MEET THE TEAM


Stephen Cummings (BeardBo) - Founder / Podcaster / Editor

Hello, I’m Stevie, the founder of Get Heavy UK publication! This journey began as a passion project fueled by my desire to give back to a community that has been my anchor through the highs and lows of life. Since my teens, the metal community has provided me with not only a soundtrack to my experiences but also a steadfast support system that has uplifted me mentally and emotionally.

At Get Heavy UK, we aim to celebrate the powerful connections we forge through music. Our mission is to bring together fans, artists, and bands, creating a space where we can share stories, experiences, and, of course, the love for all things heavy. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have conversations with  legends, heroes, and rising stars within the metalverse. Each interaction has deepened my understanding of this vibrant community and the impact it has on our lives.

Join me and the Get Heavy UK family as we dive into the music that moves us, the stories that inspire us, and the community that supports us.


Shaun Payne - Founder / Reviewer / Artist

Hey guys I'm Shaun payne I'm a musician and artist from Sunderland UK and i'm the founder of the Get HEAVY FEST and Partner with Stephen. i'm also currently in the band Morrows Massacre.

 

Since I was a child I've spent my whole life surrounded by music, I love how it brings the world together and let's us all feel and express our deepest emotions allowing us to make bonds and process our pains. Music has saved my life over and over again and I've always had the mindset of all boats rise on high tides and try to do my part to give back to the scene that has gave me so much.


Bastion King - Reviewer/Photographer

Hello there! I'm Bastion, a live music photographer who's been floating around my local grassroots scene for the past few years, trying to make as many up and coming bands look good on camera. Plus, it's been a fantastic excuse to photograph incredible bands in the styles of music I enjoy.

I'm based in the Midlands, which has opened up some insane opportunities to travel around the UK, both solo and on tour. Not to mention music festivals. But at heart, I'm just a nerd with a camera who loves music. Maybe that gives me a unique perspective, who knows?


Matty Haynes - Reviewer

Matty7 is the (nick)name and professional idiocy is the game. Well, that and eating the food in your pantry when you’re not around, but don’t worry about that...Music has always been a part of my life, with my biggest inspiration being my maternal Grandmother. She unfortunately lost her sight as she grew older so would only listen to music. It was her that got to understand that there’s listening to music and there’s feeling music.
Within the scene itself, I’ve been actively involved since 2018 when I joined the melodic metalcore group Buried By My Heartache which introduced to the many faces tucked away in the scene. By 2024, I saw myself embracing the world of music reviews and found a new passion that I thoroughly enjoyed.The aim of doing my reviews is simple – I want to give back to the scene that opened its arms and welcomed us in BBMH so warmly. In a community where so much is going on, writing these reviews is a simple way to help spread the word the bands who are pushing to share a part of their soul.…that, and Beardbo said I had pretty eyes so I couldn’t really resist the chance to join the team could I?


Laura Jane - Photographer / Reviewer

My name is Laura Jane and I’ve been involved in the music scene since 2004(ish). I’ve had experience in event management, photography, music journalism and press / media liaison.

Throughout my time I’ve had the pleasure of working with so many different bands from the local scene to mainstream artists and have never had more fun doing so!

I have a strong admiration towards the deathcore / hardcore / extreme metal scene but that’s not to say I don’t love a good K-Pop banger.

I feel this is the most formal thing I’ve ever written and describing myself and an insight into my own experience and enjoyment never gets easier…


Jess Mather - Photographer / Reviewer

Hi, I’m Jess!
I’m a music reviewer and live music photographer for Get Heavy UK, covering everything from gigs and festivals to studio releases, including albums, EPs, singles, and music videos.
I began amateur photography as a hobby in late 2023 and moved into music reviewing in early 2025, combining a growing love for visual storytelling with a deep appreciation for the underground music scene.
While I can only manage a few root notes on a couple of instruments, and keep my singing for the car, being part of the grassroots music community has been incredibly rewarding.
Supporting local bands, discovering new artists, and connecting with the wider network of promoters, venue staff, engineers, creatives, and fans who make the scene possible is a big part of why I love what I do!


Oli Gonzalez - Reviewer

 

Hi, I'm Oli. Based in Manchester, I've been in and around the North West music scene for as long as I can remember either as a promoter, band manager, musician, or just simply a punter.

By day, I work in IT, but metal music really is my passion in life and I love nothing more than the feel of a live band, whether it's small unsigned acts or a major headline band with full arena production! Black and death metal as well as post rock are my usual go tos but I'll give anything a go.

After stepping away from the world of promotion, I found my way into writing and love the buzz and excitement of discovering new bands, as well as sharing these discoveries. Hopefully you find value in my ramblings!