Bloodstock Festival 2023 – Sunday. The morning sees a blast of dampness. Unforecast rain casts a layer of misery across Bloodstock, but this does not stop the revelry in the New Blood Tent as Ofnus and Elimination get things underway.
Ofnus
As the clouds race across the sky, it’s almost perfect for the sadness that South Wales band Ofnus bring.
The New Blood Tent is pleasingly full as they launch into their nine-minute opener. Atmospheric Black Metal may not be the easy like a Sunday morning vibe that many like, but it’s perfect for me.
Vocalist Will Philpott snarls, growls, and generally spreads misery as the rest of the band focuses on their sound, which is crystal clear.
The crowd are appreciative, and a small but enthusiastic pit opens up, much to the surprise of most. The music grips you deep, and Ofnus make their mark.
The fact they have sold all their t-shirts less than 30 minutes after they finish tells it all.
Elimination
We are back to the Thrash as East Anglia’s Elimination brings their muscular sound to the New Blood Stage. It’s fast and furious, and the band, fronted by David Hill, don’t ease off the accelerator for a minute.
There have been several line-up changes in recent times, but Elimination today are cohesive, and vibrant, and they deliver a blistering set that gets the heads shaking.
It’s the opposite of the Mongolian act on the main stage, but those who have made the effort enjoy every second.
Bloodstock Festival 2023 is held over the weekend of 10-13 August 2023. MetalTalk’s Paul Hutchings and Adrian Stonley report from Catton Park.
All Photography: John Inglis and Paul Hutchings
All MetalTalk Bloodstock Festival 2023 coverage can be found at MetalTalk.net/tag/bloodstock-2023.
Weekend early bird tickets for Bloodstock 2024 will be available to purchase at the box office on-site for £165. This is the cheapest way to buy a 2024 ticket, minus any online booking or admin fees.
Bloodstock 2022 can be relived at MetalTalk.net/tag/bloodstock-2022.