Sometimes life throws a curveball even heavier than a drop-B riff, and that’s exactly what’s happened in the run-up to Bloodstock Festival 2025.

Sad news from the Bloodstock camp – SPIRIT ADRIFT have officially pulled out of their UK tour and Bloodstock appearance due to a serious medical situation in frontman Nate Garrett’s family. 😔 And honestly? Fair play, butt. Some things are just bigger than gigs and growls.

Here’s what Nate had to say:

“Hey guys, Nate here. Unfortunately we have a serious medical situation in my family. Sorry to be vague at this time, but it’s out of respect for my loved ones… rest assured there is no feasible way we can responsibly go through with the tour. I promise we’ll be back when the time is right, and hopefully with a new record and some new songs to play for you guys. Sorry to let you all down but we’ll make it up to you. Thanks for all the support.”

We’re gutted, but we get it. From all of us at The Riff Report, we’re raising a pint (and a devil horn) to Nate and his family 💜 – get well soon, mun, and take all the time you need. The riffs can wait, health can’t. 🥁

🌑 ENTER: LOWEN – THE PROG-DOOM REPLACEMENT WITH MIDDLE EASTERN MAGIC 🎸🔥

Stepping up to the (very heavy) plate is London-based Lowen – progressive doomsters with a Middle Eastern influence and some serious sonic weight. If you don’t know them yet, you’re about to be sonically baptised in thick, atmospheric layers of doom, desert wind, and divine fuzz.

🔥 They’re not just filling the gap – they’re redefining it.

Lowen recently dropped their second album, Do Not Go to War With the Demons of Mazandaran, via Church Road Records – and it’s a proper belter. Dense, spiritual, political, and absolutely massive in sound. Think early Pallbearer meets Myrkur after a journey through ancient Persian ruins. 🕌⚡

🎧 Get up to speed with their full album stream here:
👉 YouTube: Full Album Stream

🎥 Want a teaser? Watch their single “Waging War Against God” here:
👉 Watch on YouTube

📰 Or dive into a recent Kerrang! interview with frontwoman Nina Saeidi, where she opens up about heritage, doom, and the power of storytelling in music:
👉 Kerrang Interview with Nina Saeidi

💬 From the Pit: The Riff Report’s Take

Look, we’re absolutely gutted not to see Spirit Adrift bring the thunder to Catton Park this year. Their fusion of classic metal, doom, and heartfelt riffage has been a growing force in the scene – and we were ready to weep in unison during “Angel & Abyss” 😭🎸

But this is more than just music. It’s about community. And the Bloodstock crew – and us filthy metalheads – stand tall with Nate and his family. Bloodstock’s a family in itself. We shout, we scream, we drink too much cider, and yes, sometimes we cry in the portaloos… but we always have each other’s backs. 🤘❤️

And with Lowen stepping in, we’re not just getting a replacement – we’re getting something bold, mystical, and powerful. If you’ve never witnessed doom metal delivered with this kind of elegance and cultural depth, you’re in for a lush surprise.

🔥 Final Thoughts

So here’s what’s occurring:

  • Spirit Adrift – Sending love, healing, and the biggest riffs for the future. We’ll see you again, stronger than ever 🖤
  • Lowen – Welcome to Bloodstock! Bring the doom, the drama, and the destruction. We’re ready 😈

Let’s raise a toast (or six) for both bands this August.

Bloodstock 2025 just got even more interesting. See you down the front, but don’t forget your earplugs – this one’s gonna shake the earth. 🌋🎤

✍️ Written with love and low end by The Riff Report Crew
🎸 @theriffreportuk | staging.theriffreport.co.uk/

#Bloodstock2025 #SpiritAdrift #Lowen #MetalFamily #GetWellSoonNate #DoomMetal #ChurchRoadRecords #RiffReportApproved 🤘