I started my period 2 days ago and it stared fairly normally other than the cramps are more servere than usual. Then today I have suddenly started bleeding bright red (what I'd call live) blood. I'm slightly freaked out as there are no clots and have never experienced anything like this before. Any suggestions anyone??

As long as you are not quickly soaking through a pad or tampon it is likely fine. Periods are made up of tissue, mucus, and blood, but sometimes you will notice more of one than the others.

It does seem to be soaking through quite quickly.

Are you having to change every hour or two?

Yes and there is very little to no mucus.

If it goes on for several hours, give your doctor a call to see if they want you to come in and get checked. How old are you? Some women, depending on their age, can be more prone to unusual bleeding.

Might just be hormones, but could be a number of things. Certain types of birth control can cause excessive bleeding, even if you didn't have it happen before. Polyps or cysts can be other reasons.

Is the cramping more on one side than the other?

I'm 21. The cramping seems to be somewhat closer to my stomach. So more at the top if that makes sense.

I'd give your doctor a call if you have been changing pads or tampons every hour or so for most of the day. Again, it could just be a one off and it may subside tomorrow or later today. I had that happen once before and it is scary... you wonder just how much can you lose! Bled heavy for a couple of days before it tapered off and was normal again.
When in doubt, call your doctor for the peace of mind.