In Episode 85, Neill Wilkinson, Rich Holmes an Arran Prime take a look back at the chaos and glory of Bloodstock 2025. From the sheer power of Gojira to the "berserker mode" energy in the pits, we’re breaking down what fans really wanted and how they reacted to the legendary performances on the Sophie Lancaster Stage, The Ronnie James Dio Stage, The EMP Stage, and the New Blood Stage.

We also talk to the powerhouse behind the scenes, Vicky Hungerford, to discuss the massive task of booking the 2026 lineup and the logistical "magic" that makes Bloodstock a global metal pilgrimage.

Whether you’re a seasoned "Bloodstocker" or a first-timer, this episode is packed with tips, band reactions, and exclusive insights.

Don't forget to visit our friends at Fat Frank’s Camping Shop! Pick up your last-minute festival essentials or use their Click & Collect service to have your gear waiting for you on-site.

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Welcome back to Festpod, the unofficial rock festival guide!

In Episode 84, Neill and Rich are diving deep into the massive Download Festival 2026 lineup. We’re talking the return of Linkin Park (with Emily Armstrong), the "lengthy" Guns N' Roses sets, and why on earth Scooter is on the main billing!

We’re also breaking down the latest Bloodstock Open Air news from their recent Q&A, including the end of the funfair (RIP 🎡) and some massive site upgrades to the Sophie Lancaster and EMP stages. Plus, we’ve got Gig Picks, "Nine Inch Kills" (oops!), and a look at the Sanctum Modern Metal Festival line-up.

In this episode:

• Download 2026: Are the headliners fresh enough?

• Keanu Reeves at Download: Can Dogstar actually play?

• Festival Accessibility: A look inside the Diverse Sensory Calm Space.

• Bloodstock Upgrades: Why we're getting "extra length" on the EMP stage.

• Gig Picks: The Hara, Deadbolt Festival, and Survivalist.

🔗 CONNECT WITH US

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📱 Follow us on Socials: Search "Festpod" on the decent platforms.

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Sponsor: Huge thanks to Fat Frank’s Camping Shop for sponsoring the show. Get your festival essentials at https://fatfrankscampingshop.com

#DownloadFestival #BloodstockFestival #LinkinPark #LimpBizkit #RockFestival #Metalhead #FestPod #KeanuReeves #Dogstar #UKMetal

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In episode 83 of Festpod, hosts Neill Wilkinson, Rich Holmes, and Arran Prime meet:

- @allearsavowband

- @CollapseTheSky

- @changepersonaband

- @DACARAUK

- @TWOYEARBREAK

- @ExistImmortal

and Hevs, the organiser of the Takeover at Download.

with our sponsor:

Fat Frank's Camping Shop @fatfrankscamping1991

https://fatfrankscampingshop.com

Find all our video podcast episodes in this playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlfyhNTZm6HBHjHm4kSORo_HykWXf0KGu&si=_5FbNi1-Rfe0sU1t

Please support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/festpod

If you'd like to buy our merch, visit our merch store here: https://etsy.com/uk/shop/Festpod

All our links here: https://festpod.co.uk

Timestamps ⏱:

0:00 - Pre Titles

0:31 - Fat Frank's Camping Shop - 1st sponsor spot

01:10 - Title sequence

01:31 - Welcome

03:04 - All Ears Avow

09:04 - Collapse The Sky

17:21 - Change Persona

-- Ad Break --

25:37 - Greysight break bumper

25:47 - Frank's Camping Shop - 2nd sponsor spot

--- Part 2 --

26:31 - Welcome back

26:50 - Dacara

37:06 - Two Year Break

47:01 - Exist Immortal

55:33 - Heather Gibb (Hevs) - Organiser

-- Outro --

1:03:11 - Wrap-up

1:04:09 - Goodbye

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