LATE NIGHT ENTERTAINMENT AT SONISPHERE ANNOUNCED

PARTY ON - ULTIMATE POWER TO HOST SONISPHERE FINALE IN BOHEMIA

KERRANG! & VOODOO ROCKS PARTIES

LATE NIGHT LIVE PERFORMANCES FROM
THE SISTERS OF MERCY, 65daysofstatic & NIRVANA DEFILED

SETS FROM INFAMY & MIXHELL

SILENT ARENA, ALTERNATIVE KARAOKE, WRESTLING & MORE


With just two weekends separating tens of thousands of rock fans from SONISPHERE festival, organisers have outlined the late night entertainment on offer after the headline acts have finished their sets.

Kicking things off on the Thursday night, club gurus VOODOO ROCK will take over BOHEMIA to host the first party of the weekend. Usually resident in London, they will be bringing their team of DJs and party hosts for a huge punk/grunge/ska/emo/rock/metal party to the big blue tent for one night only.

Following the VOODOO ROCK party, and now a mainstay at SONISPHERE, the unmissable ALTERNATIVE KARAOKE gives people the chance to sing the songs they want to sing. Maiden? Pantera? Slayer? Rammstein? Yes to all of these, and and many, many, many more. Start warming up now…

Thursday also sees the first ever KERRANG! Party held at SONISPHERE. James McMahon and Alex Baker from KERRANG! will be taking to the decks and playing the greatest rock and roll party tunes in the world right now. So excited about having the legendary rock champions throw a party, they’ve been invited back to do the same again at BOHEMIA on the Saturday night too.

There’s also some fantastic live acts booked for late night performances. On the Friday, catch Sheffield’s 65daysofstatic with their mindblowing instrumental set of electronic math proggery, followed by MIXHELL. Boasting live percussion from ex Sepultura sticksman Iggor Cavalera, MIXHELL will do whatever it takes to make you dance, combining elements of dance, electronica, electroclash, hip hop and rock’n’roll, and mixing a live drum and bass section with samples and loops to unique effect.

Last up on the Friday comes INFAMY. Last seen at SONISPHERE roadblocking BOHEMIA (then going under the name of A1bassline), INFAMY will treat the late night revellers to a tear out Drum & Bass set into the early hours.

In 2011 THE SISTERS OF MERCY made a late night appearance at BOHEMIA for their first festival performance in 20 years. Captivating and magical, the prospect of inviting them back for another late night set was irresistible, and so they return to treat BOHEMIA to another unforgettable performance on the Saturday night.

Commemorating 20 years since the passing of Kurt Cobain and following the footsteps of Bat Sabbath, NIRVANA DEFILED make their first ever performance anywhere in tribute to the Seattle grunge legends. The last live performance of the weekend, Stitch D, Vincent Hyde and Needles of THE DEFILED will take to BOHEMIA to honour their fallen hero for a late night Sunday set.

Following NIRAVANA DEFILED, SONISPHERE welcomes ULTIMATE POWER to close proceedings in BOHEMIA. ULTIMATE POWER is, quite simply, an evening of the greatest songs ever written. A communal appreciation of colossal musical compositions from the titans of Power Ballads; messrs Collins, Loaf, Tyler and Jovi and many, many more besides.

Bring your Air instruments and throat sweets. Leave your inhibitions at the bar and come follow us to the promised land where pure balladic power will move you to your very core – there is no better finale!

Across the weekend, in honour of this year’s fancy dress theme, there will be powerslamming, piledriving, facebusting entertainment courtesy of PROGRESS WRESTLING. With champions such as Jimmy Havoc and Rampage Brown competing in breathtaking exhibition bouts, the SATELLITE stage will swap the rock for blood, sweat and tears.

After the live performances have finished over at the JAGERMEISTER tent, it will transform into the SILENT ARENA – a cheeky way of evading the noise curfews, the SILENT ARENA’s disco is powered by wireless headphones, and even allows you to choose between DJs.

In addition to the entertainment on offer at the BOHEMIA, JAGERMEISTER and SATELLITE stages, SONISPHERE’s information tent has been taken over by the CULT OF LOVE & GRATITUDE. A mecca for Luchador fanatics over the world, the CULT OF LOVE & GRATITUDE believe in 5 basic principles.

• Seriously good sound systems
• Wrestling Aerobics
• Luchador Twister
• Lucha Jenga
• Hard Partying & Secret Sects.

A regular information tent by day, by night the walls come in and an intimate party starts powered by the latest Cerwin Vega P Series PA. In their own words, “We don’t stop partying until we are being carted off by the boss. Your last bastion of hope in a world that has forgotten the old gods.”

For those feeling all partied out, there’s also the option to take a seat in front of the SATURN stage for a metal history lesson. As part of the THRASHBACK campaign, the ultimate thrash metal documentary GET THRASHED will be played out on the giant screens either side of the SATURN stage after the bands have finished on the Saturday. Featuring headliners METALLICA alongside Megadeth, Slayer, Pantera, Anthrax, Slipknot, Exodus and many other hugely influential names, the award winning film is a must-see for any self-respecting metalhead.

Individual day and weekend tickets for SONISPHERE 2014 are on sale now at www.sonisphere.co.uk. Check the Sonisphere website for further details.

All Campsites open Thursday.

LINE UP SO FAR:

Friday

APOLLO STAGE:

THE PRODIGY
LIMP BIZKIT
HIM
BAND OF SKULLS
GARY NUMAN
ANTI-FLAG
THE DEFILED

BOHEMIA
ELECTRIC WIZARD
ANTHRAX (PERFORMING AMONG THE LIVING)
65DAYSOFSTATIC
ATARI TEENAGE RIOT
BAM MARGERA'S FUCKFACE UNSTOPPABLE
DEVIL YOU KNOW
COMEBACK KID
MIXHELL
YASHIN
CANTERBURY
LOSTALONE
HOUNDS
INFAMY


JAGERMEISTER & SATELLITE STAGE
CARNIFEX
BRUTALITY WILL PREVAIL
MESSENGER
TRC
LITTLE MATADOR
MAX RAPTOR
MALEFICE
STRAIGHT LINES
EMP!RE
BLACK DOGS
PROTAFIELD
LOVE ZOMBIES
SHRINE
GLASS CITY VICE

Saturday

APOLLO STAGE:
IRON MAIDEN
DEFTONES
FRANK TURNER & THE SLEEPING SOULS
ANTHRAX
GHOST
BABYMETAL
TESSERACT


SATURN STAGE:
SLAYER
HUNDRED REASONS (PERFORMING IDEAS ABOVE OUR STATION)
CARCASS
THE WINERY DOGS
CHAS & DAVE
ALESTORM

BOHEMIA
THE SISTERS OF MERCY
NEW MODEL ARMY
DOG EAT DOG PLAYING ALL BORO KINGS
SEBASTIAN BACH
NIRVANA DEFILED
THE VIRGINMARYS
RECKLESS LOVE
BLITZ KIDS
VOODOO SIX
CALLING ALL CARS
HANG THE BASTARD

JAGERMEISTER & SATELLITE STAGE
BLEED FROM WITHIN
THE SAFETY FIRE
THE YOYOS
STAMPIN GROUND
EUREKA MACHINES
GLAMOUR OF THE KILL
THE HELL
BROKEN HANDS
THE LOUNGE KITTENS
ZICO CHAIN
FORT HOPE
RIVAL STATE
COLLIBUS
STORMZONE
THE RAVEN AGE
THE WILD LIES
EMPIRE KILL

Sunday

APOLLO STAGE:
METALLICA
ALICE IN CHAINS
MASTODON
AIRBOURNE
DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT
GOJIRA

SATURN STAGE:
DREAM THEATER
DROPKICK MURPHYS
REEL BIG FISH
KARNIVOOL
PROTEST THE HERO
BLACK SPIDERS


BOHEMIA
THERAPY? (Performing Infernal Love)
GALLOWS
THE BRONX
CHIODOS
TRUCKFIGHTERS
KERBDOG
BO NINGEN
THE CADILLAC THREE

JAGERMEISTER & SATELLITE STAGE
RAGING SPEEDHORN
TRASH TALK
SILVERSTEIN
ANTI-NOWHERE LEAGUE
BEASTMILK
DREGEN
SWEET SAVAGE
ONLY CRIME
THE BOTS
ITCH
PALM READER
THE HYPE THEORY
KROKODIL
DRIPBACK
THE ONE HUNDRED
OCTOBER FILE

BLASS OF GLORY play anywhere and everywhere

Comedy Line Up:
MAT REED - FIN TAYLOR - ALFIE BROWN - NOISE NEXT DOOR
JOHN HASTINGS - JOHN ROBERTSON - ANDREW O’NEILL - MATT REES PAT CAHILL - ALFIE BROWN - MAT EWINS - ROB DEERING
JIM SMALLMAN

Plus Wrestling, Silent Disco, Alternative Karaoke, Parties by Ultimate Power, Kerrang!, Voodoo Rocks and more

For further information please visit www.sonisphere.co.uk

With just four weeks to go, SONISPHERE announced some further additions to the July 4-6 weekender at Knebworth.

Originally booked to perform for the 2012 event, HUNDRED REASONS reformed in November that year to celebrate the decade anniversary of their 2002 “Ideas Above Our Station” album. Such was the demand that a second show had to be added in London, Manchester was upgraded, and every ticket was snapped up.

Roll on two years, to a chance meeting between Team Sonisphere’s Alan Day and HR guitarist Larry Hibbitt in a bar, who politely enquired why they weren’t on the 2014 Sonisphere line up after the cancellation two years previously. With no valid answer to provide, Alan offered them the final slot on the Saturn stage, where they will finally perform “Ideas Above Our Station” in full on the Saturday. Larry explains:

"We said we'd never do it again, but the cancelled Sonisphere of 2012 left a big hole in that summer for us. So when our shorts-wearing, crowd-surfing, festival-promoting comrade Alan Day came up with a slot for us this year we just couldn't say no. And we didn't. Don't get used to this. We say no A LOT so this is not going to happen often, if ever. But when it makes sense it makes sense and we're there. Like we will be on 5th July. See you at the front".

Featuring chart topping singles including “If I Could”, Silver” and “Falter”, HUNDRED REASONS date with destiny at SONISPHERE will be truly unmissable.

Ex-The Wildhearts bassist Danny McCormack brings his rock’n’roll band THE YOYOS to SONISPHERE for a very special one-off appearance. “Cant wait to catch up with some old friends and see some new faces.” Says the four-stringer. “It’s a great line up this year and I’m counting the days. It’s an honour to be a part of it all. See you down the front”

Taking over BOHEMIA late on the Friday night will be Rocktronica trio MIXHELL. Boasting live percussion from ex Sepultura sticksman Iggor Cavalera, MIXHELL will do whatever it takes to make you dance, combining elements of dance, electronica, electroclash, hip hop and rock’n’roll, and mixing a live drum and bass section with samples and loops to unique effect.

Recently seen out on the road with Katatonia, London’s own MESSENGER join the SONISPHERE 2014 line up to mesmerize and captivate the uninitiated. Dwelling equally in the earthy realm of folk music and the celestial void of progressive psychedelia, the five piece never fail to drop jaws – expect many wide open mouths at the Satellite stage on Friday.

"We're extremely excited to have the opportunity to perform at this amazing festival.” States drummer Jaime Gomez. “We look forward to playing to some new people and hopefully seeing some familiar faces there as well."

London loud-louts DRIPBACK make their SONISPHERE debut, with their only UK festival appearance this summer. Recently seen touring with Crowbar, DRIPBACK specialise in loud, aggressive noise and highly energetic live shows.

“This is gonna be immense, we can’t wait.” says bassist Adam Da Rat. “Metallica and Maiden together for the first time, dozens of the most awesome bands ever, Chas & Dave, a World War 1 Dog Fight… I was wondering how this could get any better, and now we get to play too. Safe!”

Melbourne rock trio CALLING ALL CARS join the festivities hot off the back of some recent UK shows including Camden Rocks. Enjoying regular rotation on huge Aussie radio station Triple J, the band have recently relocated to the UK, and are gearing up for the release of their new album “Raise The People” via Cooking Vinyl on July 28th.

"Holy fuck we are playing Sonisphere” they exclaim. “Before we were booked to play we were so stoked on the line up. It's a real honour to be included in that company."

Industrial punks PROTAFIELD come to work up the crowd on the Jagermeister stage. With an album out next week via Caroline/Universal that boasts guest appearances from Queen’s Roger Taylor and fellow Sonisphere artist Gary Numan, this new band are clearly already moving in high circles. Singer Jayce Lewis states:

“Sonisphere being back with a line up like this is testament to its quality, We are so excited to be a part of it this year. Gonna be LOUD!”

Heavy Metal marching band BLAAS OF GLORY will also be doing the rounds at Knebworth this July. A regular fixture on the international festival scene, this hilarious mobile act surprise unsuspecting metalheads with classic hits such as Running With The Devil, The Final Countdown and Highway To Hell, armed with sousaphone, saxophone, flute, glockenspiel, banjo, accordion, acoustic guitars, snare and bass drums.

Individual day and weekend tickets for SONISPHERE 2014 are on sale now at www.sonisphere.co.uk. Check the Sonisphere website for further details.

All Campsites open Thursday.

LINE UP SO FAR:

Friday

APOLLO STAGE:

THE PRODIGY
LIMP BIZKIT
HIM
BAND OF SKULLS
GARY NUMAN
ANTI-FLAG
THE DEFILED

BOHEMIA
ELECTRIC WIZARD
ANTHRAX (PERFORMING AMONG THE LIVING)
65DAYSOFSTATIC
ATARI TEENAGE RIOT
BAM MARGERA'S FUCKFACE UNSTOPPABLE
DEVIL YOU KNOW
COMEBACK KID
MIXHELL
YASHIN
CANTERBURY
LOSTALONE
HOUNDS

JAGERMEISTER & SATELLITE STAGE
CARNIFEX
BRUTALITY WILL PREVAIL
MESSENGER
TRC
LITTLE MATADOR
MAX RAPTOR
MALEFICE
STRAIGHT LINES
EMP!RE
BLACK DOGS
PROTAFIELD
LOVE ZOMBIES
SHRINE
GLASS CITY VICE

Saturday

APOLLO STAGE:
IRON MAIDEN
DEFTONES
FRANK TURNER & THE SLEEPING SOULS
ANTHRAX
GHOST
BABYMETAL
TESSERACT


SATURN STAGE:
SLAYER
HUNDRED REASONS (PERFORMING IDEAS ABOVE OUR STATION)
CARCASS
THE WINERY DOGS
CHAS & DAVE
ALESTORM

BOHEMIA
THE SISTERS OF MERCY
NEW MODEL ARMY
DOG EAT DOG PLAYING ALL BORO KINGS
SEBASTIAN BACH
THE VIRGINMARYS
RECKLESS LOVE
BLITZ KIDS
VOODOO SIX
CALLING ALL CARS

JAGERMEISTER & SATELLITE STAGE
BLEED FROM WITHIN
THE SAFETY FIRE
THE YOYOS
STAMPIN GROUND
EUREKA MACHINES
GLAMOUR OF THE KILL
THE HELL
BROKEN HANDS
THE LOUNGE KITTENS
ZICO CHAIN
FORT HOPE
RIVAL STATE
COLLIBUS
STORMZONE
THE RAVEN AGE
THE WILD LIES
EMPIRE KILL

Sunday

APOLLO STAGE:
METALLICA
ALICE IN CHAINS
MASTODON
AIRBOURNE
DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT
GOJIRA

SATURN STAGE:
DREAM THEATER
DROPKICK MURPHYS
REEL BIG FISH
KARNIVOOL
PROTEST THE HERO
BLACK SPIDERS


BOHEMIA
THERAPY? (Performing Infernal Love)
GALLOWS
THE BRONX
CHIODOS
TRUCKFIGHTERS
KERBDOG
BO NINGEN
THE CADILLAC THREE

JAGERMEISTER & SATELLITE STAGE
RAGING SPEEDHORN
TRASH TALK
SILVERSTEIN
ANTI-NOWHERE LEAGUE
BEASTMILK
DREGEN
SWEET SAVAGE
ONLY CRIME
THE BOTS
ITCH
PALM READER
THE HYPE THEORY
KROKODIL
DRIPBACK
THE ONE HUNDRED
OCTOBER FILE

BLASS OF GLORY play anywhere and everywhere

Comedy Line Up:
MAT REED - FIN TAYLOR - ALFIE BROWN - NOISE NEXT DOOR
JOHN HASTINGS - JOHN ROBERTSON - ANDREW O’NEILL - MATT REES PAT CAHILL - ALFIE BROWN - MAT EWINS - ROB DEERING
JIM SMALLMAN

Plus Wrestling, Silent Disco and more

For further information please visit www.sonisphere.co.uk

We are thrilled to announce a very special treat for all attending Sonisphere Festival on Saturday July 5th. The Great War Display Team, a group of pilots which includes IRON MAIDEN vocalist Bruce Dickinson among its illustrious members, will stage a spectacular 12 minute air display in the skies above Knebworth at approximately 6pm.

This unique and audacious “dogfight” will commemorate the 100th Anniversary of The Great War; a 21st Century tribute to the daring - and often downright dangerous - exploits of both the English and German pilots who ruled Europe’s skies between 1914-1918. The show features nine aircraft of 5 different types, all exact replicas of the planes used in WW1 combat. Bruce will be flying his very own Fokker Dr1 Triplane, the same model used by infamous German flying ace Manfred von Richthofen aka The Red Baron. Also from the German side there is a Junkers CL1. Of the British planes in the show, there is a Sopwith Triplane, a BE2c and a SE5a. The other members of this elite team alongside Bruce are Alex Truman, Dan Griffith, Dave Linney, Ernie Hoblyn, Gordon Brander, Matthew Boddington, Peter Bond, Richard Piper, Vic Lockwood and Will Greenwood. The Great War Display Team performs re-enactments throughout the UK and Europe and is proudly sponsored by Iron Maiden’s very own TROOPER beer.

Comments Bruce “The air show over Sonisphere is something I’m really excited about and we’re determined to put on an unforgettable display for everyone. We’re planning an extravaganza of derring-do, especially when you consider the manoeuvres we’ll be performing are all based on true-life battles from a hundred years ago! What some of these fighter pilots achieved back then was nothing short of miraculous given the conditions they were working under and the seriousness of what was at stake. We hope to stage a memorable display which is equally entertaining and poignant, celebrating not only the bravery and heroics of all the pilots involved but remembering the sacrifices made on both side. Having been brought up on Biggles to the horror of my English teachers, the chance to fly a Fokker triplane Dr1 was second only to owning a Sopwith Camel. A share in a Bucker Jungmann and a conversation with Great War team manager Gordon Brander led to a chance to buy a superbly constructed full size replica of the iconic German fighter. Built by the late John Day I intend to display the aircraft with the team in commemoration not just of the Great war, but also as a tribute to one of the UK's premier engineer/builders.”

Sonisphere organiser Stuart Galbraith adds, “We all got very excited when Iron Maiden approached us with this idea. It’s going to be a truly unique experience and tribute for everyone at Knebworth. We’ve made sure we were able to squeeze a gap into the outdoor stage programme on July 5th so that it has the impact it deserves.”

After the air show, Bruce will return to solid ground to get ready for Maiden’s headline performance that night, on the final date of their MAIDEN ENGLAND world tour.

For anyone interested in finding out more about The Great War Display Team’s planes, pilots and general activities go to www.greatwardisplayteam.com

HIM ONLY UK SHOW OF 2014

ANTHRAX TO PLAY EXTRA SET IN BOHEMIA - AMONG THE LIVING IN FULL

COMEBACK KID – SWEET SAVAGE
OCTOBER FILE – EUREKA MACHINES
THE BOTS – STRAIGHT LINES – ZICO CHAIN BLACK DOGS - LOVE ZOMBIES - STORMZONE SHRINE - RIVAL STATE - THE WILD LIES
THE RAVEN AGE - EMPIRE KILL

With less than two months to go until SONISPHERE 2014 kicks off on the 4th July, a further sixteen acts have been added to the line up – plus a special treat from an existing member of the SONISPHERE cast.

Flying in from Helsinki, Finland for an exclusive one-off performance, love-metallers HIM make their debut at Knebworth this summer. Last year’s “Tears On Tape” saw the triumphant return of HIS INFERNAL MAJESTY after a three year gap, with many citing it as their greatest work since 2003’s breakthrough “Love Metal” album. Anyone fortunate enough to catch them on their subsequent tour would have witnessed a band genuinely savouring their every moment on stage, as they showcased their unique fusion of forlorn balladry and heavy, synth laden sounds. Bassplayer Mige checked in to tell us:

“We, the merry men of HIM, will bring our socially dysfunctional selves to Sonisphere UK next summer. We are like a bad tasting but nutritious grandma biscuit you can dip into your inner worlds. It'll be fun and possibly out of control, you'll see. There will be smoke, lights and psychedelia. Sweat and zealotry. Men will cry. It’s going to be a FUCKING EMOTIONADO!”

Possibly the last opportunity to see them in the UK before they start work on their next album, don’t miss the chance to see hits such as “Buried Alive By Love”, “Funeral Of Hearts”, “Wicked Game” and “Wings Of A Butterfly”.

Not content with already performing on the APOLLO stage on the Saturday, thrash legends ANTHRAX are taking advantage of a day off on the Friday to give those in BOHEMIA a special treat they will never forget. Scott Ian and co will be stomping their way through their classic “Among The Living” album in full, in a sweaty, heaving tent. “Among The Living”, “Caught In A Mosh”, “I Am The Law”, “NFL”, “Indians” – the list goes on, the hits don’t stop – this will be simply unmissable. Says Ian:

“We love to play these songs and people love to hear them so we're really fucking excited to be doing this special show the day before our main-stage performance at Sonisphere Knebworth playing (for the first time ever) just the Among The Living record for you, our UK faithful!
It's gonna be sick. See you soon my friends. Cheers, Scott”


With four albums under their belts and a fifth on the way, COMEBACK KID are undeniably a staple of the modern hardcore scene. Having performed on all four corners of the globe, including some of Europe’s premier festivals, this is a well oiled machine to say the least, with a reputation for incredible live shows.

“Can't wait to get back to the UK and be able to play Sonisphere! Last time I had the opportunity to see the Prodigy was at a festival in Serbia but I missed them because I had to spend the night in jail” confesses Andrew Neufeld. “Let’s hope I can make it to see them this time!”

Expect chaos in BOHEMIA as COMEBACK KID belt out anthems such as “Wake The Dead “, “Defeated” and “Should Know Better” at their only UK festival this summer.

One of the pioneers of the NWOBHM, Belfast’s SWEET SAVAGE join the line up at the request of one Mr Lars Ulrich. Formed in 1979, the band had called it a day by 1985, but reformed 90s after a new surge of interest in the band off the back of Metallica’s cover of their song “Killing Time”.

Having played at last year’s SONISPHERE festival in Spain, OCTOBER FILE make their way to Knebworth this year. Blending punk, hardcore and industrial metal and lacing it with a political edge, expect a ferocious set from the Wallingford four-piece. “October File are stoked to playing an awesome festival with some great bands already announced, put on by great people and a great organization” says Bassplayer Steve Beatty. “See you in the pit.“

Brilliantly catchy, EUREKA MACHINES come armed with huge, lavish power-pop perfection. Formed by Chris Catalyst (occasional guitar/bass wrangler for The Sisters Of Mercy, Mariachi El Bronx and Ginger), the four piece feel their most apt description is the promising: ‘Imagine if the Beatles and the Beach Boys met Motorhead, jammed with the Cardiacs and created the best band you’ve never heard. Until now.’

Many teenagers dream of being rockstars when they grow up, but for brothers Mikaiah and Anaiah Lei the dream became a reality before they could even apply for a driving license. Recording their first album aged just 15 and 12 respectively, the duo who make up THE BOTS have taken their garage punk across the world, supporting the likes of Refused, Bad Brains and Tenacious D, as well as at numerous high profile festivals.

After rocking the Strongbow stage at the 2010 SONISPHERE, Pontypridd’s STRAIGHT LINES return this year to rock Knebworth once more. Armed with a new EP, this Welsh Quartet come armed with big riffs, bigger melodies and an exhilarating live show. Says the band: “Straight Lines are very happy to be returning to their favourite UK festival. We've all attended the last 3 Sonispheres and are very much looking forward to playing this year, instead of being the super drunk people on the other side of the barrier.. well, for at least the duration of our set. See you in the pit!”

London rockers ZICO CHAIN join the line up this year. Having held their own supporting giants such as Velvet Revolver, Halestorm and supporting SONISPHERE headliners IRON MAIDEN at the O2 last year, the trio should have no problem dazzling the crowds at Knebworth.

BLACK DOGS are about to take the UK metal scene by force and SONISPHERE is not going to know what hit it. This unstoppable pack of northern bastards deliver a raw and intense live show that’s got the industry taking notice in a big way. With backing from Radio One’s Rock Show and support slots with the likes of Hatebreed, Stray From The Path and Bring Me The Horizon to boast, it’s only a matter of time before the rest of the world sits up and takes notice.


Recently seen supporting Alkaline Trio, and performing at last year’s VANS WARPED TOUR, Transatlantic quartet LOVE ZOMBIES bring their infectious power pop to the SATELLITE stage on the Friday to spread some California sunshine.

Flying the flag for traditional metal, STORMZONE (who you may have seen recently supporting Saxon) come armed with wailing guitars, galloping bass and huge choruses. “We have toured with many great bands over the years and performed at a lot of European festivals, but being given the opportunity to rock the stages at Sonisphere is definitely the highlight of the Stormzone career so far.” They proclaim. “This is what being in a band is all about!!”

Math rockers SHRINE look set to devastate the crowds with their technical, dynamic assault on both mind and ear. Blending the aggression of hardcore, the grandeur of post rock and the synchopated characteristics of math rock, the Brighton four piece are impossible to pigeonhole and are definitely ones to watch. Says SHRINE:“We are so stoked that we will be playing this years Sonisphere Festival along with some of our favourite bands!”

Coming all the way from New Plymouth, New Zealand, RIVAL STATE make their first UK festival appearance at SONISPHERE. Variously labeled rock, punk, grunge and everything in between, these Kiwis specialize in loud, catchy music with a hard edge.

Formed in the home counties, THE WILD LIES peddle in hard rock, fused with intricate, grinding riffage, colliding with stadium rock chorus melodies. If you like stomping riffs, ear melting solos and choruses to make the walls sweat, don’t miss their Saturday set at SONISPHERE.

Also joining the line up are London melodic metalheads THE RAVEN AGE and EMPIRE KILL.


LINE UP SO FAR:

Friday

APOLLO STAGE:

THE PRODIGY
LIMP BIZKIT
HIM
BAND OF SKULLS
GARY NUMAN
ANTI-FLAG
THE DEFILED

BOHEMIA
ELECTRIC WIZARD
ANTHRAX (PERFORMING AMONG THE LIVING)
65DAYSOFSTATIC
ATARI TEENAGE RIOT
BAM MARGERA'S FUCKFACE UNSTOPPABLE
DEVIL YOU KNOW
COMEBACK KID
YASHIN
CANTERBURY
LOSTALONE
HOUNDS

JAGERMEISTER & SATELLITE STAGE
CARNIFEX
BRUTALITY WILL PREVAIL
TRC
LITTLE MATADOR
MAX RAPTOR
MALEFICE
STRAIGHT LINES
EMP!RE
BLACK DOGS
LOVE ZOMBIES
SHRINE
GLASS CITY VICE

Saturday

APOLLO STAGE:
IRON MAIDEN
DEFTONES
FRANK TURNER & THE SLEEPING SOULS
ANTHRAX
GHOST
BABYMETAL
TESSERACT


SATURN STAGE:
SLAYER
CARCASS
THE WINERY DOGS
CHAS & DAVE
ALESTORM

BOHEMIA & OTHER STAGES:
THE SISTERS OF MERCY
NEW MODEL ARMY
DOG EAT DOG PLAYING ALL BORO KINGS
SEBASTIAN BACH
THE VIRGINMARYS
RECKLESS LOVE
BLITZ KIDS
VOODOO SIX
JAGERMEISTER & SATELLITE STAGE
BLEED FROM WITHIN
THE SAFETY FIRE
STAMPIN GROUND
EUREKA MACHINES
GLAMOUR OF THE KILL
THE HELL
BROKEN HANDS
THE LOUNGE KITTENS
ZICO CHAIN
FORT HOPE
RIVAL STATE
COLLIBUS
STORMZONE
THE RAVEN AGE
THE WILD LIES
EMPIRE KILL

Sunday

APOLLO STAGE:
METALLICA
ALICE IN CHAINS
MASTODON
AIRBOURNE
DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT
GOJIRA

SATURN STAGE:
DREAM THEATER
DROPKICK MURPHYS
REEL BIG FISH
KARNIVOOL
PROTEST THE HERO
BLACK SPIDERS


BOHEMIA & OTHER STAGES:
THERAPY? (Performing Infernal Love)
GALLOWS
THE BRONX
CHIODOS
TRUCKFIGHTERS
KERBDOG
BO NINGEN
THE CADILLAC THREE

JAGERMEISTER & SATELLITE STAGE
RAGING SPEEDHORN
TRASH TALK
SILVERSTEIN
ANTI-NOWHERE LEAGUE
BEASTMILK
DREGEN
SWEET SAVAGE
ONLY CRIME
THE BOTS
ITCH
PALM READER
THE HYPE THEORY
KROKODIL
THE ONE HUNDRED
OCTOBER FILE

Comedy Line Up:
MAT REED - FIN TAYLOR - ALFIE BROWN - NOISE NEXT DOOR
JOHN HASTINGS - JOHN ROBERTSON - ANDREW O’NEILL - MATT REES PAT CAHILL - ALFIE BROWN - MAT EWINS - ROB DEERING
JIM SMALLMAN

Plus Wrestling, Silent Disco and more

Individual day and weekend tickets for SONISPHERE 2014 are on sale now at www.sonisphere.co.uk. Check the Sonisphere website for further details.

All Campsites open Thursday.

For further information please visit www.sonisphere.co.uk

We are excited to announce IRON MAIDEN’S TROOPER Premium British beer has just been confirmed as the Official Ale of Sonisphere Festival! The beer is a special batch brewed especially for the festival and as such will be cellar fresh, filtered and served chilled.

Comments Bruce Dickinson, “ Pints of Trooper at Sonisphere will be pretty special because of just how fresh they will be! They will be brewed and transported at the very last minute to ensure that MAIDEN fans get them as close to perfect as they can possibly be. Add in the fact that they will be chilled and this really will be a special festival pint of ale! We’ve also worked on the way it will be served to minimise queues and also give the best pint actually in the glass that we possibly could. We’re really proud to be bringing it to our fans this way and I know we’ll convert some non-ale drinkers too. Ultimately we’re delivering a special beer for the very last show of the MAIDEN ENGLAND Tour. What could be better?”

MAIDEN’s headline show at Sonisphere on Saturday July 5th will be their only UK appearance on the final date of their MAIDEN ENGLAND WORLD TOUR which began in June 2012 and has seen the band play to well over two and a half million fans around the globe. More importantly, MAIDEN ENGLAND is the last of the band’s three retrospective tours covering the 1980’s period and will feature a set list representative of that entire decade. It is therefore very likely that Sonisphere will be the last chance ever to hear some of those early songs performed live so the perfect opportunity to enjoy some TROOPER on this historic occasion!

TROOPER beer celebrates its first anniversary on May 9th 2014 and a staggering five million pints have already been brewed, almost half of which are to fulfil export orders. The beer is a collaboration between IRON MAIDEN and Cheshire family brewer Robinsons and has proved a runaway success from the off. So much so, that Robinsons have just announced a number of new initiatives to cope with the ever-increasing demand, including a ‘TROOPER Tracker’ internet global beer-finder to keep fans updated on where the beer is currently available and a new handy-sized 330ml glass bottle to be sold in pubs, clubs and bars in places where the cask beer isn’t easily accessible. Robinsons have also increased their workforce to ensure the beer gets out as quickly as possible to thirsty TROOPER fans everywhere, something they are able to achieve thanks largely to their brand-new extended capacity brew house which at one point was brewing three batches of TROOPER a day, 6 days a week for the first time ever in the brewery’s 175-year history.

TROOPER is available in the UK as a cask ale and in both a 500ml and 330ml bottle from Robinsons’ award winning Unicorn Brewery in Stockport, Cheshire. There will also be a special, dated & limited IRON MAIDEN Sonisphere plastic bottle available at the festival while stocks last.

TROOPER Premium British beer was personally designed and developed by IRON MAIDEN vocalist Bruce Dickinson alongside Robinsons’ Head Brewer Martyn Weeks.

For more information www.ironmaidenbeer.com

SONISPHERE 2014 coincides with the 40th anniversary of live music at the legendary grounds of Knebworth House, and to celebrate, some very special events will be taking place over the course of the weekend and beyond.

Sonisphere presents Classic Album Sundays in partnership with Jagermeister

In an age where most devices used for playing music come with a shuffle option, songs are sold individually and the majority of music serves as background to whatever other task the “listener” is attending to, the team behind Classic Album Sundays (www.classicalbumsundays.com) provides a remedy to those who’ve forgotten what an album sounds and feels like.

With monthly events hosted in cities around the world, Classic Album Sundays is an opportunity to truly lose yourself in the music, enabled by simple rules – no talking, no texting, and every song on the album is listened to in the correct order as the artist intended. Enhancing the experience and enabling the listener to hear intricate details is the all analogue Audio Note hi-fi, one of the world's best audiophile sound systems.

With the 40th anniversary of Knebworth House coinciding with this year’s Sonisphere, a series of Classic Album Sundays sessions in partnership with Jagermeister will be hosted at the festival. Between 10am – 4pm on the Saturday and Sunday, festival goers will be able to enjoy albums from all three of this year’s headliners, plus other legendary albums by bands from the rich 40 year history of Knebworth. Titles will include Iron Maiden “Seventh Son of a Seventh Son”, Pink Floyd “The Dark Side of the Moon”, Prodigy “Fat of the Land”, Metallica “Metallica (The Black Album)” and more to be announced, with an introduction to each by a suitably passionate expert before the playback

Interested parties will be able to sign up to attend these exclusive events during the course of the festival. Visit the information tent for details.

www.classicalbumsundays.com @ClassicAlbumSun


Knebworth Exhibition

Since 1974 Knebworth Park has played host to some of rock’s biggest and best performances, including of course Sonisphere in 2009, 2010 and 2011. To celebrate 40 years of live music at the venue Knebworth House has expanded its existing collection of memorabilia with rare and exclusive items gathered for a special exhibition. With a history encompassing Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, 10cc, Frank Zappa, Lynrd Skynyrd, Devo, Genesis and many more this will be a must for rock fans and music aficionados. Following on from Sonisphere itself members of the public will be able to see the exhibition from 8th July until 31st August during Knebworth House open days between 12:00 and 4:00pm for £12 for adults and £11.50 for seniors and children. The cost also allows access to the Gardens, Dinosaur Trail, Park and Adventure Playground. For more information check http://www.knebworthhouse.com/

40th Anniversary Tribute To The Greats

Knebworth House has hosted to some of the biggest and most legendary artists to ever roam the planet, from classic icons to modern megastars. Although Sonisphere plays host to many legends in its own right, with it being the 40th anniversary of festivals at Knebworth, Sonisphere would like to pay tribute to those magic moments over the last four decades via a worthy covers band, and are opening the doors to submissions.

With the likes of The Allman Brothers, Van Morrison, The Doobie Brothers, Captain Beefhart, Steve Miller Band, 10cc, Hot Tuna, Lynryd Skynyrd, Rolling Stones. Frank Zappa, BB King, Led Zepplin, Scorpions, Deep Purple, UFO, Genesis, Pink Floyd, Dire Straits and many many more, there are plenty of classic tracks to choose from. If you play in or know of a suitable covers band that you think should make the cut, tag them on our facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/sonispherefestival) or email a suitable link to sonispherefestivals@kililive.com before 15th May.


LINE UP SO FAR:

Friday

APOLLO STAGE:

THE PRODIGY
LIMP BIZKIT
BAND OF SKULLS
GARY NUMAN
ANTI-FLAG
THE DEFILED

BOHEMIA & OTHER STAGES:

ELECTRIC WIZARD
65DAYSOFSTATIC
ATARI TEENAGE RIOT
DEVIL YOU KNOW
BAM MARGERA'S FUCKFACE UNSTOPPABLE
YASHIN
CARNIFEX
LOSTALONE
CANTERBURY
TRC
BRUTALITY WILL PREVAIL
HOUNDS
LITTLE MATADOR
MALEFICE
GLASS CITY VICE

Saturday

APOLLO STAGE:
IRON MAIDEN
DEFTONES
FRANK TURNER & THE SLEEPING SOULS
ANTHRAX
GHOST

SATURN STAGE:
SLAYER
CARCASS
THE WINERY DOGS
CHAS & DAVE
ALESTORM

BOHEMIA & OTHER STAGES:
THE SISTERS OF MERCY
NEW MODEL ARMY
DOG EAT DOG PLAYING ALL BORO KINGS
SEBASTIAN BACH
WILKO JOHNSON
THE VIRGINMARYS
RECKLESS LOVE
BLITZ KIDS
BLEED FROM WITHIN
STAMPIN GROUND
VOODOO SIX
THE HELL

Sunday

APOLLO STAGE:
METALLICA
ALICE IN CHAINS
MASTODON
AIRBOURNE
DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT
GOJIRA

SATURN STAGE:
DREAM THEATER
DROPKICK MURPHYS
REEL BIG FISH
KARNIVOOL
PROTEST THE HERO

BOHEMIA & OTHER STAGES:
THERAPY? (Performing Infernal Love)
BABYMETAL
THE BRONX
GALLOWS
BO NINGEN
CHIODOS
KERBDOG
TRASH TALK
TRUCKFIGHTERS
SILVERSTEIN
THE CADILLAC THREE
ONLY CRIME
ANTI-NOWHERE LEAGUE
DREGEN
ITCH
BEASTMILK
KROKODIL


Across the weekend
BLACK SPIDERS BROKEN HANDS COLLIBUS EMP!RE FORT HOPE GLAMOUR OF THE KILL THE HYPE THEORY THE LOUNGE KITTENS MAX RAPTOR THE ONE HUNDRED PALM READER RAGING SPEEDHORN TESSERACT THE SAFETY FIRE

Comedy Line Up:
MAT REED - FIN TAYLOR - ALFIE BROWN - NOISE NEXT DOOR
JOHN HASTINGS - JOHN ROBERTSON - ANDREW O’NEILL - MATT REES PAT CAHILL - ALFIE BROWN - MAT EWINS - ROB DEERING
JIM SMALLMAN

Plus Wrestling, Silent Disco and more

Individual day and weekend tickets for SONISPHERE 2014 are on sale now at www.sonisphere.co.uk. Check the Sonisphere website for further details.

All Campsites open Thursday.

For further information please visit www.sonisphere.co.uk

BABYMETAL TO MAKE UK DEBUT AT SONISPHERE

One of the best things about being in 2014 is that when something happens which is truly unique, no matter where in the world it happens, everyone knows about it.

The latest musical phenomenon to go viral is Japan's BABYMETAL, and Team Sonisphere snapped them up to join this year's line up.
Since uploading latest single "Gimme Chocolate!!" less than two months ago, anyone with even a passing interest in music will be aware of the teenage trio's blend of Icon Pop and Heavy Metal. Generating over 5 million views, seemingly out of nowhere, the music press was forced to stand up and take notice, with premier rock publications like Kerrang! and Metal Hammer featuring the band, alongside mainstream outlets such as The Guardian and USA Today.

Innovators will always divide opinion, and announcing that BABYMETAL's debut performance in the UK will be on a bill that also boasts IRON MAIDEN, METALLICA, ALICE IN CHAINS and MASTODON will no doubt cause some anguished cries from the purists, but one thing is certain - anyone lucky enough to squeeze into the BOHEMIA tent on SONISPHERE'S SUNDAY will be rewarded with an all singing, all dancing show the likes of which the UK has never seen before.

“I am so honored that we are confirmed to play Sonisphere Festival UK.” Declares SU-METAL. “There are so many different types of artists playing this festival but I hope to deliver a one and only, unique style metal - BABYMETAL - even to those who will see us for the very first time.
This will be our very first time in the UK, which makes us nervous yet excited just imagining what type of people will come and see us, what sort of show it will end up being, and whether the audience will enjoy our show.”

She continues, “We'll hopefully get to see Metallica-san's performance again after witnessing them at Summer Sonic festival in Japan which we are very excited about. Put your KITSUNE sing up!! See you!!”


Individual day and weekend tickets for SONISPHERE 2014 are on sale now at www.sonisphere.co.uk.

With just three months to go until the return of the mighty SONISPHERE festival to KNEBWORTH, a further twleve acts have been added to the star-packed line up.

After their late night trip down memory lane in 2010, million selling power trio Therapy? return to BOHEMIA, this time to perform their 1995 classic “Infernal Love”. Featuring chart topping hits such as “Stories”, “Loose” and “Diane”, “Infernal Love” went crashing into the top ten on its release. Now it comes alive again at SONISPHERE as Andy Cairns and co headline BOHEMIA’s Sunday. Says the man himself:

"Delighted to have been asked back to Sonisphere UK to perform "Infernal Love" in its entirety. Our "Troublegum" show there back in
2010 was a special night indeed and we are very much looking forward to playing our 1995 fan favourite at the UK’s premier rock festival. See you all July 6th on the Bohemia stage!"

It is with immense pride that SONISPHERE welcomes ATARI TEENAGE RIOT to the 2014 line up, for their first UK festival appearance since 2010. True pioneers, Alec Empire and crew have been spreading their message of political radicalism with mindblowing musical hybrids since 1992, blending everything from speed metal, acid and jungle with their techno base. So eclectic is their output, they have toured comfortably alongside Wu-Tang Clan, RATM, NIN, Ministry, Moby and Beck to name but a few, and will no doubt go down a storm amongst the veritable musical banquet on offer at Knebworth this July.

Despite being born in four separate cities in Japan, the members of BO NINGEN met and formed their band in the capital of England. Abandoning any conventional ideas of structure, the London-based four piece are lending a new definition to the word psychedelic, ignoring all the rules and doing things the BO NINGEN way. Given their proud unpredictability, setting expectations for their set in BOHEMIA would be redundant, save to say it is not to be missed.

Thrash-punk juggernaut TRASH TALK have a reputation for putting on highly energetic and wildly chaotic shows, making them a more than welcome addition to this year’s line up. Blending furious hardcore with the speediest of metal, their ceaseless touring across the world, from the US to Europe, Australia and Japan, has made them a formidable live act who never fail to deliver their loud, ugly goods.

Farnham four piece CANTERBURY make their SONISPHERE debut this year. Armed with huge songs and even bigger choruses, this promising young band have graced stages with The Automatic, Enter Shikari, Against Me, Twin Atlantic, You Me At Six and many more. Having released third album “Dark Days” earlier this year via the iconic Hassle Records label, CANTERBURY are on a sure and steady rise to the top.

Despite currently undergoing a headline tour of clubs in the UK, Rock-Pop trio LOSTALONE make songs destined for stadiums, and their increasingly rapid trajectory suggests that it won’t be too long before the prophecy made by the likes of Kerrang!, Classic Rock, NME and Rock Sound to name but a few comes to pass. Make sure you catch their set at BOHEMIA on the Friday and see why LOSTALONE’s live show earnt the full KKKKK mark in this week’s Kerrang! Magazine.

"To be able to say that we're playing Sonisphere festival is one of the most perfectly beautiful sentences I'll ever speak.” Enthuses frontman Steven Battelle. “Knebworth being the scene of Freddie Mercury's last ever performance with Queen is a spiritual home for true rock fans. To join a bill with Metallica, The Prodigy and IRON MAIDEN is a privilege. We intend to construct our own little piece of history."

Glasgow’s BLEED FROM WITHIN are ready to show the world what a world class metal band sounds like in 2014 and SONISPHERE is delighted to give them the opportunity to do just that. Last year’s “Uprising” is an utterly monstrous piece of work, stuffed to the gills with infectious hooks, killer riffs and moments of atmospheric and dynamic euphoria. Add to that an aggression only the streets of Glasgow can breed and you have the recipe for a gloriously punishing performance at Knebworth.

Hellacopters and Backyard Babies co-founder DREGEN brings his solo project to SONISPHERE this year. Released last September, “Dregen” is the Swedish star’s modern take on an era when decadence and glamour weren’t dirty words, when heels and musicians were generally high and the commercial and the credible could sit side by side. He tells us:

"I'm really excited to play Sonisphere as this will be my first UK festival as a solo-artist! The UK tour I did in December was a lot of fun so I can't wait to get back to wake the Brits up, Swedish style, on the very last day of the Festival, Sunday July 6th."

Blending hardcore, metal and UK grime, TRC are one of a kind and a more than welcome addition to the SONISPHERE line up. Notorious for their dangerous live shows and outspoken nature, famous for their imaginative music that perfectly encapsulates the concrete jungle of inner city London that houses them, and with amazing videos that rely on imagination and creativity rather than big budgets, TRC are the real deal. Says frontman Chris Robson:

"Absolutely honoured to be playing Sonisphere. It's the first time we're getting a chance to play tracks off of Nation to such a large audience, and they were written for this kind of environment. I am well up for causing some havoc on the day and hopefully winning over some new fans. I'm also up for a bit of Slayer."

Apocalyptic post punks BEASTMILK have been described in many different ways, from “a gloomier Joy Division, an angrier Echo & The Bunnymen, a medicated Killing Joke” to “a secret recording from a psychedelic mass located stylistically between Roky Erickson, early Misfits and The Devils Blood”, with many other names dropped in between. The one thing everyone DOES seem to agree on is that BEASTMILK are awesome, and with Team Sonisphere concurring, a slot at KNEBWORTH seemed the right thing to do.

“We're honoured and privileged to be playing Sonisphere with such greats as Metallica. We're really looking forward to giving the crowd a glimpse back to Metallica's punk influences, throwing up a dose of our apocalyptic death rock and make some of those head bangers dance”

MALEFICE have being punching, kicking, choking and headbutting their way through the UK metal scene since the release of critically acclaimed debut “Entities” in 2007. Brutal, belligerent, bold and undeniably British, MALEFICE have never been about compromise, doing exactly what they felt was right for them, ignoring trends, fashions, and anything else that takes away from their backbone – the music. A very welcome addition to this year’s line up, brace yourselves as the furious five piece tear you a new one.

“We're really fucking proud to be playing this year!” says frontman Dale Butler. “With a new record out this year you can guarantee we'll be showcasing new material so be sure you come and party with us.”

Last up is Brighton four piece GLASS CITY VICE. These unsigned alt-rockers take their influences from bands such as Manchester Orchestra, Brand New and Biffy Clyro. Having made a name for themselves gigging the local scene and releasing a series of EPs, GLASS CITY VICE step up for their first major festival performance at SONISPHERE.

Individual day and weekend tickets, as well as special VIP packages for SONISPHERE 2014 are on sale now at www.sonisphere.co.uk.


LINE UP SO FAR:

Friday

APOLLO STAGE:

THE PRODIGY
LIMP BIZKIT
BAND OF SKULLS
GARY NUMAN
ANTI-FLAG
THE DEFILED

BOHEMIA & OTHER STAGES:
ELECTRIC WIZARD
65DAYSOFSTATIC
ATARI TEENAGE RIOT
DEVIL YOU KNOW
BAM MARGERA'S FUCKFACE UNSTOPPABLE
YASHIN
CARNIFEX
LOSTALONE
CANTERBURY
TRC
BRUTALITY WILL PREVAIL
HOUNDS
LITTLE MATADOR
MALEFICE
GLASS CITY VICE

Saturday

APOLLO STAGE:

IRON MAIDEN
DEFTONES
FRANK TURNER & THE SLEEPING SOULS
ANTHRAX
GHOST

SATURN STAGE:
SLAYER
CARCASS
THE WINERY DOGS
CHAS & DAVE
ALESTORM

BOHEMIA & OTHER STAGES:
THE SISTERS OF MERCY
NEW MODEL ARMY
DOG EAT DOG PLAYING ALL BORO KINGS
SEBASTIAN BACH
WILKO JOHNSON
THE VIRGINMARYS
RECKLESS LOVE
BLITZ KIDS
BLEED FROM WITHIN
STAMPIN GROUND
VOODOO SIX
THE HELL

Sunday

APOLLO STAGE:

METALLICA
ALICE IN CHAINS
MASTODON
AIRBOURNE
DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT
GOJIRA

SATURN STAGE:
DREAM THEATER
DROPKICK MURPHYS
REEL BIG FISH
KARNIVOOL
PROTEST THE HERO

BOHEMIA & OTHER STAGES:
THERAPY? (Performing Infernal Love)
BABYMETAL
THE BRONX
GALLOWS
BO NINGEN
CHIODOS
KERBDOG
TRASH TALK
TRUCKFIGHTERS
SILVERSTEIN
THE CADILLAC THREE
ONLY CRIME
ANTI-NOWHERE LEAGUE
DREGEN
ITCH
BEASTMILK
KROKODIL


Across the weekend
BLACK SPIDERS BROKEN HANDS COLLIBUS EMP!RE FORT HOPE GLAMOUR OF THE KILL THE HYPE THEORY THE LOUNGE KITTENS MAX RAPTOR THE ONE HUNDRED PALM READER RAGING SPEEDHORN TESSERACT THE SAFETY FIRE

Individual day and weekend tickets for SONISPHERE 2014 are on sale now at www.sonisphere.co.uk. Check the Sonisphere website for further details.

All Campsites open Thursday.

For further information please visit www.sonisphere.co.uk

Due to phenomenal demand, day tickets for the 2014 SONISPHERE festival, headlined by THE PRODIGY, IRON MAIDEN and METALLICA are now on sale, with Friday tickets priced at £55 and the Saturday and Sunday at £75 per day. In addition, camping add-ons are available to day ticket holders for £35 and for those looking to really treat themselves, a ‘King For A Day’ * package is available (see footnote for more info).

Weekend tickets start at £180. Check www.sonisphere.co.uk for all ticket options and further info.

With no clashes across the two main stages and sensitively timed sets across the tented stages, SONISPHERE ensures ticket holders get the most for their money, negating the need for any painful decisions on who to watch. The full list of bands so far and their respective performance days are outlined below, but not before a further fourteen names who join the stellar line up are revealed.

BAND OF SKULLS make their Knebworth debut at SONISPHERE this summer. The Southampton rock’n’roll trio come armed with bluesy and ballsy slabs of rock that have seen them making waves far beyond the shores of their coastal hometown. Support slots with the likes of Muse, Queens Of The Stone Age and The Dead Weather, an Independent Music Award for “Sweet Sour”, a feature documentary on Channel 4 and huge support from Radio One has seen BAND OF SKULLS become a household name in the UK, with the rest of the world standing to attention and taking notice.

GARY NUMAN returns to Knebworth in support of his acclaimed new album “Splinter”. Highly regarded and massively influential, NUMAN is undoubtedly one of Electronic music’s pioneers, with megastars such as Trent Reznor, Marilyn Manson and Dave Grohl citing him as an inspiration. An industrial rock powerhouse, GARY NUMAN at SONISPHERE is a must see for those looking for a darker, more gothic summer, with the promise of hits such as “Cars”, “Down In The Park” and “Are ‘Friends’ Electric?”.

It’s rare for a band to wait 14 years between albums, and even rarer for the subsequent album to be unanimously declared a masterpiece by both fans and critics alike, yet legendary British metallers CARCASS managed to do just that with last year’s “Surgical Steel”. Just as angry and hungry as they were on their 1988 debut “Reek Of Putrefaction”, Bill Steer and Jeff Walker show none of the fatigue or complacency common in bands over a quarter century old, and their set at SONISPHERE will be total and utter aural annihilation.

"A chance to play on the same day as IRON MAIDEN at Sonisphere? Please sign us up!” exclaims bassist/vocalist Jeff Walker. “Nevermind the fact that Bill Steer (guitar) is a BIG Chas & Dave fan- as if that wasn’t enough to cement the deal already!”

Post Punk heroes NEW MODEL ARMY make their Knebworth debut at SONISPHERE this summer. In their 34 years, Justin Sullivan and co’s punk ethos, poetic and inspiring lyrics and gargantuan tunes have earned them a large and loyal cult following, including one Max Cavalera, who covered “The Hunt” on Sepultura’s 1993 Chaos A.D album.

NEW MODEL ARMY released their acclaimed "Between Dog and Wolf" album in 2013, their highest charting album in 20 years, and following the success of this, will release a live album taken from the accompanying European tour later this year.

Said Justin Sullivan, lead singer/songwriter and founder of the band; "We are very much looking forward to playing Sonisphere, and in particular playing at the legendary Knebworth House. This will be the first time we have played both."

It would be easy to call THE WINERY DOGS a supergroup: vocalist and guitarist Richie Kotzen made his mark with Poison and Mr. Big, where he met TWD bassist Billy Sheehan, who in turn has been rocking for decades with Steve Vai, David Lee Roth and others, and drummer Mike Portnoy was the co-founder of progressive metal superstars Dream Theater. But THE WINERY DOGS are so much more than a supergroup, and their cohesive, well rounded, classic sounding rock, interspersed with jaw dropping moments that only musicians of this caliber can create, will prove why at SONISPHERE’s Saturn stage. Drummer Mike Portnoy states:

“So excited to be playing Sonisphere at the legendary Knebworth! This will be The Winery Dogs' premiere festival performance and it couldn't have been at a better one than this!”

THE BRONX make their way over from Los Angeles to Knebworth for the first time to heat things up in BOHEMIA. Last year’s “The Bronx - IV” album – the product of a band that’s survived two near-death experiences involving their tour van, weathered label problems that undermined their previous two albums, and turned a rebellious statement into a touring and recording Mariachi band- saw a band still at the top of their game, appearing in album of the year lists across the rock media.

Their inimitable hardcore punk swagger, a reputation for blistering live shows, and anthems such as “Heart Attack American”, “Knifeman” and “False Alarm” will make for a highly energetic and wet-with-sweat set that is not to be missed. The band says:

“Congratulations England. After years of angry letters and crude protests, the Bronx will finally be exposing itself at Sonisphere 2014. Take the necessary measures to ensure you don't fucking miss it. We love you. God save the Queen”

No strangers to SONISPHERE and a band who require little introduction, Watford punks GALLOWS return to Knebworth to lay waste to the BOHEMIA stage on Sunday. With new music to showcase, as well as fan faves such as “In The Belly Of A Shark”, “Outsider Art” and “Abandon Ship”, the very structure of the big blue tent is in danger as the band warn:

"We're ripping up Sonisphere on the Sunday. Good times only, fuck the posers. New music on its way."

Sheffield’s 65daysofstatic join the SONISPHERE line up, hot off the back of a sold out UK tour in support of new album “Wild Light”. Prog, math, electronic, experimental, instrumental – 65dos have been called all these things, but we suggest you let the music do the talking and let them drop your jaws at their set in BOHEMIA on Friday.

“The best thing about all those people who like rock music and allow festivals like Sonisphere to thrive are that they usually have no preconceptions and are open to all other types of music too.’ Says guitarist Paul Wolinski. “So we’re looking forward to being the weird, noisy outliers at this festival, knowing that the people there are still going to give us the time of day. In return, we promise to be loud”.

With over 20 million records sold, starring roles on Broadway (“Jekyll & Hyde” and “The Rocky Horror Picture Show”), regular TV work and a stint playing the lead in a touring production of “Jesus Christ Superstar”, there’s no doubting SEBASTIAN BACH’s destiny to entertain. His Saturday set on BOHEMIA will be a show to remember, with songs from both his solo career as well as Skid Row hits like “Youth Gone Wild”, “Monkey Business” and “Slave To The Grind” on offer.

“I am beyond excited and honored to play the legendary Sonisphere Festival this summer at Knebworth in England!” shouts Sebastian. “This is by far the biggest festival in all of the UK with the biggest bands and the biggest audience and I am proud to share the stage with the greatest bands in the history of rock 'n roll. See you this summer at Sonisphere, let's get wild!!!!!”

Having laid waste to Alexandra Palace at last winter’s Vans Warped Tour, CHIODOS return to the UK armed with a new album and a very high bar to raise. With frontman Craig Owen’s incredible knack for pushing both himself and the audience before him to the limits, anyone hoping for a quiet Sunday at SONISPHERE is in for a surprise, albeit a pleasant one. Says guitarist Brad Bell:

“We haven't spent a lot of time in the UK in the past and to be able to come back for Sonisphere and play with some of the world’s most iconic bands is going to be an overwhelming experience. We can't wait to play for our long time fans and new fans, especially with our new music from of our upcoming album - Devil.”

With a frontman who has led one of the craziest lives ever documented and with a name like BAM MARGERA’s FUCKFACE UNSTOPPABLE, one thing SONISPHERE can be sure of amidst the chaos and unpredictability of such an act is that no one will be leaving their set without a smile. Says Bam:

"Thanks for inviting me to your party Sonisphere, I’ll be happy to throw gas on your fire. Uh, I mean petrol."

Legendary punks ANTI-NOWHERE LEAGUE also join the 2014 line up. Performing on the Sunday, don’t be too surprised if you see a few members of that night’s headliners watching…

"It's great to be asked to play Sonisphere this year,” says frontman Animal. “It's a great festival.......and on the same day as my ol' buddies Metallica...batting with the big boyz again eh!......LET THE GAMES BEGIN!"

LITTLE MATADOR, who you may have seen supporting NINE INCH NAILS or QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE, bring their brash, aggressive rock to KNEBWORTH. Says lead singer Nathan Connolly:

“We're really excited to be playing at Sonisphere. Knebworth is such an iconic place and to be part of 40 years of rock history will be an honour. We promise to crank it up as loud as we can!!”

Last but by no means least SONISPHERE welcomes THE LOUNGE KITTENS, a Southampton based trio singing beautiful 3 part harmonies – over all your favorite songs. Brought to the attention of SONISPHERE by Fred Durst himself, check out their cover of “Rollin” for a taste of what to expect: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1x1EU3qKsUg

With more acts to be announced in the coming weeks, the list of bands so far by day and stage order, is as follows:


Friday

APOLLO STAGE:

THE PRODIGY
LIMP BIZKIT
BAND OF SKULLS
GARY NUMAN
ANTI-FLAG
THE DEFILED

BOHEMIA & OTHER STAGES:

ELECTRIC WIZARD
65DAYSOFSTATIC
DEVIL YOU KNOW
BAM MARGERA'S FUCKFACE UNSTOPPABLE
YASHIN
CARNIFEX
BRUTALITY WILL PREVAIL
HOUNDS
LITTLE MATADOR

Saturday

APOLLO STAGE:
IRON MAIDEN
DEFTONES
FRANK TURNER & THE SLEEPING SOULS
ANTHRAX
GHOST

SATURN STAGE:
SLAYER
CARCASS
THE WINERY DOGS
CHAS & DAVE
ALESTORM

BOHEMIA & OTHER STAGES:
THE SISTERS OF MERCY
NEW MODEL ARMY
DOG EAT DOG PLAYING ALL BORO KINGS
SEBASTIAN BACH
WILKO JOHNSON
THE VIRGINMARYS
RECKLESS LOVE
BLITZ KIDS
STAMPIN GROUND
TURBOWOLF
VOODOO SIX
THE HELL

Sunday

APOLLO STAGE:
METALLICA
ALICE IN CHAINS
MASTODON
AIRBOURNE
DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT
GOJIRA

SATURN STAGE:
DREAM THEATER
DROPKICK MURPHYS
REEL BIG FISH
KARNIVOOL
PROTEST THE HERO

BOHEMIA & OTHER STAGES:
THE BRONX
GALLOWS
CHIODOS
KERBDOG
BLACK SPIDERS
TRUCKFIGHTERS
SILVERSTEIN
THE CADILLAC THREE
ONLY CRIME
ANTI-NOWHERE LEAGUE
ITCH
KROKODIL


Across the weekend
BROKEN HANDS COLLIBUS EMP!RE FORT HOPE GLAMOUR OF THE KILL THE HYPE THEORY THE LOUNGE KITTENS MAX RAPTOR THE ONE HUNDRED PALM READER RAGING SPEEDHORN TESSERACT THE SAFETY FIRE

Individual day and weekend tickets for SONISPHERE 2014 are on sale now at www.sonisphere.co.uk. The highly popular deposit scheme is available until 1st April, meaning fans have less than two weeks to reserve their tickets for an initial payment of just £50. Check the Sonisphere website for further details.

All Campsites open Thursday.

For further information please visit www.sonisphere.co.uk

* Sonisphere 2014 King for a Day (VIP Day Pass)
Have you ever been to a festival and wondered what it would be like to be King (or Queen) for a day? – No? Neither have we. But now that thought is in your head, I bet you are wondering what it would be like. Well now is your chance to find out. Sonisphere are offering King For A Day tickets to all you folk who wish to rock out like royalty for a single day, rather than the whole weekend. The King For A Day ticket offers you the chance to watch your favourite bands knowing that you can then head back to an exclusive area close to the arena, avoid the queues, and have a royally refreshing beverage. As well as having its own bar, the area will also have plenty of luxury thrones (toilets) and many fancy extras, which will be fit for a King, obviously. Priced at £155 for the Friday and £175 for the Saturday and Sunday (booking fees included), the ticket includes access to the main arena on the day you choose, parking and access to the exclusive area until it closes at 12-midnight. Crowns are optional.

As previously announced, THE PRODIGY, IRON MAIDEN and METALLICA are headlining the festival, with exclusive appearances from ALICE IN CHAINS, DEFTONES and LIMP BIZKIT. SONISPHERE will now feature a total of over 100 bands across the weekend and has revealed more names to join the festival’s 2014 line up.

SONISPHERE is thrilled to announce DREAM THEATER as Sunday’s headline act on the Saturn stage. A mesmerizing band to watch, each member with a number of impressive accolades under their belt, DREAM THEATER have been churning out their unique brand of progressive metal for over 25 years, selling over six million albums worldwide. Building their sound from a solid base of incredible musical proficiency, becoming heavier over the years, whilst retaining their trademark, the band have become one of the biggest-selling progressive bands around, resulting in an induction into the Long Island Hall of Fame. With an extensive back catalogue and impressive new material from their latest critically acclaimed self–titled album, SONISPHERE can’t wait to see them spread their prog magic at the festival.

Also appearing at the festival are DEVIL YOU KNOW, the creative union of the former Killswitch Engage frontman Howard Jones, Francesco Artusato (All Shall Perish), John Sankey (Devolved/ ex Divine Heresy, Fear Factory) and Ryan Wombacher (Bleeding Through). Having voiced the Grammy-nominated Massachusetts metallers through nearly a decade of touring and two gold records, Jones is at the top of his game and the star line up, who have just played Soundwave in Australia, are ready to take on the world. DEVIL YOU KNOW will unleash its inaugural effort this spring, the highly-anticipated debut, ‘The Beauty of Destruction’ and audiences would be wise not to miss the incredible set the band are bound to deliver.

Says the band:

"We are beyond stoked to make Sonisphere our first UK festival! It's an honour to be playing such a massive festival alongside some of the biggest names in hard rock and metal. What a way to play the UK for the first time. We can't wait to get over and show everyone what Devil You Know is all about!"

Glasgow heavyweights YASHIN will also be stopping by SONISPHERE. The band have been working hard, having just released their new video ‘D.E.A.D’, with recent live appearances at Warped Tour UK and supports slots with Black Veil Brides, Limp Bizkit and Papa Roach in the UK and Europe. YASHIN’s performance at the festival will be the first chance for fans to see them play tracks from their forthcoming album, ‘The Renegades’, scheduled to hit the shelves in September 2014.

Says vocalist Harry Radford:

"It’s a huge, HUGE thrill and a massive honour to be added to this year’s Sonisphere line up. Maiden, Metallica, Limp Bizkit, Deftones… It’s like we've been put in the middle of our record collections, so many of our heroes in one place, it’s actually ridiculous. We're getting back to live action in the next couple of weeks so we will be warmed up nicely to hit the Sonisphere crowd hard. See you there!"

Making their way from Nashville, THE CADILLAC THREE will give SONISPHERE a dose of their very own country fuzz. The band boasts the kind of loud and boisterous rock that the loudest PA’s in the world were invented for. Tunes such as ‘Down to the River’, ‘Get Your Buzz On’ and ‘Back It Up’ evoke the legends of southern rock – Molly Hatchets, Outlaws or Ozark Mountain Daredevils, only with a fresher sound that’s going to blow your mind.

Returning to KNEBWORTH are Yorkshire’s GLAMOUR OF THE KILL, who have just unleashed their infectious new single ‘A Freak like Me’, taken from their fantastic album ‘Savages’. Following a full US tour with Escape The Fate, a European tour with Papa Roach as main support, a largely sold out tour with Motionless In White and The Defiled in the UK, GLAMOUR OF THE KILL seem unstoppable as they are about to embark on the Heaven’s Basement’s tour before they promise to treat the festival goers to a full set of their triumphant anthems this summer.

Says vocalist Davey Richmond:

“We're really excited to get back to Knebworth for this year’s Sonisphere! There's something special about Sonisphere that you don't seem to get from any other festival and we're happy to see it making a bold comeback. It must be the history associated with Knebworth and all the greats that have stood on stage there throughout the years. The line up for this was already incredible, but it just got a whole lot better!”

Also appearing will be UK based hardcore quintet PALM READER. Drawing influences from The Dillinger Escape and Gallows, the band would have undoubtedly been winning over new fans on the recent Rock Sound Impericon Exposure tour and show no sign on slowing down before they hit KNEBWORTH.

Says Drummer Dan Olds:

"We Can't wait to play Sonisphere… Bands such as Deftones and Mastodon have always been close to Palm Reader's hearts. It's the first festival I ever went to so it’s gonna be a special moment!"

Canterbury’s BROKEN HANDS will bring their particular brand of retro-rock fused with psychedelic blues and garage influences to SONISPHERE. Having supported the Rolling Stones in Hyde Park last summer and toured in the UK and Europe with Band of Skulls, Deaf Club and Kill It Kid respectively, BROKEN HANDS are on the brink of big things.

Says the band:

"One small step for Sonisphere, one giant leap for band kind"

Rising from the ashes of My Passion, Johnathan Gaskin, Ande D'Mello, Simon Rolands and Jamie Nicholls announced the formation FORT HOPE. SONISPHERE is looking forward to sharing the beginnings of their exciting journey as a new band.

"We're so excited to be playing Sonisphere this year, and honoured to join such an incredible bill. There's nothing better than sun, rock music and festival crowds. Roll on summer!”

Mixing an eclectic combination of crushing guitars and infectious electronica, which incorporates elements of metal, hip hop, rock and dance, THE ONE HUNDRED are going after the hearts and minds of everyone crossing their path and will no doubt expand their ever growing army of supporters after their performance at SONISPHERE.

Says the band:

“We are stoked to have been invited to play such an amazing festival with so many of our heroes, we’ve dreamt of playing at Sonisphere so let's have it Knebworth!”

Also added to the festival’s line up are Manchester’s COLLIBUS. Having won the 2013 Discretionary Rock Award of Parliament’s largest competition, Rock the House, COLLIBUS made history by becoming the first metal band ever to play the House of Commons. The band’s sound has been described as a combination of the intelligence of prog with the fire of metal, and their winning track ‘Dead Inside’ has already been featured on SCUZZ TV.

Says vocalist Gemma Fox:
“The reception we've had following the release of our debut album has been mind-blowingly phenomenal. We are extremely honoured to have been invited onto the awesome Sonisphere line up and cannot wait to play alongside musicians and bands we have long been fans of ourselves!”


Weekend tickets for Sonisphere 2014 are on sale now priced at £170. The highly popular deposit scheme is available until 1st April, meaning fans have less than a month to reserve their tickets for an initial payment of just £50. Check the Sonisphere website for further details.


All Campsites open Thursday.

For further information please visit www.sonisphere.co.uk

Line Up So Far:

THE PRODIGY – IRON MAIDEN – METALLICA

AIRBOURNE
ALESTORM
ALICE IN CHAINS
ANTHRAX
BLACK SPIDERS
BLITZ KIDS
BROKEN HANDS
BRUTALITY WILL PREVAIL
CARNIFEX
CHAS & DAVE
COLLIBUS
DEFTONES
DEVIL YOU KNOW (FEAT. HOWARD JONES, EX KILLSWITCH ENGAGE)
DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT
DOG EAT DOG PLAYING ALL BORO KINGS
DREAM THEATER
DROPKICK MURPHYS
ELECTRIC WIZARD
EMP!RE
FORT HOPE
FRANK TURNER & THE SLEEPING SOULS
GHOST
GLAMOUR OF THE KILL
GOJIRA
HOUNDS
ITCH
KARNIVOOL
KROKODIL
KERBDOG
LIMP BIZKIT
MASTODON
MAX RAPTOR
ONLY CRIME
PALM READER
PROTEST THE HERO
RAGING SPEEDHORN
RECKLESS LOVE
REEL BIG FISH
SILVERSTEIN
SLAYER
STAMPIN’ GROUND
TESSERACT
THE CADILLAC THREE
THE DEFILED
THE HELL
THE HYPE THEORY
THE ONE HUNDRED
THE SAFETY FIRE
THE SISTERS OF MERCY
THE VIRGINMARYS
TRUCKFIGHTERS
VOODOO SIX
WILKO JOHNSON
YASHIN

With THE PRODIGY, IRON MAIDEN and METALLICA headlining the festival, plus exclusive appearances from DEFTONES and LIMP BIZKIT, SONISPHERE is proud to reveal the next wave of bands joining the superb 2014 line up. Also, the festival will now feature a total of over 100 bands across the weekend.

SONISPHERE FESTIVAL is hugely excited to be welcoming back guitar legend WILKO JOHNSON. Credited as a major influence for the English punk movement, this musical heavyweight last played KNEBWORTH in 1978 with Frank Zappa, The Tubes, Peter Gabriel and more, with his band Wilko Johnson’s Solid Senders. His outstanding contribution to music was recognized when Jimmy Page presented Johnson with The Innovator Award at the Classic Rock Magazine Roll of Honour in November last year, in front of an audience including Black Sabbath, Ray Davies and Manic Street Preachers. Since being diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer, the former Dr Feelgood guitarist refused chemotherapy treatment so that he could keep on playing live and record a final album with Roger Daltrey. Johnson’s ongoing commitment to his fans and his music will resonate with the passion surrounding KNEBWORTH for a bold, beautiful and unforgettable performance.

Commonly referred to as ‘the heaviest band in the world’ with at least three of their seven albums widely recognized as genre benchmarks and heavy metal classics, Dorset’s ELECTRIC WIZARD will be stopping off at SONISPHERE for the first time to headline the BOHEMIA stage on Friday Night. The band’s unique blend of stoner, sludge and doom together with their stylistic obsessions, ranging from the occult to psychedelic art, have made ELECTRIC WIZARD one of the UK’s most influential and consistently interesting bands. With a new album in the works in 2014, SONISPHERE FESTIVAL might be a rare chance to catch these grand masters of doom.

When an unknown band from New Jersey released their debut album called ‘All Boro Kings’ in May 1994, no one could have predicted they would make history. With the combination of hardcore riffs, rap and rock vocals coupled with the emergence of the ever-popular skate & snowboard style, DOG EAT DOG became a defining band of the nineties. Landmark album ‘All Boro Kings’ went on to sell 600 000 records worldwide, with single ‘No Fronts’ being featured on an episode of MTV’s Beavis and Butthead. As the summer 2014 marks the 20th anniversary of ‘All Boro Kings’, DOG EAT DOG will be performing a special anniversary set of the legendary album in its entirety for SONISPHERE FESTIVAL.

Says the band:

“Dog Eat Dog are very excited to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the ‘All Boro Kings’ album at Sonisphere. We look forward to partying with everyone like it was 1994!”

Joining them are Pittsburg punk rockers ANTI-FLAG, who will also be celebrating their 20th anniversary with SONISPHERE this summer. The band have been spreading their political punk message to the masses for two decades focusing on human rights, equality and peace, environmentalism and more. Through the years, they’ve gone from non-stop tours criss-crossing North America in a dilapidated van to world tours travelling as far as Australia. ANTI- FLAG’s performance at KNEBWORTH will be a unique opportunity to hear the band playing their signature anthems, as well as reaching deep into the catalogue and playing rare material. Their set promises to be a highlight of the weekend.

Says the band:

"Anti-Flag is always searching out new places to play. Especially now, at 20 years of being a band. Knebworth is historic and an honour and a privilege for our band to perform at. Sonisphere is a new forum for us to discuss that we are a band that stands against racism, sexism, homophobia and cynicism. It is an opportunity we do not tread lightly upon."

Sometimes, you can’t get enough of a good thing, which is why SONISPHERE is proud to welcome BLACK SPIDERS back. A name synonymous with highly charged rock’n’roll tunes made in England, as showcased on their latest album ‘This Savage Land’, BLACK SPIDERS say you will like them if you “like the first three Black Sabbath albums…or masturbating in church”, which sounds extremely promising.

Says the band:

“We're majestically elated that we have been invited to the Sonisphere knights table yet again. After our last performance there, headlining the Jäger stage in 2011, it seems only fitting that we come back and wail our merry song once more to a happy throng of waifs, larks and gadabouts. With such a great line up already, we feel adding the Spiders lament will make this the festival of the year. We've had an amazing reaction to our last opus and will rain down some heavy metal rock 'n' roll into every brain and beating heart. The gauntlet is down and the challenge is accepted, so it's 'Balls to the Wall!!”

Also joining the festival’s superb line-up are BRUTALITY WILL PREVAIL. Drawing influence from metal, doom, sludge and metallic hardcore, the hotly-tipped UK metallers’ assault is like no other. Armed with heavy hitting numbers that blend snarling riffs, devastating grooves and unique but distinctly memorable vocal hooks from forthcoming album ‘Suspension of Consciousness’ out later this year, their set is bound to please their dedicated fan base and casual observers alike.

Says the band:

"Well, with that lineup we were going anyway.... Now we just need to bring our gear - stoked to be playing this year's Sonisphere!"

Also appearing will be EMP!RE. Hailing from the South West of England, the band are carving out a name for themselves with their frontman’s impressive vocal range on mini album ‘Where The World Begins’.

Says the band:

“We are so happy to be given the opportunity to play such an awesome festival like Sonisphere with some incredible bands and in front of some amazing people. We will be bringing the show like never before for this one, excited doesn't even begin to cover it; we look forward to seeing you all there for the party!”

SONISPHERE is the event of the summer to see the best in new music, which is why the festival is excited to announce the addition of the supergroup KROKODIL. Featuring members of Gallows, Cry For Silence, sikTh and current Radio1 Rock Show main man Dan P Carter (ex A/ Hexes), KROKODIL promises to be as deadly as the drug it is named after.

Says guitarist Lags:

“Finally the summer of beers, friends and riffs is nearly upon us. Can't wait to bring the thunder but let's keep the rain out of the tents. This will be our first time at Sonisphere. Get down early to insure the perfect spot to bang your head!"

Another special appearance will be the recently reformed RAGING SPEEDHORN. Corby’s finest are reuniting with the two original vocalists, Frank Regan and John Loughlin, and will give festival-goers a treat performing tracks from their first two albums: 2000′s ‘Raging Speedhorn’ and 2002′s ‘We Will Be Dead Tomorrow’. Formed in 1998, the band quickly established itself as a major presence within the UK metal scene, supporting acts such as Slipknot, Rammstein and more, but sadly parted ways in 2008. Now they are back to blow your mind! RAGING SPEEDHORN’s performance at SONISPHERE is sure to be an incredible one.

KNEBWORTH welcomes RECKLESS LOVE with open arms and feet ready for a set full of infectious anthems. Following the band’s recent headline tour in October 2013 and the release of new album ‘Spirit’, the UK cannot seem to get enough of the Finnish glam metallers whose performance promises to be the perfect way to party.

Says the band:

"Where do you see yourself in ten years’ time? A classic question somebody asked me years ago in an interview for a local paper in my small little hometown in eastern Finland. I remember I answered, ‘performing at Knebworth Park with Reckless Love’. The journalist gave me little smile and must have thought I was crazy because Reckless Love wasn't even signed at this point. I admit, I was crazy and still am; just like our live set at Sonisphere 2014 Knebworth Park will be. We toured the UK last autumn and we're so excited to come over again. UK audiences are the best and craziest we've seen. By the way, that interview was not ten years ago!! more like five or six."

In addition, there will be an unmissable set from STAMPIN’ GROUND as their SONISPHERE performance will be their first show since 2006. Kings of the UK hardcore scene in the early 2000s, the band toured with the likes of Anthrax, Chimaira, The Haunted, Agnostic Front, Sick of it All, Soulfly, Arch Enemy and more. The promise of Adam Frakes-Sime, Scot Atkins, Ben Frost, Paul Fletcher and Neil Hutton taking the stage for a STAMPIN’ GROUND show will undoubtedly satisfy not only the festival ticket holders, but a good many of their peers on the bill too.


Says the band:

“We're more excited than Kriss Akabusi on a waterslide to resurrect our fortified blend of hardcore/thrash and play our first show in eight years alongside the likes of Slayer, Gojira, Metallica and Iron Maiden at Sonisphere. Many thanks to Sonisphere for giving us the opportunity to reinforce our legacy at such an awesome event. Bring it on!"

Masters of modern progressive heaviness, TESSERACT will bring back their familiar blend polyrhythmic riffs and odd time signatures this year. Since the release of the critically acclaimed album ‘Altered State’ and recent support slots with Karnivool and Protest The Hero, the band have gone from strength to strength, winning the support of the likes of Radio1 Rock Show and their performance is not to be missed.

Says guitarist James Monteith:

"Words cannot express how excited we are to be playing Sonisphere and be a part of its triumphant return this year. Sonisphere 2011 was probably one of the most memorable gigs we have ever played, so to be asked back is not just a huge honour, it's one of the shows we're most excited about playing this year. And then there are the other bands on the bill: We're of course very proud to be on a bill with the likes of Maiden and The Prodigy, and hanging out with our touring buddies Karnivool and Devin Townsend Project will be a lot of fun, but knowing that we'll be in the presence of Chas and Dave is just mind blowing. CAN'T WAIT!!! "

Also joining the festival’s superb line-up are UK metal powerhouse THE DEFILED who are no stranger to SONISPHERE, having played every single edition of the festival. Hot off their recent headline UK tour, THE DEFILED have established a reputation as one of the most exhilarating live bands as they toured relentlessly throughout 2013 to promote their incredible album ‘Daggers’, including the Jägermeister Music tour with Ghost & Gojira, a support slot for Motionless In White and Warped Tour UK, not to mention picking up a Metal Hammer 'Golden God' Award for 'Best New Band' and being featured on ITV2's 'The Exclusives'. This is a band primed and ready to dominate the metal world and the main stage of the SONISPHERE FESTIVAL.

Says The AvD:

“Now that's what I'm taaaaaaalllllllking abouuuuuuuuttttt!!!! We've played at Knebworth every year that there's been a Sonisphere in the various tents but this - THIS IS THE SHIT! To be invited to be the first band of the festival to play on the main stage is a huge honour and we can't wait. We've always had big plans and big ideas about what we want to do on stage, but have often been restricted by the size of the venues we're in. Well it don't get bigger than this, and we are going to give Sonisphere one hell of a show to remember. This is the stage that Rammstein did their first outdoor show in the UK, so hopefully I will finally be allowed to set my keyboard on fire!”

Since releasing their first song at the start of July 2013 followed by an album that they released for free only a week later ‘You’re listening to the Hell’, THE HELL have been causing quite a stir. Putting the fun back in metalcore, offensive and hilarious at every turn, THE HELL remains shrouded in mystery whilst winning over influential ears such as those of Radio1’s Zane Lowe. Their SONISPHERE performance is sure to be incredible one.

Over the last 2 years, Essex’s THE HYPE THEORY, have swept across the nation with their infectious brand of melodic pop rock and have recently been handpicked by Kerrang as one of the top five bands for 2014. The band are absolutely thrilled to be invited to perform:

"We are so excited to be playing Sonisphere 2014. The line up is incredible and we are so honoured to be a part of it!"

Fans of technical progressive metal will be delighted to see THE SAFETY FIRE returning to SONISPHERE this year. The band first made a name for themselves in the UK scene with the release of their critically acclaimed EP "Sections" in 2009 and their reputation as a powerfully energetic live band. They have toured extensively across the UK with bands such as Malefice, Periphery, Monuments and most recently, with Protest The Hero in support of their new album ‘Mouth Of Oceans’.

Early Bird Weekend tickets for Sonisphere 2014 are on sale now priced at £170 (limited availability). The highly popular deposit scheme will also be running from now until April, meaning fans will be able to reserve their tickets for an initial payment of just £50. Check the Sonisphere website for further details.

All Campsites open Thursday.

For further information please visit www.sonisphere.co.uk

Line Up So Far:

THE PRODIGY – IRON MAIDEN – METALLICA

AIRBOURNE
ALESTORM
ALICE IN CHAINS
ANTHRAX
BLACK SPIDERS
BLITZ KIDS
BRUTALITY WILL PREVAIL
CARNIFEX
CHAS & DAVE
DEFTONES
DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT
DOG EAT DOG PLAYING ALL BORO KINGS
DROPKICK MURPHYS
ELECTRIC WIZARD
EMP!RE
FRANK TURNER & THE SLEEPING SOULS
GHOST
GOJIRA
HOUNDS
ITCH
KARNIVOOL
KROKODIL
KERBDOG
LIMP BIZKIT
MASTODON
MAX RAPTOR
ONLY CRIME
PROTEST THE HERO
RAGING SPEEDHORN
RECKLESS LOVE
REEL BIG FISH
SILVERSTEIN
SLAYER
STAMPIN’ GROUND
TESSERACT
THE DEFILED
THE HELL
THE HYPE THEORY
THE SAFETY FIRE
THE SISTERS OF MERCY
TRUCKFIGHTERS
THE VIRGINMARYS
VOODOO SIX
WILKO JOHNSON

Following the recent announcements including exclusive appearances from headliners THE PRODIGY, IRON MAIDEN and METALLICA, SONISPHERE FESTIVAL is thrilled to reveal twelve more names to the incredible 2014 line up, and that the festival will now feature a total of over 100 bands across the weekend.

SONISPHERE welcomes DEFTONES to the superb bill for their only UK appearance of 2014. Groundbreaking and highly influential, the alternative metallers have been setting new standards in exciting rock performance since the seminal album ‘Adrenaline’ came out in 1995. With a reputation for being one of the most dazzling and uncompromising bands on the planet, DEFTONES have, throughout the years, been garnering praise, success, and too many accolades to mention, selling millions of records and winning the adoration of their peers. With classics such as ‘Back To School’, ‘My Own Summer (Shove It)’, ‘Change (In The House Of flies)’, DEFTONES are poised to set KNEBWORTH ablaze with a show to die for. Says drummer Abe Cunningham:

"Greetings to ALL!!! We are absolutely stoked to be part of Sonisphere's return and of course to have a chance to once again play a show with Iron Maiden, especially on the hallowed grounds of Knebworth. Until then...!!!!"


FRANK TURNER has a work ethic like no other, climbing his way up from the dive circuit to the arena limelight, claiming widespread praise and critical plaudits along the way. Outside of his own live shows, Frank has also broken into mainstream consciousness with the honours of performing at the Olympic Opening ceremony, and more recently, appearing on TV’s Celebrity Mastermind. With SONISPHERE headliners IRON MAIDEN as his chosen specialist subject, Frank – who boasts an Eddie tattoo – won the Mastermind challenge with his superior knowledge of the metal legends. It does not take much imagination to appreciate the delight he has on learning he will share a stage with his heroes for the first time:

Says Turner:

“I'm excited to be playing Sonisphere this year, and super excited to be playing the same stage as the first band I ever fell in love with - Iron Maiden; it's definitely going to be my festival highlight for 2014.”

Turner will be appearing at KNEBWORTH with his band as FRANK TURNER & THE SLEEPING SOULS, having recently completed an incendiary UK arena tour in support of fifth album ‘Tape Deck Heart’.

Hot off the success of their recent UK Tour with Less than Jake, Californian Ska-punk pioneers REEL BIG FISH come to KNEBWORTH armed with a hyper-kinetic live show, juvenile humour and ironic covers of new wave pop songs. With a fun filled attitude and massive dancefloor fillers such as ‘Sell Out’ and ‘Take On Me’, their set will undoubtedly prove once more that REEL BIG FISH is one of the most dynamic and accomplished bands of the genre, as they take to the SATURN stage for a Sunday Ska Punk Party.

PROTEST THE HERO have carved an identity for themselves that is thought of as profoundly revolutionary within heavy music and 2014 has already seen them complete a hugely successful UK headline tour, including a sold out show at London’s Electric Ballroom. The band effortlessly balances high-minded artistry with wit and whimsy, substantive viewpoints with wanton tomfoolery, and masterful musicianship with true song-craft. SONISPHERE can’t wait to see them spread the magic of their spider-fingered arpeggios, walloping bottom-heavy brutality and dynamically theatrical vocals as showcased on their fourth album ‘Volition’.

Says the band:

“Europe knows something about doing festivals right. We are blown away every time we come over in the summer and take part in the fun. One of the highlights this summer is going to be Sonisphere! We are just finishing a UK leg of a tour and the turn outs have been great so I can only imagine what it will be like at Sonisphere.”

Avast, ye landlubbers! Fans of the sonically adventurous will be delighted to see ALESTORM joining the festivities with their very own brand of True Scottish Pirate Metal. With a treasure chest of keytar laden, pirate themed, fist pumping folk metal, these scurvy dogs will have their most epic voyage yet as they sail the sea of SONISPHERE’s SATURN stage on the Saturday for a rum fuelled set of metal fun.

Since forming in 2001, Stoner/Psychedelic rock gods TRUCKFIGHTERS have released an impressive four albums, seven EP’s and a film depicting their lives named simply ‘Truckfighters’ in 2011. With Josh Homme being one of their biggest fans, TRUCKFIGHTERS released fourth album ‘Universe’ earlier this year and are an exciting addition to the festival.

2014 is full of exciting promise from Ireland’s KERBDOG. Having released two albums in the 1990’s to critical acclaim, disbanding and later reforming to sell out the London Garage on a special one off live appearance, 2014 will see the band release their first new material in seventeen years, and resurrect their electric live performance. KERBDOG say it best themselves:

"We would have crawled naked across broken glass to play Sonisphere. To be invited to what is one of the greatest rock festivals on the planet as we release a new live album is a gift from the Gods. The Fans are in for an earth-shattering gig that will level buildings. End of."

Having landed support slots to The Stranglers and appearing alongside Billy Talent at the 2013 UK VANS WARPED TOUR, hotly tipped UK outfit MAX RAPTOR, who blend punk and rock to startling effect, are also confirmed to appear at SONISPHERE, where their hard-edge and angry sounds as shown on their debut album ‘Mother’s Ruin’ will resonate through the festival.

Says the band:

“Just had the awesome news we'll be playing Sonisphere 2014.... We used to go to a grubby rock club in Burton on Trent and listen to Maiden and now we're playing the same festival as them. Absolute dream come true.”

Bringing the kind of American punk rock that has drawn comparison to Black Flag for its hard hitting melodies and rhythm, ONLY CRIME will treat festival goers to a truly special show. With a line up led by Bill Stevenson (Descendants) and Russ Rankin (Good Riddance) the band looks set for a big 2014 with a new album in the pipeline and SONISPHERE is looking forward to sharing it with them. Checking in from the studio, the band said:

"We know it's been awhile since we have been overseas. We have been working hard on the new record and are so excited to finally get back over there and give it all we've got."

Returning to SONISPHERE is one of the UK’s most anticipated new bands, BLITZ KIDS. The outfit has been garnering praise from the likes of BBC Radio1 with their brand new album ‘Good Youth’ and single ‘Sometimes’. On the brink of big things, audiences would be wise not miss their appearance.

Says the band:

“It's a great honour to be playing at Sonisphere Festival for its big comeback to the UK! It feels like we're part of a big welcome home party. We played a few years ago on the smallest stage, and to be asked to play on the Bohemia Stage this year is a fantastic opportunity to step it up a few gears.”

SONISPHERE is excited to welcome Camden Town born and raised punk/rap artist ITCH to the weekend for the first time. After fronting critically acclaimed, ground breaking band The King Blues for seven years, lyricist ITCH took his unique brand of poetry full force into the solo act he is today. Recent album ‘The Deep End’ sees his unstoppable ferociousness cemented in record and is sure to make an unforgettable live experience.

“I'm so excited to be playing Sonisphere, it'll be my first time there.
It's an honour to be playing the same bill as metal gods such as Chas and Dave” jokes ITCH.

British electro/punk rockers HOUNDS join the bill after releasing their debut EP as a cover mount with Metal Hammer. Having proved their live credentials on tour with Stone Sour, as well as at appearance at SONISPHERE 2011, and citing THE PRODIGY’s Liam Howlett in the list of people they’ve worked with, HOUNDS shouldn’t be missed. Says the band:

“We can’t wait to bring the noise to Sonisphere this summer, we have been locked in an Air Raid shelter for months writing and recording our debut album so we feel like caged animals. The stage ain’t gonna know what hit it….”


Early Bird Weekend tickets for Sonisphere 2014 are on sale now priced at £170 (limited availability). The highly popular deposit scheme will also be running from now until April, meaning fans will be able to reserve their tickets for an initial payment of just £50. Check the Sonisphere website for further details.

All Campsites open Thursday.

For further information please visit www.sonisphere.co.uk

Line Up So Far:

THE PRODIGY – IRON MAIDEN – METALLICA

AIRBOURNE
ALESTORM
ALICE IN CHAINS
ANTHRAX
BLITZ KIDS
CARNIFEX
CHAS & DAVE
DEFTONES
DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT
DROPKICK MURPHYS
FRANK TURNER & THE SLEEPING SOULS
GHOST
GOJIRA
HOUNDS
ITCH
KARNIVOOL
KERBDOG
LIMP BIZKIT
MASTODON
MAX RAPTOR
ONLY CRIME
PROTEST THE HERO
REEL BIG FISH
SILVERSTEIN
SLAYER
THE SISTERS OF MERCY
TRUCKFIGHTERS
THE VIRGINMARYS
VOODOO SIX

With ten fantastic acts already announced, including headliners
THE PRODIGY, IRON MAIDEN & METALLICA, SONISPHERE has revealed ten more bands that will join the 2014 line up.

The inimitable LIMP BIZKIT return to Knebworth as special guests to THE PRODIGY. One of the biggest bands to emerge from the Nu-Metal scene of the 90s, LIMP BIZKIT’s insanely catchy and infectious rock has amassed them millions of album sales and the accolade of fastest selling rock album ever with “Chocolate Starfish & The Hotdog Flavored Water”. However, it is the live environment in which they truly shine – their upcoming sold out tour of the UK bears testament to that – and the prospect of mega hits like “Rollin”, “Nookie”, “My Generation” and “Gold Cobra” will provide the perfect warm up to the Friday night headliners at this exclusive festival appearance.

TV has soap operas, literature has Shakespeare and Thrash… well Thrash has ANTHRAX. For 30 plus years, ANTHRAX have headbanged, stomped and moshed their way to the top end of the metal food chain, selling in excess of 10 million records, enjoying multiple Gold and Platinum albums and Grammy nominations, firmly cementing their position as one of THE BIG 4. Fast, furious and above all, fun, it just wouldn’t be SONISPHERE without ANTHRAX, who have graced the stage of every UK SONISPHERE to date, and continue the tradition to dose out the metal thrashing madness at their only UK festival of 2014. Scott Ian explains how it went down:

Phone rings...
Me: Hello.
My manager: Do you want to play the 40th anniversary of Knebworth; Sonisphere Festival with Iron Maiden?
Me: (filling my pants with poo) Yes!

“It's one of those phone calls you only dream about. I'm so excited for Anthrax to be a part of the biggest and best Sonisphere ever! Can't wait to destroy Knebworth again!”

Death metal has long been the most maniacal and viscous form of rock, but as each year passes, it becomes increasingly difficult to find new contenders to carry the torch and entice and surprise an audience that isn’t shocked or impressed by much. Fortunately for us, there’s CARNIFEX, who join this year’s line up for their first ever UK festival appearance. Last seen in the UK on the NEVER SAY DIE tour, where they punished audiences with their extremely brutal and superfast intensity, these San Diegans should enjoy a welcome return as they dish out the deathcore destruction at their first major UK festival.

"Carnifex is very excited to be a part of Sonisphere for the first time.” Says vocalist Scott Lewis. “We plan on bringing a massive set filled with your favourite Carnifex songs and tracks from the new album, you won't want to miss it."

In stark contrast to the chaos of CARNIFEX, SONISPHERE continues to uphold its tradition of keeping the line up wide, varied and with the odd cheeky surprise by welcoming CHAS & DAVE to the bill. The last time the legendary duo graced the stage at KNEBWORTH was in 1979, opening for Led Zeppelin. Since then, their love of genuine Rock’n’Roll, proudly cockney vocals and exuberant good humour has seen them become a household name across the country. Thirty-five years later, CHAS & DAVE’s appeal has never been greater or more varied, with audiences getting younger and new bands citing them as a major influence. The ultimate party hosts, the promise of a good ol’ knees up and sing along at KNEBWORTH will ensure the kind of magical moments festivals were invented for. Say the duo:

"We went down well at Knebworth in '79. Not surprised we got a return booking!"

Truly one of a kind, DEVIN TOWNSEND is a natural born visionary, artist and entertainer and one of the most uniquely insightful musicians of the 21st Century. Over 20 years, he has given the world metal faves Strapping Young Lad and the best puppet show the world has ever seen in Ziltoid The Omniscient, not to mention the incredible works recorded under his own name. In 2012 he brought these all together for the first time for Devin’s Retinal Circus at a sold out London Roundhouse for the most ambitious show of his career. Now he brings the DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT to SONISPHERE for his biggest UK performance to date. The man himself checked in to tell us:

“Amidst a year of relentless writing and planning, we are fortunate enough to be invited to a select few shows, and among the most cool is undoubtedly Sonisphere UK! It’s an institution that is really exciting, among bands we absolutely love. We can’t wait to take a studio break and come entertain you there. Thank you Sonisphere for the opportunity! =)”

Celtic punks DROPKICK MURPHYS make their way over from the state of Massachusetts for their SONISPHERE debut. Arguably one of the biggest genuine punk bands out there, the ‘MURPHYS continue to surprise industry pundits by outdrawing high profile mainstream acts as headliners on major tours around the globe. With anthems such as “Johnny, I Hardly Knew Ya”, “Rose Tattoo” and “I’m Shipping Up To Boston” – which provided the soundtrack to Hollywood smash The Departed – DROPKICK MURPHYS will no doubt have fists pumping and glasses raised high.

"We are psyched to see the Dropkick Murphys added to the list of amazing bands at this year's Sonisphere in historic Knebworth” says bassist Ken Casey. “We look forward to giving the equally legendary Sonisphere crowd a Dropkick Murphys show for the ages. See you in July!"

In 2011 SONISPHERE proudly boasted THE SISTERS OF MERCY’s first festival performance in 20 years. The result was a rammed to the rafters BOHEMIA, as Andrew Eldritch and his not so merry men gave spectators a late night feast of THE SISTERS’ unclassifiable blend of rock, pop, punk, dance and psychedelia. A rare occurrence, SONISPHERE is honoured and privileged to welcome back THE SISTERS OF MERCY for their only UK festival of 2014. Says the band:

“We had such a good time playing Sonisphere in 2011 (for the Sisters' first UK festival in 20 years) that we're coming back, to celebrate 40 years of gigs at Knebworth. Christ, that's even older than us. We're looking forward to seeing you all (even though you might not see us).”

Post hardcore mob SILVERSTEIN join SONISPHERE 2014. Since their formation in 2000, the Canadian five-piece has become as close to a household name as you can get in the post-hardcore scene. After 5 full length albums, 3 EPs, a live album, mini album, and numerous 7” singles and collections, SILVERSTEIN have sold more than 1 million albums worldwide, played more than 1600 shows in 42 countries, and have been a staple on many festivals and tours.

“We are delighted to announce that we will be returning to the U.K. for a performance at Sonisphere.” Says drummer Paul Koehler. “This will be our only 2014 appearance, and we look forward to sharing the stage with some incredible bands!”

In 2011 THE VIRGINMARYS appeared on the SONISPHERE line up as an unsigned three-piece from Macclesfield. Fast forward three years and they are now considered one of this country’s brightest rock hopes. Tours with the likes of Slash, Skunk Anansie, Eagles Of Death Metal and Queens Of The Stone Age led to a deal with Double Cross/Cooking Vinyl who released their debut album last year, which in turn saw them earn the honour of Best Breakthrough Act at the 2013 Classic Rock Awards. Also enjoying huge success at radio in the USA, THE VIRGINMARYS progress shows no sign of slowing down, and we look forward to welcoming them back.

"Ace to have Sonisphere back in the UK and great to be a part of it again” chime the band. “Bring it on!"

Last but by no means least, London classic metallers VOODOO SIX join the 2014 line up. Releasing their latest album “Songs To Invade Countries To” in May of last year, VOODOO SIX spent the remainder of 2013 doing what any band with a new album would do, touring the hell out of it. However, the five-piece were in a slightly more enviable position than most, having the good fortune to play 28 shows in 18 countries to 300,000 people with SONISPHERE headliners IRON MAIDEN.

“We are very proud to be asked to play at Sonisphere UK”. Says bassist Tony Newton. “It is the 40th anniversary of live events at Knebworth, and will be a great celebration of rock music with a fantastic line-up. To be included in this event is a huge honour, and we will play our part in making it a memorable weekend”.

Early Bird Weekend tickets for Sonisphere 2014 are on sale now priced at £170 (limited availability). The highly popular deposit scheme will also be running from now until April, meaning fans will be able to reserve their tickets for an initial payment of just £50. Check the Sonisphere website for further details.

All Campsites open Thursday.

For further information please visit www.sonisphere.co.uk

Line Up So Far:

THE PRODIGY – IRON MAIDEN – METALLICA

AIRBOURNE
ALICE IN CHAINS
ANTHRAX
CARNIFEX
CHAS & DAVE
DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT
DROPKICK MURPHYS
GHOST
GOJIRA
KARNIVOOL
LIMP BIZKIT
MASTODON
SILVERSTEIN
THE SISTERS OF MERCY
SLAYER
THE VIRGINMARYS
VOODOO SIX

4th – 6th JULY 2014
KNEBWORTH’S 40TH ANNIVERSARY
THE PRODIGY / IRON MAIDEN / METALLICA

** FURTHER NAMES ANNOUNCED TODAY **
AIRBOURNE / ALICE IN CHAINS / GHOST / GOJIRA /
KARNIVOOL / MASTODON / SLAYER

Sonisphere 2014 is proud to announce the first wave of bands who will be joining headliners The Prodigy, Iron Maiden and Metallica at Knebworth House on the weekend of 4th – 6th July, 2014.

Australian rockers Airbourne have amassed a legion of fans over their decade-long existence, with a high-octane live show featuring lead singer and guitarist Joel O’Keefe’s outrageous showmanship. Songs such as ‘Stand Up For Rock N’ Roll’, ‘Runnin’ Wild’, ‘Too Much, Too Young, Too Fast’, and recent single ‘Live It Up’ from Roadrunner Records-released third album ‘Black Dog Barking’, showcase a band that wears its hard-rock heritage proudly on its sleeve channeling the spirit of Thin Lizzy, Def Leppard, Judas Priest and AC/DC into a thrillingly updated version of good time rock & roll.

Joel O’Keefe says, “Us four guys are seriously fired up and chomping at the bit to bring the 'Black Dog Barking' Tour to Knebworth. With monumental metal juggernauts Iron Maiden and Metallica coming to shake Knebworth to the core along with Bruce Dickinson also announcing it will be the last concert of the 'Maiden England' tour this is a rock'n'roll event in time that can't be missed. We are deeply honored to have the green light for an Airbourne/Knebworth assault, to get out there on Knebworth's hallowed ground in front of that sea of heavy metal maniacs and give them every ounce of blood sweat and energy we got... And afterwards we'll grab a case of ice cold Trooper ale's and watch the best heavy metal bands of all time! See ya there!”

Seminal American rock group Alice In Chains were the first of the ‘90s Seattle bands to find a global audience, and their influence on the world of rock and metal is indisputable, with over 25 million albums sold during the course of their career. After a decade-long hiatus they returned in 2009 with the astonishing album ‘Black Gives Way To Blue’ and in 2013 their latest album ‘The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here’ was released to huge critical and commercial acclaim around the world and saw them play a major UK tour, including their biggest-ever headline show at Alexandra Palace in London, to rave reviews. Sonisphere 2014 will be their only UK festival appearance.

Lead vocalist and guitarist William DuVall comments, “We're very excited to be playing once again at Sonisphere, particularly as this year has us joining our longtime friends in Metallica. It should be a fun ride for everyone - both on and off the stage.”

Infamous Swedish doom-rockers Ghost are one of the most talked-about bands of recent years, their ghoulish stage presence – led by Papa Emeritus – ensuring their stage shows are ever-memorable affairs. But it is their hauntingly atmospheric, but always melodic, music that has won them a devoted audience and with the release of their second album ‘Infestissumam’ and its follow-up covers EP, ‘If You Have Ghost’, that audience has grown ever-larger still. Ghost’s performance at Sonisphere 2014 will be their only UK festival appearance this year and is sure to be a must-see event.

A Nameless Ghoul announces, “It is an honour to be playing at the unholy ground that is Knebworth, where so many classic rock concerts have taken place throughout the years.”

French progressive-metallers Gojira will also play their sole UK festival of 2014 at Sonisphere. Having toured with the likes of Trivium, Lamb Of God, Machine Head and Metallica over the years, Gojira are a formidable live act, combining brutal death metal with enormous technical skills to create their own unique sound, most recently on their 2012 album ‘L’Enfant Sauvage’, released on Roadrunner Records.

Joe from Gojira states, "We are super excited to return to the UK to play the Sonisphere festival at legendary Knebworth this year. We can't wait to come and kick your British asses!”

Perth-based Australian five-piece Karnivool are at the forefront of modern prog-rock, creating elaborate melodic soundscapes and delivering devastating live shows. Their Sonisphere performance is another UK exclusive for 2014 and will see them performing songs from last year’s critically acclaimed third album, ‘Asymmetry’.

Drew Goddard (guitarist) says "We can't bloody wait to get back to play Sonisphere UK 2014. Sonisphere Knebworth was actually the first European Festival we ever played a few years ago, so it will be nice to come back and kick some grass and have people know who we are!"

The mighty Mastodon return to Sonisphere, following their 2011 performance, as yet another exclusive addition to the 2014 bill. Formed in Atlanta, Georgia in 2000 Mastodon have released five studio albums to date, culminating with 2011’s ‘The Hunter’ which was voted album of the year by Kerrang, Metal Hammer, Rock Sound, Classic Rock, Terrorizer and Thrash Hits and saw them play a sold-out show at Brixton Academy. Their performance at Sonisphere will be the first chance for British fans to see them play tracks from their forthcoming sixth album, due out in the spring.

“We are super excited to be playing Sonisphere Knebworth again!!!“ they exclaim. “We had such a good time at the last one, this one will be even better!! We look forward to seeing you there!!”

Thrash-metal gods Slayer need no introduction as they bring their ferociously demonic live show back to Sonisphere, following their 2011 performance as part of the Big 4 line-up alongside Metallica, Megadeth and Anthrax. With their 11th studio album due for release in 2014, Slayer will be delivering their brand of skull-crushing heaviness louder and heavier than ever before.

As guitar-god Kerry King says, “Great to be back at Sonisphere this year!! Always a giant party!!!”

Many more bands, including two special guests, will be announced shortly.

As previously announced The Prodigy, Iron Maiden and Metallica headline Sonisphere 2014, in an historic bill guaranteed to make Knebworth’s 40th Anniversary one of the most memorable events ever staged in the grounds, especially as it is the first time ever that Iron Maiden and Metallica have appeared together on the same bill in the UK.

Sonisphere 2014 marks the return to Britain of the Sonisphere Festival, which for the past five years has been the biggest pan-European festival, playing to audiences of over 1.5 Million fans.

Early Bird Weekend tickets for Sonisphere 2014 are on sale now priced at £170 (limited availability). The highly popular deposit scheme will also be running from now until April, meaning fans will be able to reserve their tickets for an initial payment of just £50. Check the Sonisphere website for further details.

All Campsites open Thursday.

For further information please visit www.sonisphere.co.uk

Line Up So Far:

THE PRODIGY – IRON MAIDEN – METALLICA

AIRBOURNE
ALICE IN CHAINS
GHOST
GOJIRA
KARNIVOOL
MASTODON
SLAYER