There’s a sickness in the world of live music — the same handful of names clogging every festival bill, the same industry mechanics grinding out “safe” lineups for “safe” crowds. Somewhere along the way, the underground — the true heart of metal — got drowned out by algorithms, ticket vendors, and corporate polish.

So here’s the plan: we’re taking it back.

I’m working to create a festival — The Black Flame Festival — built by and for the underground. A space where unsigned and independent Metal bands of all genres can command a stage, be heard, and connect directly with the people who actually live this music. No industry middlemen, no fake hype, no compromise. Just raw, unfiltered heaviness.

This isn’t about ego or profit. It’s about empowerment — about giving voice and visibility to the bands clawing their way through the darkness to be heard. Every great movement started with a handful of believers and a lot of noise. That’s what this is.

The first edition will be small — one stage, one night, one eruption of sound — but the vision is much bigger. I’m currently applying for Arts Council and Lottery funding to help make this happen: fair pay for every band, real production value, and a festival that treats underground artists with the same respect the mainstream reserves for its headliners.

But a festival like this doesn’t rise alone. It grows through community. Through the same fire that’s always kept this scene alive — word of mouth, tape-trading spirit, mutual support.

So if you’re:

A band that wants in,

A fan who believes the underground still matters,

A volunteer, artist, or zinester who wants to contribute,

Or just someone sick to death of soulless festival lineups…

Then now’s the time.

Spread the word. Talk about it. Post it. Message your favourite local acts and tell them something is coming.

The Black Flame Festival is more than a gig — it’s a manifestation of resistance. Let’s light that fire together. Stay loud,— Neil Gray, Black Metal Archives / The Black Flame Communion.