Devil Sold His Soul (Stealth, 21:15 - 22:00)
After releasing three successful studio albums, the group of six have changed, improved, and evolved since 2004 when the band first began. It can be difficult for progressive/metalcore bands to get themselves noticed, but the energy that exudes from this band on stage makes them a must-see this year.
Dead! (Rescue Rooms, 13:15 - 13:45)
The Southampton-based punk rock group may be new on the music scene, having only formed in 2012, but they’re getting themselves noticed on a vast level, and rightly so. Their name may scare you off, but don’t let it, as their music, individual talent, and stage presence easily puts them in this top five.
Cancer Bats (Rock City Main Hall, 19:15 - 20:00)
In anticipation for their fifth – yes that’s right, fifth – studio album release later this year, the lads from Canada are travelling over to Nottingham to give us a taster of what’s to come. They may have been around since 2004, but they’ve been gaining momentum and fans by the day, so they’re definitely not a band to be missed.
While She Sleeps (Rock City Main Hall, 20:30 - 21:15)
A little closer to home, this 5-piece metalcore band from Sheffield have been through the ringer, with their vocalist having had throat surgery, but with their Best British Newcomer award from Kerrang! In 2012, we’re happy to see them back where they’re best, on stage. They definitely deserve their spot at this festival, and are a band that can’t be fully appreciated until you’ve seen them live.
Skindred (Rock City Main Hall, 22:00 - 23:00)
The number 1 act to see this year has to be the band of four, the headliners themselves. With their unusual mix of reggae and metal, they’re set to end the festival with a bang. Add to that their well-known enthralling stage presence that’s set to liven up anyone that’s feeling a little tired from the hectic day, and you have yourself an incredibly memorable last show. There’s still time to get your tickets, so if you want a full day of some great live rock music, an awesome atmosphere, and even an after party – if your feet are still able to keep you standing, walking, and jumping by then – get yourselves down there.
If you want to recommend any of the acts playing at this year's Hit The Deck Festival, tell us about them in the comments section below.
Hit The Deck 2015 takes place at various venues in Nottingham on Sunday 26 April 2015.
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