilator.

Why should festival goers check out your set and what can fans expect? Any new songs?

People should come and check us out if they want to see a slice of the old UK Thrash scene. We won’t be doing any new songs at Bloodstock just 80’s Thrash.

Finally any hello's, thank you's, greetings you wish to issue?


We’d like to thank Vicky and all at Bloodstock for having us on.

Xentrix are playing on the Sophie Lancaster Stage on Friday 9th August

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Xentrix/354617581311808

Traveling back down south to the county of Bedforshire, GMA interrogated Biggleswade based band ScarCity:

First off how does it feel to be playing Bloodstock 2013 an during Metal 2 The Masses, were you more nervous or more optimistic about winning?

It feels absolutely amazing and we cannot wait. Playing Bloodstock has been a dream of ours for a while and we have worked really hard to get where we are today. Definitely nervous throughout it all and it was very emotional to be announced the winners it still hasn't sunk in yet.
 
Is this your first major festival appearance? If yes what is the mood in the camp? If no, where did you play before?

Yes this is our first major festival and we are very excited and nervous at the same time but cannot wait to get on stage and tear it up Scar City style.
 
What can fans expect from you when playing your set, any new songs? Stage antics?

High energy performances, lots of crazy faces and big beat downs. We will also be playing a couple of new tracks that are on our new EP "City Lights" which will be released the end of August.

What advice would you give bands thinking of doing Metal 2 The Masses next year?

GO FOR IT. It is an amazing experience and you never know what will happen..

Finally are there any hello's, thank you's, greetings etc you wish to issue?

We would love to thank our families, friends and all our fans for their continuous support in everything we do…. And not forgetting a huge thanks to Mr Simon Hall for giving us the chance to play Bloodstock's new blood stage. You are all awesome

See you all there from ScarCity

ScarCity are playing on the New Blood Stage on Sunday 11th August

https://www.facebook.com/ScarCity.uk

Traveling further south and over the QE2 bridge to Kent where Death Metal lads NeonHalo were waiting to spew out their holistic words about Bloodstock, vocalist Lou duly done the honors.

So guys how does it feel to be playing Bloodstock 2013?
 
It's pretty unreal really. We've only been back together since January, so to be playing such a huge festival just 8 months later is amazing. Its a real honour to be at the same event as some of our absolute heroes and we cant wait to get up there and smash it up.
 
During Metal 2 The Masses, was you more nervous or more optimistic about winning? Were there any tight rounds?
 
Metal 2 The Masses is always such a big deal, there's always a lot of quality bands involved in the Kent region. Luckily we have a really awesome local fanbase who have given us a lot of support during the competition and have been totally mental at the shows, that really gave us a lot of confidence. It was pretty tight all the way, we played with our buddies Vulgate in the first round - that was pretty close and anything could have happened in the final, we're just pleased that all the hard work and strain of the last few months has paid off and that we didn't let anyone down.
 
Is this your first major festival appearance? If yes what is the mood in the camp? If no, where did you play before?
 
Yeah this will be our first one, we're all really pumped to be playing what is easily the best festival in the country. We're currently gearing up to record our debut EP 'Forensic Pornography' at the end of July so at the moment we're just trying to stay focused and concentrating on getting ourselves ready for what is going to be an awesome summer.
 
What can fans expect from you when playing your set, any new songs? Stage antics?
 
Fast, crushingly heavy metal and lots of energy, we love seeing people going nuts in the pit, so we'll be doing our best to get everyone involved. We're just finishing up a new track at the moment so there will definitely be at least one new song in the set.  
 
What advice would you give bands thinking of doing Metal 2 The Masses next year?
 
Do it! M2M is a massive opportunity to get your music heard and win some more fans, even if you don't win its a chance to make a name for yourself in your local area. We had an awesome time playing this year and we couldn't recommend it enough.
 
How does Bloodstock differ from the other British metal festivals?
 
Its the only big festival in the UK that really represents the metal community, it always has an excellent line-up and it gives up and coming acts a chance to showcase their talent to loads of people, you don't get that from any other festival in the country. Bloodstock always has a great atmosphere and we cant wait to be part of the chaos this year. 
 
Finally are there any hello's, thank you's, greetings etc you wish to issue?
 
We'd like to thank Anthony Openshaw at the Ivy Leaf, Sheerness for running a great show, Simon Hall for his excellent work with M2M and for having us at Bloodstock and all our fans who've been coming out to see us, especially those who've been promoting the hell out of our shows. We really appreciate your support and effort, see you all at Bloodstock!
 
NeonHalo are playing on the New Blood Stage on Sunday 11th August

https://www.facebook.com/NEONHALO.UK

Returning to Essex, GMA makes the trip up the A12 towards the ferry terminal and cargo port known as Harwich where thrash merchants Rezinwolf are shredding bullets, crossfire was made and a battle ensued, peace was made as a session of questions and answers occurred, drummer Sam Wheeler made the peace treaty:
First off how does it feel to be playing Bloodstock 2013?

It feels great to be playing Bloodstock this year. I remember getting the confirmation email from our manager while at work and I was in shock. It’s a real honor to be playing with some of our Idols.

During Metal 2 The Masses, was you more nervous or more optimistic about winning?

This Year Rezinwolf was asked to play Bloodstock so we didn’t take part in M2TM. However we did enter M2TM a few years ago but got kicked out during the semi finals. 

Is this your first major festival appearance? If yes what is the mood in the camp? If no, where did you play before?

Bloodstock will be the bands first major festival appearance. We’ve played a lot of smaller festivals which were great however Bloodstock is definately a dream come true for us. It hard to describe the mood as we’ve been so busy with the label and other shows recently that Bloodstock hasn’t had time to kick in yet. I’m sure as the time gets nearer there will be a mixture of nerves and excitement.

What can fans expect from you when playing your set, any new songs? Stage antics?

Fans can expect the usual mayhem that is a Rezinwolf show. We will mostly be playing songs from our debut album ‘Corruption Kingdom’ As well as the old songs that have got the band this far.

What advice would you give bands thinking of doing Metal 2 The Masses next year?

M2TM is a great way to gain exposure for anyone’s band even if you don’t win. There’s plenty to gain from entering so my advice is go for it! It’s a rough competition as everyone wants that place on the Bloodstock stage however we learned more by not winning and it helped the band progress.

What do you think of the line up this year?

The line up looks awesome. And as I’ve said earlier it’s a real honor to be playing this fest with these bands. We can’t wait to play but we also can’t wait to enjoy the rest of the festival with everyone else!

Finally are there any hello's, thank you's, greetings etc you wish to issue?

I’d like to give a big shout out to our manager Regina who is responsible for Rezinwolf's progression and all achievements so far. We're extremely lucky to have her as part of our team! I’d also like to thank Killer Metal Records for all the hard work they do for us.

Rezinwolf are playing on the New Blood Stage on Friday 9th August

https://www.facebook.com/rezinwolf?ref=ts&fref=ts

Heading back towards the Midlands, GMA comes across Nottinghamshire and four burly, bearded chaps known as Merciless Terror, they played Robin Hood and we played the Sheriff of Nottingham, sitting in on this one was Dale Linsdell and Michael Brush.

So guys, how did Merciless Terror manage to get a slot at BOA, via M2TM or inquiry?

Dale: We got asked by simon Hall to play.

When you got the notification that you are playing BOA, what was your reaction and how did you celebrate?

Michael: I was at work when the call came through, not much work was completed by me on that day! To celebrate I think we had a quiet pint after rehearsal. Our celebration will be our performance on the day.

Is this your first festival appearance, if so are you nervous? If not, where did you play?
   
Dale: Nah this wont be our first festival appearance, never-the-less it will be a great highlight of our career. We were lucky enough to play an open air Festival in Japan last October to a very large audience.

What bands are you looking forward most to watching?
    
Michael: My taste in music is slightly different to the rest of the band. I'm looking forward to watching: King Diamond, Dark Funeral, Avantasia, Power Quest, Belphgor and Slayer. I'm also looking forward to seeing the other bands we're sharing the stage with at the New Blood stage. There's some great sounding upcoming bands.

Dale: For me I'd say its all about The King & of course Slayer!!! There are also a few others I'd like to watch such as Belphegor, Dying Fetus & Anthrax.

When are you playing and why should festival goers go to see your set?
  
Michael: We haven't been given our time slot just yet but we are performing on Sunday 11th August.  You should come and see us tear up the stage because we are a ferocious live band. We'll drag you into our world of decrepit, post apocalyptic visions and leave you wondering how you've survived getting your senses well and truly kicked in by our performance.

Are there any hello's, thank you's, greetings you wish to send to friends, family and fans?

Michael: I'd like to thank the staff at BLOODSTOCK for giving us this opportunity to play. Thank you to our fans who have supported us thus far and to our fans who make it to our set. We hope to make more friends/fans during our time there this year.

Merciless Terror are playing the New Blood Stage on Sunday 11th August

https://www.facebook.com/MercilessTerror/info

GMA's latest expedition saw us heading over to Canada where burly quartet 3 Inches of Blood were willing to share their thoughts about their upcoming Bloodstock appearance, this is what they had to say:

So guys when was the last time you set foot on British soil and what was the reception like?

The last time we visited the UK was in October 2012 when we were on tour with Overkill. We have been coming to the UK for many years and have always been treated great by the fans.

And this is your first time playing Bloodstock, so you must be a little anxious and a little psyched to see how the crowd will react to your set?

It is a tremendous opportunity for us to play a festival like this. We love playing to big crowds and we feed off of the fans' enthusiasm. There is some anxiety that goes along with playing gigs like this, but its all a part of the excitement.

Do you feel that festivals like Bloodstock bring a whole host of nationalities together in such a way that other music festivals cannot match?

The festival culture in Europe is a great outlet for metal fans from everywhere to get together and see lots of bands from all over the world.

In North America, we don't have a festival scene like Europe. It's great to meet people from all over the world at these big festivals especially when we get to meet fans from countries we've never been to. Its a chance to find out what metal fans of various nationalities are like and how they feel about our music.

Will there be a tour sandwiching your Bloodstock appearance? If so what are your key dates?

Bloodstock, along with Jalometalli festival in Oulu, Finland, will be our only European appearances this year.

How is playing a British festival different to playing a Canadian festival (if there is any difference)?

Canada has only recently started bothering with metal festivals. Heavy MTL in Montreal and Heavy T.O. in Toronto, have been successful in bringing big crowds and a wide range of bands, but they aren't quite at the point of being annual events. However they are gaining traction and I think they will both be regular fixtures in Canadian metal culture.

Overall there isn't much difference between the two countries. Britain has a longer history with rock festivals, but the fans are all there for the same reason no matter where it is.

So what can fans expect from your set and what advice could you give to those playing lower down stages?

3 Inches of Blood always brings a high level of energy. We expect a lot from ourselves when we perform and we make the most of opportunities like this. It doesn't matter what stage you're on. At a big metal festival you're gonna play to a lot of people. Don't worry if your set time overlaps with a particular band, there's still gonna be people who want to see you and make a point of making it to your stage at the given time.

And finally any hello's, thank you's and greetings you wish to issue?

We are really excited to play Bloodstock for the first time.  Its a festival that is growing in notoriety every year and has a reputation of being a stellar festival. Our first time playing overseas was in the UK. This will be a fantastic way to commemorate 10 years since we first played on British soil.

https://www.facebook.com/threeinchesofblood?ref=ts&fref=ts

One of the very last stops I made in interviewing the bands playing Bloodstock this year was once again London and this time burly lot One For Sorrow were ready for the interrogation.

Hi guys, so tell us how does it feel to play Bloodstock and is this your first major festival appearance?

We are beyond stoked to be playing Bloodstock!!! It's a massive achievement for One For Sorrow and we cannot wait to share the stage with so many amazing bands. First major festival appearance for One For Sorrow, but in different bands the boys have played at various festivals.

Now you won the London Metal 2 The Masses heat, how tough was it?

It was tough yeah, competition was fierce and there were some really awesome bands to compete against. It was stressful but in the end we came through.

For those who don't know your music, please describe it without using cliches or genre tagging.

How do you describe your music without tagging a genre so people have a general idea of what you sound like, or without clichés, is this a real question? Well the only way to answer it is to include clichés and genre tagging: We play 70’s influenced Groove and Stoner Metal, if you like Down, Black Label Society, Pantera, Black Sabbath or Corrosion of Conformity, there’s a good chance you’ll like us.

So who are you mostly looking forward to watching at the festival?

Lamb of God and Gojira

And what time and day are you playing and why should punters attend your set?

Saturday 6pm, attend? Oh yes do attend darling! Coz we will be true groove metal that’ll bang your head and chill your throat with cold beer. Death to all but metal, know what I'm saying bruuv?

Will there be any gigs sandwiching your bloodstock appearance?

Sandwiching? Is this a kinky question? Well last week we supported Breed 77 but after Bloodstock we’re gonna take a few weeks off to write new material

In your set will there be any new songs and stage antics?

There’s a couple tracks which are quite new and have only recently appeared in the set, but not necessarily new, no antics other than good old fashioned headbanging .

Finally are there any hello's, thank you's, greetings you wish to issue?

Yeah we’d like to thank Mary Jane for helping us out along the way, without her One For Sorrow would not exist.

https://www.facebook.com/OneforSorrowband?ref=ts&fref=ts

The final band we spoke to, Mask of Judas, gave GMA a real roasting and an interrogation of their own, here was the battle account:

Hi guys. first off how does it feel to be playing Bloodstock 2013?

Its an honor to be playing Bloodstock, it’s a great opportunity for any band who gets offered a place on the New Blood stage, we are very excited to be playing this year. We can’t wait to share Mask of Judas’s music with a new audience.

Did you enter the Metal 2 The Masses, if so was you more nervous or more optimistic about winning?

We didn’t enter Metal 2 the Masses this year, we have done in the past, but this year we were offered a place on the stage, it took us by surprise! As I say we are very honored, we know how tough it is to get a place on this stage, and we are very grateful to be playing,

Is this your first major festival appearance? If yes what is the mood in the camp? If no, where did you play before?

This will be our first Bloodstock and major festival appearance.

What can fans expect from you when playing your set, any new songs? Stage antics?

We will be playing material from our recently released mini album ‘Axis’ and some new material that we are writing for a future album. You can expect to see us having a good time, I find it hard to explain what we do on stage, but we generally just really enjoy ourselves. If anyone reading this is going to Bloodstock this year, they should come along and check us out to see what I mean.

What advice would you give bands thinking of doing Metal 2 The Masses next year?

I am not sure what advice I could give any band, as everyone is totally different, but I think its important to have a solid set together, good stage presence, a positive attitude and to always remember that music is not a competition.

Seeing as Bloodstock is extending further and getting worldwide bands to play, like Egypt's Scarab this year, do you feel that Bloodstock is perhaps the most international British metal festival there is?

I would say it is, there is such a mix of bands playing, all from different areas, different styles and backgrounds. It’s fantastic to have such variety.

Finally are there any hello's, thank you's, greetings etc you wish to issue?

Mask of Judas would like to thank Simon Hall for asking us to play, it’s a huge honor. We would like to thank you guys at Global Metal Apocalypse for this interview, and we would like thank all the amazing people who support Mask of Judas and give us the energy to do what we do!

https://www.facebook.com/maskofjudas

Bloodstock 2012, it was one of those summer metal festivals that was brimming brightly with a juicy line-up, covering an extensive array of various metal genres: Black Metal, Thrash Metal, Death Metal, Classic Rock / Metal, you name it, it's likely it was there, was meaning the genre represented.

Thursday

Four bands were on the day of official opening and the four that were scheduled to play were Marionette, Viking Skull, Bloodshot Dawn and Saturnian. Sadly Maronette were delayed until Friday due to broken down vehicles in Denmark, so the lovely people at Bloodstock had no problems in allocating the Swedish band a slot on the Jagermeister Stage. So it was time to go to sleep.

As soon as the sun set over Bloodstock, Thursday was over and Friday was calling.

Friday

Given the benefit of the doubt, Marionette are to be reviewed first because of the reality situation they were placed in. Courageously the band took their skills with them and performed to perfection, regardless of all the troubles they had faced, it had seemed as if the band stuck the middle finger up and gave them a boost to up their game. Much to the fan's delight, the band then were able to meet their fans and natter to them, that was of course if they could stand up after the insane performance they delivered, Linus the keyboardist evidently showing he was good at balance as he stood on the lower part of his keyboard, whilst the rest of the band members, specifically the guitarists Mikael, Aron and Anton did the splits timed to the ballistic Melodic Death Metal they up-heaved from the baked grounds of the Bloodstock grounds [8].

< Linus was surprised to see his house in Sweden all the way from England

In fact below is an interview conducted with some of the band-members.

Now if i play that note, aha I can hear something >

Later on the first act on the Ronnie James Dio stage was about to tee off the main stage festivities, Reading's Malefice charged the crowd down like a load of bulls doped on testosterone and on a stampede, mauling everything in the band's path. Besides the bass-drops being heard on the other side of the field, the band used everything in their arsenal to give a lifetime performance a chance to expose itself to the mob that moshed away like daisies on miracle grow, coincidentally as the songs powered out, the numbers grew, was this a metal music mating call, or simply the time for Malefice to shut up shop and give the crowd one last face-melter? [8.5] Later on GMA caught up with Malefice and had a few words:

Later on GMA managed to get some time with Fallen Fate:

< When the dreads come out you know the musician means business.

Fans around the stage where Sepultura were playing did acknowledge they miss the old Sepultura, the one that put Brazil on the Metal music map, on the other hand other fans prefer the latter line-up. What ever side of the fence fans were on, it did not deter from the fact that Sepultura could have played a little better than many would have expected them to, sure the timing and atmosphere was on fire but the drumming at times seemed a little slack, as if the batteries ran out of the Duracell bunny drummer. Regardless the riffs that escaped the sound system and ended up flooding the masses in front of the stage prompted a massive mosh-pit and sensational crowd-surfing, even some of the girls got into it; but there was a little fight that broke out as rumor has it one girl was inappropriately groped, Sepultura's answer to that was playing their iconic number 'Roots Bloody Roots', such a classic tribal metal track. [7]

GMA managed to get an interview with bassist Paulo, how interesting this one was.

In addition to that GMA also spoke to Winterfylleth

Eastern Front looking very dapper >

Later on Ipswich's very own Black Metal enthusiasts Eastern Front stormed the SOPHIE LANCASTER stage with full might and military panache, mixing a darkened bleak atmosphere via the usage of search lights, sign posts and barbed wire, mixed with the band's army like stage uniform and the insane music accompanying them. War torn Black Metal besieged the stage of which was dedicated to the late goth girl of the same name who was murdered a few years back, how fitting it was then for Eastern Front to pay their respects to the girl's family. More so was it spectacular that the band kept going and going, which is nothing that could be said for the Nazi German army on the steps of Stalingrad. Full on and brutalizing every living thing within a 80 meter radius, Eastern Front proved that Ipswich does not belong to Cradle of Filth and that there is a new and powerful band on the block. [9]

Later on GMA got close and personal with the men in black (this is a video interview so sound came out a little naff, turn up to hear properly).

< And today's weather forecast consists of brutal drums, meteoric riffs and fiery vocals

No sooner had the new blood stage, Sophie Lancaster stage and Jagermeister stage shut down for the evening, Behemoth emerged from the darkness on the Ronnie James Dio stage, immersed in their evangelical propaganda with religious icons, symbols and pyrotechnics lighting up the stage whilst keeping the band warm and toasty. For all what Nergal had been through the past year, in specific his battle against Leukemia, the musical metal troupe from Poland took their merit and Blackened Death persona to new extremes and left the attending crowd trembling; as if the gargoyles poised on a cathedral screeched and breathed fire, setting alight various mosh-pits and the sought after, hallowed wall of death. Tonight, Behemoth had proven their worth as Polish metal gods and are sure to dominate the scene for many years to come. [10]

Saturday

Freddy Lim brought a taste of Taiwan with him in the form of the er-hu >

One of the other global bands that made their welcomed return to the UK was Taiwan's Oriental Symphonic Black Metal army ChthoniC, armed with their recognizable Chinese violin, the er-hu and perhaps one of the cutest Asian bassists around - Doris Yeh, the crowd exploded into sensational chaotic over-drive and various fans even took moshing to the newer levels, some putting karate moves in with the bog standard mosh-pit cropping up here and there. As ChthoniC coursed through the set-list, the overall atmosphere was one of national transition, in that the oriental influences dragged up by this band offered fans a unique perspective on Asian culture and thus some fans even dubbing ChthoniC as delivering 'calming, chilling music', rather than brutal and slaughtering. The truth is that ChthoniC are one of a kind and trendsetters in their own rights. [9]

< One of Essex's strongest ever metal bands Merciless Fail (now known as Forged In Black)

Returning back to the new blood stage, one of the finest metal bands that Essex has seen in years slayed the attending fans like no tomorrow, weaving together a solid backdrop of Heavy Metal with the fast, pacey Thrash Metal, Merciless Fail had justly proven why they were worthy of a slot on the new blood stage. Performing classics such as 'Master In Me' and 'Reins of Sorrow', this is the new breed of bands of tomorrow performing in modern times. Besides the fact that the bassist Kieron Rochester is in fact the drummer's (Kevin Rochester) son, this is a tight metal unit that never fail to impress whenever they clamber on any stage or in any venue, simply put true Essex Heavy Thrash Metal. We may yet see them at Bloodstock once again, that time round they will be known as Forged In Black, named after their debut album. [8]

GMA pulled them over using the reins of sorrow to get a few words.

It was evident that Luke trapped his thumb in the bass guitar >

Wretched Soul may as well be the best band of the festival for having long hair, watching it whirl around was enough to make anyone feel dizzy, instead however what occurred when these Kent chaps took to the new blood stage was simply sensational, a mini-wall of death (given due the stage is enclosed). As the band battled the songs out of the speakers in mind-blowing fashion, it was unmistakably noticeable that the crowd had grown and grown with each passing song and as the set neared towards its end there was a sheer pause for sorrow, it would seem that this band really got into the pulses of everyone's heartbeats and that their playing had come to an end on a sad note [8].

They had enough energy left though to say a few things:

< Sight of Emptiness showed off their synchronized headbanging skills

Coming back to play once again at Bloodstock, Costa Rica's finest metal export Sight of Emptiness opened up their set-list with perhaps the most brutal and fastest song they have, which accompanies a rather melodic technical solo, that song is 'Predictable Tragedy'. The band first played here a few years ago and won through a competition, the band justified their second appearance with a very convincing performance with one fan exclaiming "This is the best unsigned band I've seen here so far"! That coupled with the massive crowd inside the tent housing the Sophie Lancaster stage, gave sufficient evidence for them to be acknowledged as one of the greatest performers on the lower end of the stages. [9]

Machine Head kept the front row warm >

Time flies by when everyone is having so much fun, soon it was time to head back to the main stage for Saturdays main band, Machine Head. Producing a performance that was scintillating every step of the way, it made the average Saturday night feel like as if it was a New Years party, everybody who was around had a can or two of beer in their hand and as Machine Head reeled through their back catalogue of classics, the party grew harder and heavier. For some this was the best band of the day, for others the festival. It was a tough call to make but given their performance, Behemoth were still in the lead as the festival's best band. But credit given to Machine Head who could not have given a better show than they had done. [9]

Sunday

< Cyprus' Blynd were very focused on their playing style

Coming all the way from Cyprus, Blynd performed a rather sensational set, but what made it one of the best of the day was the fact that the vocalist / bassist Andreas was playing with his arm strapped up, obviously some sort of injury, but that's metal and that is why Blynd are GMA's best unsigned band from the whole festival. Playing like that for a good solid half an hour was epic to watch, in fact the crowd were so astonished by their playing, they were gratefully accepting free demo's being handed out by the band's manager. Slashing through the hot morning out on the fields of Bloodstock in Catton Hall, Derbyshire, Blynd made light work of taking a slot to play in to making it their performance of a lifetime. [8.5]

Kobra thought she spot fellow Canadian Devin Townsend in the crowd >

One of Heavy Metal's freshest modern bands later on that day appeared on the Ronnie James Dio stage, hailing from Canada, Kobra & The Lotus delivered a ballsy performance of pure Heavy  Metal, right from the first note the crowd went crazy whilst Kobra, the vocalist, delivered her signature high pitch screaming and it oddly enough had a little bit of a punk rock slanting sound to the notes. As the set went on and on, more and more people cracked open some beers and toasted to the modern female variant of Iron Maiden, it was evident that they meant business as the sheer force of musical creativity that exploded from the speakers was immense enough to vibrate the security bars at the front of the crowd. Kobra & The Lotus had the crowd convinced that they are on the path to become one of Canada's greatest modern metal bands and as the last song rang out across the field, the crowd amassed one more time to mosh like hell, as if the apocalypse was coming tomorrow. [10]

< Nile had the crowd doing the pharaoh walk in sync.

Bloodstock 2012 could not be complete without American Death Metal maestros Nile, fueling the relentless crowd with their brandish style of extreme music and unique lyrics circulating the Egyptology theme, Nile were accruing more and more people as they played throughout their set and as passers by glanced at the stage, they were stopping to watch as if Nile had one huge magnet poised on stage and was attracting them in, or it could be from the sheer magnitude of force coming from the double bass drums. Whatever it was Nile cemented themselves well as a more-than-welcomed performing band and left the attending crowd gasping (literally) for more. However 2013 beckons and Nile's Egyptian cousins Scarab will take the Egyptology reins [9]

Later on GMA translated English questions into hieroglyphics:

Sahil was sporting his new hairstyle >

After an unsuccessful attempt to come to play Sonisphere a few years ago because of visa complications, India's Demonic Resurrection made their voice and music heard when they kicked off later on the Sophie Lancaster stage. The Candlelight Records band made no compromise as they delivered the almighty onslaught in a variety of ways, through the use of killer riffs, a historical journey back in time to songs such as 'Apocalyptic Dawn', (of which is featured on the Global Metal documentary soundtrack) and back to the band's latest songs. All of which centered around the bands innate perfection of blasting out Melodic Black / Death Metal via the elaborated keyboard sounds that delivered an eerie feeling under the tent roof. The band from Mumbai done themselves proud and like Sight of Emptiness, may have well won themselves a new crowd of fans. [9]

Later that day GMA pulled over Sahil and spoke about Bollywood:

< Alice Cooper, king of rock closed the festival down

The festival was over, but not before Alice Cooper gave his breathtaking performance, playing old classics such as 'Schools out' and the infamous 'Poison', Alice and his shock rock musicians who supported him (including Orianthi), gave a five star performance and finished the four day festival, from which has been a sensational event organized by sensational people. As Alice drew the darkness of the night closer and closer into the main stage, the feeling of wanting more was already on everyone's faces, they knew the festival was ticking away and as soon as the fireworks began sparkling and shooting up into the cold night sky, Bloodstock had witnessed one of rock's greatest musicians tear down the Derbyshire countryside in style, and not by means of playing golf it must be noted. However as the lost song began to sound out of the speakers, the feeling in the crowd was one of sadness and anticipation, sadness in the knowledge that Bloodstock Open Air 2012 had come to a close, anticipation in that Bloodstock Open Air 2013 was only a year away, let the countdown begin. [10]

During the four day festival, GMA also had a number of other interviews being done, below you will find them in alphabetical order: Anaal Nathrakh, Cosmic Vortex, Derision, Ensiferum, Gone Til Winter, Korpiklaani, Krepuskul, Watain and a special interview done with one of the fans, Mr. Gabriel Teykal who came all the way from Brazil to watch the festival and also watch the Wacken Open Air Festival in Germany.