Meet FMA + 12 Gage, Preston's Award-Winning Neurodivergent Father-and-Son Duo

The multi-award-winning duo from Preston, Matthew and Callum Bennett, started the band in 2013.

A High-Energy Fusion of Rap and Metal 

The pair have carved out a sound of their own, creating a high-energy fusion of rap and metal that has drawn attention from major publications like Metal Hammer — and quite rightly so.

They’ve been featured on Japan's TV Asahi and on BBC News, becoming the first rap act to appear on BBC Northwest Tonight. In 2024 they embarked on their very first international tour. Not long after, they were finalists in Battle of the Bands at Satan's Hollow, and played Rebellion Punk Festival two years in a row.

Advocates for Mental Health and Neurodiversity

Matthew and Callum are both passionate advocates for neurodiversity and mental health. The pair face challenges that stem from dyslexia and autism and speak openly about their experiences.

Away from the stage, they’ve worked with numerous anti-bullying campaigns and have given talks about how creativity can benefit mental health.

The duo are also members of the Neurodivergent Crew, a group of four artists with autism, dyslexia, ADHD and dissociative identity disorder (DID).

N0trixx, who lives with DID, is performing two sets at Bloodstock Open Air 2026, appearing on the VIP Serpent's Lair Stage and joining DJ Arockalypse on the Sophie Lancaster Stage. 

Dreadnought released two singles on Spotify last year, including King of Kings and Dead and Buried.

Completing the Neurodivergent Crew are Callum, better known as 12 Gage, who has dyslexia, and his father Matthew, who is autistic.

The collective was formed to raise awareness of neurodivergence while supporting people who may have faced similar challenges.

Matthew and Callum have also spoken openly about the barriers they have faced during their time as musicians. Overcoming bullying and confidence issues through music has helped the band channel their energy into creating something truly unique.

You can find out more about FMA + 12 Gage by visiting their official website.

Upcoming Lancashire Dates

Friday, August 7, Liars Bar, Blackpool

Friday, October 16, The Ferret, Preston

Image Credit: © Liam Maxwell