The annual showcase for the loudest, most relentless, and chaotic creators of metal, hardcore, and all things heavy, Fresh Blood is where the heaviest bands go head to head.

• When: Friday 20 March 2026
• Where: Banbury’s legendary live music den Also Known As
• What’s at stake: A coveted slot at the epic alt shindig TOCstock: The Revenge in October

Applications have now closed. The chosen bands will be posted here very soon. Stay tuned.

• You’ll play a 15–20 minute set live at Also Known As, Banbury, on Friday, 20 March 2026.
• Bring at least three original tracks － no covers-only bands, sorry.
• Our panel of judges from the heavy music community (TBA) will score you on composition, musicality, and stage presence － up to 10 points each.
• The crowd will also cast their vote － worth a chunky 20 points.
• Highest total out of 50 wins the night.
• If there’s a tie, the band with the stronger crowd vote takes the crown.

Claim the Fresh Blood crown and walk away with:

• A 30–40 minute slot at TOCstock: The Revenge － Friday, 9 October 2026 at Also Known As.
• A full promo push across all TEN OF CLUBS channels, including a feature interview in The Winchester.
• Photo and video assets from your Fresh Blood set.
• Bonus promo opportunities in the run-up to TOCstock: The Revenge.
• A stash of free TEN OF CLUBS garms － so you can rock out with your TOC out!

Do you have what it takes? Step up or step aside.