Simon Rushworth
It’s the night before the main event and thousands of Download fans are already on site counting down the hours until the real action gets underway.
It might be wet. It might be muddy. But it’s also going to be one hell of a rock and metal ride with scores of the best bands on the planet ready to bring their A-game to Castle Donington.
And one band who will do just that are fast-rising retro rockers Rival Sons.
Virtually unknown 18 months ago the US band are neck and neck with big buddies Vintage Trouble as the best new rockers we’ve heard for some time.
And with the follow-up to Pressure & Time due later this summer there’s never been a better time to jump aboard the Rival Sons bandwagon.
Band: Rival Sons
Where: Zippo Encore Stage
When: Sunday June 10 (14.15-14.45)
Who: Retro US rockers on a roll
Why Watch Rival Sons: Frontman Jay Buchanan is one of the most charismatic performers on the rock n roll circuit with hints of Bowie, Coverdale and Tyler making for an endearing mix. The band are big on 70s-fuelled riffs and jamtastic live sets.
Why Miss Rival Sons: One word – Anthrax. The US thrash metal legends start their main stage set 25 minutes before Rival Sons are due to play and don’t finish until 2.30pm. If you’re an open-minded Download fan it’s an unfortunate clash.
Must hear: Pressure & Time, from the 2011 album of the same name, typifies the retro cool Rival Sons have exuded since day one.
Overrated: White Noise is one of the rare low points on the otherwise fantastic Pressure & Time. Skip straight to album closer Face Of Light.