Over in Rampage we like to support the local scene where we can. So we decided to put together a little collection of bands from the West Midlands that we think you ought to check out when you get a chance, whether that be on your favourite music streaming service, or at a local show. Read on below to see who we think you should be keeping an eye out for this year!

Cryptid

The Wolverhampton lads over in Cryptid may only have a couple of songs released, but those songs do go pretty damned hard. With a sound thats so far felt like an interesting mix of Korn, Volbeat, and Cane Hill these guys are on a damned noble mission to bring a modern era of nu metal to the heart of England.

Denied Legacy

Deathcore 4 piece Denied Legacy have been making a solid name for themselves around the Birmimgham metal scene the past couple of years. Whilst their back catalogue is still small, it packs a hell of a punch with vocalist Tommy Gladstone dishing out screams that are on par with some of the well established heavy hitters of the deathcore scene.

Beach Front

If Pop Punks your game, Beach Fronts the name. Their energetic sound and catchy choruses are reminiscent of emo pop rock band Hey Monday, albeit with a slightly heavier tinge. Their addition of some pretty meaty breakdowns and screaming add a lot of depth to their sound, proving that they have the versatility to kick it up a notch when the time calls for it without pushing the band too far into the more metal side of music. Don’t be surprised if you start seeing their name popping up more and more, as they’ve already joined some well established bands on stage including the quintessential “Pop Goes Punk” cover band Punk Rock Factory.

Vanitas

This progressive metalcore act from Walsall have made a decent name for themselves with their dark souls inspired music. Drawing heavily on the cinematic sound of orchestras, their sound is as glorious as it is furious and to add on top of that, a satisfying stage show that is improved upon time on time compliments their sound. Despite a now international following, Vanitas are still regulars at local venues like The Flapper in Birmingham, meaning you can still enjoy a top tier show for a more than reasonable price. Although that might change after their set at Bloodstock!

Blush Puppy

A more alt rock outfit than metal, Blush Puppy’s music sits in a vein similar to that of Boston Manor. A mix of slower more thoughtful melodies and punk infused attitude, the Birmingham based quartet are refining a sound that should be broadly appealing to a lot of people across the alternative scene. Its no surprise that they have already featured on BBCs Introducing radio show, and were named one of Kerrangs 26 essential new artists for 2026.

So there we have it guys, 5 exciting West Midlands local bands that you may or may not have heard of. Give ’em a try. You might just discover your new favourites! Keep an eye out as well, because we’ll be doing the same for the East Midlands very soon!