After winning Oxford's Metal 2 The Masses, Redeemon played the New Blood stage on the Friday of the festival. They were met with an incredible reception, with the tent being packed out with slam dancing and roaring cheers. Members Pook and Eve sat down with us during Bloodstock to discuss how their performance went, as well as the origins behind their name and what other projects they have in the works.

Both members play an important role in creating this band's unique soundscape. Pook is the vocalist as well as trombone player, with Eve also having an integral part in the ska feel on the saxophone. 

Ska and metal are two genres of music that are deep-rooted in politics and social commentary. Redeemon is no different, with Pook explaining that the band name is "a representation of human beings". The combination of the two words redeemer and demon creates a juxtaposition that the band feels is relevant in today's society. Pook went on to describe public figures such as politicians to "put on a persona as though they're representing what they feel is good and healthy". He sees it as being a different story under the surface, something the band's name and identity seek to demonstrate.

Pook described playing Bloodstock for the first time as "an absolute dream come true". The pair were clearly ecstatic to be there, surrounded by bands they admired. They named the likes of Biohazard and Lamb of God as bands they were honoured to play on the same bill as. 

The pair praised the audience for how receptive they were to their performance in the New Blood tent on Friday. They described the enthusiasm and energy in the area, with Eve saying that the crowd "knew exactly what to do". Redeemon were more familiar with playing in the ska-punk scene. The crowds they were used to witnessing were different to what they walked into at Bloodstock. Pook praised the "family vibe and experience" that was felt across the festival, as well as during their performance.

The group was able to play the festival due to winning the Oxford division of Metal 2 The Masses, which showcases up-and-coming metal bands from across the country at Bloodstock. Pook explained how they received "the dirtiest looks" when arriving at heats with their horned instruments but were quickly able to win over crowds.

Redeemon are planning to continue with the momentum they have received playing at this metal festival. Eve said the band has "two hours' worth of material" that they are hoping to showcase in an upcoming album and EP. She went on to say "we've been talking to quite a few bands about doing shows with them" and how Bloodstock had helped open the doors for potential collaborations.

In October, the band has a support slot at Stoke's own Collapser's album launch. They also spoke about a ska-metal show they're putting on that same month with the likes of The Blade Itself and Ill Gotten Gains. Eve reckons "a time will be had" at both events. The band is prioritising utilising the success of their festival slot to continue to grow their niche.

Emily Teague

@eastereverywhere

Image: Tim Firth