Bloodstock Bound: Skypilot
As Bloodstock gets closer, we delve deep into the line up to find out more about some of the bands playing the New Blood and Jägermeister stages at this years event.
Today we chat with Skypilot!
The Razor's Edge: Please introduce yourself and your band mates.
Skypilot: Skypilot are Dave Hall – guitars and vocals, Garry McConnell – drums and Gareth Ruddock – Bass.
The Razor's Edge: How would you describe your style of metal?
Skypilot: We would describe ourselves as 90’s-style, progressive, riff-laden, groove-metal with a stoner edge from Northern Ireland.
The Razor's Edge: How did you land your spot on the Bloodstock bill?
Skypilot: We previously played on the Jagermeister stage in 2019 and have wanted to return to Bloodstock ever since. We have been working towards that goal, to raise our profile and be ready to take the opportunity if it became available. We were put forward by our management and thankfully we bagged a slot!
The Razor's Edge: What does playing at Bloodstock mean to you?
Skypilot: Having the opportunity to play at such an amazing festival is vital for us. It’s such an opportunity to get our music out to so many metal fans and be a part of the Bloodstock experience. We fell in love with the festival after our experience in 2019 and it means everything to us to be a part of it. The fans, the crew and the community of Bloodstock are something we value deeply. The festival’s dedication to unsigned and grass-roots bands is truly unique, and it has become a vital part of the metal community in the UK and Ireland.
The Razor's Edge: For people who’ve never seen you live, what can they expect at Bloodstock?
Skypilot: Heavy riffs and deep grooves with very unusual accents, so it is!
The Razor's Edge: What day are you performing?
Skypilot: Sunday
The Razor's Edge: What other bands are you looking forward to watching at Bloodstock this year?
Skypilot: We are looking forward to seeing the other NI bands – Acid Age and Wild Heat as well as the other Irish bands La Vein, Soothsayer and Dead Label. We also want to see Dead Blonde Stars, Church of the Cosmic Skull, Megadeth, Candlemass and pretty much everyone else on the bill!
The Razor's Edge: Playing the New Blood Stage is just the first steppingstone in a bands journey. What’s next in your plans for world domination?
Skypilot: We are launching the vinyl version of our latest album ‘Simple Beasts’ on 19th August in Belfast and then we have dates planned across the rest of the year in Ireland and the UK, so keep an eye on our socials for more information.
The Razor's Edge: Are you camping with the fans? Which campsite are you heading for?
Skypilot: No, we’re far too domesticated for that! We are staying off-site but will be driving in to the festival Friday to Sunday and most likely staying there until the early hours every day. There’s still beer to be drunk and craic to be had!
The Razor's Edge: You’ve gotta keep hydrated at Bloodstock, what is your drink of choice for the weekend?
Skypilot: Whatever is going really! Beer, beer and probably some more beer. As long as it’s cold! Water for the driver of course!
