The inaugural Bridstock took place in October 2025, with a packed line up of heavy metal, punk, deathcore and more rattling the bones of The Black Lion in Bridlington’s Old Town.
Headlining this all-dayer were Brid’s own Alice in Thunderland, a fitting nod to their 30th anniversary as a band. The event opened with another local act, the young musicians of Broken Oak, who capably started proceedings, and also debuted new frontman Jamie Mckellar. They were followed by the exceedingly enjoyable thrashing deathcore of Affliction, hailing from Hull. Bridlington garage punk trio Tempersflare brought the old-school up-tempo licks, whilst Six Feet Below ignited the crowd with heavy metal riffs then charmed the crowd with free teabags (Yorkshire Tea, OF COURSE). Blim Burn, an experimental soul/jazz duo consisting of 50% of Broken Oak, stepped in to fill a last minute line-up alteration, and capably so. Hot Rockets, in what would sadly turn out to be one of their final gigs as an outfit, absolutely tore up proceeedings with their high energy mischief.
The mighty Alice in Thunderland had been front and centre in the audience all day, welcoming guests and bands alike, and supporting their fellow musicians. When it came time to take to the stage for their finale, they belted through a litany of songs, old and new, from their extensive back-catalogue across three decades. They then delighted with a short section of classic rock covers to bring a party feel to the end of the night – and in a moment of sisterhood that was greatly appreciated, dedicated a song to YCG photographer Kath who captured the day’s proceedings – not that it was any sort of hardship to do so. The band are in fine form as AIT turns thirty and they have plenty on the cards in the near future too.
This was our first visit to the Black Lion in a long time, and the quirky, old-time music hall vibe is beguiling. The mood of the day was enjoyable and warm, and a fab festival mini-menu of food offerings was available (can’t beat a festival pie and mash, really, can you?). There are whispers of a 2026 event and we will be keeping our eyes and ears open to keep you posted on announcements. In the meantime, do check out the bands – click on each band name below for the links.
