Bloodstock Festival Countdown : 24 Bands Not To Miss

Bloodstock awaits. Bloodstock expects. It is time to enjoy a weekend of full fat metal with no substitutes. So let’s not mess around. Let’s give you number 4 as it is a big one.

4. Judas Priest – Ronnie James Dio stage – Sunday night headliner.

It was less than 10 years ago that the very proposition of metal icons Judas Priest, felt like a fever dream. Since the festival started becoming ambitious in its bookings around 2010, main band capturer Vicki zealously pursued the Priest. There were many reason why it didn't happen; schedules didn't align, recording commitments got in the way and contract negotiations just couldn't be finalised. But in 2018 it finally happened, with founding member Ian Hill jokingly stating that not only was he aware of the festival but he could hear it from his back garden. Priest that year were astonishing. They reminded us of the pomp and power of metal and just what an awesome live act they are. They returned in 2021 with a fabulous Black Country steelwork backdrop and rampant fingers up to the Covid pandemic. Here we are in 2026 for visit number three. It is unarguable that they are in the purplest of patches when it comes to new material. 2018’s “Firepower” and 2024’s “Invincible Shield” proved that they still have so much creativity to bring to the table. This will be the perfect way to wrap up the weekend. One of Metal's biggest name on one of the biggest stages for metal in the UK. From a wistful daydreaming of a booking to becoming the festival’s new house band, Judas Priest and Bloodstock are now bound together in solid steel. Get ready to raise those fists!!!