Artemis

Artemis is a 4-man strong rock-band based in Delft/Amsterdam that is moving towards an increasingly progressive sound. Whereas the earlier work consisted of more accessible rock, they are now exploring complex musical structures with unpredictable riffs, daring rhythms and a heavy, guitar-driven approach. Also lyrically, Artemis looks for depth. Inspired by continental philosophers like Søren Kierkegaard, Jean-Paul Sartre and Hannah Arendt, Artemis expresses existential questions with often meteorological metaphors. In may of 2026 their first full-length album Before the Coral Crumbles appeared, which sounds nothing like their 2024 debut album Falcon or their 2025 single Huntress. Apart from heavy progressive rock with intense vocals, which are a staple on this new album, Artemis also took a chance to experiment with new sounds among which organ and flute.

Staredown

Staredown; Iemand recht in zijn ogen aankijken vlak voordat je rake klappen uit deelt. Dat is precies wat deze vierkoppige band uit Delft doet. Met harde riffs, groovy bas, strakke drums en rake teksten leggen zij de vinger op pijnpunten om hier vervolgens hard op in te gaan. Met roots en inspiratie uit alternatieve rock, hiphop, metal en progressieve rock vangt deze band je blik en laat deze niet meer los.

Stringent

Stringent is a modern metal band from the Gouda region in the Netherlands, bringingtogether members from Gouda and Delft. The band  ombines crushing heaviness with progressive songwriting, technical riffing and emotionally driven compositions, while continuing to evolve beyond a single fixed subgenre. Following the release of their debut single "Say My Name" (2024), Stringent underwent a major lineup change. The current lineup, Seijno (drums), Paco (bass), Tijs and Fenna (guitars), and Ruben (vocals), has shaped a tighter, heavier and more progressive direction, balancing aggression with memorable songwriting. Driven by intricate guitar work, energetic drums, powerful vocals, and roaring bass. Stringent writes music that balances technicality with impact. The band is currently finalizing its debut EP, scheduled for release at the end of January.

Ahead of the release, two singles from the EP will be released to build momentum. The EP explores themes of emotions, isolation and betrayal: "Kill Me" deals with self-isolation and a world metaphorically falling apart, while "Clarity" captures the anger in realizing that someone once  trusted has betrayed or lied to you.

On stage, Stringent delivers high-energy performances that invite the audience to become part of the experience. Since forming the current  lineup, the band aims to build momentum in the Dutch metal scene. Stringent has already shared the stage with Canyon Literature and Phoenix Ashes, and is set to perform at its January release show alongside Vrode, Azalea and Dynamo Metal Battle winners Damnation.

With their debut EP on the horizon and a growing live presence, Stringent is focused on expanding its reach throughout the scene and creating music that listeners can connect to both live and at home.