Alestorm in Leeds

Alestorm is a Scottish metal band formed in Perth in 2004, initially under the name Battleheart. Their power and folk metal is built around pirate stories, drinking songs and seafaring imagery. The band is known for albums including Captain Morgan’s Revenge and Back Through Time, and songs such as “Keelhauled,” “Drink” and “Fucked with an Anchor.” Piratefest became Alestorm’s recurring package-tour banner for headline runs through European clubs and theatres. After appearances at Wacken Open Air, Bloodstock Open Air and Hellfest, the band toured North America in 2023 with Gloryhammer and Lutharo. Alestorm performs as a full band led by Christopher Bowes on vocals and keytar. Pirate costumes and a giant inflatable duck are recurring parts of the stage presentation. Alestorm plays headline concerts far beyond Scotland, including London dates and transatlantic shows in Seattle.

Battle Beast are a Finnish heavy and power metal band formed in Helsinki in 2008. Fronted by vocalist Noora Louhimo, the group are known for prominent keyboards, hard-rock hooks and songs including “King for a Day,” “Beyond the Burning Skies” and “Eden.” Their albums include Unholy Savior, Bringer of Pain, No More Hollywood Endings and Circus of Doom. The band won the Wacken Metal Battle in 2010 and performed at Wacken Open Air, an early festival appearance that preceded a European support run with Nightwish in 2012. As their catalogue expanded, Battle Beast moved into headline touring with Bringer of Pain Over Europe in 2017 and the No More Hollywood Endings European tour in 2019. The group returned to European venues in 2022 on the Circus of Doom European Tour.