Bloodstock Bound: Arkdown
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 EMP stages at this years event.
Today we chat with Arkdown
Please introduce yourselves.
We are Arkdown, 5 piece modern metalcore band from Sheffield / Nottingham. Our current lineup consists of front man – Ben Joshua, Mike Dyson on guitar / Vocals, Mikee Walker – Guitar, Ed Morley – Bass and Joe Mason on drums.
How would you describe your sound?
We don’t like to stay in one lane. We’re a modern metalcore band at heart, but we take influence from deathcore, death metal and hardcore to keep things aggressive and unpredictable. Even as we bring in those different elements, we’ve reached a point where people can hear a track and say, ‘That’s Arkdown’. This is exactly where we want to be.
How did you land your spot on the Bloodstock bill?
We are the winners of this years M2TM – Nottingham hosted by Mangata Music.
How tough was the competition this year?
Music’s always competitive, but we’ve never approached it that way. For us, it’s about putting on the best show possible, supporting each other and introducing our music to new audiences. This year’s bands have been awesome, the atmosphere’s been great and we’ve definitely come away with some new friends as well as new fans. With that in mind, the standard was incredibly high this year we felt especially with our time out away from the scene, so being chosen to play Bloodstock makes this achievement feel even more special to us!
What does playing at Bloodstock mean to you?
As a band, this is our first Bloodstock, and it’s honestly a bit surreal. A couple of us have been before as fans and know how special the festival is, but getting to play it is a completely different feeling. We’re so hyped to be part of it especially the 25th Anniversary, we can’t wait to show people what Arkdown is all about. It’s a huge milestone for us, and we’re planning to make the most of every second we’re on that stage.
For people who’ve never seen you live, what can they expect at Bloodstock?
Our live show is all about energy and getting people involved. We bring the riffs, the breakdowns, the occasional pig squeal and melodic guitar solo, we make sure there’s never a dull moment. Whether its pits opening up, crowd surfing or people just losing themselves in the music and two stepping, we want everyone to feel part of the show. We don’t just stand there and play our songs – we create an atmosphere where people can let loose and have a good time. It’s that mix of intensity and fun that’s helped us connect with both older and younger metal fans.
What day are you performing?
Sunday! Set time tbc.
What other bands are you looking forward to watching at Bloodstock this year?
There is so many! We will be trying our hardest to get round as many bands as possible as festivals are a great way to see new bands, but to name a few we will be looking forward to seeing all the headliners on the main stage, we will be looking forward to catching our buddies in After Smoke Clears, as well as the lads in Graphic Nature.
Playing the New Blood Stage is just the first steppingstone in a bands journey. What’s next in your plans for world domination?
New Blood stage is definitely one ticked off the bucket list, but it is 100% just the beginning! What we’ve been doing has got us this far, so we’re not looking to reinvent the wheel. Instead, we’ll keep writing the music we love, keep playing shows and stay true to ourselves and see just how far Arkdown can go.
Are you camping with the fans? Which campsite are you heading for?
We’ve been given artist camping access so we will be making full use of that, but you’ll see us out and about everywhere networking, hanging with friends and fans, you’ll catch us in the pits for sure.
You’ve gotta keep hydrated at Bloodstock, what is your drink of choice for the weekend?
Honestly, we’re not fussy, we’ll drink anything haha! But on stage we usually opt for water and a couple of beers, then party when the job is done.
See you at Bloodstock in a few weeks!
Oh hell yeah!
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