Altered Myths finalists in Vans Musicians Wanted competition

Altered Myths is a double act featuring 34-year-old Matik who has lived in Penarth for 18 years on vocals and drums, and 34-year-old Eskay from Dinas Powys (now living in Barry) on guitar and bass.

The pair have both been playing their instruments for more than 20 years and met at St Cyres School when they were 14.

Altered Myths, which formed in 2017, is one of just five European finalists – the winner will be selected through a livestreamed concert on September 22 and will get to support YUNGBLUD on stage in 2022.

Matik, who refuses to stay behind his drumkit often climbing it and joining the crowd with marching drums, said: “Our music is built with big riffs, drum grooves and choruses that make you want to shout along.

“We’re influenced by rock artists who bring out the big emotions: Led Zeppelin, Alice Cooper, Queens of the Stone Age, and thousands in between.

“Our shows are an exhilarating clash of pantomime and mosh-pit therapy.”

The pair said it is “gratifying” to be the only Welsh band among the finalists, as London is often “presented as the epicentre of music in Britain” despite talent being all over the UK.

“We want to show that true grassroots music – of the people, for the people – comes from small towns people might have never heard of,” said Matik.

“Manic Street Preachers putting Blackwood on the map are our idols in that respect.”

They are “incredibly excited” to see the judges’ reactions to their performance from 8pm on September 22 and hope that it “captures their energy”.

“It would be amazing to win,” said Matik.

“YungBlud is such an ambassador of the weird and wonderful and our ethos is all about being yourself and not letting anyone stop you.”

Find out more about the band at alteredmyths.com

To check out the virtual concert on September 22 visit Vans.eu/MusiciansWanted