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All review's by Jason Brown, unless stated by Mike Exley.
- Manchester Academy (UK) 15.6.08 
Well it's been a
long time 
since I last saw Queensryche, for me it was
'The Promise Land' tour in Leeds back in the 90's. My first tour I saw the band
on was on 'The Warning' tour back in 84 as support to Dio,
now what a gig that was and at the age of 14!! I've also seen the band
on the 'Empire' tour, so see in the band this year was a night I had to check
them out!!! I remember the first Operation Mindcrime came out and it totally
blow my mind, not in a good way, but in 1 strange and fucked up way. This was an
album that I found hard to get into with all the talking in between all the
songs, it took me a long time to adjust to this album. Having said that, when I
finally got into the debut Operation... album it did grow on me. Now the time
was right to say the Ryche in all their glory and tonight was no exception!!
What you have here, is a 3 hour set of mind blowing pure wall street Operatic/ Prog metal straight from the hearts of Queensryche to their dedicated fans. Having seen the 'Mindcrime At The Moore' DVD, I was excited to see this awesome set and show for myself. The Ryche certainly did deliver the good with 100% full passion that they delivered to their loyal fans that night. Opening with the full set of Mindcrime 1, Tate, Rockenfield, Stone, Jackson & Wilton played their hearts out to a excited fun packed audience as well as Pamela Moore, who's talented vocals and stage performance made all the difference. Geoff Tate, is not only a awesome singer, but a great actor too, as you might of seen live or on the DVD. There's not denying that Geoff could be a great actor if given the chance. MIke Stone & Wilton delivered some awesome guitar work between them, whereas, Eddie Jackson & Scott Rockenfield delivered a powerful rhythm section. All the songs from the first Mindcrime album were delivered in the 1st 1.30 minute set, a superb first half. Next up was the Operation Mindcrime Pt.2, yet another heavy going album on the ears, but still enjoyable to say the least and features Dio on the album as guest vocalist. Still a little bit like the debut Mindcrime album, but with more of a different direction and I have to say this band are very political to say the least. They really do hate the U.S. government, are the ryche on the U.S. government hit list? Again a great 2nd half set with various costume changes and various actors made this a great live show. One of the best I've seen in a long time. The ryche are back and better than ever, only wish they would release 'The Warning' Pt.2, what a fucking awesome album that was!! Now Heavy metal has a new meaning with these boys delivering a Metal musical!!
- Yardbirds
Club Grimsby (UK) 4.12.07
Who would ever
think of Joey Belladonna (Anthrax) would tour here in the UK with his own band,
yet alone playing Grimsby of all places!! I was rather shocked to hear he was
playing in Grimsby. I had set myself on see in him in Leeds until I found out he
was playing nearer to home. 
Joey
Belladonna is and will always be the best singer Anthrax will ever have. Joining
the band for the 'Armed & Dangerous' mini CD which was released back in the
mid 80's, Joey's most successful album with Anthrax has to be either 'Spreading
The Disease' or 'Among The Living'. I prefer 'Spreading The Disease' in my
opinion. Joey has such a great range in his vocals and can perform a wide range
of vocals notes from low to high. Since the reformed Anthrax back in 2005/6 the
band toured last year with Beyond Fear here in the UK/ Europe and also played
Download festival amongst others. Rumors of the re-formed Anthrax were do record
an album with Nuclear Blast seem pretty unlikely right now, which is a shame.
Lets hope Joey and the boys record together in 2008. Either way Joey will
release a new album with Anthrax or with his own band. This 4 piece consists of
R.C Ciejek on Bass, Paul Marciano on drums, Robb Lotta on guitar and Joey
Belladonna on vocals. It is the 1st time I had visited the Yardbirds club in
Grimsby and I wasn't too sure what to expect and how many people would turn out.
I thought Hull might of got a shot at Belladonna playing too, but there you go.
I was pleasantly surprised on how many turned up and what sort of crowd reaction
the band would receive and I have to say I was shocked!! About 100 + crowd
turned up and who were hungry die hard metal heads and Anthrax fans alike. It
was also good to see that the band hung out with the crowd before and after the
show, not like rock stars and Joey and the boys were totally cool guys!! As this
was my last gig for 2008 I knew Joey would delivery an awesome set of his own
material as well as Anthrax classics. 100 screaming metal heads were hungry to
see the band live and what a great and awesome set the band played. Joey and the
boys were impressed with the crowds reaction that I am sure he will return to
Grimsby in the near future. AT one point I had the pleasure of sharing the stage
with the band when they played 'Madhouse', why? Well my name is Mr. Brown and as
the album version of that song as the intro 'Its time for your medication Mr.
Brown' followed by a laugh, I was invited to do the whole intro for the song,
how fucking cool haha!!! Thanx guys!!! What a great show, a band worth checking
out and I wish them the best of luck for 2008. Set list for the night included: Hard
Life, Can't Erase It, Live It Up To You, Rob U Blind, Mad House (Featuring me),
Medusa, Caught In A Mosh, Anti Social, Blunt Man, Helps On The Way, Injun, Got
The Time, N.F.L., I Am The Law, Indians, and Metal Thrashing Mad.
What a fucking cool night, great venue and awesome band too.
- Leeds Rio's 13.11.07 (UK)
Well
this was my 3rd time to the new Rios club which is now held in Leeds and I'm
still trying to get use to the venue and stage. I'm sure in time I will get to
grips with is, but I do feel that they do need more stage lighting because half
the time you really cant see the bands too well, especially the drummers. Anyway
getting on with the show..., it's been about 16 years since I last was 'Onslaught'
the first time around on the 'Search Of Sanity' tour until last year when I saw
the re-union tour at Bloodstocks festival, which the band took the crowd by
storm and what an awesome show that was!! Yeah this is one of the few old school
UK thrash bands along side Sabbat who can really get the crowd going. I was
really looking forward to this show and the crowd were really getting into this
show. This is a great line-up of 2 classic Thrash acts from the 80's. First up
was Onslaught, these 5 guys from Bristol were ready to kick ass like they did at
Bloodstock and tonight was yet another kick ass live performance. With the band
releasing their current album titled 'Killing Peace' is a great comeback album
which is full of hard hitting Thrash tunes. From the beginning of the bands set
to the end the crowd love them and plenty of head banging and thrashing was
certainly in place. Songs played that night were: Killing
Peace, Let There Be Death, Angels Of Death, Metal Forces, Twisted Jesus, Seeds
Of Hate, Demoniac, Burn & Power From Hell.
If you ever get to check out this band live I suggest you do so!!! These guys
certainly have some powers from hell!!
Now
was time for the mighty German Thrash act, this been 'Destruction',
these guys have been around since the mid 80's and have influenced so many bands
from around the world. Starting out as a 3 piece before coming a 4 piece the
band have had several line-up changes. With the band releasing 9 full length
albums and 4 mini CDs, 1 live CD and 1 DVD, you can certainly see just how
successful the band are. Ever since the band released their debut mini CD titled
'Sentence Of Death' which was released back in 1984 the band have not looked
back. Fronted by Schmier, who at one point left the band to form Head Hunter,
returned back to the band when the band reformed back in All Hell break Loose'
back in 2000. Since then the band released 'The Antichrist' in 01, 'Metal
Discharge' in 03 and 'Inventor Of Evil' in 05. The bands most recent album
'Thrash Anthems' released in 07 sees the bands classic tunes from the 80's
re-recorded which the bands current line-up been Schmier, Mike and Marc is a truly
awesome album of old tunes re-recorded with a more powerful and cleaner sound.
Some of the tunes of course may differ from that of the original versions.
Anyhow, getting on with the show, tonight was a great performance by 1 of the
greatest German Thrash bands along side Kreator and Sodom, these 3 bands are the
biggest Thrash bands out of Germany to influence so many bands from around the
world. Schmier and the boys hit the stage to 'Curse Of The Gods', 1 of the bands
best songs in my opinion was a great opening tune which really got the crowd
going. The night just got better and better with a great variation of old and
new songs by the band, mainly the classic. For a power trio, these guy are not
to be messed with, a truly kick fucking ass live band that I recommend to check
them out live. Songs that the band played were: Nailed
To The Cross, Eternal Devastation, Live Without Sense, Defiance/ Death Trap,
Thrash Till Death, Anti Christ/ Release From Agony, Soul Collector, Total Disaster,
Bestial Invasion, and The Butcher Strikes Back.
What a great live band, hail Destruction long may they reign!!! Support the band
before the butcher striker back!!!
& 
- Sheffield Arena
7.11.07 (UK)
Heaven
& Hell
Most of you out
there would already seen the might Black Sabbath with Ronnie James Dio back in
the day, unfortunately I didn't get the change for some unknown reason but I am
happy to say I have now, and it's always better later then never!!! Sabbath have
such a massive success rating with just to how many bands these guys have
influenced weather it been with Ozzy, Dio, or Tony Martin or Glenn Hughes, the
matter of the fact is that Sabbath like Priest, Maiden, Motorhead are the
pioneers of Metal. With the release of 'Heaven & Hell', 'The Mob Rules' been
the most successful Dio era albums it was only a matter of time 
before
the band would return with this classic line-up.
First band to
hit the stage with a very ego crowd was 'Iced
Earth', these Power Metaller'
s
have been around since the mid 80's under the name of 'Purgatory', before
changing their name to 'Iced Earth'. Lead
by founder member Jon
Schaffer, who has keep this band together for so many years you really have to
respect this guys attitude and determination. Joining Jon is former Winters
Bane/ Judas Priest frontman Tim (Ripper) Owens on vocals, and what an awesome
job Tim does for Iced Earth. With his soaring vocals and screams are well adapted
to iced Earth's music. Along with Tim & Jon is Brent Smedly back on the
drums, along with Dennis Hayes & Troy Seele who are a great addition to the
line-up. I really had to feel sorry for Iced Earth, because I really feel that
this band should of been on the bill as 2nd act and not Lamb Of God. OK, so Lamb
Of God have had success at Ozzfest, but Iced Earth have been around for years
and besides they also have former Priest frontman in the band. They really
should of been 2nd on the bill. Nevertheless, Iced Earth hit the stage playing a
30 minute set of ear splitting Power Metal with screaming vocals that would
leave shivers down you're spine. Mixing the likes of Iron Maiden, Metallica,
Judas Priest style of Power Metal, this band do it with style with plenty of
melodic riffs and catchy tunes Iced Earth are a band to be reckoned with. Tim
really got the crowd going, and with the power of the bands music made the night
even more enjoyable. Only bad point and this goes for all support acts, it was a
shame they didn't have enough lights on stage, which really does suck and I feel
for the support acts. Iced Earth played a head ripping set that soon finished
which was a dam shame but the band will be back to do their own tour very soon I
am sure of that. Songs the band played were: The Glorious Burden, Declaration
Day, Overture of the Wicked, Motivation Of Man, Greenface, just to name a
few. What an awesome band live and I suggest you check them out live and their
albums too!!
Next up was 'Lamb
Of God', and I have to say
I've only heard 1 song by these guys which is called 'Redneck'. So I cant really
so too much about these guys, but what I can say is that these 5 guys hit the
stage with a devastating sound which comes 
across
between Slayer, Pantera style of brutal metal music. I have to say that I
thought that they should of been the opening act, as I said before Iced Earth
have 
been
around a lot longer than these guys. But saying that I guess Lamb Of God have
more popularity with the kids of today because of their brutal heavy music that
so many younger's love to hear these days. They certainly took the stage by
storm and half way through the bands set they had a mosh pit going which didn't
surprise me at all!! Songs that they played were: Redneck, Walk With Me, More
Time To Kill, Now You've Got Something To Kill For, Black Label.
Next up was of course the Might 'Heaven & Hell', these guys really didn't need an introduction, but as the lights went down and the intro started, the crowd were screaming and shouting with an dark and fearless atmosphere, the crowd were ready for a night they would remember. With a stage set based on a church and a church yard, which reminded me of King Diamond (Now they would of been a great support act) with stained glass windows of a church and of course the crosses. So now its time for light , camera and action!!!! Opening up with the instrumental 'E5150' which went straight into 'Mob Rules', was a fine opening tune to set the night ahead, and with the crowd loving it the band were in for yet more classic Dio era Sabbath tunes. Mob Rules is a fine song and was played to perfection. Next up was 'Children Of The Sea', I just love this song, and I really enjoyed watching and hearing this song been played for the 1st time live for me, what a awesome song!! Next up was: Sign Of The Southern Cross', yet another fine Dio era tune, which again saw the crowd loving every minute of it. Tony Iommi, Geezer Bulter and Vinny Appice, are a force to be reckoned with. Ronnie maybe a pensioner, but like Rob Halford, these 2 guys are without doubt the greatest Metal singers of all time, no doubt about it!! Other songs the band played were: Lady Evil, I, Voodoo, The Devil Cried, Computer God, Dehumanizer, Falling On The Edge Of The World, Die Young, Heaven & Hell, Neon Knights, Lonely Is The World, Shadow In The Wind. No doubt about it, Heaven & Hell are without doubt an awesome live band. lets just hope the record a new album in 2008. If you get the chance to see them live then grab the bull by its horns and check them out!!! Check out the live DVD, it's worth it if you saw the band live on this tour, awesome stuff!! Question, do you wanna go to Heaven or hell? The choice is yours!!!
- Manchester
Appollo 12.10.07 (UK)
This
year has been pretty good for gigs, we've seen some great festivals and tours
come and go and this is yet another classic Progressive Metal tour of 2 very
classy acts. 'Symphony X'
have made a name for themselves over the last decade with such talented
musicians with 3 Michaels, 1 Jason and Russell Alan on vocals. The band have
recorded several classic heavy but yet melodic and technical albums that so many
of us have grown to love. With the band signed to Inside Out Records in Germany,
this band have gone from strength to strength with each album. If you like the
likes of Yngwie Malmsteens guitar work and prog elements of Dream Theater then
you get the prefect combination of what is Symphony X. Mike Romeo's guitar work
and Russell's vocals are a deadly combination like a pit viper who will strike
once and kill with its deadly toxics. Symphony X were about to hit the stage at
Manchester's Appollo, and I could see by the crowd that they were very excited
about see in this fine act. This is not the bands debut to the UK, their debut
hit the shores with Stratovarius almost 3 yrs ago and later on a 1 off headliner
in London with Shadowkeep. It's good to see the band back and on it's first full
length tour and what could not be better than a support to Dream Theater. This
band hit the stage to deliver a powerful and hard hitting set that would leave
people excited and wanting more. As with all support acts, they never got a
decent lighting set, which really sucks. Nevertheless, the band played a kick
ass set that the crowd wanted more and me for 1, I'd love to of seen a longer
set. The bands current album 'Paradise Lost' see's the band in a more darker and
heavier approach but still manages to keep the melodic sound and vocals that so
many love to hear. Symphony X set list was: Serpents
Kiss, Paradise Lost, Inferno, Instrumental, Invader, Babylon.
An awesome kick ass band that will certainly give Dream Theater a run for their
money, check these guys out, their 1 of the band & finest Prog Metal acts
about. Love to see them at ProPower UK in the near future!!
Next
up was the mighty 'Dream
Theater', who really
shouldn't need any introduction, but for those who don't know Dream Theater have
to be thanked for their contribution to starting Progressive Metal off. Although
Dream Theater are influenced by the likes of Rush, Genesis, Yes, Marillion to
name a few, this band have set trends for 1000's of up & coming Prog metal
acts from all over the world. If you like to the likes of Dreamscape, Ivanhoe,
Evergrey, Symphony X, Psychotic Waltz etc.. there all influenced by the likes of
Dream Theater. With the band releasing their debut album 'When Day Dream..' the
band have become more successful with each album and their biggest break in my
opinion has to be 'Images & Words', which was the band been played on MTV
with 'Pull Me Under'. The band were back in the day signed to East/ West Records
until they parted ways with them on their last album 'Octavarium'. Now the band
have returned with their recent release through Roadrunner Records titled
'Systematic Chaos', which is a good album and reminds me of 'Awake' album for
its heaviness. Who in the world would think that this band would of signed to
Roadrunner when you would of thought Inside Out would of been the most obvious
choice. The band played a outstanding set and with a great stage presence,
with big screens showing each member close up with camera's on their instruments
as well as a cartoon sketch which was rather funny to watch. This is a band that
not to be taken lightly, a serious musician's band really but if you also have
an open mind and can also adapt to technical music then you will surely love
their music. The future is certainly looking bright for this band. Trax that
they played were: Constant
Emotion, Panic Attack, Endless Sacrifice, The Dark Eternal Night, Home,
Misunderstood, Pull Me Under, Take The Time, In The Presence Of Enemies Pt.1
& 2, Trail Of Tears, The Ytse Jam, In The Name Of God.
What a great set, and if you haven't seen this band before then I suggest you
check them out, especially if you're a musician. Also check out the bands CDs.
Lets see what the next album will bring in the near future.
Beverly Memorial Hall 22.9.07 (UK)
It's good to see new festivals up & coming onto the scene, and this festival is yet another one which in time will grow with the help of the fans and journalist from around the country. Metieval is yet a new festival which in time will grow and with local acts and national/ international acts to follow in future years to come could see this festal become 1 of the biggest UK underground festivals with help and support. This years festival is from what I can gather be the 2nd year of the festivals success, the 1st one I missed and knew nothing about. I was however glad to be able to attend and give the festival my support. Most acts on the bill were local hard hitting Metal acts with 2 national acts added to pull more of a crowd to the show. As this was held in Beverly just outside of Hull (UK) in a small town the hall wasn't a bad choice of venue and hopefully next year will also see the festival return. There was however cheap beer but no food, good thing they allowed pass outs!! This festival was a 2 days event, the bigger acts were held on the Saturday, but the Sunday saw smaller acts from around the local scene. As Saturday had the biggest turn out and had the best acts.
Opening
act for the day was 'Face Of
Scars'. the 1st of many Hull
bands to hit the stage. 
This
band consist of 4 guys who play a style of metal that would be best described as
across between Thrash/ Grind/ Hard core all rolled into 1. For a opening act
they were pretty good and with 300 strong metal heads attending they certainly
showed what they had to offer. With Hardcore/ Grindcore grunts this band pretty
very intense and certainly got the crowd going with the brutal style of metal.
Some songs which were played were: Deathblow, Broken Bones, Meat Feast, Bring
The Fight. This band have been around for a couple of years now so they
certainly have a decent future ahead with the help of the local scene. Next up
was 'Systemyk',
this young and up and coming 5 piece were certainly different from what I can
gather, certainly not a full on metal band, but more a Goth/ Industrial act
which I wasn;t too sure how they would go down for this type of festival. OK, so
they weren't metal but they weren't bad for the style they were playing.
Although it isn't my cup of tea they were pretty good. This band had a few
people watching out of curiosity and seemed to win over a few more fans by the
end of their set. The bands current line-up is: Danny (vocals), Lee (guitar), Lu
(bass), Phil (Keyboards) and Mike (drums). Any fan of such acts like Sisters Of
Mercy, Nine Inch Nails, Type O Negative would certainly like this band. The band
have recorded 2 demos and have had some push by Paradise Lost member as producer
known as Greg Mackintoch. I am sure with his help the band could be signed up by
2008. Some songs played on the day were: Promises, Questions, Can't Carry On.
Next up was 'Heat Ray',
this was 1 of so little real metal acts that are pretty new to the metal scene
here in Hull and what a decent band they are. Front by Chunck 'Hail To England!!
- Yes Manowar rule' these 5 guys are godo at what they do and Chunck is a great
frontman, who certainly does get the crowd going. He could be the next Ozzy,
Hallford, Eric Adams just for stage presence. Musically this band play Thrash,
with some Power Metal elements and True Metal too, only because of Chunck's
influences. Mixing a style of Metallica, Manowar style metal
these guys are pretty decent and with the right direction and advice could soon
see them supporting more successful acts. If you want to see a local metal 
band
from 
around
here go see 'Heat Ray'. The current line -up is: Chunck (vocals), Neil (bass),
Mike (guitar), Dave (guitar), and Chris (drums). Songs the band played
were: The Devil Killer, Marshal Law, The Night Witch, The Last Ride, Welcome to
your Doom, Heat-Ray and Metallica's Seek & Destroy. A band well worth
checking out, so go and see them soon!!!! Next up was 'Sworn
Amongst', another local act
consisting of 4 young kids in their early 20's, this line up been Liam (vocals/
guitar), Harvey (guitar), Rob (bass), Jonny (drums). These guys are in the
process of having their debut album hopefully released soon. I have to say these
guys are pretty good at what they do just like Heat Ray and have some potential
going for them. Harvey si a right little poser but saying that he can play his
guitar, so hey if you can do both why not rock on bro!! Mixing Thrash style
metal somewhat across between Metallica, Testament, and the likes of UK acts
like Re-Animator, Slammer seem to jell well together. The band have also has
success with reviews in the likes of Kerrang and Terrorizer, so things are
certainly look up for these guys. I wish them well. Songs played by Sworn
Amongst were: Rules of engagement, Herodotus, Downtrodden, Lord of war, Blind
faith, Consumed, Drive. Next to hit the stage were 'Heathen
Foray', these guys consist
of the following members: Glyn (vocals), Sam (guitars), Lord Legion (bass), and
Stormsword (drums) and since the festival the band have added a 2nd guitarist
called Markoma. If you like you're metal based on Viking/ Pagan Metal with such
acts as, Amon Amarth, Falconer, Sabbat, Skyclad then I am sure this band is for
you. I have to say that I'm not a fan of this style of music but on the other
hand I have to give these guys some credit for trying and for been the 1st band
in Hull to be the 1st to play this type of music. They were one of the band who
seemed to get the crowd going just like Heat Ray. The band are in the process of
releasing their debut album in 2008 which should appeal to fans of Pagan/ Viking
Metal. Songs that the band played were: Nordic Horizons (Intro), A Summer's
Tale, Into Foray, Heralder, Path Of The Warrior, Unearther, Fortelling The Raven
Age, Heritage, Call To Arms. I guess their lord would be somebody like Odin, but
hey these guys are good at what they do so go and check them out!!. Next up was
'Soul Flame',
these 4 guys play some pretty decent Rock and kind of remind me of across
between Thunder, BLS, which seems to fix pretty well, 
although
these guys weren't the heaviest of bands on the bill it's good 
to
see some variation added to the festival. The current band line-up is: Nick
(vocals & guitar), Ron (lead guitar), Sam (bass) and drummer who stood in
for them, but a name wasn't given to me so I cant say who he was. It was good to
see a band playing something different to the day, which kind of broke the music
up and gave people the change to stop their necks from breaking after so many
heavier bands on the day. Next up was 'Avenger'
from Newcastle, these guys came to rock and they just that! I grew up with their
music having bought their 2nd album 'Killer Elite' in the mid 80's on Neat
Records and what a great album that was for a UK band. Now Ian Swift
(vocals) and Gary Young (drums) are the only 2 original members left who are now
joined by a couple of younger musicians these been Liam Thompson (guitar), Sean
Jefferies (guitar) and Huw Holding (bass). Now these guys are back and they
certainly mean business and today they did just that, although their set ws only
30 minutes the band hit the stage and delivered a powerful hard hitting Power
Metal set with some awesome music that just took me back to the day, God this
was such a blast from the past!!! Playing songs from their debut album 'Blood
Sports' and 'Killer Elite' as well as 2 new songs. Ian still has a great voice
which does at time like to sore with his high notes. A new album is to follow in
2008, so I am really looking forward to that. I am so glad I saw this band live
and I look forward to see in more of the band in 2008, check them out and
welcome back guys!! Next up was 'Talamasca',
another local Hull band, and not to be confused with the U.S. band (RIP), sadly
missed. These guys have been around for a few years now and I have to admit I
have heard the name before but never heard their music till recently and I
thought some of their music was pretty enjoyable. For a 3 piece these guys do
what they do best and it certainly does the band justice. The band have released
a couple of mini CDs in the past so they have been around for a number of years
now but really haven't made it into the scene as much as I would of expected,
which is a shame really. I am sure there break will come with lots of hard work
and continue to play what they do best. Songs that the band played were: The
Skeleton key, We Are Not, The eye of war, End of Days, Rage of the northern
seas, Bonefinger, Stormcrows, Awakened & Serial Killer. Now for the
headlining act, this can only mean another band from Newcastle thus been 'Skyclad'.
Skyclad's career started out by ex Sabbat front man Martin and former Blind Fury
guitarist Steve Ramsey, of both members teamed up to form Skyclad in the 90's
and the biggest showcases was in 95 for Dynamo festival in Holland. Since then
the band have recorded several albums for Noise records and Massacre records
too, but Martin left the band and was replaced by Kevin Ridley (vocals &
guitar), also joining Kevin is Steve Ramsey (guitar), George Biddle (Fiddle,
keyboards, Piano), Graeme English (bass), and Arron Walton (drums). Skyclad have
a history that has kept the band alive and well for over a decade and the future
is still strong for these jordies from newcastle. 300 strong people stayed to
witness Skyclads live performance and if you haven't seen the band before then
you are surely going to enjoy this bands music, especially if you're a fan of
Pagan and Folk Metal. Ideally Heathen Foray would be a great support act for
these guys in the near future as a support act. I'm not sure how many albums
Skyclad have recorded but I do know that there is no stopping these guys, so
best of luck to them. The crowd at the festival loved them and really got
involved with plenty of dancing and headbanging. Either way you love um or hate
um Skyclad are here to stay. Songs performed were: A Great blow for a day job,
Anti-Body Politic, Mr Malalprope Co, A well besides the river, A song for no-involvement,
The widdershins jig, The parliament of fools, Helium, Another drinking song,
Another fine mess, Lightning the load, Wickedest Man, Roman wall blues, What
nobody wanted, Jig a jig, Still small beer, Spinning jenny, Inequality street,
Penny dreadful, Bury me, Swords of a 1000 men, and Emerald. A great festival
which will grow in time with the support of the bands, fans and journalist
alike. Look out for next years festival in 2008 when Balze Bailey will headline.
So be there and spread the word!!!!
Catton Hall Derbyshire - 16th - 18th August 2007 (UK)
Well this year saw yet another exploding year full of excitement from various styles of metal music. This festival has grown over the years from a small crowd to a larger crowd and it will become larger in years to come. This is the 3rd year for the open air, the 1st one I missed but last year was a great year, with the likes of Metal Church, Atheist, and many more.... Unfortunately this years indoor was cancelled, which left a few fans disappointed but I am sure there will be another indoor 1 next year. This year saw some great acts, some of which were not all Power Metal and as some people thought the festival should stay Power/ Thrash has now become more mainstream. I guess that's a matter of opinion. Either way the organizers have to pull the crowds in. As long as this festival doesn't become another Download, then things will be fine. This year also saw some decent weather, only 1 day of rain, but other than that it was fine. I tell you that this festival is going to grow, and next year sees 2 stages, so there going to be more acts I am sure. As always you cant get to see all the acts live or even know half the bands songs, but what I did c was awesome and I am sure the fans agree.
Thursday
16th: Well day
one, was a exciting day, I think most people were there to
see Testament
and Firewind. Well I arrived mid afternoon, got my passes (thanx Bloostock) and
proceeded to put up my tent before any rain came my way. Luckily we didn't see
any rain so that was a good start!! Well there were plenty of metal heads from
the UK & Europe for this years metal bash. There were also some cool metal
stores, selling CD's, t shirt and more!! First band of the day was former
AC/DC's drummer 'Chris Slade',
with his band playing some of AC/DC's classic tunes. They seemed to go down
pretty well and seemed a good opening act to build this years festival up. The
only bad point about this band was the singer, where the hell did they get him
from? His vocal's were pretty bad and really couldn't hit the notes that Bon
Scott could do or Brian Johnson does now. I've heard better singers in other
AC/DC tribute acts. I really didn't see much of the band but of course they did
play 'Whole Lotta Rosie', which went down well besides the vocals of course.
Next up was' Sight Of
Emptiness', a band from
Costa Rica - South America. This band won a competition
from some magazine and were asked to play at this years Bloodstock, this was
there only show here in the UK. It was a shame that nobody booked the band to
support anther act over here. Sight Of Emptiness are a 5 piece Death Metal band,
which seemed pretty impressive considering nobody had heard of them over here.
Mixing their style of Death Metal which seemed to come close to that of Cannibal
Corpse, Suffocation, style of metal and for a 5 piece they went down pretty
well. I am sure this band will be back over here supporting a decent Death Metal
act soon. Songs the band played were: Truth Of A Lie ,In Death State, Chapter Of
Hatred, Visions, Witness Of Your Murder, Desolation Whispers, Death In Fire (Amon
Amarth Cover). Next up was
'Kiuas',
another hard hitting Thrash/ Death Metal act.
Next up was London case act
'Head-On',
a new band to me which I thought where from the USA, but they surprised me to
know that they are a London based act. This 4 piece have released 1 album which
was released in 2006 and by the looks of it is doing rather well. Head-On play a
Southern Hard Rock/ Stoner Rock sound mixed with some elements of Metal. If I
had to say who this band comes across I'd say between: Black Label Society,
Down, COC, Trouble, Sabbath, Pantera & so that gives you some kind of hint
to their musical direction. Been the 4th band on the bill saw the band hit the
stage
and deliver an impressive sound which 
certainly got the crowd moving and
was a delight to hear something different. Songs that the band played were: XXL,
Break the walls, Wrecking Ball, Stronger, Sunrise, Meat Wagon, The Stomp, Here
comes the hammer. If you haven't seen the band before go and see them when there
near a city near you. In the meantime check out their debut album I'm sure its
pretty cool stuff. Next up was Greek Power Metal act, 'Firewind', having seen
the band live in London supporting Nevermore a few years ago I knew what to
expect. This band features former Dream Evil guitarist Gus G, who left Dream
Evil to concentrate on Fire wind. Firewind have recorded a few albums to date,
and the bands current release 'Allegiance' is doing pretty well today and see
the band touring on all 4 continents so far. The band played this years
Bloodstock with force and energy which really saw a great response from the
crowd. Joining Gus was temporary front man Henning from Metalium, which was a
pleasant surprise. Henning did a awesome job and if you have seen Metalium then
you will know just how powerful his voice is. Also in Firewind is also ex
Metalium drummer Mark Cross, another awesome drummer and a great addition to the
band. This band are a awesome Power Metal act and they certainly have a great
future ahead on them. They have a lot of energy and power live and with Henning
on vocals as a temp front man they kicked some serious ass!!! Firewind remind me
of such acts as Yngwie for their guitar work, and musically they come across
between the likes of Metalium, Vicious Rumors, Dream Evil, just to name a
few acts. Firewind are a really awesome act live and also have done some
outstanding albums. The future for this band is very promising. Some of the
tracks that the band performed live were: Are You Ready To Strike, Fire &
Fury, End Of Time, Tyranny. What a great
band and look out for more from Firewind in the near future. Next up was the
mighty 'Testament', what can 1 say about this act. Hailing from the Bay Area in
the U.S.A. who have been around since the early 80's under the name of 'The
Legacy', before changing their name to Testament. Along side the likes of
Metallica, Forbidden, Death Angel, Vicious Rumors, Exodus and many more
Testament are 1 of the greatest acts that have stayed true to themselves without
selling out. With the band 1st recording albums for Atlantic Records with such
albums as 'The Legacy' 'Souls In Black' and later albums such as 'Low', 'The
Gathering' the band are ready to release their next masterpiece. it's been a
while since the band played the UK with this line-up, not since they live show
in London, but the band are back and stronger than ever. Their newest member is
ex Cradle Of Filth drummer Nick Barker. For the younger kids who attended
Bloodstock this was a real treat and for us oldies, a blast from the past!!
Chuck Billy and co really did devastate the stage with their powerful and hard
hitting performance. Thrash at its best and the new legacy awaits Testament.
Some songs that they played were: Practice What You Preach, Souls In Black, Into
The Pit, Low, Over The Wall, Disciples Of The Watch, The Legacy, Legions Of The
Dead. Testament are a force to be reckoned with and I suggest you check them out
if you already haven't!!
Friday 17th:
Well the first
day had past and what a great start to a up and growing festival that is surely
going to be as big as the rest 1 day. Weather wise was good with a little bit of
cloud but it didn't stop us metal heads at all!! The first band I managed to
catch live was 'Scar
Symmetry'
from Sweden who
was formed back in 2004. This 5 piece Death Metal act who remind me of the likes
of Soilwork, At The Gates, have released 2 for Nuclear Blast and are becoming
rather popular like 
so many acts out there playing this style of music. With
their melodic riffs and also brutal vocals mixed with melodic vocals makes this
band pretty interesting. Saying that, I would have to say that frontman has his
faults when it comes to doing the death metal vocals, as he does clean and death
metal vocals, he just cant seem to handle the brutal side as much as the melodic
side. I was kind of looking forward to see in this band but was disappointed by
the vocals which really did let the band down. Songs that the band played were:
Slaves To The Subliminal, Pitch Black Progress, Mind Machine, The Kaleidoscopic
God, Carved In Stone, Reborn, Seeds Of Rebellion, & Dominion. All can
say is that the band do have the energy and power but lack in the vocal
department, something which needs working on. Next up was 'Wolf', a great
melodic Swedish metal act that consider themselves as a true heavy metal act,
but to me they do come close to Power Metal/ Speed if anything. Influenced by
the likes of Judas Priest, Saxon, Accept, Anvil, Iron Angel, Destruction, Saxon
just to name a few. Wolf are certainly a decent 4 piece that have released 3-4
albums to date. I wouldn't say that Wolf are the most exciting band, but what
they do is good old fashioned Metal from the 80's and I love my 80's metal , so
they get my respect. Playing bass guitar for them as a stand in was Andres
from Tad Morose, my old mates who I've know for some time now. It was good to
see Andres again, shame Tad Morose couldn't of played this year too. Now signed
to Century Media, the band took to the stage to deliver what could be described
as a powerful set, until.... the band had a power cut. This was a real shame for
the band, and even though the band suffered the crowd still stayed and waited
for the power to come back on. Wolf did however, manage to keep the crowd
entertained by throwing beer into the crowd which was funny. When the power did
return the the band were on top form and delivered a powerful set. A decent band
well worth checking out. Songs played were: Steelwinged Savage reaper, The Bite,
I will kill again, Electric raga, Wolf's blood, Children of the black
flame, Genocide, Evil star. Next up was 'Memfis', another band from Sweden which
were formed back 2003 by Mattias Engstorm (guitar & vocals), who is also
joined by Johan Boqvist (guitar & vocals), Carl Johan Lindbad (drums),
Christian Ohberg (bass). The band have released 2 demos back in 2004 and their
debut album titled 'The Wind-Up'. The band have toured with the likes of
Entombed, The Haunted, & Satyricon. Now the band play the Bloodstock
festival in front of a pleased crowd of die hard metal heads. Mixing a style of
Thrash with a hard hitting edge made this band well noticed by the crowd who's
reaction was very overwhelming. I am sure the band will be back to out shores
very soon. A decent band who a good future if given the chance. Trax played
were: The Wind-up, Dead Ends, The Game, Stop Those Waves, Save the day,
Breathless, Forever Discounted, Eternal Failure, The Judgement, The Burden,
Breakdown. Next up was 'Korpiklaani',
who seem to have a pretty big following from what I can gather. Playing a style
of Celtic/ Folk Metal in the same vain as Skyclad, just to name 1 of them, this
band to me are new but to a lot of people are a band who are becoming rather
popular and big now. Hailing from Finland these 6 guys have a lot to deliver if
this is you're style of music, not me it's not my cup of tea, but nevertheless,
Korpiklaani are a good band at what they do. The consist of Bag Pipes, harpsichord,
bass, guitars, drums and I believe keyboards. This folk metal thing is becoming
rather big these days and with the like of In Extremo helping along the way as
well as many others Folk, Pagan, Celtic metal is now more popular than Bla
ck
Metal. With the band releasing 4 albums to date I can see why people are
starting to enjoy this band and their style there playing. I'm not sure what the
songs were played, but like Is aid a decent band if 
you like that sort of music.
Next was 'Epica',
fronted by Sexy Simone Simons, a beautiful red head with loads of sexy appeal
lol!! She also has a decent voice, very operatic at times, and like a lot of
female fronted bands these days sounds a lot like Nightwish, Lacuna Coil, and
more... Simone has also worked with the likes of Kamelot, and Primal Fear which
has certainly given her band Epica a real boost. Epica, playing in the vain as
Nightwish and have released 6 albums to date so the band are certainly doing
something right. Hailing from Holland, this band have also played the ProgPower
festival in the USA and also in their home country. The bands latest album 'The
Divine Conspiracy' sees the band now signed to Nuclear Blast and a bright future
ahead. Mixing a style of Epic, Symphonic and Death Metal style vocals by
guitarist Mark Jansen gives the band a slightly different approach that most
fans can notice. A decent band which played the following songs: Indigo, The
Obsessive Devotion, Menace of Vanity, Quietus, Seif al Din, Facade of Reality,
Consign to Oblivion. Next to hit the stage was the mighty 'Nevermore',
Seattle's very own hard hitting Power/ Thrash act. Nevermore formed by ex
Sanctuary members Warrel Dane and Jim Sheppard were joined by Jeff Loomis and
Van Williams and released their debut album for Century Media back in 95. Since
then the band haven't looked back and with each album the band have become
stronger and heavier. If you take a look at the bands last album 'This Godless Endeavor'
this album saw the band at their strongest and heaviest. The band have had a few
added guitarist but now with Jag Panzer's guitarist Chris helping out the band
are ready for an even more promising future. Well the band hit the stage and delivered
a hard hitting set from start to finish. I also enjoy watching this band because
they have a awesome singer and some excellent musicians that create some top
quality music from start to finish. The band also got an impressive mosh pit
going which was an added bonus. Songs that the band played were: Four Walls,
Final Product, Born, Deconstruction, Enemies Of Reality, just to name a few.
Next up was yet another Century Media act, this time it was Sweden's only
Thrash/ Death Metal act 'Dark
Tranquility' who had there
hands tired after the mighty Nevermore had finished their set. Dark Tranquility
have been around for a number of years and have become a major success for many
Death Metal acts from around the world. Like At The Gates, Dark Tranquility are
yet another band who have influenced so many acts from around the world. This
band are a force to be reckoned with and they don't take prisoners likely. These
6 guys deliver a hard hitting punch and plenty of kids were there to help them
along the way. Again I am not familiar with their songs, but all I can say is
that the kids loved them and I have to respect them for keeping the scene alive.
Headliner's 'Lacuna Coil'
were next, yet again another Century Media act, does Bloodstock have a deal with
this label? Anyhow, this band is fronted by Cristina Scabia, another female in
the metal scene who is respected alongside Tanya formed Nightwish, and Simone
Simon from Epic. Lacuna Coil are yet another very influenced band that are
making waves in the Gothic/ Symphonic Metal scene. This 6 piece act from Italy
have played such festivals as Download, Wacken, Ozzfest just to name a few and
are now becoming bigger with every release. Century Media seem to be drawn to
these female fronted acts. Lacuna Coil ready did a great job and certainly got
the crowd going. The band certainly have a lot to offer and are a great live
band for what they do. Gothic Metal at 1 of its very best.
Saturday 18th:
Saturday saw
some rain, but we still managed to stay alive and watch the show with excitement
as ever. With everybody waking up and getting there shit together it was going
to be a long but fun packed day. First band of the day I saw were 'Rise
To Addiction', which were
formed out of the ashes of Blaze band, both guitarist's Steve Wray & John
Slater, who are also joined by Joel Graham (bass), Leigh Oates (vocals), Aynsley
Dickinson (drums). This band have been getting some really good support slots
with the likes of Trouble been 1 of them. The band have released their debut
album A New Shade Of Black For The Soul', which was released 2007 on Mausoleum
Records. If you liked the Blaze bands material then you're surely going to like
Rise To Addiction who have a lot more to offer and more variation to their
sound. This band are a great band which hail from the UK and have a decent
future ahead of them. Set list for R.T.A was: Cold Season, I Follow, Low, To A
God Unknown, One Sweet Minute, Falling As One. Check out this band, there
heading for a promising future. Next up were German Power/ True metaller's 'Freedom
Call', which is formed by
Gamma Ray's drummer Daniel Zimmermann, joined by Chris Bay (guitar/ vocals),
Armin Donderer (bass), Lars RettKowitz (guitar). Freedom Call have released
several album for SPV and seem to be getting stronger with each release. If
True/ Power Metal is you're thing then you will love this band. The bands
current release 'Dimensions' is a very powerful and strong album which has
plenty of twists and turns for all metalheads alike!! The band played a powerful
40 minute set which really got the crowd going and left the stage with 
a strong
urge to return to our shores in 
the very near future. Next to hit the stage was
the UK's 'Benadiction',
who released a few albums through Nuclear Blast. This Birmingham 5 piece Death
Metal act started out with Mark 'Barney' Greenway on vocals back in the day who
now front Napalm Death. Back in the late 80's this band were pretty close to
that of Napalm Death mixed with Cerebral Fix and still to this date the band
have managed to capture their unique sound. The bands current line-up to date
is: Dave Hunt (vocals), Darren Brookes (guitar), Peter Rew (guitars), Frank
Healy (bass), Neil Hutton (drums). With the release of 'Subconscious Terror'
which was released back in 1990 the band have carried on with numerous release
and soon to release their current 2007 release 'Killing Music'. Benediction
certainly got a few peoples heads shaking at this years festival with their
grind sounding Death Metal. More mayhem was to follow!! Next up was Dutch
Thrash/ Death Metal act 'Legion
of The Damned', this 4 piece
really did devastate the stage at this years festival, when they ripped the
stage apart. With the release of 2 albums under their belt for Massacre Records,
this former 'The Occult' members started a powerful & head splitting set.
Mixing the likes of Slayer, Destruction, Kreator and Sodom style metal was
brutal enough for all that came to see and hear. Is aw this band live when they
supported Celtic Frost & Kreator early this year. The bands set list
was: Legion of
the damned. Werewolf corpse, Sons of the jackal, diabolist, malevolent rapture,
undead stillborn, death's head march, taste of the whip, Infernal wrath
Dream Of Nightmares, The Clerical 
Conspiracy,
The Best Of Enemies, For Those Who Died, A Cautionary Tale, How the mighty have
fallen, just to name a few. next up was Sweden's 'Arch
Enemy',
which was formed by ex Carcass guitarist Mike Amott, along side Sharlee
D'Aangelo (bass) Mercyful Fate, and Angela Gossow (vocals), Daniel Erlandsson
and Chris Amott (guitar). This band have come a long way since the bands early
days, but have managed to maintain a true and powerful hard hitting Thrash/
Death Metal sound since the bands early material right up to the bands most
recent work. 'Black Earth' was released back in 1997, with a follow up with 'Stigmato'
in 98 saw the band ready to release such albums as 'Wages Of Sin', 'Anthems Of
Rebellion', & 'Doomsday Machine' along with the bands current album 'Rise Of
The Tyrant'. These guys are fucking awesome musicians, not because they play
powerful Thrash/ Death Metal, but at the same time of playing brutal they have a
lot of melodic parts as well. As for the guitar work by Mike & Chris, well
its just amazing and reminds me of Carcass and King Diamond. Angels vocals are
sick for a very sexy female, who would ever believe it was a female singing?
Daniels drumming gives that extra power and Sharlee's bass gives it that added
punch. Fucking killer band and In Flames had their work cut out for them. Arch
Enemy played: I Am Legend/Out For Blood, Ravenous, Blood On Your Hands, My
Apocalypse, Dead Eyes See No Future, Burning Angel, Enemy Within, Revolution
Begins, Dead Bury Their Dead, We Will Rise, Bridge Of Destiny Solo
Well
another year has past, just another year till 2008 outdoor and also indoor
festival. If you missed this year then you missed a great line-up, and I hope
that you will make it to next years and support a great festival. Metal on
Bloodstock. Thanx for you're support guys!!! Review
and Pictures By Jason Brown © 2007
& 
Leeds Rio's 29.5.07 - UK
What can one say
about this might and awesome Doom metal act
? Along side Black
Sabbath, Trouble
have influenced so many acts around the world, not as well as tons of Doom metal
bands like C.O.C, Metallica are even influenced by this gods of Doom, yes that
right folks even the mighty Metallica are influenced by Trouble. Trouble have
been around since the late 70's and hailing from Chicago the band recorded their
1st demo and it was sent to Metal Blade were they appeared on the 'Metal
Massacre' series along with Metallica in their early days of their careers. The
band released their debut awesome album title 'Trouble', or some would say 'Psalm
9', call it what you will, but that album had such in impact on the Metal scene
alone. Following that album the band released 'The Skull', probably the bands
heaviest album to date, what an awesome album that is. The band also have
released some interesting and very powerful later albums such as 'Trouble',
'Plastic Green head' and now the band have returned with their new awesome album
'Simple Mind Condition', which is a great comeback album. It's been 12yrs since
I last saw the band live at Dynamo festival and tonight was a night I was really
looking forward to. These 5 guys are so underrated and deserve more respect that
they should be a much bigger band. I hope that the bands new label Escapi take
more care with the band than the bands previous labels ever did and give them
the push they so rightly deserve.
Support at for
tonight was ex Blaze members John Slater & Steve Wray, who have formed 'Rise
To Addiction', who have recently released their debut album titled 'A New Shade
Of Black For The 
Soul'
through Mausoleum Records. Rise To Addiction are slight different from that of
Blaze, still managing to keep a heavy sound approach with a new style of Metal,
sort of across between Metallica and one of the newer acts out there. They came
across as a good solid live act with plenty of potential and with the right
attitude they will claim more fans in the very near future. A decent support act
for such a godly band to follow. Trouble were about to hit the stage in front of
a full house, this was something I knew was going to happen as I knew Leeds
& Bradford had a big Trouble following. Light went down and the intro
started, how excited were we all!!! Opening up to R.I.P. which was a great
opening song and really got the crowd going. The sound and performance from this
awesome act was just incredible and the crowd were certainly hungry to see
Trouble doing their 1st full headlining tour for the 1st time. The rest list
wasn't too long and I really thought the band could of played a lot longer
considering it's been 15yrs or so since they last hit the shores of the UK. I do
hope that they come back soon this year and play a much long set, they have
enough material to play a 2hr set easily. Better still they should be supporting
Metallica, but saying that I'm sure they will give Metallica a run for their
money!! Other songs that the band played live were: Sleeper, Touch The Sky,
Plastic Green head, Assassin, Pray For The Dead/ End Time, Mindbender, Going
Home, End Of My Daze, Memories Garden, Fear, Psychotic Reaction, All Is
Forgiven, The Tempter, Bastards Will Pay and for an encore they played Misery
Shows. What a great gig by the Doom Gods, welcome back guys!! Check out the new
album and an exclusive interview on my website!!
& 
Nottingham Rock City 16.5. 07 - UK
Well
tonight was a great nice of classic British Metal with a great support act, this
been
'Masterplan', which was formed by ex Helloween guitarist Roland Grapow.
Joining Roland is ex Rage drummer Mike Terrana, who is also still with Axel Rudi
Pell, and what an awesome drummer he is. Joining Mike and Roland is Jan S Eckert
and Axel Mackenrott and new front man Mike DiMeo known for his work with The
Lizards and Riot. This was a gig I was really looking forward to, to see a
classic Metal band such as Saxon with a fine support act was a night to
remember. Masterplan have released 3 albums to date, the bands 1st 2 albums
featured Jorn Lande as front man and ex Helloween drummer Uli. Its been a while
since I last saw Masterplan, something like the 2nd Bloodstock, which was some
time ago but I'm glad to see the band are back and stronger than ever. I wasn't
too sure how Mikes vocals would be with the new and old material but he is a
talented singer and he did really pull it off. It's been a while also since I
last visited Nottingham Rock City and tonight was a full house of die hard
metalheads like myself. Masterplan only did a really sort set which was a shame
and with a drummer solo which really wasn't necessary and a waste of time
really as there could of been 1 more song in their set. Not to say that Mike's
solo was boring, far from it just wasn't needed as a support act. With a 40
minute set the band hit the stage and played some new and classic Masterplan
material which was a great sight to hear and see. Mike really did pull off the
old stuff and I'm sure many of the fans would agree with me. Saxon fans also
alike were surprised with the material that Masterplan pulled off. A great band
which I highly recommened, just check out the bands new album released on AFM
titled 'MK 11'. The bands set list was as follows: Spirit Never Die, Enlighten
Me , Lost and Gone, Crystal Night, Soulburn, Guitar solo, Drum solo, Back
for My Life, Kind Hearted Light.
'Saxon' were a band that I and so many more grew up on, a cult classic band and in the top acts with Judas Priest, Motorhead, Iron Maiden & Black Sabbath, these bands took the world by storm and still continue to do so to this date. Biff & Paul Quinn are the only 2 original members to date. Joining Biff is Nigel Glockler, Nibbs Carter, & Doug Scarratt. The band have gone from strength to strength and I must say that ever since the band released 'Metal Head' the band are now on top form. Even the album 'Heavy Metal Thunder' was fucking awesome!! Well enough of the crap talking, Saxon hit the stage to play roughly about a 2hr set of pure head banging metal with such classics and also some new material from the bands new album 'The Inner Sanctum', which is an awesome hard hitting album. Some of the songs that Saxon played were: State Of Grace, Need The Speed, Let Me Feel Your Power, Red Star Failing, If I Was You, Ashes To Ashes, 747 Stranger In The Night, Crusader, The Bands Played On, Searching For Atlantis, Power & The Glory, Dogs Of War, Princess Of The Night, Wheels Of Steel, Heavy Metal Thunder, just to name a few. A great gig by 2 awesome bands. Long live Saxon and Masterplan.
&
Bradford
Rio's 14.3.07 - UK
It's been a while
since I saw these to acts play together, it was 1988 when they toured together
at Nottingham's Rock City. I have seen the bands several times in the past since
that 1988 tour, but tonight was a special night for some fans who have never
even seen either Kreator or Celtic Frost. What you have hear with a mixture of
classic German Thrash mixed with Swizz Avangard Death/ Black Metal. Both bands
have had plenty of success in the 80's and still continue to this date. Even so,
both bands have 
influenced
so many acts you couldn't image just how many bands they have influenced. As
this was my last gig at the famous Bradford Rio's, I was sad to see the venue
go, as I have met and taken so many cool pictures 
from
this venue and I have to say the sound was amazing!! Since then Rio's has now
moved to Leeds (UK) and I had the pleasure of attending that venue when i saw
Trouble. More about that review soon.
Anyway, 1st band to hit the stage was 'Celtic Frost' and as this was a double head lining show both bands proved that metal is still a way of life. With Celtic Frost been 1 of those strange and unique bands that mix a form of Black/ Death and Avangard Metal all into 1 really does work. Tom G. Warrior and Co, proved that they still have what it takes after a decade of been apart from the scene. I saw the band at last years Wacken and then they proved to be a band that still have captured the imagination of so many. With the band releasing so classic album such as Morbid Tales, and Into The Pandemonium tonight was a special night for those who haven't seen the band before and are influenced by this act. Old fans this was also a trip down memory lane. The Frost are 1 of those bands who have an enquired taste and you really need to have an open mind when listening to their music. This trio are still as cult classic which were formed out of the ashes of 'Hellhammer'. The Frost are back and about time too. Some of the bands songs are pretty slow but then again its not all about speed. Songs the band played were: Totengott, Procreation (of The Wicked), Visions of Mortality, Circle Of The Tyrants, The Usurper, Ain Elohim, Necromantical Screams, Dethroned Emperor, Into The Crypts Of Rays, & Synagoga Satanae. Long live the Frost!!!
Next up was 'Kreator', one of German's pioneers of Thrash right from the early 80's, along with Destruction & Sodom these bands have been around for so many years and like the Frost have also influenced so many acts. Millie, has been the godfather for this band right from the word go, and with various line-up changes over the years, Millie is now joined by original drummer Ventor once again. With such classic albums as 'Pleasure To Kill', 'Extreme Aggression', 'Enemy Of God', this 4 piece act are now stronger than ever. Millie still proves that his extreme vocals mix well with the heavy riffs of his guitar work and Ventors pounding drums. With each album the band have done the band have gone from strength to strength and with the future looking very promising for this act things could not be better. Now that the Frost had departed from the stage the crowd were ready for some ripping and brutal Thrash the way it was meant to be. The crowd loved their set with plenty of thrashing and a mosh pit was a great night for all. Kreator deserve a lot of respect and I look forward to plenty more albums in the future. Their set list for the show was: Into The Patriach, Violent Revolution, Pleasure To Kill, Enemy Of God, People Of A Lie, Suicide Terrorist, Extreme Aggression, Phobia, Betrayer, Voices Of The Dead, Reconquering The Throne, & Flag Of Hate. What a great show!!
31.3.07 Cheltenham Race Course - UK
This was 1 festival I really wanted to check out in the 1st year of 2006, but unfortunately I missed it for some strange reason, but I did manage to tour with Pagans Minds around the UK, which was awesome, thanx guys!! ProgPower has been going now in the U.S. for a number of years and is now part of Europe as the Dutch have now got involved. Since then the UK have got involved and now Sweden are now part of the ProgPower movement. This however is the 2nd annual year for the UK and I have to say it was a stronger line-up than that of the debut UK event. The line-up for this years event was varied and strong, which had a strong blend variety anything from Neon Classical Prog Metal to Folk and even Goth/ Death Prog. I have to say I did missed the warm up show which featured Civilization One (former Firewind vocalist Chitty). Also on the same stage that night were: Soliloquy & Son Of Science.
Opening
act for the main day was Sweden's act 'Heed', who have released their
debut album 
titled
'The Call'. I have to admit that I have never heard the band before until Is aw
them at this festival and I wasn't sure what to expect. I was rather surprised
and happy with what I heard. What I heard was a pleasant sound of you're typical
Swedish melodic metal/ with some elements of prog metal and strong and powerful
vocals by Daniel Heiman, who has a very powerful and interesting vocal range.
This band certainly seemed to get the crowd going for the opening act and more
stronger acts were yet to come. This 5 piece act are a strong force to listen
too and be heard. Songs that the band played were: I Am Alive, Ashes, Faith And
Blood, Salvation, Running From The Shadows, Enemy, Corona, & Last Drop Of
Blood. I suggest if you have not heard the bands debut album and seem interested
in hear this band who seem to come across between Yngwie, Nocturnal Rites, then
check out this band for sure. Next up was yet another Swedish act, this time it
was 'Cloudscape', a very awesome act, who have released 2 albums to date.
The bands debut album 'self titled' to me a an awesome and very impressive
debut. This album reminds me of Section A, Minds Eye, Beyond Twilight, Yngwie
and many more. Front man Mike Andersson is a great vocalist and is almost
perfect as he is on CD. Joining Mike in the band are: Bjorn Eliasson and Patrik
Svard (guitars), Haynnes Pherson (bass) and Roger Landin (drums). These guys are
great musicians, there is no doubt about it. Their music is top notch live and
they are a force to be heard. The bands 2nd album 'Crimson Skies' is yet another
awesome 2nd album and sees the band progressive in yet another every moving and
yet strong push forward. I was really looking forward to see in this act live as
I knew Mike but never had the chance to see yet along meet them until now. The
band have come along way and I do hope they come back really soon to our shores.
Sadly the band had to cut 1 song sort, this been 'In These Walls', which was a
shame. Songs that the band did play were: Breach In My Sanity, Shapeshifter,
Everyday Is Up To You, Demon Tears, Aqua 275, Will We Remain, In These Walls,
Under Fire. Lets hope that these guys come up with yet another classic Swedish
Metal album, rock on guys!!!
Next
up was 'Dreamscape', the 1st German act to the bill. Again Dreamscape are
another band
I wanted to see live. This 5 piece act have released 3 previous album, the bands
1st 2 albums featured 2 former singers. The band released an album this year
which was the 1st 2 albums re-mastered and reworked with newest front man Roland
Stoll who has a very powerful and more suitable voice for this type of band. If
you have not heard Dreamscape before then they are very close to that of Dream
Theater with hints of Fates Warning, Psychotic Waltz and Queensryche. Mainly
their sound is close to that of Dream Theater. saying that there is nothing
wrong with that as this act do it very well and with style. The band are to
release their latest album in mid 2007 for Massacre Records, so keep an eye open
for that, I certainly will!! The band played a 40 minute set of pure technical
and complex Prog Metal which I really enjoyed just like Cloudscape. it was funny
to see 2 bands on the same bill with the 'Scape' in the bands name, and with
both acts following 1 another I guess some people got the bands times wrong.
This bands line-up stands as: Jan Vacik (keyboards), Wolfgang Kerinnid (guitar),
Benno Schidtler (bass) & Bernhard Huber (drums). I have to say that
Dreamscape were another band I was rather looking forward to see in and to see
just how well they perform live. I have to say there were awesome, and could the
next band follow in their footsteps? Dreamscape set list was: Clockwork,
Fed Up With, The End Of Light, Thorn In My Mind, Somebody, When Shadows Are
Gone. Well the answer was yes. This was 'Communic', a 3
piece band from Norway, and what an incredible act they were, there are not too
many acts out there with only 3 members who can pull such strong ad technical
music like these guys can. If you're a fan of Nevermore, Psychotic Waltz, then
you don't need to look any further, as this 3 piece act are just what I have
mentioned. 2 awesome acts, 1 of which are no longer with us. Musically this band
have a lot of Psychotic Waltz in them with hints of Nevermore, especially with
the vocals by Oddleif Stensland, who are very influenced by Warrel Dane
(Nevermore) with hints of Buddy Lackey (Psychotic Waltz) in there as well makes
this act a truly outstanding. If you heard them you would think there a 4-5
piece act, but surprisingly this 3 piece act deliver the goods that a lot of
bands cant do. 1 band point for the band, was the fact that they had to switch
their time slots, which did confuse a lot of fans, don't you just hate it when
festivals do this?? This band have released 2 albums for Nuclear Blast and I
highly recommend both albums. Set list was: Communication Sublime, Frozen Asleep
In The Park, Waves Of Visual Decay, Under A Luminous Sky, They Feed On Our Fear.
Kick ass Metal from Norway!!
Next
up was 'Haggard', an unusual band for this type of bill, but nevertheless
I guess there were
there for a reason. Bloody hell it took them long enough to get their stuff on
stage, I think this band had something like 30 members lol!!! Besides the
guitarist, vocalist, drummer the band also brought a folk orchestra with them.
At one point I thought I was in the Royal Albert Hall. I really didn't get to
see the band as I was busy elsewhere, but I did manage to capture the last song
before the band went off stage. I can say 1 thing, they managed to keep the
crowd in the hall listening to their blend of Folk, Celtic and somewhat Prog
element'ed Metal. Songs that they played were: Per Aspera Ad Astra/Eppur Si
Muove, Awakening The Centuries. Next up was former Atrocity and Theater Of
Tragedy members. Mainly Alex Krull and his wife Liv Kristine along with 3
members of Atrocity and a drummer who I have no idea from what band he was once
in (sorry). I really use to like Atrocity back in the day. 'Leave's Eyes',
however play a mixture of soft and beautiful neon classical/ folk metal whilst
on the other hand they have a darker side with the Death Metal elements mixed
with prog Metal, and it all seems to fit well together. I have to admit that
this type of music doesn't appeal to me, but at the same time they do what they
do well and it seemed to go down well with the fans from the festival. There
seems to be a lot of female front bands out there right now and to me they seem
to bore me, some are good and some are not so good. At least Theater Of Tragedy
were playing this type of music 10yrs or so go so there not a new band. If
anything Nightwish and Theater Of Tragedy have been around about the same time.
Leave's Eyes have several albums under their belt and continue to grow with
strength on each album. I guess Haggard and Leave's Eyes would be a cool tour
together, what you reckon? Leave's Eyes set was as follows: Vinland Saga,
Farewell Proud Men, Ocean’s Way, The Crossing, Into Your Light, Temptation,
Lyset, Legend Land ,Solemn Sea, Elegy. Next up was Florida's very own 'Kamelot',
a band I am friends with, yeah Thom!! I have waited many years to see this act,
I missed them at Wacken, as Exciter were playing the time, but I have finally
got to see them at long last. What a great band they are, and if you're a fan of
Queensyche, Crimson Glory, Conception then you are sure to enjoy this act.
Kamelot have been around for at least 14yrs now and with each album the band
have gone from strength to strength. Since the early days with Mark on vocals
and with 2 albums with the same singer the band have progressed from the debut
to the bands 2nd album. Since the departure of Mark, Thom recruited ex
Conception front man Khan to the ranks and ever since the band have moved on
with giant leaps. Kamelot are a band to take notice of and with the band about
to release their new album for SPV the future could not be any brighter than it
is now. Thom and the boys delivered a powerful punched packed set from start to
finish and even included a track from their forthcoming album 'Ghost Opera',
which is yet to see the band ever moving forward. Joining Thom and Khan are:
Glenn Barry, Casey Grillo and Oliver Palotai (Doro's keyboardist) to the ranks.
This outfit could not be any stronger, they have the perfect line-up to date.
Songs that they played were: When The Lights Are Down, Soul Society, Mourning
Star, Nights Of Arabia, Abandoned, Descent Of The Archangel, Forever, Ghost
Opera, Karma, March Of Mephisto. A great set by a great band. Check them out
live this year!!
Well
it's been a long day and people were starting to get tired, but they managed to
keep the faith and hang it out for the main act. This been Savatage's
keyboardist/ vocalist Jon Oliva, with his new project under the name of 'Jon
Oliv'a Pain'. Savatage don't need no introduction, so I really shouldn't
need to give Jon an intro either, but in case you have not hear Savatage well,
they are 1 of the biggest Rock/ Metal Operatic acts around. Formed in the early
80's this act have gone from strength to strength. Jon did a side project in the
90's under the name of 'Doctor Butcher', but they really didn't kick off. Now he
is back with this new project that seems to be making more of an impact.
Savatage haven't done anything new for a while so this is the right timing for
Jon to unleash his down beast. Releasing their debut for AFM Records which is
doing very well so far. Jon and the 4 boys played a great set of Jon Oliva's
material as well as some classic Savatage material. This was a real treat for
fans of old and new of Savatage and Jon Oliva's Pain. Jon has a very distinct
voice and musically they remind of me Queen in certain places, something my fiancée
would be pleased about, with her been a massive Queen fan. The band played a
ripping set from start to finish, just check out the set list: Warriors, Sirens,
Maniacal Renderings, The Evil Beside You/Streets, Jesus Saves, Tonight He Grins
Again, Strange Reality, New York City Don’t Mean Nothing, Ghost In The Ruins,
If I Go Away, Agony And Ecstas, Somewhere In Time, Believe, Through The Eyes Of
The King, End Times/Edge Of Thorns, Gutter Ballet , Hall Of The Mountain
King.
This was without a great year for a great up & coming UK festival. I wish the promoters well and I hope they have many more successful years to come. Fans of real Metal & Progressive Metal should support this and Bloodstock!! I look forward to next years festival.
9.11.06 Bradford Rio's - UK
This
week was a busy week for my girlfriend & I, after been to 3 gigs in 3 days
was pretty tiring, but have to finish on a high note was something else. I've
seen a lot of Progressive Metal acts in the past, Dream Theater, Fates Warning,
Psychotic Waltz, Symphony X and more... but Evergrey was 1 of the best and what
a gig to end the year off too. I've been waiting for a long time to see this
band and they say the best things come to those who wait, and how right they
are! I missed the band when they played Bloodstock and in London a few months
ago, but I finally had the pleasure of catching them live at long last. Their
debut DVD is awesome and I wanted to see how good they were live, and how
professional they are live. They are 1 of the best band's I've seen in the Prog
Metal scene, and I'd like to see them tour with an Inside Out tour, with the
likes of Symphony X, Enchant, Deadsoul Tribe, Vanden Plas, Pain Of Salvation,
now that would be a great package tour!! Thomas & the boys were awesome
tonight and the sound was awesome too, even the light show was electrifying
because of the dark blues and orange lights made this a 1 hell of a show.
Playing for 1hr and 20 minutes or so was a awesome show. Watching the band was
almost like hearing the CD and they looked like they were miming to the music,
but they weren't!! The band played 1 hell of a show and if you like Evegrey or
Prog Metal then I suggest you catch them live next time around. One of the best
Prog Metal acts around live, hail Evergrey!! Trax played were: Blinded, End Of
Your Days, In remembrance, More Than Ever, Rules Of The Mind, Blackened Dawn,
Waking Up Blind, As I Lie Here Bleeding, Mislead, Mark Of The Triangle, Monday
Morning Apocalypse, Unspeakable, At Loss For Words, Still In The Water, When The
Walls Go Down, Solitude Within, Recreation Day, The Masterplan, Touch Of
Blessing. What an awesome show and what a gig to remember for 2006. A band what
will go a long and will certainly be remembered in a chapter of the Progressive
Metal scene.
& 
8.11.06 Sheffield -
UK
One
of the UK Legends of Heavy Metal/ Rock has to be 'Motorhead', with
Lemmy been the front man for over 2 decades and still going strong he has
maintained the unique sound that so many of us have become to love. With so many
line-up changes in the past Motorhead have now got a steady line-up been Mikkey
Dee (ex King Dimaond) and Phil Cambell (ex Persian Risk), this trio is here to
stay right until the bitter end. With such classic albums under their belt such
as 'Ace Of Spades', 'Over Kill' , 'Bomber' and such newer albums such as
'Inferno', and their current album 'Kiss Of Death', their sound and style are a
league of it kind. I've seen Motorhead 3 times now in a row, with such
support acts such as 'Sepultura' & 'In Flames', and now with
'Crucified Barbara' a female all girl rock act (pretty foxy girls too) and
'Clutch'. Opening act 'Crucified Barbara', are pretty well unknown over there in
the UK, but if you managed to see them at Sweden Rock then I'm sure you will
know just who they are. They remind me of a kind of cross between 'Cycle Slut
From Hell' and 'L7' when it comes to female rock act's, and of course the dirty
edge of that by Girlschool & Motorhead. Playing a 30 minute set roughly they
seemed to go down pretty well with the crowd. Some of the trax played that I
remember were: In Distortion We Trust (is that meant to be 'In Rock We Trust' by
Y&T?), Play Me Hard, I Need A Cowboy From Hell, My Heart Is Black,
Motorfucker, Going Down. As far as I remember the crowd took to them and went
down pretty well and I'm sure they will pick up more of a fan bases over here.
As for the main opening act 'Clutch', they to me were pretty average, nothing
outstanding, but fans of Led Zepplin or Rage Against The Machine or early Black
Sabbath might find these rather appealing. Playing a set for 45 minutes some of
the crowd enjoyed their set, others found them like me the wrong choice for a
Motorhead support act. Don't get me wrong, they are good at what they do but I
don't feel like they were the best choice of support act. Now
for the main act, of course it has to be 'Motorhead', playing a awesome set of
classic songs as well as more recent material from the bands latest offering
'Kiss of Death', as always their loyal fans loved every minute of the show. As
always the band just come on stage to no intro and Lemmy would say 'We are
Motorhead, we play Rock & Roll' then the band are off to a flying start.
Loud & proud is what Motorhead are good for and tonight was no exception.
Blasting through a set of powerful and sheer ear splitting music everybody had
nowhere to hide, as Motorhead shook the stage and venue. Trax played were: Dr.
Rock, Metropolis, Over The Top, Traveling Man, I Got Mine, In The Name Of
tragedy, Soldier of Glory, Rock & Roll, Sacrifice / Drum Solo, You Got The
Power, U Ain't Got The Right, Roseale (Thin Lizzy), Going To Brazil, Kill By
Death, Iron Fist, Whore House Blues, Ace of Spades & Over Kill. An awesome night that I'm sure many won't forget, especially
my girlfriend who met Lemmy and got his autograph tattooed on her arm, thanx
Lemmy!!. Long live Motorhead!!
& 
7.12.06 Bradford Rios -
UK
Yet
another gig at the legendary Bradford Rios (one of the UK's Finest). I seemed to
of done a few gigs in less than a week during the 1st week of December, yet 2
more were to following in the next 2 days. it was good to see Doro return to
Bradford and with style her loyals fans turned up and gave her their support.
Like Exodus, this was yet another bad night for crowd attendance, as Motorhead
were playing in Bradford the same night, which kind of spoilt things a little,
but with Motorhead playing down the road it did not dampen the spirit of the
show. Support act came for the legendary UK act 'Blitzkrieg , who seemed to of
influenced Metallica back in the day. This band seemed to be ok, but with an
ageing rocker on vocals, who looked across between Alice Cooper & Abandom
from Venom, he left me and others laughing and in shock. Musically they were
pretty good, but the vocalist just looked out of place, which was a shame.
Playing a kind of across between old NWOBHM and a fresh powerful sound the band
had something going for them and I wish them well. Doro, on the other hand, well
what can 1 say about the 'Metal Queen', she is and will always be #1 and with
her career starting out with Warlock back in the 80's this German beauty just
keeps getting stronger. Still Doro has managed to keep the same line-up for a
number of years now, this been ex members of Johnny Dee (ex Waysted), Oliver (Kamelot),
Nick Douglas (Deadly Blessing) and Jon (ex Lita Ford) to the ranks. With Doro
supporting her latest album 'Metal Warrior', which is released through AFM
Records, her popularity is becoming stronger than ever. As ever Doro and co are
on top form and the sound was superb. Playing a set for just over 1hr 30
minutes, this was a great gig with some classic Warlock and Doro trax which
everybody enjoyed. Trax played were: Fight, Earthshaker Rock, Hellbound, All We
Are, I Rule The Ruins, Always Live To Win, Fight, East Meets West, Fur Immer,
White Wedding, Burning The Witches, Breaking The Law (Judas Priest), True As
Steel, Above The Ashes, Dance Demons, Strangers Yesterday, Love Me In Black,
just to name a few. One all of a show by the Metal Queen herself. Check out the
new DVD just been released this month (Dec 06). I look forward to see in her
again, stay true as steel!!
Biochemical
& 
3.11.06 Bradford Rios - UK
Well it's been a
while since I last saw the band, see in the band on their last UK tour for the
'Tempo Of The Damned' tour was pretty impressive, but now the band are back,
this time with a new line-up, featuring Heathen guitarist Lee Altus , Paul Bostoph (ex
Forbidden/ Slayer) and new front man Rob Dukes, along with Gary Holt and Jack Gibson.
Exodus have come a long way over the last 2 decades and their new album is yet
another shining example of what the band still have to offer. Catching up with
the band after a year or so was a great show and playing new and old classics
made this a truly awesome show. Bad thing about the gig was, the fact that
Slayer were playing in Manchester the same night, so that kind of put a dampener
on the night. Support act for the evening came from Biochemical, a band from the
UK who are signed to Earache and have released 2 albums. Mixing their style of
Thrash with powerful vocals by vocalist John who once sang for Balance Of Power.
They reminded me of Forbidden in some way and playing a cover of Judas Priest's
'Painkiller' was a great choice of songs and well played & sang. Not knowing
Biochemical's music it is hard for me to tell you what songs they played, but
their 45 minute set was a good and powerful with plenty of thrashing but melodic
riffs. Exodus did deliver a powerful and head splitting set even if the crowd
attendance wasn't great the true fans supported the band and even got a mosh pit
going. Songs that Exodus played were: Bonded By Blood, A Lesson In Violence,
Piranha, Exodus, Seeds Of Hate, The Toxic Waltz, Objection Overruled, Blacklist,
Tempo Of The Damned, Forward march, Magnum Opus, Sealed With A Fist, I Am
Abomination, just to name a few. Awesome gig by 1 of the Bay Area's
finest. I hope to see the band again in the near futur and if you haven't
had the chance to see them yet then I suggest you do next time around!!
29 - 30.9.06
Derby Assembly Rooms - UK
It
was good to be back at this indoor festival in the UK known as 'Bloodstock',
it's been a while since I attended the indoor 1. This festival has been going
now for the last 4-5yrs now. Over the last 2yrs the festival has taken it's self
to the outdoors and like the indoor 1 will become just as successful in years to
come, and with the backing of Wacken behind them the future is looking bright. I
managed to check out the outdoor 1 earlier this year and I have to say Friday's
line-up on the main stage was awesome. This year's indoor festival saw 2 days of
pure headbanging Metal from some new acts and some reformed acts which is also
good to see. Having arrived Friday lunch time I made it in time for the first
act, some friends of mine that I haven't seen in a few years, and it was good to
see them return with a new album in the works. This been 'Marshall
Law', hailing from
Birmingham (land of the mighty Judas Priest), these guys were ready to hit the
stage and playing for a mere 30-45 minute set I was really looking forward to
see in live. Andy and Dave are the only 2 original members playing their unique
style of Power Metal with a edge of Judas Priest thrown in. Since the mid 80's
to the mid 90's Marshall Law were making a name for themselves, and all of a
sudden the band went quiet for some years until now. The band were a good and
strong opening act playing songs from the debut album up to their last studio
album. Set list was: Foregathering, Twisted This, Victory At Last, God King,
Marshall Law, Under The Hammer & Leviathan. A truly awesome opening act to
set off a perfect festival. Next up was 'Majesty'
from G
ermany,
who are building a pretty big reputation at the moment, especially in Europe.
The band have started to build a following here in the UK too, with their
Manowar/ Priest style of Power Metal. The band have released a few albums for
Massacre Records & are continuing to grow with each album. The band have
released 4 studio albums and 1 live CD/DVD, which I recently bought and think is
pretty cool stuff. The band however, look like a typical old school German band
which is cool and their music does have elements of some of the older German
Power Metal acts such as Grave Digger & Accept, as well as newer bands such
as Paragon. Playing a 45 minute set the band played a spectacular set of sheer
melodic but yet powerful Power Metal. The crowd loved the band are the songs
went from strength to strength. Vocalist Tarek
"MS" Maghary is a powerful singer indeed and is well suited to the
bands music. Listening to the band and watching them was a delight and by the
time the band had finished their set the crowd were hungry for more. Some of the
trax I noticed that they played were: Metal Law, Keep It True, Hail To Majesty,
Heavy Metal Battlecry, Sword & Sorcery, Fields Of War, Keep It True. This is
a band well worth checking out, lets hope they come back in the near future.
Next up was 'Savage Circus',
a band that I don't know that much about, but what I do know is that this
band also hail from Germany and features ex Blind Guardian member and Iron
Savior, Persuader. Formed in 2004 the band have released their debut album
titled 'Dreamland Manor'. The band play a similar music to that of Blind
Guardian, Persuader & Iron Savior as well as the likes of Helloween/ Gamma
Ray. I wasn't sure what to expect from this band, but I knew it would be
something along the lines of the bands already mentioned. I have to say I wasn't
that impressed with the bands music at all, and live they sounded ok but not
much of a stage presence. Trax that the band played were: Evil Eyes, Between The
Devil & The Seas, Waltz With The Demon, Ghost Story, When Hell Awakes,
Beyond Reality. I would of much rather seen a band with more of a stage
presence and more drive in their music, such as Paragon.
Next up
was 'Axel Rudi Pell',
which I'm sure most of you will already be aware of. Axle use to be the
guitarist for 'Steeler', the German act, who released 2 albums in the 80's
through SPV, which were pretty good album and were directed towards the Accept,
Priest style of metal. Now that Axel has formed his own band under his own
name, this band have released several album with various line-ups, and included
Jeff Scott Soto. Now that Axel has a steady line-up over the last few albums his
band are a strong and solid unit. With the new release titled 'Mystica', the
band are stronger than ever before and to nights performance proved just that.
Joining Axel is Mike Terrana (Rage), Johnny Gioeli (Hardline), Ferdy Doernberg
(Rough Silk) & Volker Krawczak on bass. The band played an hour set roughly,
which the crowd were excited to see as this band have never really played in the
UK before, so it was a treat for both the band and the fans. I have to admit
that the band were excellent live, very tight and very professional to say the
least. I would have to say that this band are more directed towards a Rainbow,
Deep Purple and maybe The Scorpions sound than that of Axel's previous act 'Steeler'.
Playing trax from the bands new album as well as some of the back catalogue was
yet a treat for fans new and old. Some of the songs played were: Mystica,
Haunted Castle, Temple Of The King, Drum Solo, Rock The Nation, Fool Fool,
amongst others. A tight and excellent set by 1 of Germany's top Metal acts. Last
act for the evening was yet another German act, this time it was 'Primal
Fear',
a band that is now taking the world by storm as these German hopefuls are
becoming a force to be reckoned with. Formed by ex Gamma Ray front man 'Ralf
Scheepers' and long time bassist 'Matt Sinner' of the Sinner band. With the
release of 6 albums under their belts, these German meteller's are going from
strength to strength. The bands latest album 'Seven Seal' is the bands last
album for Nuclear Blast, which is a shame, but the band are now signed to
Frontier's Records from Italy. This si not the 1st time Primal Fear have played
Bloodstock, if I am right in saying their 3rd time around. The crowd certainly
want them back otherwise these Power Metaller's wouldn't be playing here again.
Mixing a Judas Priest, Saxon, Accept sound and also that of Sinner & Gamma
Ray to their sound really does the band justice and as Ralf's vocals remind me
of Rob Halford, I can see why so many people like this band. This band are as
tight as ever and the sheer power that this band give off live is well worth
checking out as they are have influenced so many up & coming bands, even if
they are not the most original band, there is no mistake about it that these
guys mean business. Set list that the band played was: Demons & Angels,
Rollercoaster, Nuclear Fire, 7 Seals, Angel In Black, Under Your Spell, Chain
Breaker, Battalions Of Hate, Evil Spell, Diabolus, Final Embrace, Metal Is
Forever, Running In The Dust, & Suicide & Mania. What a awesome
performance by these guys, just wish you had of been there if you weren't!!
Saturday 30.9.06:
Having
had a great day before it was time to do a write up on Saturday's acts, also
getting up later didn't help, but as you know it's about rock & roll!! First
act of the days 
for
me was 'Machine Men',
hailing from Finland, these guys have released 2 albums to date and are singed
to Century Media Records. This was the bands debut live performance and to be
able to play a festival such as Bloodstock had to be an honour for the band.
These 5 guys are better than I thought, and their current album 'Elegies' is a
pretty impressive album, considering I was expecting to sound like their
Stratovarius or some Black metal band. But I have to say that this band have a
little more to offer than you would expect. OK, so there not the most original
band, but what this band do have to offering is enjoyable on the ears. Not sure
who they sound like but they are a great Power Metal act that do have a
promising future. Playing a 45 minute set some of the bands material included:
Falling, Dream & Religion, Back From The Days, Apathy, Power Of The Real
World. A future album is in the works right now, so lets see what that will
bring. Next up was 'Brainstorm',
which I shouldn't need any introduction to these guys, but just in case you
don't know them I will enlighten you. Hailing from Germany, these guys are
becoming very popular in Europe right now, which doesn't surprise me at all.
Playing a mixture of U.S. style Power Metal in the vain of Vicious Rumors, who
spring to mind a lot. other acts they remind me of are Metal Church, as well as
German acts like Grave Digger. Having several albums, and now signed to Metal
Blade the band are becoming more popular with each and every album that they
release. Promoting their latest album 'Liquid Monster', the band really got the
crowd going as they performed an outstanding set of sheer power & 
strength
from start to finish. These 5 guys are great live and I've seen them form the
debut album right up to their current release and they are a mind blowing and
powerful act to see live. Trax they played were: Inside The Monster, Invisible
Enemy, Highs Without Lows, Shiva's Tears, Doorway To Survive, Blind Suffering,
Coming Closer, Tear Down The 
Walls,
just to name a few. Awesome show by a great German act!!! Next was 'Onslaught',
a band from the past, now reformed. These guys from Bristol (UK) are now back
and are about to release a new album in 2007 with producer Andy Sneap. I
remember see in these guys in the early 90's so it was good to see them back
together, and I didn't get to see the original line-up back in the day, so it
was good to see them back together. Releasing 2 albums with the original line-up
such as 'Powers From Hell' and ' The Force' and their most commercial album 'In
Search Of Sanity' the band went separate ways, till now. As this was the only
Thrash band on this year Bloodstock bill the crowd went ape shit, and even
started a pit, which was good to see. They were on top form and the sound was
awesome!! Some Trax played were: Metal Forces, Burn, Demonic, Killing Peace,
Power From Hell. A great band and welcome back, I reckon they do have the powers
from hell!! Last band I saw was 'Vanden
Plas', I have waited a
long time to see this act and as they only ever played 1 show in the UK in the
90's supporting Dream Theater I really had to see them live. Vanden Plas have
been around since the mind 90's are a highly recommended band that I suggest you
check out. If you like the likes of Dokken, Queensryche and Dream Theater, Fates
Warning then this is a band for you. I really expected to see this band in the
main hall but they played on the Dawin stage, which was a shame, but saying that
we did get closer to the stage. Playing a set for 1hr and 15 minutes roughly,
the band were to be 1 of the best acts of the day, and as a few 100 fans watched
on I would say they would agree with me. These guys deserve more respect and
they are a top act to watch, especially if you're a musician and like the above
bands, and as a Progressive Metal act I'd like tos ee them do more touring here
in the UK. Pity the band haven't release a live DVD yet, but I hope the do
shortly. Playing a bunch of songs from the
bands early albums to the bands current album 'Christ O'. Some of the songs
played were: Postcard To God, Somewhere Alone In The Dark, Wish You Were Here,
Into The Sun, Far Off Grace, Inside Of Your Head, End Of All Days among
others.
Bloodstock is
now becoming a festival to be reckoned with and I wish them well. If you missed
this years line-up try to make it to next years out door and indoor festival's.
What a great years, pity I didn't get to see more bands, but then again it was a
long weekend!!
Bradford Rios Club 26.9.06 - UK
This
is one band I grew up with and have never had the chance to see back in the day,
and I certainly wish I had. I had the pleasure of hearing them on the radio live
from Reading & Donnington back in the 80's but that was as far as I got to
hearing them live. Now I had the chance to see them live after been a fan for
almost 20yrs, this show took place at 1 of the best clubs in the UK, Bradford
Rio's. if you ever get the change to visit this venue then please do the sound
is awesome and you can get really close to those of you're fabvourite stars. Has
Y&T only have 2 original members left those been Dave Meniketti & Phil
Kennemore, both are awesome musicians and Dave is without doubt 1 hell or a
guitarist and singer. Singing heavy style Blues with a Hard Rock edge makes this
band the best of this style of music around. Joining Phil & Dave are: John
Nymann (guitar) and drummer Mike Vandererhule, both of which are great additions
to the band. I would never of thought for 1 minute that these guys would be
playing such a small venue considering they were 1 of the biggest bands in the
80's. As this was the 1st time for the band to play this venue the turn out of
crowd was good and they showed the band that they were there for a truly worthy
band. Playing a set for almost 2hrs the band went through a storming set of old
classic right up to the bands last few releases. Dave's vocals were spot on and
the same could be said for his guitar work, a pure genius!! The set list was as
follows: Hang Em High, Don't Stop Believing, Dirt Girl, Surrender, Don't Be
Afraid Of The Dark, Rescue Me, Eyes Of A Stranger, I'll Cry, Forever, I Believe
In You, Roc & Roll Gonna Save The World, Sail On By, Black Tiger, Midnight
In Tokyo, Hurricane, Barroom Boogie, & Wings Of Change. This was a
great show by an incredible band that I am so glad I saw live and also met, rock
on Y&T!!! I await the next studio album, I'm pretty sure it will be a kick
ass release, just watch this space!!
3rd to 5th August 2006 - Germany
Well it's been a while since I last visited Wacken, 2001 so been able to return this was a delight and a great pleasure, so firstly I want to thank the promoters for their hospitality. It was also a pleasure to be there with only 1 hr of rain throughout the whole festival, what a delight that was!! Leaving the UK on the 2nd of August to have my 1st day on the streets of Hamburg was a exciting warm up to an event that the whole metal community knows about world-wide. Having a few beers and heading down the the Headbanger's Ball room to meet some cool people and also meeting Mortal Sin (G-Day guys) was cool!! Heading down to the festival on Thursday was cool meeting loads of real die hard metal heads along the way and finally picking my backstage pass up in what can call a long wait and to be caught in the 1hr of rain -damn!! Finally making my way to the festival to put my tent up and head for the main festival site was a buzz in itself. Thursday was of course the warm up day with a handful of bands getting the crowd nicely warmed up.
Thursday -
3rd:
Opening the
festival was 'Faster Inferno', which features Rudolf Schenker's son,
Tyson Schenker, with his act playing a classic sound of early 80's Metal
somewhere across between The Scorpions meets Thunder and various other acts. I
only caught about 2 songs of their set and the crowd seemed to adapt their sound
and their performance was good enough to grab the attention of the crowd and for
what was yet to come. Next to hit the stage were 'Victory', which
features ex Accept guitarist Hermann Frank, along side ex Saxon drummer Fritz
Randow. Joining Fritz and Hermann are, Charlie Huhn (vocals), Tommy Newton
(guitar) and bassist Fargo Pedda Knorrn. Playing a classic style of old school
German Metal with hints of Judas Priest and Saxon, this band hit the stage to
perform some of the bands classics as well as some of their latest material.
Vocalist Charlie has a strong voice the shook the stage and opened a lot of
peoples minds up, a great performance by 1 of the 80's classic metal acts.
Playing a set of 45 minutes it was time to rock and that is what Victory did,
victory at last for this German act!! Next up was yet another family member of
the Schenker clan, this time it was Michael Schenker, with 'MSG' group,
playing some classic such as 'Doctor, Doctor', the classic UFO track as well as
'Only You Can Rock me', Michael still has what it takes and MSG are a force to
be reckoned with. 
Damn they called this night, 'A Night To Remember' how right
they were, its a full on Schenker family party and were all invited!! Next was
Australian Thrash metal act 'Mortal
Sin', been around since
the late 80's who would ever think that this lot would re-appear after all this
time? Having been on a major label back in the day these guys went from strength
to strength and then all of a sudden they split up!! It was sad to see them
disappear without trace till only a few years ago they slowly returned. Only
original members left are Mat & Andy (G-Day guys), but joining them are
Mick, Nathan & Luke. Mick was formely with Addictive, another Aussie band
who released 2 albums. For those who don't know much about Mortal Sin, well if
you like early Metallica and Testament then these guys are right up you're
street. Playing on the W.E.T. Stage, these guys started up a hornets nest just
before The Scorpions hit the main stage and what a great performance they put
on. They certainly got a great mosh pit going and any old school Thrasher would
of loved to of seen this band. Only playing for 1hr and 15 minutes, these Aussie
guys took no prisoners, just bloody awesome stuff. Playing such songs are: I Am
Immortal, Lebanon, Voyage
of the Disturbed, Out Of The Darkness, Tears Of Redemption, Say Your Prayers,
Mayhemic Destruction. Aussie Metal is back!!!
Next up
was a mind blowing experience, the one and only mighty 'The Scorpions',
damn I've seen this band 4 times now, but this was without doubt their best
performance, no questions asked!! To see the Uli Jon Roth, Herrmann Rareball
playing some of the bands old classics, as well as Michael Schenker and son of
Michael also on guitar made this 1 hell of a performance. Playing an 2hr 15 mins
set was just awesome!!! To top it all the band even had a mechanical Scorpion
which came out of the drum raiser towards the end of the set. When you hear Uli
Jon's guitar playing you can certainly hear why Yngwie is such a big influences
of his. I really hope that the band release this set as a DVD, I'm pretty sure
they will and if they don't then they really are been fools to themselves. The
set is was: Bad Boys Running Wild, The Zoo, Loving You On Sunday Morning, Make
It Real, Pictured Life, Speedy's Coming, Dark Lady, We Burn The Sky, Love Em Or
Leave Em, Don't Believe Her, Tease Me Please Me, Holiday, Love Drive, Another
Piece Of Meat, Blackout, There's No One Like You, Big City Nights, Still Loving
You, In Trance, He's A Woman She A Man, Dynamite, Rock You Like A Hurricane.
Wow, what a superb performance by a legend Metal band.
Friday - 4th:
Saw some really good acts and after a stunning performance from The Scorpions, I
think everybody was ready for yet another kick ass day!! First band of the band
for me was Six Feet Under, formed by ex members of Cannibal Corpse and Death/
Massacre the band took to the stage at 3pm to deliver a 
brutal assault on the
Black Metal stage. Playing a mixture of Cannibal Corpse, 
Obituary & Celtic
Frost type of Death Metal, Chris Barnes and Co took the crowd by storm. Playing
trax from the bands current album as well as their back catalogue the crowd
loved what they did. Not forgetting the cover of AC/DC's 'TNT'. a nice melodic
but at the same time brutal vocal approach to such a classic trax. Playing an
hour set was a great start for me and with yet more to come from other acts on
the Black Metal stage was only the beginning of the day. Next up was the Mighty
'Nevermore',
now how could I not see this act, there fucking awesome live and good friends of
mine so there was no way I was going to miss their set. its a pity that Steve
wasn't in the band, but I wish him a speedy recovery. Standing in for the band
on 2nd guitar was Jag Panzer guitarist Chris who did an awesome fill in for
Steve. As we all know that Nevermore rose from the ashes from Sanctuary, a
classic late 80's metal act who only released 2 albums. Now that Nevermore have
risen from their ashes this band deliver a mighty punch that not so many bands
can do. Playing an outstanding set for an hour saw this band take on 1000's of
die hard metal heads, and with Warrel getting the crowd to bodysurf to one of
their songs was amazing to see, I'd never seen so many body's floating to the
front of the stage in 1 song, how awesome was that??? There are & will
always be a force to be reckoned with, not for the faint hearted. Trax they
played were: The River Dragon, I Voyager, We Disintegrate, Dead Heart In A Dead
World, Enemies Of Reality, Narcosynthesis, This Godless Endeavor, Born, just to
name a few... Long may Nevermore reign supreme!! Next up for me was a quick
moment of 'Opeth',
I only managed to see the last 2 songs. I have to be honest I have not heard
that much by this act, but I always thought they were a Black metal act, but
from what I heard they were more like a Progressive Metal act with of course
some elements of Death Metal or maybe Black Metal. Having clean vocals to their
music and some interesting riffs and music that reminded me of some elements of
Dream Theater & maybe COC made me rather enjoy what I heard. Only thing is I
just wis