Heriot came into my life through a recommendation from my friend Rosie (thank you, my love), but I’m almost certain they would’ve weaved their way into my playlist one way or another—because 2024 was, without a doubt, the Year of Heriot. They are that bloody good.
They tick all the boxes for me—they sound mean and trigger my inner thug so much I had to control myself from throwing my camera aside and moshing with all the dudes in the pit, then proceeding straight to A&E. Their debut album Devoured by the Mouth of Hell shook the metal music media and charts last year. It launched them into the next stage of their blooming career. No longer considered “ones to watch”—they’re taking up space now, leading to moments like their sold-out headline show at the Underworld.
That evening was hot—this was the place to be on that Friday night. Every inch of available space was filled with bodies, all living and breathing their love for the band. Heriot drowned us in their signature down-tuned, mean-as-fuck riffs, setting everyone in motion. We weren’t just bopping along—we were swimming in sweat, condensation, and beer. You could hardly turn in any direction; everyone was up close and personal. The band genuinely deserves the hype they get. Their sound is versatile—it doesn’t fall neatly into any specific genre, and that’s what’s best about them. It attracts a wide array of metal fans. Actually—dare I say it—they embody all of metal. They are everything, all at once.
Also: Debbie Gough – she’s a commander-in-chief, in charge of making everyone go absolutely batshit crazy with the coolest rendition of half scream/half husky howls. If this article is the first time you’re hearing about Heriot, please go and immediately stream their stuff wherever you listen to music. If you don’t know what song to start with—my fave is Siege Lord. You’re welcome.
Heriot just wrapped up their UK tour ahead of a busy summer filled with festivals. Supporting them were False Reality and Grove Street—two pivotal bands for hardcore-loving Londoners, seen on so many show lineups that everyone’s caught them at least once by now. Each band has a unique twist on the genre, incorporating that garage-y thrash sound. False Reality is promoting their new single Cost of Spite, which brings groove-inspired, Pantera-like instrumentals mixed with the explosiveness of hardcore. Grove Street, on the other hand, alongside their fun and funny lyrics and genuinely hilarious energy, gave us some of the first stage dives of the night. Plus, that metallic-sounding chorus? So satisfying.
If you missed Heriot’s tour, their next show is announced at the 2000 Trees Festival, followed by more exciting dates that you can view here.