By Jase Walker

Another year rolls around and it’s time for me to get my arrangements made for a trip to Bristol for a festival that is the epitome of ‘weird music’ all in one place. Ranging from some of the biggest names in prog, to outrageously bizarre music that even I’m a bit taken back by, but every year ATG puts on some of the most stacked lineups for people into bands that are a bit leftfield and 2024’s edition is no different.

As usual I like to try and shine a bit of a spotlight on the bands that are big draws for me that people might not be aware of so please allow me to share five artists that I love in no particular order.

SCALER

SCALER absolutely blew my head off at ATG a few years back with their innovative approach to creating Techno with a live band and some ‘metal’ sensibilities. An incredibly unique show ranging from the light show, the unusual accompanying videos and the outrageously bassy sound.

Hundred Year Old Man

Hundred Year Old Man (stylised as HYOM) took me by surprise during my attendance at a Bloodstock Metal To The Masses show while I was there to support a mate’s band and I’ve been a steadfast fan of theirs ever since. The lumbering, forceful, and often frightening sound they have scratches a brain itch many fail to get close to.

Kalandra

Kalandra were one of the biggest takeaways for me following their support slot on Leprous’s extensive European tour last year. Absolutely sublime vocals that are reminiscent of Aurora against a canvas of complex rhythms and melodic hooks that makes for a wonderfully unique band.

Asymmetric Universe

It’s very easy to write these off as ‘Plini-core’ due to similar jazz fusion elements but don’t let this fool you into thinking they’re another carbon copy because that undersells their fantastically uplifting and complex sound. They’re a ton of fun to watch and clearly love doing what they do and if you’re into virtuoso style playing then you’d be a fool to miss these.

Delta Sleep

Delta Sleep represents everything I absolutely adore about math rock. It’s fun, uplifting, pleasant and above all, wholesome. I’ve lost count of the amount of times I’ve seen these now as I never waste a chance so you can catch me in the middle of the crowd having the time of my life as I belt out every word.

All that remains is to see you down the front.

  • ArcTanGent takes place at Fernhill Farm, Compton Martin (Just outside Bristol), from Wednesday 14 – Saturday 17 August.
  • Check out our dedicated ArcTanGent YouTube channel.
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