Pest Control — Bloodstock Open Air 2023

In August 2023, the path from Leeds hardcore to major metal festivals runs through the Sophie Lancaster stage. Formed during lockdown, Pest Control arrives at Bloodstock six months after releasing its first album. The band brings Catton Park a still-short history, built in part through small shows and independent circuits.

Leah Massey-Hay fronts the quintet and keeps the pit moving. Joe Kerry and Joe Williams share guitar duties, with Jack Padurariu on bass and Ben Jones on drums. Masquerade Party starts the live performance; Don't Test the Pest, Struck Down and The Great Deceiver sustain the meeting of thrash speed and hardcore force.

The summer of 2023 also includes European festivals and shows with Obituary, extending the band's reach beyond its home scene. The Bloodstock recording captures this transition: the debut album still dominates the performance, but Enjoy the Show and Infestation broaden the selection. At the close, Pest Control reconnects the stage with the first demo.