Battalions

Battalions are a group from Kingston upon Hull, England, active since 2010. Their music sits in hard rock, heavy metal, metal and sludge metal, and they describe their sound as down-tuned heavy rock with extreme vocals, closer to older sludge and doom-influenced styles.

Formation and line-up changes

The band begins as a four-piece in 2010, with Kristian Barford on drums and Andrew “Half Deaf” McClatchie among the early members. Over time, both leave the group. Matt Walker later joins on drums, and Mark Wood joins on guitar. Matt Dennett is an original bassist, but steps out during a transitional period before returning. The band later continues as a four-piece after Mark Wood steps down.

Current members named in the input

The line-up identified in the available information is Phil Wilkinson on vocals, Peter Cross on guitar, Matt Walker on drums and Matt Dennett on lead bass.

Debut album

Battalions release a debut album titled Nothing to Lose. It is recorded at Skyhammer Studios with Chris Fielding of Conan. The album and the touring around it mark a renewed push for the band in the underground scene.

Style and position

The group’s sound is rooted in heavy, detuned riffing and harsh vocals, with a stated preference for older sludge-related influences. They build their reputation through local shows in Hull, playing to very small audiences as well as larger crowds.