The team behind Manchester’s grimmest gathering, Offal Fest, have decided to put the power in the hands of the punters for their 2026 edition. Rancid Offal Promotions have just announced “Battle of the Slams”, a showcase series designed to find the perfect opening act for next year’s festival.
Rather than hand-picking the opener themselves, the organisers are throwing eight rising bands into the ring at the legendary Star & Garter. The winner won’t be decided by a panel of judges, but by the fans in the room. It’s a simple setup: you turn up, you watch the carnage, and you vote for the band you want to see on the big stage at The Bread Shed in July.
The competition is split into two heats. Heat 1 kicks off on Sunday, 8th February 2026, featuring a four-way skirmish between Vast Slug, World War Three, Erectomy and Mindhold. Two weeks later, on Sunday, 22nd February 2026, Heat 2 sees Combat Evolved, Dushman, 12 Gauge Autopsy and War Bastard facing off for their spot in the final.
The winners of these heats will progress to a final showdown (date to be confirmed) which will also feature a special surprise headliner to close out proceedings.
The prize is a slot on the bill at Offal Fest 2026, which is already looking absolutely stacked. Taking place from 24th-26th July at The Bread Shed, the festival boasts UK exclusive headline sets from slam pioneers Devourment and Ohio heavyweights Regurgitation. With a lineup that also includes the likes of Immortal Suffering, Butcher ABC and the return of Infected Disarray, whoever wins this competition will be in very good company indeed.
If you want to support the local scene and have a say in who kicks off the weekend, get yourself down to the Star & Garter. Tickets are £12 in advance or £15 on the door.
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Battle of the Slams Dates:
- 8th February 2026 – Manchester, Star & Garter (Heat 1)
- 22nd February 2026 – Manchester, Star & Garter (Heat 2)
