Black Stone Cherry lead UK’s Carnival Of Madness
2016 bill includes Shinedown, Halestorm and Highly Suspect

Black Stone Cherry will lead the first-ever UK Carnival Of Madness tour in January and February next year.
They’re joined on the eight-date run by Shinedown, Halestorm and newcomers Highly Suspect.
It’s the first time the franchise, sponsored by Monster energy drink, has left the US. Since launching in 2010 it’s featured Papa Roach, In This Moment, Alter Bridge and Evanescence among its acts.
BSC – who play Download tomorrow (Friday) – say: “We’re beyond excited and honoured to headline the UK’s first-ever Carnival Of Madness. To return after our first arena tour in 2014 is a testament to where our fans have taken us.
“With Highly Suspect, Halestorm and Shinedown round out this incredible bill, you’ll get your ass kicked like never before.”
Halestorm’s Lzzy Hale adds: “The Carnival Of Madness has always been so much more than just a show. It’s an outlet for creativity and energy – something both bands and fans can do together. We’ve enjoyed being a part of this ride for many years. Let’s make ‘rock show’ a verb!”
Tickets go on general sale at 9am on June 19 via Live Nation with VIP First Entry packages available from www.carnivalofmadness.com.
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UK dates
Jan 28: Cardiff Motorpoint Arena
Jan 29: Nottingham Capital FM Arena
Jan 30: Liverpool Echo Arena
Feb 01: Glasgow SSE Hydro
Feb 02: Birmingham Barclaycard Arena
Feb 04: London SSE Wembley Arena
Feb 05: Leeds First Direct Arena
Feb 06: Manchester Arena
Not only is one-time online news editor Martin an established rock journalist and drummer, but he’s also penned several books on music history, including SAHB Story: The Tale of the Sensational Alex Harvey Band, a band he once managed, and the best-selling Apollo Memories about the history of the legendary and infamous Glasgow Apollo. Martin has written for Classic Rock and Prog and at one time had written more articles for Louder than anyone else (we think he's second now). He’s appeared on TV and when not delving intro all things music, can be found travelling along the UK’s vast canal network.