With the recent announcement of the 2012 Download Festival Line-Up, I thought I’d share my view of the artists confirmed to perform in June.
The Headliners:
Metallica – Oh look, its Metallica playing at Download again! There’s nothing exciting about this to me, as I’ve seen them enough times to warrant missing this year’s Saturday headliners. It’s a predictable choice in my opinion and one I’d rather have seen replaced with a band that hasn’t perhaps had the headlining opportunity previously.
Black Sabbath – I saw them last time they played Download and I was actually pretty impressed. I expected a pensioner-like Ozzy to come on stage and struggle with the performance but he was really good. Certainly won’t mind seeing them perform again this year!
The Prodigy – oooh yes, now there’s a headline act. They absolutely tore it up at Leeds Fest a few years ago, so much so that security stopped people getting within close proximity of the tent they were in. At Download a couple of years ago they opened with “Omen” and it was pretty incredible. The crowd went mental. Looking forward to seeing The Prodigy at Download 
The Best of the Rest:
Machine Head – I’m super happy they are playing! The recent Locust album is one of my faves and I can’t wait to see them perform this live. Robb Flynn; you’re still my hero.
Fear Factory – a band I have never had the pleasure to see, so this is going to be a real treat. I just know Burton C Bell’s voice will command the audience. I just wish they were playing higher up the bill
As I Lay Dying – one of my fave metalcore bands and I’ve seen them a few times so I’m excited to be seeing them again.
Who I was secretly hoping for:
Bury Tomorrow – there’s still a chance they may be announced on one of the smaller stages, and I’m hoping they do play as its been far too long since I have seen them live! I can’t wait for their new album.
Deftones – I hope they play each year, so there’s nothing new here I absolutely love Deftones and after a poor reception from the crowd at Leeds Festival last year, I’m hoping that won’t stop them from coming back to the UK for a festival more suited to their musical genre. The crowd at Leeds just didn’t appreciate their awesomeness.
Bleeding Through – with a great new album they’ve just released, chances are they may be confirmed to play Download or at least one of the UK rock festivals this year. Bring it on!
Keep up to date with the full Download Festival 2012 Line Up here.
