Ginger & The Sinners – St Johns Church Canton, Cardiff. 08/11/19

Ginger & The Sinners – St Johns Church Canton, Cardiff. 08/11/19

Well, this reviewer has been to a few concerts over the years whether it’s been a stadium with thousands of people or a pub with just a few fellow gig-goers but I can honestly say I’ve never been in a church for a night of rock’n’roll antics.

When it was announced that one of my favourite artists a certain troubadour by the name of Ginger Wildheart was appearing in St. John’s church in Cardiff not only was I enticed with the thought of a night with his glorious melodies but also would i not go up in flames in such a holy setting, luckily I came out intact and not in ashes.

Ginger was also airing his new solo band the “sinners” so overall I was more excited than a kid on Christmas eve.

Ginger and his band arrived on stage to a packed St. Johns church and launched into the stunning track “The Pendine Incident” and the sound of a full electric band who were on fire with Ginger was spine-tingling. This new band the sinners didn’t sound like they were gelling on the road it sounded like they were seasoned vets having played hundreds of shows, not just one!  it was vibrant and there was definitely chemistry and tightness to suggest the band had been playing together for years, “WOW”.

“Toxins And Tea” was up next and this beauty of a “G.A.S.S” track saw Ginger in fine voice and it was great to hear it live in this setting.

Ginger announced the sad news that rock’n’roll legend Dan Baird was retiring from the live circuit and in tribute Ginger and his sinners played a fitting version of Georgia Satellites “Six Years Gone” which to be fair was glorious.

Next up was “Do You” and this track has a deep meaning for this reviewer as the song talks about the serious nature of suicide and as I struggle with depression Ginger’s music has always been such a comfort and guide and has helped me through the hard often dark times. One of the things that is so great about Ginger’s music is that he wraps often dark lyrics in a joyous uplifting melody.  so that while it is a serious subject matter it can also be uplifting to you and makes you feel better, (if that makes any sense?) The power of Ginger’s music can be such a great thing.

Moving through his repertoire we reached the Hey Hello earworm of ‘Swimwear’ and by God (excuse the pun) this was stunning with all us gig-goers singing along.

‘The Pessimist’s Companion’ was up next off the roots/country albums and is written about his dog “Maggie”. I truly feel sorry for someone who has never had a furry companion as they are indeed mans best friend. I recently lost my furry best friend “Alfie” and even though I have been feeling down and sad recently the power of music (and particularly Gingers) shines a light through the darkness.

‘(Wye aye) Oh, You’ another gem off ‘The pessimist’s Companion’ album was played and it went down a storm in this live moment atmosphere.

“Petite Mort” saw Givvi Flynn take lead vocal duties on the Yolanda Quartey vocals (who originally sang this track) Obviously I had heard of Givvi but had never had the pleasure of hearing her live and all I can say is “Wow” her voice soared as high as the church ceiling and was amazing in these truly celestial surroundings. simply stunning.

We were treated to the double whammy of ‘The Daylight Hotel’ and ‘Paying It Forward’ off Ginger’s other roots/country album ‘Ghost In The Tanglewood’ and these songs were glorious in the church surroundings.

‘Honour’ another “G.A.S.S.” gem was played next which originally had “Courtney Love” on vocals but yet again “Givvi” stepped up to the plate and smashed it out of the park with her and Ginger’s voice harmonising together beautifully.

Ginger informed us that ‘The Words Are Gonna Have To Wait’ was written about “David Bowie” and this track was a fitting tribute to such a legendary artist and being in a church who’s not to say that the legend wasn’t looking down and tapping his foot accordingly.

‘No One Smiled At Me Today’ is another one of this reviewers favs and to get to hear it in a live setting was truly magical.

Ginger recently released another excellent solo album titled ‘Headzapoppin’ and I was hoping for a track to be played off it and I was not left disappointed as “Zap” was aired and it sounded as great live as it is on record.

Next up who’d have seen the band cover the Quo classic ‘Dirty Water’. I am ashamed to say that I didn’t know this track but I really enjoyed it (my homework will be to delve into the Que catalogue).

‘Caer Urfa’ was better live than on the record may be the surroundings had it elevated.  Us Ginger fans know what a genius songwriter and musician he is but what is often overlooked is what a great singer he is and his vocals were epic on this track no doubt helped by the epic acoustics of such a high ceiling.

With that Ginger said thank you but with the crowd wanting more he said he would be back in five minutes much to the crowds and this reviewers relief and exited the stage with St. John’s church clapping and shouting for more.

Upon their return, Ginger and his Sinners played the familiar chords of ‘Geordie in Wonderland’ and bang the crowd were all singing along.

Up next would be the last song of the evening and yes, sadly all great things have to come to an end. the way the evening had panned out it was always going to go out with a bang so, What else was he going to play in a church to bring an end to a mega evening? The glorious ‘Loveshit’ (sorry God) and with that this awesome show comes to an end.

All this reviewer can say is what a memorable night this has been weather being in the stunning surroundings of St.John’s church or hearing a truly on fire band (not Due to being in church) what a magical night this has been and what a setlist we were treated too with Ginger digging deep into his classic catalogue of tunes that we rarely here live.

Please get out and see Ginger Wildheart as whatever problems you’re going through and in these tough trying times we all need some happiness and trust me, going to a Ginger show will leave you with a joker sized grin on your face and a warmth in your heart that money cannot buy.  It would be a shame if this wasn’t repeated in the future so with a quick prayer I legged it before I burst into flames. The devil on tonight’s evidence doesn’t have all the best tunes Ginger and the Sinners have them.

Author: Gareth ‘Hotshot’ Hooper

Michael Monroe /Electric Eeel Shock / Mother Vulture – The Fleece – Bristol 07/11/19

Michael Monroe /Electric Eeel Shock / Mother Vulture – The Fleece – Bristol 07/11/19

Last week we had Ben reviewing one of the early shows on this tour and by all accounts another memorable night in the company of one of music most exceptional performers. Catching the tail end of the tour there were no plans to run a review but when we have bands this good it seems only right we should cover them as much as possible. Damn this band should be playing bloody arenas and be a household name but we know the world doesn’t work like that. for now, the people who get rewarded are the ones who just know, right? right!

Tonight the Fleece is very busy which is always a good sign, the last time this band played here in Bristol was aboard the good ship Thekla and the attendance wasn’t great. Tonight, with a brand new album in tow it was already looking promising as the room was busy for the opening band – Mother Vulture. They took the stage but quickly they weren’t my cup of tea at all, from the soaring vocals to the new wave of classic rock schtick of the band’s repertoire it’s just not what I listen to but there are plenty of satisfied punters digging their thing.

Next up Electric Eel Shock. A three-man ’80s cock rock assault on the senses, sure it’s bordering on the Barron Nights comedy but these guys do have a song in the shape of ‘Bastard’ that is so ’80s it’s wearing its own spandex and coughs up its own hairnet hairspray can.  They throw in enough shapes to make a Whitesnake tribute band blush and Don Dokken’s hair would fall out (again) if he were to follow these guys on stage.  But they have the audience smiling and wearing a Hanoi Rocks t-shirt is always going to go down well. Job Done I guess they have fun paying their dues and the audience goes along with them. 

Now, the reason we’re all here. Michael Monroe band, strap in, its time to Rock Like Fuck! After hearing many reports of how good the band has been on the tour so far and with only three shows left on the tour surely this one was going to be off the scale with the Fleece being such a good venue even with the pillars running through the venue it’s steeped in Rock and Roll. (even if they make their bread and butter off bloody tribute bands but if that means that nights like tonight and bands like The Monroes can tour and play then even I’ll turn a blind eye).

With ‘One Man Gang’ on heavy rotation the albums growing in stature on every play,  it’s a breath of fresh air to hear the band blast off with the opening five songs all taken from the new record! A bold move for any band but one that gets my approval that’s for sure. From the frantic punky title track to the catchy chorus of ‘Last Train To Tokyo’ to the New York cool of ‘Junk Planet’ this is cooking up to be an exceptional performance. With the band locked in and moving like a cat on a hot tin roof its hard to keep up,  with plenty of smiles on stage it looks like they’re having an absolute ball in this band. Of the songs on the new record to hear them run through ‘In the Tall Grass’ is super cool and such a great song to take on so early on in the set is a supremely confident move from such a great band.

Monroe and Conte make themselves comfortable on the barrier for a nice run through ‘Ballad Of The Lower East Side’ before ripping up ‘Old Kings Road’.  the band were flying through a rapid set that had ’78’ up next before cooling things down with a mellow ‘Black Ties And Red Tape’ (Not)  I’ve seen Monroe many many times live and with many line ups and in many venues all over the UK and I have to say with the exception of Hanoi Rocks classic line up in the mid 80s this is by far the best line up he’s had and the entertainment value is off the scale (it does help having such a strong cannon of songs to pick from for sure) but tonight they are on fire.

Step forward Mr Yaffa as we get the first Hanoi song of the evening as he thumps his way through the intro of the classic ‘Motorvatin’. Always wearing some splendid headwear and playing his bass with such style and having a Perma-smile its such a pleasure to be in the company of such talent. We get another new one in the shape of ‘Hollywood Paranoia’  before we head into the home straight as another thumping rendition of ‘This Aint No Love Song’.

I could have stayed all night listening to new songs or solo material played with an energy most bands could only dream of achieving but its also always nice to hear that Saxophone and a couple of Hanoi rocks tunes so things do slow down for a minute or two as ‘Don’t You Ever Leave Me’ makes way for ‘Malibu Beach’ before they hit the cover that the band took ownership of on the ‘Two Steps’ album ‘Up Around the Bend’ sees people lose their shit as the kids say and there are going to be some saw heads come the morning. The main set is wrapped up with a pulsating ‘Dead, Jail Or Rock and Roll’.

Play Vi

I’m still scratching my head as to how fuckin’ good this show was and how the hell this band isn’t playing venue ten times this size. I will console myself in the fact that if the world won’t listen then that’s their loss and you can only lead a horse to water and all that. The night wasn’t quite done yet as we had the pair of tunes from Demolition 23  and ‘Nothing’s Alright’ followed by the high kicks that go with ‘Hammersmith Palais’ which only left a blistering duelling rendition of the Stooges classic ‘I Feel Alright’ and then they were finally done. Until the next time that is and the sooner the better.  If you get the chance to see this band then take it they have a superb new album they’re showing off and its raised the bar for everyone else to follow.
There aren’t many bands who can compete with this one on the kind of form they were on tonight and it’s why going to live shows is still so much fun. Great company, great venue, great band, great songs, great memories and great fun and always a frontman who Rocks Like Fuck! always a pleasure – never a chore.
Author: Dom Daley

Levellers Announce 2020 UK & European Tour

Levellers Announce 2020 UK & European Tour


After their incredible performance at the London Palladium last month, Levellers have now announced UK and European tour dates for 2020.

Still going strong after 30 years in the game, they have long been, and still are, one of the best live bands around and they will be returning next year with a brand new studio album, alongside an extensive tour taking in double nights at some of their favourite towns and cities.

Over the years, Brighton folk-rock band Levellers have worn many masks; most self-made, some imposed upon them. But while their status has evolved over the decades, the basic humanity underpinning their music has remained constant.

Tickets on sale 8th November at 10am and will be available HERE.

LEVELLERS 2020 UK TOUR
FEBRUARY
12        Bury St Edmunds, The Apex
13        Bury St Edmunds, The Apex
14        Falmouth, Princess Pavilion
15        Falmouth, Princess Pavillion
26        Brecon, Theatre Brycheiniog
27        Port Talbot, Princess Theatre
28        Blackwood, Miners Institute
29        Llandudno, Venue Cymru

MARCH
01        Liverpool, Grand Central
19        Guildford, G Live
20        Norwich, Uea
21        Margate, Dreamland

APRIL
29        Sheffield, Leadmill
30        Coventry, Empire

MAY
01        Holmfirth, Picturedrome
02        Holmfirth, Picturedrome
13        Hastings, White Rock Theatre
14        Frome, Cheese & Grain
15        Aylesbury, Waterside Theatre
16        Southampton, O2 Guildhall

OCTOBER
07        Eindhoven, Effenaar (Nl)
08        Amsterdam, Paradiso (Nl)
09        Koln Gloria, (De)
10        St Niklaas, Casino (Be)
11        Depot, Leuven (Be)

NOVEMBER
04        York, Barbican
05        Dundee, Fat Sams
06        Stirling, Albert Halls
07        Edinburgh, Liquid Rooms
08        Aberdeen, Lemon Tree
18        St Albans, Arena
19        Scunthorpe, The Baths Hall
20        Manchester, Albert Hall
21        Manchester, Albert Hall

DECEMBER
03        Lancaster, Town Hall
04        Nottingham, Rock City
05        Nottingham, Rock City

ASH announce details of Teenage Wildlife: 25 Years Of Ash

ASH announce details of Teenage Wildlife: 25 Years Of Ash

Released February 14th 2020 via BMG

Available as limited Lenticular vinyl edition, double vinyl, double CD and special Lenticular 3 CD set including 18 track rarities CD

Available to pre-order here

Extensive European live dates 2020

Having successfully outlasted their self-described ‘guaranteed real teenagers’ tagline when they first burst in earshot in 1994, ASH have today announced the release of Teenage Wildlife: 25 Years Of Ash released on 14th February 2020 through BMG and available in limited quantities with a special lenticular sleeve both on vinyl and CD.

Teenage Wildlife traces the band’s recording career from exuberant debut Jack Names The Planets through to the likes of BuzzKill from 2018’s top twenty album Islands whilst also including a brand new offering Darkest Hour Of The Night alongside thirteen Top 40 singles such as Girl From Mars, Gold Finger, Oh Yeah amid an array of the band’s recorded history. Teenage Wildlife also comes in a limited lenticular three CD set that will include an eighteen track collection of rarities including a version of The Buzzcocks’ classic Everybody’s Happy Nowadays (featuring Coldplay’s Chris Martin), the eternal Teenage Kicks and the collection’s infamous title track.

From their mini-album Trailer, a volley of intent with Jack Names The Planets, Uncle Pat and Petrol recorded whilst still at school debut album proper, 1996’s Number One album  1977, almost imploding with the follow-up Nu-Clear Sounds, the addition of teenage guitarist Charlotte Hatherley, 1998’s  historic Northern Irish Referendum show in Belfast before a return to the number one spot with the universally acclaimed Free All Angels seeing Tim Wheeler awarded with an Ivor Novello for Shining Light, consolidating a reputation for a run of extraordinary singles.

Whether the original trio or expanded four-piece with the multi-talented Hatherley, ASH have continually excelled both live and on record – an edited overview of reflection, Teenage Wildlfe encapsulates the past twenty-five years perfectly.

The release of Teenage Wildlife will be accompanied by extensive live itinerary throughout Europe and Scandinavia, re-visiting many of the towns, cities and venues they have previously played over the years. Dates are as follows:

FEBRUARY

21 Aeronef Club LILLE, FR
22 Botanique Rotonde BRUSSELS, BE
23 Das Bett FRANKFURT, DE
25 Universum STUTTGART, DE
26 Gebaude 9 COLOGNE, DE
28 Mascotte ZURICH, CH
29 Covo BOLOGNA, IT

MARCH

01 Strom MUNICH, DE
03 Futurum PRAGUE, CZ
04 Hydrozagadka WARSAW,PL
05 Bi Nuu BERLIN, DE
07 Bar Brooklyn STOCKHOLM, SE
08 Vulkan OSLO, NO
10 Hulen BERGEN, NO
11 Folken STAVANGER, NO
13 Beta COPENHAGEN, DK
14 Knust HAMBURG, DE
15 Paradiso Noord AMSTERDAM, NL
17 Stylus LEEDS University, UK
18 O2 Academy NEWCASTLE, UK
20 SWG3 TV Studio GLASGOW, UK
21 O2 Ritz MANCHESTER, UK
22 Rock City NOTTINGHAM, UK
24 O2 Academy BRISTOL, UK
25 Pyramids PORTSMOUTH, UK
27 The Roundhouse LONDON, UK
28 Gibus Club PARIS, FR
29 Le Rex TOULOUSE, FR
31 Razzmataazz 2 BARCELONA, ES

APRIL

01 Kafe Antzokia BILBAO, ES
02 Joy Eslava MADRID, ES
04 RCA Club LISBON,PT
05 Capitol SANTIAGO de COMPOSTELA, ES

Ticket information

 

Ash: Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram

Black Star Riders – Cardiff university 24/10/91

Black Star Riders – Cardiff university 24/10/91

What needs to be said about Ricky Warwick, over the years whatever he has turned his songwriting craft to it’s always been of the highest quality.

So with a new Black Star Riders album recently released a tour announced this reviewer could not wait to get his live rock’n’roll fix.

Much to my surprise and delight the band were doing some HMV acoustic in-store shows so when this Cardiff date rolled around I made my way to Cardiff HMV and was treated to a fantastic three-song set  of the highest quality with all band members on great form and it was plain to see that they were clearly enjoying each others company and the interaction with the fans.

So as this crisp October night rolled in I made my journey to Cardiff university for the main event.

At 9:20pm the band arrived on stage and bang we were into the leading track off the new album ‘Another state of grace’ with it’s anthemic chorus and Celtic musical vibes it was a joy to the ears and both band and crowd were right up for it and with the duelling guitars of new boy Christian Martucci and that of six-string legend Scott Gorham going together in harmony like they had been playing together for years it was a joy to behold.

‘The killer instinct’ was up next and with Robbie Crane on bass and another new addition to the band drummer Chad Szeliga locked in pure thunderous rhythm driving force what a joyous occasion this Cardiff night was turning into.

‘All hell breaks loose’ was next up and I can honestly say after seeing Ricky Warwick numerous times over the years his gruff yet melodic vocals just get better and better with each passing year and his range is truly astonishing.

‘Testify or say goodbye’ is another gem and the energy of the band is truly amazing.

‘Tonight the moonlight let me down’ is my personal favourite off the new album and on record it has a lead saxophone break courtesy of a certain Michael Monroe but of course, he is not here tonight so Scott Gorham improvises with a truly stunning guitar solo in its place.

In fairness, Black Star Riders could play any song off their four albums and they would not sound out of place due to the quality of their back catalogue and they duly played some classics in the shape off ‘Ticket to rise’ and ‘Hey Judas’.

‘In the shadow of the war machine’ is another blinder off their most recent album and the energy of the band is stunning as they launch into ‘Soldierstown’.

‘Why do you love your guns’ is a great song about some serious issues in America and as Ricky explains to the crowd the nature behind the songs lyrics the tracks uplifting melody is still a pure joy to the ears.

‘Blindsided’ and ‘bloodshot’ keep this Cardiff crowd entertained which leads us into another new track off the bands latest masterpiece ‘Ain’t the end of the world’ which goes down a storm.

The songs just keep on coming with ‘When the night comes in’ ‘Underneath the afterglow’ ‘dancing with the wrong girl’ and ‘finest hour’ going by with each song being an absolute belter with great musicianship of a band at their best.

‘Kingdom of the lost’ and ‘bound for glory’ bring the night to a close and with that the band say their farewells and take a bow and the last hour and forty minutes have gone by in a blink of an eye and this Cardiff crowd have been entertained to a truly class performance that I can safely say we would all like the night to go on and on.

Black Star riders are one of the best live bands around and are truly at the top of their game so if you like loud rock’n’roll buy yourself a ticket and get along to a show you will not be disappointed and in these trying times we all need the power of music to shine a light.

Author: Gareth ‘Hotshot’ Hooper

Posted by Black Star Riders on Wednesday, 16 October 2019

 

IDLES ANNOUNCE LIVE ALBUM ‘A BEAUTIFUL THING: IDLES LIVE AT LE BATACLAN’

IDLES ANNOUNCE LIVE ALBUM ‘A BEAUTIFUL THING: IDLES LIVE AT LE BATACLAN’

DUE OUT 6TH DECEMBER VIA PARTISAN RECORDS

PRE-ORDER HERE

IDLES have announced their first live album ‘A Beautiful Thing: IDLES Live at Le Bataclan’, and have shared the live version of ‘Mother’ taken from the record.

The limited double LP edition will be available across three different colours, each with their own individual artwork. All will be housed in deluxe gatefold packaging, and each will contain a booklet designed by Joe, featuring photographs from the show and a selection of poetry.
“A Beautiful Thing: IDLES Live at Le Bataclan” will also be available to buy on CD and as a download.

The album follows a recent Mercury Prize nomination (and incendiary televised performance) for their critically acclaimed second album “Joy as an Act of Resistance”, and celebrates a landmark couple of years for the band with a top 5 official UK album chart position, an Ivor Novello award for ‘Best Album’, a breathtaking Glastonbury performance, a completely individual appearance on Later With… Jools Holland and a number of sold out tours across the world. IDLES were also recently chosen for Apple’s ongoing Shot On iPhone campaign, with billboards up now across the globe.

Speaking about the album, vocalist Joe Talbot says, “Our show at Bataclan was the end of a very long journey for us. On that tour we learnt so much about ourselves, each other and the audiences we have grown with over the past 10 years. That show was nothing short of catharsis and nothing more than love. We love what we do and the people who have carried us here, there was no hiding that at Bataclan and we are so very grateful that the moment was captured in all its glory, love and fatigue. Long live the open minded and long live the moment.”

IDLES also recently announced a short tour for December to celebrate the bands recent string of achievements – including their biggest headlining date yet on Saturday, 7th December at London’s Alexandra Palace. All five dates went on to sell out within the first 24 hours.

Mon 2 Dec Glasgow, Barrowland Ballroom SOLD OUT
Tue 3 Dec Glasgow, Barrowland Ballroom SOLD OUT
Wed 4 Dec Manchester, Academy SOLD OUT
Thu 5 Dec Leeds, O2 Academy SOLD OUT
Sat 7 Dec London, Alexandra Palace SOLD OUT

‘A Beautiful Thing: IDLES Live at Le Bataclan’ will be released 6th December via Partisan Records. Pre-order HERE

Photo credit: Lindsay Melbourne

James Leg announces East Europe tour dates!

James Leg announces East Europe tour dates!

Keyboard player and howler John Wesley Myers, aka Rev James Leg, (Black Diamond Heavies, The Immortal Lee County Killers ) travels around the world preaching the punk blues.

The son of a Texas preacher raised in The South on Gospel music, James Leg distils his particular brew of traditional roots and urban feedback.  the result is as explosive as it is pure Rock and Roll!

Facebook

 

EAST EUROPE TOUR DATES
November 18 @ Chelsea — Vienna, AT
November 21 @ Hard Place — Zagreb, HR
November 22 @ Štedna — Virovitica, HR
November 23 @ Caffe Bar King — Ðakovo, HR
November 24 @ Dorcol Platz w/ Detroit Cobras — Beograd, RS
November 25 @ Dorćol Platz w/ Guitar Wolf — Beograd, RS
November 26 @ Bar Amok — Sofia, BG
November 27 @ Aigli — Serres, GR
November 29 @ Bizzarnica — Ljubljana, SI
November 30 @ Kino Ebensee — Ebensee, AT
December 10 @ Cafe Glocksee — Hannover, DE
December 12 @ TIEF — Berlin, DE
December 14 @ Zum Faulen August — Cottbus, DE

 

Rebellion Festival Announce more bands for 2020

Rebellion Festival Announce more bands for 2020

Finally, Friends of RPM ONLINE The Hip Priests get added to the bill for 2020 along with some other heavyweight bands we love.  No doubt all roads lead North West for the Spasm Gang along with Bouncing Souls and T.S.O.L these additions have excited us here at RPM HQ that’s for sure.

If you’ve never heard of the Hip Priests then you should have a word with yourself but before you do check out their epic call to arms –

 

Here is the list of today’s announcements to accompany what has already been announced.  2020 is already shaping up to one hell of a Rebellion

BOUNCING SOULS
T.S.O.L.
DYS
D.I.
ADRENALIN O.D.
999
THE MEN THEY COULDN’T HANG
AUTHORITY ZERO
NEWTOWN NEUROTICS
ALTERNATIVE TV
MENACE
GOLDBLADE
SPLOGENESSABOUNDS
LOS FASTIDIOS
CHAOTIC DISCHORD
CRIM
GIMPFIST
HOBO JONES & THE JUNKYARD DOGS
FUNERAL DRESS
CONTROL
RISKEE AND THE RIDICULE
CALL ME MALCOLM
CRASHED OUT
EXTERNAL MENACE
ROUND EYE ( CHINA)
HEADSTICKS
LIINES
CRACKED ACTORS
LA INQUISICION
VIRUS
THE LONG GAME
DANGEROUS DAVE & THE SIDE EFFECTS
ALCOHOL LICKS
TERMINAL RAGE
AMBITION DEMOLITION
WHITE RIBBONS
CHAOS 8
HIP PRIESTS
SLOW FACTION
DESENSITISED
COMPLETE DYSFUNCTION

Tickets

The Wildhearts, Janus Stark – Komedia, Bath 16/10/19

The Wildhearts, Janus Stark – Komedia, Bath 16/10/19

Bath Komedia was a new venue for the intrepid travellers from South Wales but we love an adventure and tonight we had to get there on time to catch the support of Janus Stark seeing as we’ve heard the new album and loved what we heard and wanted to see if Gizz Butt could knock it out live. After negotiating the Bath one-way system and eventually finding a place to park by the time we reached the venue the band had already taken the stage and were knocking out songs old and new.  they reminded me of a punkier Eureka Machines and Gizz is something of a guitar players guitarist with a great sound in the venue they were entertaining and engaging and the catchy power pop/rock sounded great. these were the perfect opener for The Wildhearts and ending the set with the best track off ‘Great Adventure Cigar’ was a bonus because ‘Every Little Thing Counts’ is just about spot on.  I can look forward to hearing a lot more of the band when the album is released hopefully in December.

When it was announced that The Wildhearts were adding another string of dates and that there would be the Renaissance Men tour part 2 I couldn’t wait to get another slice of loud rock’n’roll live-action after catching the boys in Cardiff on the first leg of the tour earlier in the year.

The nearest venue to me was the Komedia in Bath with a couple of hundred miles round trip (on a school night) I planned my latest Wildhearts action. Around 9:15 pm I heard the opening guitar riff to the lead-off track to the bands latest great ep the title track ‘Diagnosis’ and bam the band were on stage and away we go. 

The band are tight and as the glorious noize of ‘Diagnosis’ comes to an end the band launch into another Renaissance men soon to be live classic ‘let em go’ and this anthem gets the Bath crowd jumping and singing along with Cj taking lead vocals on the bridge doing the Frank Turner vocals.  Next up we have that all-time classic hearts tune ‘I Wanna Go Where The People Go’ and Ginger is on top form with some blistering guitar work and those rough yet melodic vocals of his soaring loud and proud. Some familiar favourites such as ‘Sick Of Drugs’ is welcomed and this night is turning out to be a show and a half as both band and crowd are right up for it in the confines of a really nice tight venue tucked away in the narrow streets of Bath.

‘The Revolution Will Be Televised’ sees the white album being represented and this leads us into ‘My Kinda Movie’.  Ginger announces that each band member is taking his turn in picking a track to play live and tonight’s choice is by Danny and what has mister McCormack picked, well he’s treated us to a P.H.U.Q. b-side the stunning “Mindslide” and that throbbing bass of his leads us into a rare treat and what seeing The Wildhearts on form is all about. ‘Caffeine Bomb’ is up next and this fast as lightning track showcases what a machine of a drummer Ritch Battersby is and why he is one of my favourite drummers and boy does he hit those skins hard.

‘Dislocated’ is greeted by this reviewer with a huge smile on my chops as this is my favourite track off ‘The Renaissance Men’ album and the guys blast it out with some real punk rock fury.  Great also to hear “Jackson Whites” being blasted through again at a furious pace. A real fan favourite is “Red light green light” and already this set is proving to be an excellent reason to venture out on a School night for a shot of Rock and Roll – could this night get any better?

‘Vanilla Radio’ has the Bath crowd singing “where’s my Elvis” in unison and that leads us into the 5th ‘Renaissance Men’ track of the night ‘The Fine Art Of Deception’ which is another Ginger penned classic. Tonight seems like the night for the lesser-known rare track getting a good airing as we are treated to ‘Action Panzer’ Nestled in with all the classics you’d expect to hear at a Wildhearts show.

The lights come up and with that the band walk off to a thunderous roar of appreciation from the crowd  – you’d think there was a couple of thousand in tonight by the sounds of them and shouts of “more, more, more” and as if by magic the boys walk back onstage and launch into the mighty riff of ‘Greetings From Shitsville’ and this crowd goes nuts.  Part two of the encore we are treated to the icing on this particular party cake as the band unleash the stunning earth vs b-side ‘Beautifull Thing You’ and indeed it is a glorious racket of loud harmonic beauty. It’s not quite done yet as there is one last song of the night and the fan fav ’29 X The Pain’ and with both band and fans singing their hearts out it is truly a great end to a special night.

All that is left for this reviewer to say is if you can get to a Wildhearts show please do as the band are on top form and are tight and clearly enjoying themselves and you will not be disappointed. Bring on round three and the doubleheader of the Backyard Babies slugging it out with the in-form and on fire Wildhearts Bring it on! 2020 is shaping up nicely if tonight was anything to go by.

 

Author: Gareth ‘Hotshot’ Hooper

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‘Diagnosis’ Review Here

Tour Dates for 2020 Here 

‘Renaissance Men’ Review Here

 

Annihilator album pre sales and Euro tour dates

Annihilator album pre sales and Euro tour dates
Album Pre-Orders Available From Today  here


ANNIHILATOR– A name that should not need an introduction in the METAL World but, for those who need one: this is a METAL band that started in Canada in late 1984 and since then, ANNIHILATOR has been touring and releasing records (selling millions of Albums to date), non-stop, for 30 years.  January 24, 2020 marks the release of their 17thStudio Album, BALLISTIC, SADISTIC.

The belligerent and pugnacious first single, “I AM WARFARE”, is available now and can be streamed here
Cited by bands in the likes of Megadeth, Pantera, Dream Theater, Children Of Bodom, Lamb of God, Opeth, Trivium and many, many more as having some influence on their music, guitarist/vocalist JEFF WATERS (Annihilator’s founder, producer and song-writer) and ANNIHILATOR have continued to tour the world, year after year, whilst consistently putting  out high-quality true-metal music.
Written, performed, engineered and produced by none other than Waters himself, BALLISTIC, SADISTIC was recorded at the brand new, state of the art, WATERSOUND STUDIOS UK, in Durham earlier this year.
“Almost every artist, initially, loves the songs they create. They are like your babies! In my case, it is difficult to be the main writer/producer and stay fresh, come up with new ideas or make old one’s better and I am well aware of that. Since “we” love what we do, we can be blinded to just how good or bad a song or record really is. Time will tell.  Press, fans, band members, label, etc… They ALL will tell you what they think and, in their own ways, they are usually right!” Said Waters. “In this case, I throw that nonsense in the garbage and can tell you that we have made a record that is angry, technical, back to the first 3 records vibes and it is going to be difficult to continue writing another record after releasing this one!!  Best record I’ve made since 2005’s Schizo Deluxe and I think many will argue that this new one is in the top 3. From the ‘Stonewall-esque’ track “PSYCHO WARD” to the haunting “I AM WARFARE”, the pissed-off “THE ATTITUDE” to the aggression and old-school technicality of “OUT WITH THE GARBAGE”, the record is like this: take the Alice, Neverland and Set The World On Fire records, make them angry, combine the old-school production with modern hi-tech studio gear, then add the best guitar work I didn’t know I still had in me, and you’ve got the best we could possibly offer. I honestly cannot wait for everyone to hear this.”
It takes a long time to reach legendary status, and no one can dispute that ANNIHILATOR and Jeff Waters are inspirations, teachers, legends and a force showing what hard work and love of your craft can bring to the world.  It’s about the music. Nothing else.
BALLISTIC, SADISTICwill be available as a Limited Edition Digipak, Coloured Vinyl and Digital formats.
Unstoppable and relentless, ANNIHILATOR will now embark on a 43 date, 18 country, European Tour, which will kick-off at Newcastle’s Riverside on October 12th.

SEE ANNIHILATOR (JEFF WATERS, AARON HOMMA, RICH HINKS & FAIO ALESSANDRINI) ON TOUR:
12 OCT – Riverside –  Newcastle (UK)
13 OCT – Slay  –  Glasgow (UK)
15 OCT – Rebellion  –  Manchester (UK)
16 OCT – Steelmill  –  Wolverhampton (UK)
18 OCT – Pumpe  –  Kiel (DE)
19 OCT – Tivoli  –  Bremen (DE)
20 OCT – Zeche  –  Bochum (DE)
22 OCT – Luxor  –  Köln (DE)
23 OCT – Victorie  –  Alkmaar (NL)
24 OCT – Hedon  –  Zwolle (NL)
25 OCT – Biebob  –  Vosselaar (BE)
26 OCT – Underworld  –  London (UK)
27 OCT – Le Petit Bain  –  Paris (FR)
29 OCT – Illyade  –  Grenoble (FR)
30 OCT – Le Metronum  –  Toulouse (FR)
31 OCT – Santana 27  –  Bilbao (ES)
01 NOV – Sala Mon  –  Madrid (ES)
02 NOV – Rock City  –  Valencia (ES)
03 NOV – Razzmatazz 2  –  Barcelona (ES)
05 NOV – Locomotiv –  Bologna (IT)
06 NOV – Legend Club  –  Milan (IT)
07 NOV – Kofmehl  –  Solothurn (CH)
08 NOV – Kaminwerk  –  Memmingen (DE)
09 NOV – Explosiv  –  Graz (AT)
10 NOV – Boogaloo  –  Zagreb (HR)
11 NOV – SKC Fabrika  –  Novi Sad (RS)
13 NOV – Havana Club  –  Tel Aviv (IL)
15 NOV – Fuzz Club  –  Athens (GR)
16 NOV – Principal Club  –  Thessaloniki (GR)
17 NOV – Joy Station  –  Sofia (BG)
19 NOV – Quantic Club  –  Bucharest (RO)
20 NOV – Form Space  –  Cluj-Napoca (RO)
21 NOV – Barba Negra  –  Budapest (HU)
22 NOV – Szene  –  Wien (AT)
23 NOV – Kwadrat  –  Krakow (PL)
24 NOV – Proxima  –  Warsaw (PL)
26 NOV – Lido  –  Berlin (DE)
27 NOV – Colos Saal  –  Aschaffenburg (DE)
28 NOV – Hirsch  –  Nürnberg (DE)
29 NOV – F-Haus  –  Jena (DE)
30 NOV – Substage  –  Karlsruhe (DE)
02 NOV – Red Club  –  Moscow (RU)
03 NOV – Club Zal  –  Sankt Petersburg (RU)

For tickets visit: annihilatormetal.com

Produced, engineered, edited and mixed by: JEFF WATERS at WATERSOUND STUDIOS UK
Additional engineering and editing by RICH HINKS

ANNIHILATOR ARE:
Jeff Waters (vocals/guitar), Rich Hinks (bass), Aaron Homma (guitar), Fabio Alessandrini (drums)

FOLLOW ANNIHILATOR on: Facebook  Instagram   Twitter  Website