UPRISING returns to Leicester’s O2 Academy for a huge milestone event, featuring returning favourites and heavy hitters making their debut.
Joining the UPRISING 9 line-up are…
Those who attended Bloodstock may have received a flyer revealing our first band — we’re thrilled to announce the return of BREED 77, following their fantastic comeback show at Uprising 7. With a huge arsenal of hits including La Ultima Hora, The River, Bring On The Rain, and their classic cover of The Cranberries’ Zombie, the alternative metallers wowed audiences last time they performed for us. Expect nothing less than a highly emotive soundscape to accompany a full day of heavy riffs and good times.
Check out their single The End Of The Line:
If progressive metal is your thing, look no further than MAYFIRE. Combining lush soundscapes and cinematic visuals, this ambitious band pushes boundaries much like their musical predecessors Dream Theater and Leprous. Having gained critical acclaim across Europe, MAYFIRE will use Uprising to make a bold statement of intent within the UK scene.
Check out their single The Ages Of Kings:
Making their UPRISING debut are the Egyptian empresses MAATKARE, who bring their monumental death metal fables — loud enough to wake Ra himself. Bursting onto the scene last year with their debut album Rise To Power, the band draw on their wealth of experience to share the stories of forgotten queens and warriors from ancient Egypt.
Check out their single Rise To Power:
GURT will be bringing their signature party doom up from the Big Smoke, making their UPRISING debut. Formed in 2010 with one simple goal — to make “bloody awful noise” — GURT have since unleashed four self-released albums and numerous EPs. With a wealth of touring experience across the UK and Europe, they’ve shared stages with sludge heavyweights such as Red Fang, Weedeater, Dopethrone, and Eye Hate God. Don’t miss these bonkers riff lords!
Check out their single The Most Dying Way To Die:
No strangers to UPRISING, our favourite hardcore crew BREAK THEM return to showcase their high-energy chaos. Following standout performances at the Leicester Metal 2 The Masses, the band have cemented themselves as powerhouses of the local scene — and are guaranteed to impress with their explosive, high-octane set.
Check out their single All Bark, No Bite:
TotalRock Joins the Celebration
We’re also thrilled to announce that Uprising has teamed up with TotalRock for their 25th anniversary! TotalRock will celebrate with us by hosting The Night Before at the Firebug in Leicester, sponsoring the O2 Academy 1 stage, and featuring several of their team as guest comperes throughout the weekend.
If you’re not familiar with TotalRock — the station was launched in 2000 by Tommy Vance and a group of rock music visionaries, including Programme Director Tony Wilson and Managing Editor Malcolm Dome. TotalRock pioneered the concept of a dedicated rock radio station in the UK, building an enviable reputation for launching the careers of bands and DJs alike.
A highlight of the original station was their all-dayer mini-festivals, TotalFests — and we’re bringing that spirit back on the Friday night at Uprising. Today, TotalRock continues to champion the best emerging UK rock and metal acts through its radio shows, YouTube channel, social media platforms, and website.
“We are stoked to be collaborating with Uprising on their 10th anniversary show and combining it with our 25th anniversary party. There are so many treats planned for the weekend, and we look forward to seeing all you true music lovers and metalheads for the party weekend of the year.” — Tony Wilson, TotalRock
Join the Party!
There’s still plenty more to come for the tenth anniversary of the Uprising Festival — and this is just the beginning.
Line-Up so far: PITCHSHIFTER, STAMPIN GROUND, LAWNMOWER DETH, BREED 77, MANORS, MAYFIRE, PRYMA, FRACTIONS, GURT, HAWXX, GURT, MAATKARE & BREAK THEM
Tickets on sale NOW for £35 (Plus fees) | Under 12s – FREE | 12-16s £20
https://www.gigantic.com/uprising-tickets/leicester-o2-academy-leicester/2026-05-23-12-00
