Metal bands, assemble! Your moment has arrived. TOCstock: Fresh Blood is our annual showcase for the loudest, most relentless and chaotic new creators of metal, hardcore, and all things heavy. If that sounds like you, we want to hear you.

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

If your band can bring the noise, the stage is yours for the taking.

• 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.