THERE is nothing better than nostalgia...and, in terms of music nostalgia can sometimes blot out the reality of what happened "back in the day".
However, when it came to Hard Rock Hell X on Friday (11th November) what was served up were happy memories, once more re-created in living breathing blasts from the past that revealed there is still fire in the bellies of fans and bands alike.
And, as it was HRH there was also a feast of new and rising acts, aspiring to reach the same heady heights.
It was such a smorgasbord of rock served up in North Wales that fans were having to move swiftly back and forth between the two venues to catch snatches of the acts - thankfully they were only yards apart.
From headliners like Vixen and Ugly Kid Joe through to eclectic acts like Vordun and Bright Curse there was a sense of purpose throughout the day every time an act took to the stage. Stagecraft and stage presence were a given.
For many the newer acts playing on Arena Two provided attendees with the chance to see bands they would not be able to catch in many other environments. Departed immediately impressed as the trickle from caravans and chalets became a flood.
Two of the acts that stood out were the bluesy sound of Welcome Back Delta and the punkish hard rock of JoanOvArc.
Indeed across the two arenas it is almost unfair to try and pick out one act as a stand-out. Chase the Ace were as energetic and fun-filled on stage as always, and even treated HRH to a new track from their forthcoming third album.
Warrior Soul have the snarl of aggro politics coupled with the tunes to get the place moving, and Kory Clarke still has the cojones to challenge the audience and engage them at the same time.
German's Bonfire brought down their own version of melodic metal with Hans Ziller's crew creating merry mayhem, with 'Under Blue Skies' amongst the many songs being sang along to by the audience.
When it comes to crowd favourites there is no doubt that Ricky Warwick is up there - and when he arrived with his Fighting Hearts there was a sense of friends enjoined on and off stage. Familiar tunes from The Almighty era were given the same welcome as newer tracks such as 'Damascus Street' and 'When Patsy Cline was Crazy (And Guy Mitchell Played the Blues)'.
In terms of recognisable songs The Graham Bonnet Band have them by the bucketful. Mr Bonnet arrived on stage looking relaxed in a white shirt and pencil thin tie to acclaim that is reserved for the man who was part of Rainbow, MSG, Alcatraz and his own packed track list.
Whether it was 'God Blessed Video', 'All Night Long' or 'Lost In Holywood' - well you know the tracks and everyone there was enthralled. But make no mistake that this is a band not stuck in the past, but moving forward.
Whitfield Crane is as mad as a bag of squirrels on speed - and that's why he is so beloved. When he and his compatriots in Ugly Kid Joe arrived 'No One Survives' the mischievousness, the mayhem and the merriment.
'Jesus Rode A Harley' on to the stage to find out about 'The Cat's In The Cradle' and learn that Whit was declaring 'I'm Alright'. Sense of humour? Yes. Pure funked out rock 'n' roll? Yes.
Isla Vista, California came to North Wales and enjoyed the hell out of the place.
Equally the California glory days of Minnesota's Vixen rolled up to HRH X to a warm reception. Hell, it wasn't just warm, it was a roasting, roaring welcome as Janet Gardener emerged grinning to stage front, flanked by an equally delighted Gina Stile and Share Pederson as Roxy Petrucci saluted Wales with raised sticks.
And, from the off they 'Rev It Up' with smooth melodies, and energy that was infectious. The 1980s? Nah, it was another moment in time that saw rock history brought up to date, with tracks such as 'I Want You To Rock Me' sound as fresh now as they ever did.
'Rockin' In The Free World' was a crowd pleasing powerhouse cover, but 'Wrecking Ball' and 'Edge Of A Broken Heart' even managed to draw fans away from the bar - and amidst a crowd of thousands of drinkers that was a momentous achievement.
HRH X - Day Two. A day that brought forward so many memories, created new memories from the likes of Theia and Mason Hill, but most of all was a continuing celebration of what rock can do as a community.
Showing posts with label Warrior Soul. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Warrior Soul. Show all posts
Monday, November 14, 2016
Sunday, October 30, 2016
LIVE REVIEW: A dozen bands toast DistortionFest '16 across two venues for The Distortion Project's birthday bash
NINE hours, 12 bands, dozens of metallers and multiple pints. DistortionFest '16 was an endurance test as well as a marathon of metal decadence, but every painful foot, aching neck and hangover was a mere travail on a glorious afternoon and evening.
An international toast to metal, fans were treated to acts from the USA, Netherlands, Germany and Romania, plus aa visit from some Scottish cousins. None of the overseas acts and none of the Northern Ireland bands put a single foot wrong. There was even a breakfast of Corn Flakes and Buckfast tonic wine on offer...
A mild October Saturday (29th) heralded the early start, for
what was to be a feast of a festival, and a general mood of celebratory joy for The Distortion Project's 16th Birthday Bash.
Opening the proceedings were Erosion, who have been steadily working their way up the gigging ladder over the past year.
Given they were starting off with the autumn sunshine beaming through Katy's windows and it was an accomplished performance that set the tone for the day, and it was notable that several of the foreign bands were at the back of the venue nodding appreciatively at their prog tinged stoner groove.
The only flaw was that Mark introduced a new song...and tell the crowd what the title was.
To show that variety is the spice of metal the hurried transfer to Limelight2 immediately slowed the pace to sludge, with War Iron cranking the volume and bringing doom.
It is hard to perform this type of set with panache but amidst atmospheric lighting and a set that was, as always from War Iron. James from Terminus joined them for a song, while Baggy offered up the cereal and tonic wine - breakfast of champions.
Romania's Bloodway saw a trickle of fans become a few hurried walk for as their set of well constructed songs drew wavers into Katy's. A lot of the power came from the dynamic of the songs that displayed that rare ability to balance loud segments with more delicate playing.
Even though the day was still young there was a sense of the night as Drakonis brought the blackness to Limelight2 - Halloween revellers might don corpse paint, but for Drakonis this is their normal gig attire.
Featuring tracks off their new EP (review coming soon) they have managed to echo the classic black metal with their own sense of drama. A misbehaving mic stand did not dent their confident delivery.
Bloodthread were determined to get the mid afternoon crowd energised and flatten any visible flagging in Katy's. The rowdy Glaswegians have an anger and attitude that is both admirable and well executed.
When Zlatanera first emerged from the ashes of other acts, their Sabbath, stoner groove was immediately engaging, but some doubted whether it was wit or irony in their lyrical content.
Within two shows there was no doubt that this was an act who used metaphor and humour in the words to match the real potency of their music. Sure, we all love the Satanic trio, but on Saturday they once again pound a collection of songs that might doff the cap to Cathedral and Corrosion, but with their own distinct stamp. The follow-up to Legerdemain is eagerly awaited!
Once again moving between venues Germany's Valborg brought the doom theme back, but with more than a hint of prog metal. Most of the set was mid-tempo doom, but with the shouty vocals a perfect contrast with some of the shifting elements of their sound.
With exhaustion not too far off for many (or was it the consumption of beer?) any sense of the show suffering early evening blues was quickly dispelled as Rabid Bitch of the North getting the Limelight2 baying for classic metal shapes and soundly delivered hell.
Their anthemic choruses could overshadow the accomplished nature of a set that is littered with gems. Their recent run of continental dates have further enabled Rabid Bitch to measure out a set of meaty metal. As the 'other' revellers were donning their fancy dress for their rubbish disco the onstage declaration "Us Against Them" was a clear message of defiance welcomed by all in Limelight2.
Closing proceedings in Katy's in a half hour slot from 5:15 Sinocence eked every second from those 30 minutes. Their back catalogue, the two ' No Gods, No Masters' EPs so far from the trilogy means that they can choose from a plethora of tracks. As always, they choose well, with headbanging coming as the response.
Sinocence have a tight sound on the night, with poise, presence and power. It might be a 'Long Way Down' but they left all rising up in delight.
Dutch power metallers, Lord Volture, may have been unknown to most, but quickly impressed. They produce a well balanced set, with plenty of stagecraft and some excellent melodic lines in the mix of Euro Metal.
Their three quarters of an hour went by in a blur that stirred up many and teetered on the edge of tipping over into parody of the likes of Helloween, but stayed just on the right side of having their own identity.
One of the real strengths of metal is, for example, the diversity on show at DistortionFest. From doom and sludge to thrash and old school metal. If we were all able to push aside the genre boundaries that bedevil modern metal maybe more people would turn out for every show from The Distortion Project.
And, with a real sense of the 80s beginning to permeate the air Stormzone arrived with the usual confidence and purpose. The first show with Gordy behind the drum kit it was a seamless transition.
It has been a time since Stormzone graced a Northern Ireland stage, but there is no doubt that they are still a well prepped metal machine, with melodies, twin guitar lines and a set list of all the familiar fan favourites.
Time for the guys to get back recording and get back playing for all their devotees here and further afield.
Headliners Warrior Soul have almost achieved legendary status for all sorts of reasons, but the Kory Clarke crew have survived for a touch short of 30 years playing their politically charged American metal.
Opening up with the duo of 'Shock Em Down' and 'Punk and Belligerent' they are clearly five-piece that still feels they have a point to prove.
Unfortunately, diabetic needs of the review team (of one) allied with tiredness and more than the allotted safe pint level meant we bowed out after four songs, but from what was in evidence - and feedback from the hardy that stayed to the end - Warrior Sould have maintained the potency and anger that many acts of a similar vintage have lost.
With the dying embers of pre-Halloween parties almost upon the gig goers there were other shows to go to, and more opportunities to swallow what came to hand. Settling in after the show, with blood sugar levels okay, reflecting on what DistortionFest meant is not an easy task.
Yes, all the bands were impressive. Yes, all in attendance left with more than a smidgeon of a smile upon their face. Yes, it had a celebratory under-current. But, what also should be said is that we need the devotion of promoter such as 'Sir' James Loveday for taking the risk to bring a sensational line-up to Belfast. The faithful gather, as required, but tell your friends, nag your acquaintances, badger your workmates if they even have a hint of metal in their veins to get out and see the magical maelstrom of metal on their doorstep.
Review by Jonny
Pictures by Darren McVeigh
Reproduction by written permission only
An international toast to metal, fans were treated to acts from the USA, Netherlands, Germany and Romania, plus aa visit from some Scottish cousins. None of the overseas acts and none of the Northern Ireland bands put a single foot wrong. There was even a breakfast of Corn Flakes and Buckfast tonic wine on offer...
A mild October Saturday (29th) heralded the early start, for
Opening the proceedings were Erosion, who have been steadily working their way up the gigging ladder over the past year.
Given they were starting off with the autumn sunshine beaming through Katy's windows and it was an accomplished performance that set the tone for the day, and it was notable that several of the foreign bands were at the back of the venue nodding appreciatively at their prog tinged stoner groove.
The only flaw was that Mark introduced a new song...and tell the crowd what the title was.
To show that variety is the spice of metal the hurried transfer to Limelight2 immediately slowed the pace to sludge, with War Iron cranking the volume and bringing doom.
It is hard to perform this type of set with panache but amidst atmospheric lighting and a set that was, as always from War Iron. James from Terminus joined them for a song, while Baggy offered up the cereal and tonic wine - breakfast of champions.
Romania's Bloodway saw a trickle of fans become a few hurried walk for as their set of well constructed songs drew wavers into Katy's. A lot of the power came from the dynamic of the songs that displayed that rare ability to balance loud segments with more delicate playing.
Even though the day was still young there was a sense of the night as Drakonis brought the blackness to Limelight2 - Halloween revellers might don corpse paint, but for Drakonis this is their normal gig attire.
Featuring tracks off their new EP (review coming soon) they have managed to echo the classic black metal with their own sense of drama. A misbehaving mic stand did not dent their confident delivery.
Bloodthread were determined to get the mid afternoon crowd energised and flatten any visible flagging in Katy's. The rowdy Glaswegians have an anger and attitude that is both admirable and well executed.
When Zlatanera first emerged from the ashes of other acts, their Sabbath, stoner groove was immediately engaging, but some doubted whether it was wit or irony in their lyrical content.
Within two shows there was no doubt that this was an act who used metaphor and humour in the words to match the real potency of their music. Sure, we all love the Satanic trio, but on Saturday they once again pound a collection of songs that might doff the cap to Cathedral and Corrosion, but with their own distinct stamp. The follow-up to Legerdemain is eagerly awaited!
Once again moving between venues Germany's Valborg brought the doom theme back, but with more than a hint of prog metal. Most of the set was mid-tempo doom, but with the shouty vocals a perfect contrast with some of the shifting elements of their sound.
With exhaustion not too far off for many (or was it the consumption of beer?) any sense of the show suffering early evening blues was quickly dispelled as Rabid Bitch of the North getting the Limelight2 baying for classic metal shapes and soundly delivered hell.
Their anthemic choruses could overshadow the accomplished nature of a set that is littered with gems. Their recent run of continental dates have further enabled Rabid Bitch to measure out a set of meaty metal. As the 'other' revellers were donning their fancy dress for their rubbish disco the onstage declaration "Us Against Them" was a clear message of defiance welcomed by all in Limelight2.
Closing proceedings in Katy's in a half hour slot from 5:15 Sinocence eked every second from those 30 minutes. Their back catalogue, the two ' No Gods, No Masters' EPs so far from the trilogy means that they can choose from a plethora of tracks. As always, they choose well, with headbanging coming as the response.
Sinocence have a tight sound on the night, with poise, presence and power. It might be a 'Long Way Down' but they left all rising up in delight.
Dutch power metallers, Lord Volture, may have been unknown to most, but quickly impressed. They produce a well balanced set, with plenty of stagecraft and some excellent melodic lines in the mix of Euro Metal.
Their three quarters of an hour went by in a blur that stirred up many and teetered on the edge of tipping over into parody of the likes of Helloween, but stayed just on the right side of having their own identity.
One of the real strengths of metal is, for example, the diversity on show at DistortionFest. From doom and sludge to thrash and old school metal. If we were all able to push aside the genre boundaries that bedevil modern metal maybe more people would turn out for every show from The Distortion Project.
And, with a real sense of the 80s beginning to permeate the air Stormzone arrived with the usual confidence and purpose. The first show with Gordy behind the drum kit it was a seamless transition.
It has been a time since Stormzone graced a Northern Ireland stage, but there is no doubt that they are still a well prepped metal machine, with melodies, twin guitar lines and a set list of all the familiar fan favourites.
Time for the guys to get back recording and get back playing for all their devotees here and further afield.
Headliners Warrior Soul have almost achieved legendary status for all sorts of reasons, but the Kory Clarke crew have survived for a touch short of 30 years playing their politically charged American metal.
Opening up with the duo of 'Shock Em Down' and 'Punk and Belligerent' they are clearly five-piece that still feels they have a point to prove.
Unfortunately, diabetic needs of the review team (of one) allied with tiredness and more than the allotted safe pint level meant we bowed out after four songs, but from what was in evidence - and feedback from the hardy that stayed to the end - Warrior Sould have maintained the potency and anger that many acts of a similar vintage have lost.
With the dying embers of pre-Halloween parties almost upon the gig goers there were other shows to go to, and more opportunities to swallow what came to hand. Settling in after the show, with blood sugar levels okay, reflecting on what DistortionFest meant is not an easy task.
Yes, all the bands were impressive. Yes, all in attendance left with more than a smidgeon of a smile upon their face. Yes, it had a celebratory under-current. But, what also should be said is that we need the devotion of promoter such as 'Sir' James Loveday for taking the risk to bring a sensational line-up to Belfast. The faithful gather, as required, but tell your friends, nag your acquaintances, badger your workmates if they even have a hint of metal in their veins to get out and see the magical maelstrom of metal on their doorstep.
Review by Jonny
Pictures by Darren McVeigh
Reproduction by written permission only
Thursday, October 27, 2016
COMIN' ATCHA: A busy weekend with Quo, Distortionfest, Ghoulstock, Saxon and Killing Joke on Monday too
WELL, this coming weekend you could doll yourself up in some nice fancy dress, go out and get half cut celebrating Samhain with a crowd of numpties, or you could get your head well and truly mangled with a four days of rock and metal mayhem.
It is a four days of gigs with spectacular bands and all-out frenzy - and if you want to get warmed up Lo Mejor, Sweet Taste (plus two others) are at The Empire tonight (Thursday, 27th October) and Lord Volture and Rabid Bitch of the North are down in Banbridge's O'Reilly's.
And then it all gets serious...
Friday sees Status Quo play Belfast's SSE Arena, with Uriah Heep on support duties. The same night is the first part of Ghoulstock in the Warzone Centre with Warpath, The Crawling, Zombified, Drakonis, Owlcrusher, Shrouded, Neamhni and Deathgrip.
But there's no way you'll be planning a quiet Saturday...You'll need to be up fresh and early (or get up for a 'cure') as Distortionfest's doors open at noon, for nine hours of wonderful chaos.
What is Distortionfest we hear you cry? Have you been asleep forever? This is The Distortion Project's annual birthday bash. The DP has been going for 16 years now, and never mind the cake because there are a clatter of bands playing that will have you baying...
Hold yer breath and read who is on stages in Katy's and Limelight2:
Warrior Soul, Stormzone, Sinocence, Lord Volture, Rabid Bitch of the North, Zlatanera, Bloodway, Valborg, Bloodthread, Erosion, Drakonis, War Iron and one more to be confirmed. All that for £10. Yes, £10 for nine hours of lovely chaos.
Saturday also sees day two of Ghoulfest with 1,000 Drunken Nights (Editor's Note: this is a band not a lifestyle choice), Grudge, Hollow Truth., Okus, Takers & Users, Deathbus, Acid Age, Lawfucker, and No Great Loss.
Should your liver and sanity still be in one piece come Saturday then its time to celebrate the denim and leather heyday of the NWOBHM as Saxon, Fastway and Girlschool come to town for a show in Limelight1.
Phew, that's the weekend, but y'all may as well round it off with a return trip to the Limelight1 for a wee listen to Killing Joke...
And, then the gig scene just gets busier.
It is a four days of gigs with spectacular bands and all-out frenzy - and if you want to get warmed up Lo Mejor, Sweet Taste (plus two others) are at The Empire tonight (Thursday, 27th October) and Lord Volture and Rabid Bitch of the North are down in Banbridge's O'Reilly's.
And then it all gets serious...
Friday sees Status Quo play Belfast's SSE Arena, with Uriah Heep on support duties. The same night is the first part of Ghoulstock in the Warzone Centre with Warpath, The Crawling, Zombified, Drakonis, Owlcrusher, Shrouded, Neamhni and Deathgrip.
But there's no way you'll be planning a quiet Saturday...You'll need to be up fresh and early (or get up for a 'cure') as Distortionfest's doors open at noon, for nine hours of wonderful chaos.
What is Distortionfest we hear you cry? Have you been asleep forever? This is The Distortion Project's annual birthday bash. The DP has been going for 16 years now, and never mind the cake because there are a clatter of bands playing that will have you baying...Hold yer breath and read who is on stages in Katy's and Limelight2:
Warrior Soul, Stormzone, Sinocence, Lord Volture, Rabid Bitch of the North, Zlatanera, Bloodway, Valborg, Bloodthread, Erosion, Drakonis, War Iron and one more to be confirmed. All that for £10. Yes, £10 for nine hours of lovely chaos.
Saturday also sees day two of Ghoulfest with 1,000 Drunken Nights (Editor's Note: this is a band not a lifestyle choice), Grudge, Hollow Truth., Okus, Takers & Users, Deathbus, Acid Age, Lawfucker, and No Great Loss.
Should your liver and sanity still be in one piece come Saturday then its time to celebrate the denim and leather heyday of the NWOBHM as Saxon, Fastway and Girlschool come to town for a show in Limelight1.
Phew, that's the weekend, but y'all may as well round it off with a return trip to the Limelight1 for a wee listen to Killing Joke...
And, then the gig scene just gets busier.
Tuesday, September 20, 2016
NEWS: Stormzone added to already packed Distortionfest line-up on October 29th
SATURDAY 29th October - Distortionfest 2016, nine hours of hard rock and heavy metal in two of the venues of the Limelight complex. A celebration of the loud and the proud.
Today, Mr James Loveday has announced that the mighty Stormzone have been added to the already packed bill. Returning to the stage for the first time in what we might call a 'wee while' this will make sure that the already great line up has just gotten even better.
Playing on the day are Warrior Soul, the Dutch might of Lord Volture, local heroes Rabid Bitch Of The North, Zlatanera, Drakonis and War Iron.
Plus from Romania, Bloodway, the German might of Valborg and Scottish metal from Bloodthread.
As if that wasn't enough there are still more bands to be added. Yes, you read that right - even more to be announced!
All this metal for the measly sum of £10. Feck sake that's value for money of the highest order.
Hit up Mr Loveday and he'll explain how to get your mitts on tickets in advance.
Doors are at noon on the 29th October and the show ends at 9pm.
Today, Mr James Loveday has announced that the mighty Stormzone have been added to the already packed bill. Returning to the stage for the first time in what we might call a 'wee while' this will make sure that the already great line up has just gotten even better.
Playing on the day are Warrior Soul, the Dutch might of Lord Volture, local heroes Rabid Bitch Of The North, Zlatanera, Drakonis and War Iron.
Plus from Romania, Bloodway, the German might of Valborg and Scottish metal from Bloodthread.
As if that wasn't enough there are still more bands to be added. Yes, you read that right - even more to be announced!
All this metal for the measly sum of £10. Feck sake that's value for money of the highest order.
Hit up Mr Loveday and he'll explain how to get your mitts on tickets in advance.
Doors are at noon on the 29th October and the show ends at 9pm.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Warriors of rock -UPDATE
THE ever reliable Distortion Project has scored another cracker for September with confirmation that Warrior Soul 
will be playing the Spring and Airbrake on Saturday the 17th.
Support comnes from Sinocence and Rebels by Nature: tickets from the usual outlets will cost you a measly £15 plus fees.
will be playing the Spring and Airbrake on Saturday the 17th.Support comnes from Sinocence and Rebels by Nature: tickets from the usual outlets will cost you a measly £15 plus fees.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Nearly forgot to mention Warrior Soul, Rob Zombie and SLF gigs!
DAMN this sobriety! Now that I have been temporarily cured of it I remember that I should have mentioned the following:
Stiff Little Fingers - Ulster Hall March 12th
Warrior Soul - Diamond Rock Club March 29th
Rob Zombie - Ulster Hall June 29th.
2011 - the year when the debit and credit cards get burned badly; beer tokens get stacked way too low and merch costs rocket. Maiden, Rush, Journey etc all gonna be costly not to mention the above!
Stiff Little Fingers - Ulster Hall March 12th
Warrior Soul - Diamond Rock Club March 29th
Rob Zombie - Ulster Hall June 29th.
2011 - the year when the debit and credit cards get burned badly; beer tokens get stacked way too low and merch costs rocket. Maiden, Rush, Journey etc all gonna be costly not to mention the above!
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