Bloodstock 2026 Band Feature: Meet Your Maker
Where does the time go!? Once again, Bloodstock is right around the corner, and once again, it is shaping up to be one the best festivals of the year. Not just because there are a variety of bands spread across its main two stages, not just because it is packed with fun things to do, great food and drink to enjoy, and tons of likeminded people to experience it all with, but because it champions the future of the scene with its New Blood and EMP stages. Where unsigned bands, some handpicked, but most coming through the Metal 2 the Masses events, get to play the festival.
It can be an absolute gamechanger for a band to play the New Blood or EMP stages and plenty have gone on to bigger and brighter things. We know, we’ve been paying a lot of attention to that side of things for a long time now, and every year, tried to feature as many bands playing as we could. While we can’t promise that we will see all these bands at the festival, we can promise that you will find a wealth of talent should you wander over to either.
Who knows, you may even end up finding your new favourite band.
It’s almost time for BOA 2026, so it’s time to get to know some of bands who will be playing the New Blood Stage or the EMP stage. This is Meet Your Maker!
First things first, tell us a little bit about yourself. How and when did you get started?
Hi! I’m Matt McKay, vocalist in Meet Your Maker. The band came together through a “Metal Church” community project I used to run, which is basically exactly what is says on the tin. We’re 4 guys who love metal and hardcore, and share the same faith. We wanted to write and play music that brings light into a culture that can sometimes be very dark, bringing some positivity to the scene.
Someone comes to you and asks you to sum up what kind of music you play – what do you tell them?
Our debut album ‘Hallowed’ is straight up metalcore but leans into hardcore and nu-metal in places. We’re currently writing our second record which is going to lean into those influences even more so. Individually, we have so many varying influences it’s been a challenge to pin down our style but we think we’ve got it nailed. If it helps, I’d say we’re FFO: Alpha Wolf, Gideon, Thrown, Wage War.
How has playing Bloodstock 2026 come about?
We won the Coventry Metal2TheMasses competition, which was very tough! We made it through the quarter final and and semi-final rounds by Judge’s Wild Card on both occasions. When we won the grand final, it really felt like we had made it against all odds. I was ill for the first two rounds, and there were some incredible acts we were battling against, including wizarding crowd favourites Thaumblast who were very funny, very entertaining, and very technically proficient. Those guys are one to watch for sure.
What does it mean for you to play the festival this year?
For us it’s an incredible opportunity to share our message of hope and what we stand for as a band. We’ve lost too many friends to suicide over the years, so to be able to speak positively into the lives of thousands of people… Who knows, maybe what we say resonates with just one person and saves one soul. That’s the biggest win in this whole thing.
What’s the setlist looking like and can we expect any surprises?
30 minutes of non-stop energy! Stretch before you come to see us – I love a workout, so bring your A-game, Bloodstock! Haha! In all seriousness, we’re closing the NewBlood stage on the Friday which is a huge honour, so we’re going to make sure everyone has fun and leaves with a lot of good memories!
Who are you looking forward to seeing, provided they don’t clash with your set?
Graphic Nature and Northlane are non-negotiables for us. It would be great to catch Bleed From Within, Dream State, Stampin’ Ground and of course Lamb Of God.
Ignoring the obvious (tent, sleeping bag, toilet roll, etc.) what’s one thing you should always take with you to a festival and why?
Earplugs – protect those eardrums! Electrolytes – stay hydrated! Also, 3/4 of us in the band are Dads and we’ve discovered how amazing it is to have a pack of wet-wipes to hand at all times. Can’t imagine life without them.
It’s post-set, you’re packed away and your press is all done. It’s finally time to kick back and relax, what are you drinking and what are you eating?
Depending on who you ask, we’ll either kick back with a pint of Guinness or a nice fruity IPA (the hazier the better!). I’m an absolute FIEND for a Burrito, so I’m heading straight for the Mexican stand! I expect the rest of the lads with aim for the burger van, except for Dave who’s Veggie so he’ll be looking for the best non-meat option. One of the great things about Bloodstock is that there’s so many great stalls. I always make sure to neck as much water as possible before bed though – again, stay hydrated kids!
Meet Your Maker play the New Blood stage on the Friday of the festival. Limited Bloodstock tickets are on sale now and you pick them up here.
Meet Your Maker Links
Instagram | Facebook | Big Cartel
