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The anticipated UK event is set to please crowds on 16th November, with Rise Against providing the first known headline act. The Vans Warped Tour prides itself on being the first to bring music-lovers the hottest new talent, and this year is no exception.
The band promises a punk-rock spectacle on the Monster Energy Main Stage, bringing their arsenal of politically charged melodic hardcore to a London indoor arena for the first time in two years, exciting music fans and festival-goers alike.
Tim McGrath has been spreading the band’s progressive message with stunning songs and electric live shows, Very few punk rock acts can genuinely lay claim to penetrating the mainstream music industry, including a TOP 40 album with 2011’s “Endgame”. Tim states:
“As a band that used to open the lowliest of Warped side stages in sun-drenched parking lots across the states, we’re elated to be headlining Warped Tour UK as it spreads its wings across the pond.”
With their championing of righteous causes, punk ethos and anthems such as Saviour and Prayer of the Refugee, the unique group capture the spirit of Warped Tour, and their headline slot this year is a match made in hardcore heaven.
Capture The Crown, Itch, Real Friends and Yellowcard are also among the first acts to join the two-day festival.
Joining them are another six sensational acts, the first coming in the form of Canadian punk rockers Billy Talent.
Going supernova with their Try Honesty single in 2003, Billy Talent subsequently racked up the platinum albums, sold out shows and chart positions. No strangers to Vans Warped Tour, fans are in for a treat as they bring the room filling sounds The Ex and Viking Death March.
Australia’s Capture The Crown appear armed with vicious metallic hardcore laced with hooks so massive their debut video has ratcheted up over 6 million views in under a year.
“We’ve all dreamt of playing Warped Tour for basically our whole lives and now we get the chance?” enthuses guitarist Jye Menzies. “We’re all extremely excited to travel to the UK and play to fans that haven’t had the chance to see us yet. Everyone should expect a show that’s full of energy and [loads of fun]”.
Last year, Crossfaith laid waste to the Kevin Says stage, yet unfortunately left hundreds of fans unable to catch the phenomenal set due to capacity restrictions. This year, Vans Warped rectify the problem by sticking them on the Monster Energy Main Stage, to ensure they can throw down a much bigger dance metal party in the main hall.
Itch is a group also familiar with the punk world, having graced magazine covers, sold out tour posters and radio airwaves while fronting The King Blues. Over four albums and seven years, Itch’s political spirit was churned out to many thousands, refreshed by someone with something to say.
As a solo artist, Itch’s new work focuses on mixing punk, pop, reggae, folk, dubstep and dance and a lyrical finesse that is both flourishing and fearless.
“To be playing Warped UK is an honour. I’m mad excited its gonna go off!” he said.
Real Friends excite fans by making their UK debut, bringing their suburban Chicago pop-punk to the line up. “Real Friends is beyond excited to come over to the UK with Warped Tour.” Says bassist Kyle Fassell. Can’t wait to hit the UK for the first time, and definitely not the last.”
Finally, Yellowcard leave the Florida sunshine to bring their violin-laced pop-punk to North London. Frontman Ryan Key states:
“We have been a part of the Warped Tour family for over a decade now. We are so honored to help bring the Tour overseas!”
Keeping with tradition, a breathtaking extreme sports display will appear alongside the musical banquet, as well as dozens of stalls in a bigger merch market, offering artists the chance to meet some of them at spontaneous signing sessions.
Boasting four stages and two days, this is just a taste of things to come, with over 45 bands – including further headliners – still to be announced.