Due to the huge number of bands playing at Bloodstock this year, and the fact that our two roving reporters will actually want to watch some of them, we’re doing a little round of pre-festival interviews this year. We’re focussing on the bands playing the Jagermeister and Hobgoblin New Blood Stages so they get a chance to convince you to go and watch them. Remember, these guys and gals are the future of our musical world!
Simple things first – where are you guys from?
We’re all from the West Midlands.
How did you meet?
Wayne and Hannah started the band together and eventually recruited the mysterious Doomsday to add keyboards. A few member changes later and we have Kim on bass.
How long have you been playing together as a band?
It’s been going about 7 years in total. This incarnation maybe about 9 months.
Where does the name of the band come from?
Hannah suggested it and it sounded appropriate to the music. It was that simple!
What are your influences – individually or as a band?
Initially it was bands like Paradise Lost and Lacuna Coil. Now we’re branching out with a lot more elements like Triosphere, Iron Maiden, even Arch Enemy and Soilwork.
Describe your music. What makes you unique?
It’s best described as dark melodic metal, a blend of symphonic and gothic style with a more power and prog based approach. Quite a blend of styles!
What’s your live show like? How many shows have you played?
We try and get some movement going on stage and engage the audience a little. We’re working on something bigger for future gigs but our past shows have included supporting some big acts like Alestorm’s sold out show where they fired darts at us. Delain – fantastic band and show at JB’s which was our metal home, Belgium’s Wizzfest. We were well received and hope to go back.
When/how did you find out you’d been selected to play at Bloodstock?
A few months ago. Thanks to Simon Hall for booking us, we are truly honoured to have been picked for this prestigious event in the rock calendar and it’s been a milestone for us all as a band.
What sort of setlist can we expect?
Mainly second album material, but there are a couple of faster songs off the first.
Which main stage band do you most hope you’re not clashing with so you can see them play?
Personally it seems we may be close to a few. I just hope I get to see Raging Speedhorn! For nostalgia mainly and definitely looking forward to checking out Sabaton as I hear they are bringing a tank! How awesome is that!!
What are you working on at the moment?
Hannah and Wayne have been working together on new riffs for a few months now, and it’s sounding very exciting! Definitely taking a heavier, darker and more progressive edge, stepping away from the gothic metal genre.
What’s the wildest thing you’ve seen or done on tour?
We’ve seen people kicking in fire doors, shopping trolley crashes, terrifying the locals in Belgium as none of us speak anything other than poor English, and the sight of a metal band pouring out into the streets in search of food was just too much for them to take! Not to mention Doomsday nearly redecorating the van after one too many if you get my drift …. All sorts. Just the start I hope!
What advice would you give to a young band just starting out today?
Keep working hard, stay focused on your targets and don’t give up!
If you could be part of any 3-band line-up who else would you have on the bill? One band above you and one below – a chance to plug a smaller, unsigned act!
Agh! So Many! Personally though I’d nominate The Mighty Wraith to play with us. They thoroughly deserve the recognition. As for above us, Probably Opeth. They are another big influence and it would be an honour to pay with them.
Winter Storm play the Jagermeister Stage on the Friday.
Winter Storm: official | facebook | twitter | last.fm | myspace | youtube
wpDiscuz