Bloodstock Festival Countdown : 30 Bands Not To Miss

27. Flotsam And Jetsam - Ronnie James Dio Stage - Lunchtime Friday

My favourite first date conversation is what is the greatest thrash act outside of the big four (you can tell I am a bit a catch). During appetisers the conversation usually darts around Testament, Exodus, Nuclear Assault and Sacred Reich. During the mains there is always a debate about Death or Dark Angel and as desert is served I make a leftfield pitch for the British contingent of Onslaught and Sabbat. However there is one thing we always manage to agree on and that is Flotsam and Jetsam are never given the kudos that they deserve.

Known by many as the band that Metallica nicked Jason Newstead from, they actually have a rich musical history stretching right back to the birth of thrash. Whilst others have mucked around with the format, over 15 albums and over forty years they have stayed true to the church of thrash. So prepare yourself for searing guitars and blistering choruses as these are thrash survivors still with something to say.