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Pentre Fest 2026

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Pentre Fest 2026 

Friday 27th and Saturday 28th February 2026 

Mcleans Pub, Deeside, North Wales  

Pentre Fest – it’s no secret that I’m a fan of this two day Metal festival held in a pub/club down the road from me. Organised by the hard working and hard rocking people at North East Wales Metal Productions, it’s a non-stop feast of fine tunes, the very best of underground Metal from around the UK.

Here’s my write up my experiences from this years event. You can read a full account from Team Ever Metal over at their site.

Day 1

Hiraeth 

My excitement had been steadily rising for weeks ahead of Pentre Fest.  You just can’t beat this mini two-day festival in North Wales, it really is the gig highlight of the year for me.  I arrived just in time to catch Hiraeth, a great Black Metal band who originate from not too far away in Wrexham.  Taking the Black Metal template and weaving tales of ancient Welsh folklore and history, these sword wielding warriors bring a positive, inclusive vibe with their increasingly accomplished musicality.  A great band and a real high point to start with. 

Attic Theory 

Liverpool’s Attic Theory were up next on the main stage, and though they were new to me, they really made a good impression.  Full on, hard hitting alternative rock, Attic Theory ploughed through the room with a big riffs and anthemic vocals.  I love me some Grunge and these guys had the power and a magnetic groove.  Unfortunately they buggered off home before I could buy their delightful album on sexy vinyl! 

Battalions 

The band I was most excited to see at this year’s gathering was Battalions, who I’ve developed a bit of a fanboy adoration for.  They’re on APF Records so that’s a mark of quality right there.  Thankfully, Battalions’ monstrous, doomy, fuzzed out riffs were even more satisfying than their quite brilliant album ‘King of a Dead World’.  They warmed my ancient, jaded soul with a sludgy set that really was a Pentre Fest highlight. 

Miserable Sinner 

Outside, the cold drizzle made viewing the Keymo stage a bit of a challenge – never mind actually playing on it!  I did catch Geordie of Bad Earth performing his Miserable Sinner solo acoustic set in defiance of all the mighty Thor could unleash upon him, with AC/DC’s “Whole Lotta Rosie” being a particular favourite! 

Basement Torture Killings 

A brutal, Death Metal Grindcore band of lunatics who’ve watched too may serial killer documentaries, Basement Torture Killings certainly know how to entertain.  It was a case of “Netflix and kill”, as they tore through a visceral set and eviscerated a huge cuddly teddy bear.  Not my usual type of O Positive, but BTK served up a memorable, blood soaked show.  Time for bed.   

Day 2 

Firefly 

Running late as per usual, I actually wasn’t punished too badly this time as apparently Edd Case had declined his opening slot!  Instead I arrived just in time to see Firefly, who had only just started their set.  An amazing start to the festivities, Firefly brought their own brand of Industrial Goth Metal to give everyone a big wake up call.  Like a mix of Rammstein, NIN, Gary Numan and Sisters of Mercy with the smoky vocals of Marianne Faithful (like what Mare said), this was pretty damn unmissable.  Check ‘em out! 

Victim of Damp 

Opening proceedings on the outdoor stage was Victim of Damp, alias Pentre Fest die hard Frank Williams.  His amalgamation of gentle covers and humorous originals improves with confidence every time.  A free shot of the old alcohol helped warm us all up too! 

Losing Light 

This band sounded like an interesting premise, and indeed they were.  Four guys from fairly close by, they have plenty of experience but are a relatively new proposition as Losing Light.  Usually, their set would include a couple of covers, but these were dropped for this first Pentre appearance.  Very confident and excellent musicians, their own self written songs were more than capable – Losing Light gave us an electric performance.  Let’s hope they return soon. 

Oliver Carins 

Quick, no time to put your feet up – get out to the Keymo stage!  Oliver Carins, usually part of Scarfoot (who are a hell of a band anyway) gave us a superb acoustic set with fine vocals and masterful guitar skills.  Folky and warm, the songs still had that signature epic Scarfoot edge. 

The Raging Mabels 

Sadly, Any Given Reason were unable to play this afternoon, so the daring Raging Mabels parachuted in to save the day.  And boy did they rage!  A set of powerful yet tuneful rockers, the Mabels played an energetic non-stop set that rattled by like a rocket riding coyote chasing a roadrunner.  Equally at home playing for fans of Motorhead or the Ramones, it’s no secret that this pretend rock journo is a mega fanboy – the Mabels are pure joy!  And they (finally) brought some merch!!! 

Chain of Survival 

Theigns and Thrawls did a brilliant acoustic set oustide next, but more about them later.  Let’s skip forward a little to Chain of Survival.  Another Liverpool based band, this time we have a Hardocre Thrash Punk four piece who are utterly uncompromising.  If you ever played DRI or Sick of It All casettes from a boombox while skateboarding in a local supermarket carpark (as I still do) then you’ll love COS too.     

Fallen North 

These guys have played McLeans gigs before, but they showed up in full force – this was not a dress rehearsal!  Full on, no apologies modern metal with crunchy riffs and soaring vocals, Fallen North soon had the crowd won over.  They stepped down from the stage to join a fan on the dancefloor, still playing, and giving one of the most heartwarming moments of the weekend.  Well played all round. 

Kevin Plant (Cry For Mercy) 

Blues rock royalty Cry For Mercy weren’t playing this weekend, but vocalist/bass maestro Kev Plant braved the elements outside on the acoustic stage for a solo performance.  Great playing augmented with Kev’s trademark soulful, Paul Rogers like voice was an oasis of calm.  It takes some cojones to tackle Chris Cornell’s vocals, but Kev’s version of Audioslaves ‘I Am The Highway’ was respectful and stirring. 

Ogun 

The world needs more authentic Thrash Metal.  Thankfully Liverpool’s Ogun delivered a rousing set of the genuine article at Pentre Fest.  Not dated or old fashioned in anyway, just modern thrash in the spirit of Testament, Exodus and even Slayer.  Speed but without compromising on songcraft or melody, there’s plenty to enjoy in Ogun’s set.  Not their first time here and hopefully not their last either. 

Bad Earth 

OK, so I’ve seen Bad Earth before – but they’re always exciting.  And loud!  Playing their own, patented Rockcore (TM), this three piece always seem to be ready to decimate wherever they play.  It’s dirty biker rock dialled to eleven and kept up way past it’s bedtime, as Geordie, Karl and Ben assault their instruments like they’ve insulted their mothers.  Always a pleasure to be in the crowd for a Bad Earth gig! 

Edd Case 

Closing the Keymo stage outside, this wasn’t the first I’d seen of Edd this Fest.  He’d already played a blinder the day before, and this time gave us a very welcome rendition of ‘Mother’ (note to bands everywhere: play more Danzig) amongst some select covers.  Original material also got an airing, including the magnificent ‘Letters Back Home’, a moving and sadly still relevant masterpiece.  Edd, you truly are a poet. 

Theigns and Thralls 

Earlier in the day, I witnessed an eye opening and refreshing performance by Theigns and Thralls on the outside acoustic stage.  I always enjoy a trip into different genres at Pentre Fest and this folk set was a definite highlight.  In the evening, they plugged in fully to give us a real taste of Folk Metal, the energy of which had the audience jumping and dancing around.  Glorious fun for all!   

Fury 

This year’s esteemed headline act, there was a fair buzz around the venue for Fury’s set.  And to be fair, they were worth waiting for.  Specialising in the unrecycled, sheer joy of Heavy Metal in all its Iron Maiden/Judas Priest glory, these guys were undoubtedly on top form.  The dual female/male lead vocals of Nyah and Julian help the band transcend any Hard Rock cliches with an outstanding, individual sound.  Fury are undoubtedly excellent musicians, and have the performance and songcraft to back up their reputation.  I can’t really think of a bone to pick with them.  Other than if they don’t make a return visit one day, we’ll all be very upset. 

And that’s it: the end of another Pentre Fest.  A wonderful weekend of fine music and great company, I’m already counting down to next year.  I’ve definitely got post Pentre Fest blues.  

Read the full report on the Ever Metal website.

Check out the Pentre Fest Facebook page and North East Wales Metal Productions page too.

Bouncing Souls + The Aquabats – Gig Review

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Bouncing Souls + The Aquabats + Bar Stool Preachers

Wednesday 4th March 2026

The Rockin’ Chair, Wrexham

I’ve been stacked out with gigs recently (Pentre Fest review incoming), though I can’t ever get to see everything.  And I don’t get time to write up a review of every gig I go to. But there was one I simply couldn’t miss: The Aquabats, playing not far from me in The Rockin’ Chair, Wrexham.  Even though it was a Wednesday night, I was driving, and not sure if anyone i knew was actually going…

But this was a dream come true! The Aquabats have been on my bucket list for years, ever since I became a huge fan of their hilarious, surreal kids TV show.  Now they were second on the bill for this event.  Luckily I’ve also long been aware of Bouncing Souls, so everything was in place for a fantastic night.

Unfortunately, I missed the first band, Bar Stool Preachers – though I was reliably informed they were really good.  I’ll check ’em out later based on that recommendation.

The Aquabats were a spectacle unlike anything I’ve ever witnessed.  The full band were in attendance, all eight of them, dressed in their cool superhero outfits.  Of course they were.  It was an unbelievable sight, seeing them all in this smallish club.

Starting with a rousing rendition of “Shark Fighter”, The Aquabats launched into their set, accompanied by three huge inflatable sharks flying around the room.  Energetic pop punk and joyous ska formed their sound, with their TV show theme tune as another highlight of a fun, crazy set.

You’ve never seen anything if you’ve never seen an audience member crowd surfing on a giant inflatable slice of pizza.  Or an eight foot tall Mummy Man attacking the band on stage.  Or a yeti dancing with the crowd.  I was grinning from ear to ear for the full set: The Aquabats were RAD!

Headliners Bouncing Souls have been on my radar since the late 90s, their fast, melodic skate punk fitting right in with my Descendents loving musical tastes.  Though The Aquabats were always going to be my reason for attending, Bouncing Souls played an incredible, crowd pleasing set: lightning paced, huge choruses, barely a break between songs.

Third song in, they played “Hopeless Romantic” which was the highlight I was waiting for.  I would’ve been happy with just that one track!

I’m glad I made an effort to get to this gig.  It really was an event unlike any other, worth every penny.  It’s not every day that a band of punk rock superheroes save the earth whilst playing in Wrexham.

The Donnas – The Atlantic Years 2002 –2005 Album Review

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The Donnas – The Atlantic Years 2002 –2005 

Cherry Red Records 

Release date: 30/05/2025 

Running time: Well it’s 3 CDs of Rock’n’Roll goodness, so it’s good vfm 

Review by: Alun Jones 

9/10 

Hey all you Rock’n’Rollers, you are in for a well deserved treat!  Cherry Red records have compiled all of the output from legendary Bad Girls of Rock, The Donnas, into one neat and sweet boxed set.  Between 2002 and 2005, The Donnas were signed to major label Atlantic, and their star was on the rise like a comet – the label marketing the band in movies, games ad infinitum.  Surely The Donnas would conquer the world? 

The first disc in the set covers the absolute must-have “Spend the Night” album.  Take it from me, “Spend the Night” is a total Rock’n’Roll classic – one of the greatest guitar Rock albums of the 21st century.  The perfect collision of supersonic, Ramones and Runaways pop punk power with AC/DC riffology – this is a 10 out of 10 timeless wonder that anyone who loves Rock’n’Roll should treasure.   

I mean. ‘It’s on the Rocks’, ‘Take it off’, ‘Who Inviited You’ – the rockin’ starts and it just doesn’t stop.  And when you’re invited to a Donnas shindig, you’d better be prepared – these girls know how to party.  With songs about drinking, partying, staying up all night and peer group alienation, The Donnas are total, unfiltered ROCK STARS.  There’s not a bad song here, it’s diamond class all the way, cheekily witty lyrics included.  Two bonus tracks add to the fun, and with songs like “Too Bad About Your Girl” you’re gonna annoy the hell out of the neighbours till ‘5 O’clock in the Morning’! 

Hopes were high for the follow up album, “Gold Medal”, but sadly this doesn’t quite hit the same heights.  The sound was augmented with acoustic guitars and a wider ranging approach to songwriting, which is to be applauded.  For the most part this works well, and nothing has changed that much really.  Overall, the thrill isn’t quite the same, however. 

With songs like ‘I Don’t Want to Know (If You Don’t Want Me)’ and ‘Don’t Break Me Down’ we’re in familiar Donnas territory, and the lyrics are sharpened up and more mature.  ‘Fall Behind Me’ is the justifiable stand out song here, rolling along as The Donnas snarl defiantly in what is one of the best songs in the entire compilation.  With a bonus track tagged on, it’s a solid collection – but it’s a house-trained version of its predecessor. 

Disc 3 cobbles together everything else that was left in the Atlantic catacombs.  There’s a handful of great but not excellent unreleased tracks, some acoustic versions of songs from “Gold Medal”, a batch of pretty bloody electrifying live tracks and a fun cover of Billy Idol’s ‘Dancing With Myself’.  Nothing completely indispensable, but a fine way to complete the collection for the die hards. 

And that’s about it for The Donnas.  They released one more album – “Bitchin’” – on their own label, and called it a day.  The Donnas will never reform.  They’ve all moved on to other things.  But for a short while in the early part of this century, they were perfection.  This release testifies to that.  If nothing else, you need “Spend the Night” – you’ll never party the same without it.  You’ll love it, like I do, and you’ll want as much other music by The Donnas as you can find.  Start here. 

Find out more about The Donnas on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and Spotify.

This review is brought to you by Platinum Al in association with Ever Metal.

Singles Night at the Virtual Hot Tub #41

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What’s that I hear? Those loyal Hot Tubbers have been going ape for my Singles Night vinyl playlists? They want more, more, MORE?! Then it shall be so, my friends! With great humility I shall acquiesce to your rabid response – here we go again for another Singles Night at the Virtual Hot Tub!

For the stragglers at the back, this playlist includes a bunch of 45 rpm singles that have ended up in my treasured collection. I spend an evening playing them – both sides – and with the aid of a little alcohol, have a fine old time.

Join me again for another evening enjoying playing 7 inch records of all genres…

  1. The Kinks – “Dead End Street” / “Big Black Snake”
  2. The Steve Miller Band – “Abracadabra” / “Never Say No”
  3. Status Quo – “What You’re Proposing” / “A. B. Blues”
  4. Prince – “When Doves Cry” / “17 Days”
  5. Madness – “Grey Day” / “Memories”
  6. Kate Robbins – “The Real Me” / “Photo Fit”
  7. Ron Grainer – “Tales of the Unexpected” / “Malice Afterthought”
  8. Belinda Carlisle – “Big Scary Animal” / “Windows of the World”
  9. Bananarama – “Love in the First Degree” / “Mr Sleaze”
  10. Kate Bush – “Wuthering Heights” / “Kite”
  11. Paul McCartney – “Spies Like Us” / “My Carnival”
  12. Buzzcocks – “Orgasm Addict” / “What Ever Happened To?”
  13. The Presidents of the United States of America – “Lump” / “Wake Up”
  14. Ramones – “She’s the One” / “I Wanna Be Sedated”
  15. X-Ray Spex – “Identity” / “Lets Submerge”
  16. Wolfmother – “Dimension”
  17. Horrorpops – “Miss Take” / “Where They Wander”
  18. Captain Sensible – “Glad It’s All Over” / “Damned on 45”
  19. Black Lace – “Agadoo” / “Fiddling”
  20. ABBA – “I Have a Dream” / “Take a Chance On Me (Live)”
  21. The Sweet – “Teenage Rampage” / “Own Up, Take a Look At Yourself”
  22. Bucks Fizz – “One of Those Nights” / “Always Thinking of You”
  23. B. Bumble & The Stingers – “Nut Rocker” / “Bumble Boogie” / “Boogie Woogie”
  24. Bachman Turner Overdrive – “You AIn’t Seen Nothing Yet” / “Free Wheelin'”
  25. Barry White – “You’re the First, the Last, My Everything” / “More Than Anything, You’re My Everything”

Yes, you read that right: Agadoo by Black Lace is now in my vinyl collection. Well, you never know – it might be useful to entertain somebody one day.

Well, I certainly must’ve enjoyed myself on this particular night – 25 songs in one go is a record of a different type. I think. And what a killer collection of tunes! Classic tracks from The Kinks, Quo, Kate Bush and ABBA elevated the playlist nicely. Plus a quality punk rock section with Ramones, Buzzcocks and X-Ray Spex – and some more pop hits from Madness, Barry White and many more.

Enjoy the tunes Hot Tubbers, I won’t keep you waiting long for more!

Notes:

The Wolfmother record is single with a blank B side, which I didn’t realise when I bought it.  The Horrorpops single is a picture disc, as is the POTUSA vinyl. Pretty stylish stuff.

Oh and yes, that’s the legendary theme tune from the Tales of the Unexpected television programme.  Pretty cool to have that.

Singles Night at the Virtual Hot Tub #40

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Singles Night! Singles Night! At the Virtual Hot Tub, yeah!!! Yes it’s that time again, hot tubbers – grab yourself a drink and let’s enjoy the latest Singles Night playlist!

If you’re not sure what’s going down, it’s like this: your Old pal Platinum Al has a big pile of unplayed, sexy 7 inch vinyl records – and they need to be played. So we’ll spin ’em, A side then B side, one after the other, and have the rad time while we do it.

Sound like fun? Ok, here we go…

  1. The Stylistics – “You Make Me Feel Brand New” / “Only For The Children”
  2. Scott McKenzie – “San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Some Flowers in Your Hair)” / “What’s the Difference”
  3. Sylvester – “You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)” / “Was it Something I Said”
  4. Nik Kershaw – “Don Quixote” / “Don’t Lie”
  5. The Mighty Wah! – “Come Back” / “The Devil in Miss Jones”
  6. Blondie – “Dreaming” / “Sound Asleep”
  7. Bryan Adams – “Can’t Stop This This We Started” / “It’s Only Love (Live)”
  8. Muddy Waters – “Mannish Boy” / “I’m Your Hoochie Coochie Man”
  9. The Creatures – “Mad Eyed Screamer” / “So Unreal” / “But Not Them”
  10. Los Lobos – “La Bamba” / “Charlena”
  11. Kate Robbins – “Run Wild” / “Cassie’s Song”
  12. Kim WIlde – “I Can’t Say Goodbye” / “Sanjazz Megamix”
  13. Crystal Gayle – “When I Dream” / “Someday Soon”
  14. Samantha Fox – “Aim to Win” / “Holding”
  15. Billy Ray Cyrus – “Achy Breaky Heart” / “I’m So Miserable”
  16. Boney M. – “Gotta Go Home” / “El Lute”
  17. Nina Simone – “My Baby Just Cares For Me” / “Love Me or Leave Me”
  18. The Monks – “Nice Legs, Shame About Her Face” / “You’ll Be The Death of Me”
  19. Transvision Vamp – “Baby I Don’t Care” / “Time For Change” / “Strings of My Heart”
  20. Sinitta – “love on a Mountain Top” / “Don’t Tell Me Not to Cry”
  21. The Alarm – “Unsafe Building” / “Up For Murder”

Now that’s a pretty eclectic playlist. Covering all manner of genres from pop, soul/disco, rock, punk, country, blues and more.

The absolute cream of the crop is the Muddy Waters single – “Mannish Boy” is one of the greatest songs ever written. This version came from a late 80s Levis commercial, always a handy way to pick up reissued classic songs. Similar with the equally awesome Nina Simone record.

The Stylistics are one of my Dad’s favourite bands and something I grew up with. Any Disco records on these lists are a result of upbringing

Sinitta crops up again, due to the fact that I always had a crush on her. Likewise Sam Fox, Kim Wilde and Crystal Gayle and of course Debbie Harry. Though I never fancied Wendy James of Transvision Vamp. Good track, though.

No absolute stinkers this time round, either. “Achy Breaky Heart” is a kitsch classic and I love it – stoked to find that one in a charity shop!

And we’re done. Another pile of 45 rpm goodies played – stay tuned for more, very soon!

Platinum Al’s Top 10 Rock & Metal Albums of 2025

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Well 2025 certainly delivered the goods for new music. As in previous years, Ever Metal asked me to compile a list of my Top Ten albums from the worlds of Rock and Metal, so I did. The list has already been published over on EM, but I’ve reproduced it here for anyone who missed it…

You know what?  It would be easier to pick my All Time Top 20 Albums than a Top 10 for the year.  I know I say this every year, but 2025 has been a really strong one for new releases.  Whatever the genre, there have been some beauties.  So here are ten of my favourites, listed from one to ten, but to be honest – the ranking between these exemplary specimens doesn’t mean that much.   

10. Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs – “Death Hilarious” 

Admittedly, I was late on the bandwagon with this band, but I don’t care.   Pigs x7 dropped this Stoner Metal monster and I shamelessly joined the admiring throng.  “Death Hilarious” is crazy riffage for a good time.  

9. Warlockhunt – “Prey” 

This album of dreamy Doom Pop has been played relentlessly chez moi since its release.  Mournful bass, crashing drums and reflective vocals create an otherworldly tapestry. 

8. Spider Kitten – “The Truth is Caustic to Love” 

A beguiling soundtrack for a strange world, Spider Kitten knit the heaviest of sludgy riffs, avant garde Doom and Spaghetti Western music into something truly original and unforgettable. 

7. Froglord – “Metamorphosis” 

I saw Froglord live and immediately fell in love with their sludgy, amphibious grooves.  “Metamorphosis” is a masterclass in swampy riffage and it has constantly cheered me up since it oozed into my possession. 

6. Syncolima – Move Mountains 

This band go from strength to strength, and their “Move Mountains” album became one of my most played albums of the year.  A full-on Stoner Rock, Grunge and Metal hybrid that always drags you back for another listen. 

5. Black Spiders – “Cvrses” 

Sheffield’s finest returned with another high-speed dose of Rock’n’Roll that might just help me stop missing Motorhead so much.  Awesome fun. 

4. Torso – “Annihilation Day” 

Grindhouse Garage Metal soundtracking an imaginary VHS Video Nasty, Torso deliver another prime slab of horrifying, lo-fi brutality. 

3. King Kraken = “March of the Gods” 

The second album from King Kraken builds on the triumphs of its predecessor, but adds an even tougher, uncompromising Metal edge and daring new textures.

2. Master Charger – “Posthumous Resurrection” 

The absolute Overlords of fuzzy Doom Boogie, Master Charger’s 2025 masterpiece delivers everything that you could ask for, plus more.  Extremely infectious in every good way.  Essential! 

1. 1968 – “Royal Bastards” 

Right from the first spin, I knew this glorious album would be a contender for the best of the year list.  A stunning album that isn’t afraid to branch out in new directions, whilst staying true to the core of what 1968 do.

And there you go, ten superb albums that I’ve loved this year.  Honourable mentions go to Supersuckers, Melvins, Toranaga and Jonathan Hultén for releasing top quality music that nearly made the cut.   

Happy New Year all – here’s to the new sounds of 2026!

Don’t forget to keep visiting Ever Metal – and Platinum Al’s Virtual Hot Tub – for the best music!

N.E.W. Metal Productions Christmosh – Gig Review

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N.E.W. Metal Productions Christmosh

6th December 2025

Mcleans Pub, Pentre, Deeside North Wales

Have you been good all year? Have you eaten your greens, minded your Ps and Qs, and got your Ever Metal reviews in on time? If yes, then good news: the final North East Wales Metal Productions shindig of the year is here – the annual Christmosh party! A fabulous six bands appearing at Mcleans Pub in Pentre, Deeside, covering a wide variety of Rock/Metal music and all gathered together to celebrate a festive end to 2025.

Warming us up like a welcome open log fire was Victim of Damp, alias N.E.W. Metal Prods ally Frank Williams, here given a seasonal makeover as Christmas of Damp. With Christmas jumper and trusty guitar in hand, COD gave us some choice cuts including new additions such as Therapy?’s ‘Screamager’ along with free shots and a melancholy Pink Floyd cover. The promise of Crimbo tunes wasn’t forgotten, with a rousing version of Slade’s evergreen ‘Merry Xmas Everybody’ – event guru Fozzy (in Santa suit) on vocals.

Victim of Damp

‘Agro’ by The Raging Mabels is one of the Greatest Songs Ever. Their entire set of high speed, thundering yet melodic Zeke-like Punk Rock was an absolute, total joy from start to finish. I cannot praise this band highly enough, even though they forgot to bring merch (again). There should be a new Raging Mabels album out in the New Year, so be prepared for a cultural explosion of Nirvana ‘Nevermind’ levels. And if that doesn’t happen, every single one of you can suck balls.

The Raging Mabels

Sadly, last time SOOTO (Something Out Of The Ordinary) played Pentre a couple of months back, I failed to write up my review. That cruel oversight is about to be reversed. SOOTO deal in classic Hard Rock/Metal, and with the female vocals they’re like Stevie Nicks singing for Thin Lizzy. Professional but not superficial, SOOTO have a raw energy and love of the riff, combined with dynamic songcraft and expert playing. A fantastic set that was over too soon.

SOOTO

The only band I’d never seen before, Heroes of the Gauntlet were a pleasant surprise indeed. Billed as “Symphonic Power Metal”, I was concerned these guys would be a full-on cheese fest. They have two singers (male and female) with fantastic voices, and a microphone that turns into a sword. Add in some serious Power Metal riffage and super confident stage personas, and you’ve actually got one hell of a show. Heroes of the Gauntlet were gloriously over the top and it’s impossible not to love them! All they need is a live drummer and these Heroes cannot fail.

Heroes of the Gauntlet

Bad Earth we have met before, and yes – hands up, I am a bit of a fanboy. But when a band deliver this much power and presence on stage, how can anyone not be? A “Rockcore” trio from the North Wales area, what that genre entails is dishing out filthy Punk/Metal riffs and pummelling, killer rhythms that you can feel as well as hear. They get better and bolder all the time – though the silly buggers are very humble about it – and this night was no exception. New recorded material is due soon, so beware: Bad Earth have never shied away from delivering crushing, groove infused Rock and I don’t think they will.

Bad Earth

To say I was excited about the return of the fuzzed out, sludgy sound of Master Charger to Mcleans would be an understatement. Their album “Posthumous Resurrection” was one of the never ending delights of 2025, plus last time they were here, these boys absolutely killed it. Make no mistake, Master Charger can and will deal out a mighty, megalithic slab of Stoner/Doom that will make the earth tremble. And that’s exactly what they did, with every asteroid-heavy riff and mammoth beat ploughing through the audience mercilessly. Another off-the-charts performance and a great finale.

Master Charger

What a night. Quite possibly the strongest line-up at Mcleans that I’ve ever witnessed, featuring many of my personal favourites.

But now it’s down to you. Christmosh was the last North East Wales Metal Productions event of the year, till the return of Pentre Fest in February 2026. These events, these bands need your support. If you’ve ever considered a trip to Mcleans, then you need to be there on 27th and 28th Feb 26. No excuses!

N.E.W. Metal Productions All Dayer Oct 25

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N.E.W. Metal Productions All Dayer

18th October 2025

Mcleans Pub, Pentre, Deeside North Wales

Halloween is over, so time for yours truly to get back to being the legendary Rock Journo that I was born to be. Spooky month is a big deal chez moi, so we’re taking a trip back a couple of weeks here for a fairly recent All Dayer at Mcleans, Pentre, which was organised by our good friends North East Wales Metal Productions.

As usual, there was a great selection of bands playing throughout the late afternoon and evening, though sadly there’s always some last minute shuffling of the line up where someone can’t make it. No matter, there was more than enough to get your fangs stuck into.

First up, all the way from North Yorkshire way, were Alt Rock trio Kath and The Kicks. I was most excited to see this band, as they’d been unable to make a previous appearance here. A really solid, professional set with a machine-like drummer, powerhouse bass and Kath herself on super compelling guitar and voice. A bit like Joan Jett fronting Soundgarden but much more fun, it was loud, intense and grungy and a great start to the day. I loved them, and hope they come back soon!

Kath and The Kicks

Syntara were next, a young group who took to the stage with supreme confidence. Their music is best described as “Modern Metalcore”, which is not really my scene, man – but their performance was captivating. They owned the stage like they’d been born behind the drum kit. My only advice would be they need a live bass player to fill out the sound. Oh, and they need to get rid of the utterly vile looking, funny shaped, headless guitars. Other than that, very impressive.

Syntara

Travelling up to Pentre from Leicester, Voidwalker brought the Technical Death Metal along with them to bedazzle us all. Another ultra confident band, Voidwalker unleashed a Tsunami of sonic venom, a dual guitar attack driven by a relentless rhythm section. Their front man prowled the room and growled and roared above the thunder. Powerful and performed with obvious fervour, Voidwalker’s set was brutal but unmissable.

Voidwalker

When a bloke stands on stage wielding a huge medieval broad sword, you kinda sit up and take notice. This was how Hiraeth began their set, and though the sword soon disappeared I stuck around anyway, ‘cos they were great. Playing black metal inspired by Welsh folklore, history and culture, the band are excellent performers and obviously have a passionate message to get across. They’re also a lovely bunch of people. BENDIGEDIG!

Hiraeth

Deified were our final band of the evening, and they were very worthy headliners. A five piece band from Merseyside, they’ve been around a few years now and have developed a confident presence to deliver their mighty Metal. They didn’t bring any merch, but they did bring a set of huge, aggressive and uncompromising Metal that devastated the entire building. Here’s hoping we get a new Deified album soon.

Deified

And that’s your lot, kids! Another successful N.E.W. Metal Productions event showcasing some fine musical talent. More soon!

Yawning Balch – Album Review

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Yawning Balch – Volume Three

Heavy Psych Sounds

Release date: 21/02/2025

Running time: 35 mins

Review by: Alun Jones

9.5/10

Dear old Jimbo Morrison, he was a clueless fool indeed. Many times, I used to drive Jim out to the desert so he could commune with shamanistic spirits in the sun-baked wilderness. Jimbo would spend hours out of his gourd, murmuring into the ether. Of course, what I used to do, was stop at a truck stop and load up on whiskey and other supplies on the way. Then when we got into the desert, ply Jimbo with the booze and feed him leaves of spinach out of a tin, telling him it was “good gear”. I’d wear a kid’s Native American fancy dress costume and mumble nonsense. Morrison never did wise up to it.

If you’re planning on a mind-expanding trip into the remote wastelands, you’d be much better off with this new album from Yawning Balch for company. The band is comprised of Fu Manchu’s Bob Balch on guitar, together with stoner rock legends Yawning Man, here consisting of Gary Arce (guitar), Mario Lalli (bass) and Bill Stinson (drums). This is volume three of a series of experiments that these gentlemen have produced, released by Heavy Psych Sounds.

Truth be told, this is a tough review to write. This is an instrumental album, consisting of just two songs. Both tracks are formed from experimental jam sessions, expansive psychedelic explorations that meander along like the Silver Surfer exploring a vast, distant galaxy. This is not an album of incendiary riffs and barking vocals.

First track ‘The Taos Hum’ is just over twenty minutes long. It will take you on an interstellar journey of shimmering guitars and rumbling percussion, resulting in a mesmerising encounter. The lack of vocals, or even a standard verse-chorus structure, doesn’t matter at all. Same story with ‘Winter Widow’, the second track: slightly shorter at 14 minutes, this is all about the journey and getting lost along the way.

“Volume Three” is a cinematic soundtrack for any road you’re on. Mellow and cerebral, this album by Yawning Balch grabbed me from the start, this is the first recording of 2025 that has captivated my senses and will be a Top Ten of the year contender. Magical and highly recommended.

Find out more about Yawning Balch on Facebook, Instagram, Spotify and Bandcamp.

This review is presented by Platinum Al in association with Ever Metal.

KASP – Gig Review

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KASP

Friday 11th July 2025

The Crown & Liver, Ewloe

The good old Crown & Liver in Ewloe used to be my home from home for many years. In fact, it was utilised as a club house of sorts not just by myself, but the members of KASP and a large chunk of tonight’s audience. Quite apt, then, to see these guys crank out some tunes that effortlessly recreated the sounds of the 1990s in this venue. The Crown may have been jazzed up over the decades, but it’s the same old boozer at heart.

KASP are four mates who got themselves together and formed a band, performing well known and appreciated cover songs. They’ve been gigging in the local area for a while, but this was the first time I’d caught up with them. It was a nice reunion of sorts with several welcome faces and a good atmosphere.

Wouldn’t you just know it, things didn’t get off to a stellar start: the set opener was ‘Rock’n’Roll Star’ by Oasis, and I’m not a big fan! To be fair, it’s one of the better Gallagher brothers songs, and KASP rattled the song out in confident fashion. Simon on lead vocals and guitar slotted right into the role with ease. Next up was ‘You Stole the Sun From My Heart’, a killer Manics cover where Adam ably took over lead vocals from Si and still delivered a formidable guitar part. Now we were starting to get bouncing!

Solid musicianship all round to be fair, meaning that a couple songs I’m not a fan of (that James monstrosity, ‘Sit Down’, being a prime offender) were superbly delivered with self assured style. Of course, this means that the quality songs in the rest of the set couldn’t really go wrong – especially with genuine energisers from Green Day, Stereophonics and even Steppenwolf’s old evergreen, ‘Born to be Wild’!

A special shout out to the closing song of the first set, a devastatingly great rendition of ‘Hate to Say I Told You So’ by The Hives. Classic track, rendered brilliantly by KASP. Kev’s nimble bass playing was particularly impressive, shining in that solo middle section; and Pete’s drums managing to keep everyone on track with all cylinders firing .

The band returned for part 2 after a short break, though I have to admit that my memories of the second set started to get a bit fuzzy…

I do remember a rousing version of Lenny Kravitz’s ‘Are You Gonna Go My Way’ getting the crowd moving. And a nice dedication for yours truly from Si in his introduction for Foo Fighters’ ‘Times Like These’ (thanks!). There was more dancing for this set as the audience started to really warm up. More first rate tunes by White Stripes, Kings of Leon and Stereophonics kept the mood high and feet moving as everyone sang along.

KASP at the Crown turned out to be a fun night of solid musicianship and camaraderie. A great band who possess some real skills, delivering a non-stop run of hit songs for all to enjoy. It was kind of cool to have that gig with that band in that pub, too. The evening wasn’t just about nostalgia, though. It was about good times with good people, and that’s what live music’s all about, right?

Check out KASP on Facebook.