RFTK Promotions

I knew it was going to be tight.

I just knew it.

But not even I could predict how bloody tight it would be. Such joy and heartbreak as the final two bands join the semi finals (we’ll get the updated list out when we know which rounds they each drop into)

First up, Altostratus, they’re like an instrumental Coheed and Cambria – there is a niche here, because instrumental stuff can go two ways – some get really desperate for vocals to kick in. I’m reminded of the old Karma to Burn story, you know, “We’ll give you a record deal – but we want you to have proper song titles and a singer” – well, Roadrunner dropped them and they reissued the album without vocals or song titles and they’re doing well for themselves.
Anyway… yes.. Altostratus, they’re bloody good like, they captivate the audience with their riffs and it’s quite marmite but certainly many people would like to see more from them.

Blackjack have been about a bit and they’re back after a break. They are one of those bands that woo’d and impressed with their stadium American Rock in pub venues – but hit the ceiling towards the end, but they’re back with a new fire and passion and fuck they look better for it. They take some swagger into the next round.

Pits galore for October Ends, metalcore a-go-go : I’ve been very impressed by a lot of metalcore bands in this competition even if very few have gone through! Another time they’d have nailed it as their high energy high tempo slams kill it!

Erebor are one of two bands tonight who were in the competition last year, last time they went out in the heats in a very tough round which overall winners Souls of Jack Ketch came out of. On that day they were good but lacked an edge. They have found that edge… they’re like a battle to the death between Nile and Amon Amarth with the survivors burning themselves alive to continue the fight. Fucking brutal. Their battle continues in May.

The first time The Distorted played in M2TM they were in a particularly tought heat and went on last and just took the competition by the bollocks and rolled through – a similar challenge awaits for them tonight and they give a bloody good effort with their horror rock and roll. They cap off what has been an amazing competition.

What I’ve particularly liked and this is also my tip for the semis and for bands next year or who still have heats elsewhere in the country – the best attitude to have to these is : it’s a gig, with a sure crowd, an opportunity for some fun and networking and showing off to the venue or other promoters. Treat it like that and the performance will ooze natutal confidence and at the worst you’ll hopefully leave with some new fans and contacts.

And finally, on the fans… I made a rare trip to the stage as I usually get Allan from Truth Hurts to do my compering as he’s better at talking shit than me – but he couldn’t make it so I had to talk to you lot and honestly, I’m humbled by the support given to this – I know you’ve come to watch some good bands and hopefully see friends or favourites go through, but I really appreciate how many have got behind this competition it makes it all the more worthwhile.

Thank you…

Right… semis in a month…
May 21 and May 28 – sweet.