Somehow, a couple of years ago, I ended up with a spare deck. I was going to put it on the wall as a display item, but recently I changed my mind.
The deck in question was this Death Benson Devil Woman. I think I decided it was too wide and set up a different deck to skate – an 8.25″ Patrick Melcher Mermaid deck. I wouldn’t normally buy a deck just to display, so I must have skated one set up for longer than anticipated to end up with a spare.
Whatever the reason, this 8.5″ Benson was put aside to mount on the wall. Recently, my current set up was starting to get really worn out – I obviously needed a new one. As I’d been considering going wider, this 8.5″ deck was brought out of retirement and set up, ready to go.
I used some older Independent trucks that just about fit OK, and moved my current Slime Balls wheels across to this set up.
The result: a great new skateboard. It has that nice poop that new decks have, it feels awesome. I’ve really enjoyed skating it, slightly wider was a good move.
I’ve had one of these decks previously, though in a smaller width (you can read about it here). I’m still a big fan of Death skateboards, and of course the amazing artwork of Liane Plant!
New wheels may be an option in the near future, and definitely new bearings.
And there you have it: just another little post celebrating these rad skateboards that I’ve had the pleasure to ride over the years.
All of this stuff was bought from the extremely brilliant Native Skate Store.
Yes, it’s new skateboard time! Though with the disgusting weather we’re having – and more set to continue – skate time this summer looks limited…
Anyway, let’s crack on, ‘cos these blog posts are really only for me – no one else reads them. I just like to document different decks and set-ups for the sake of posterity.
No surprises, I bought a new Death Skateboards deck again. This time it’s a pro rider model, for Sam ‘Blinky’ Hutchinson. It’s 8.25″ wide, great shape and concave, with a weird graphic that I kinda like.
DeckFull set up
My previous Indy trucks have been carried over to this model, together with Independent truck bolts.
New wheels though: I went for a slightly softer durometer and got some Santa Cruz Slime Balls “Snot Rockets” – 95a, 53mm.
All bought from good ol’ reliable Native Skate Store (with free grip applied), but otherwise built by me.
I also bought some yellow Pig Wheels rails, which need to be fitted on still.
TopBottom
First sesh has proven this to be an excellent set up – I even learned a new trick: blunt to 5050 stalls on a curb. A small curb, but who cares? I’ll move to bigger curbs in the future.
Stoked!
Stats for anyone interested (probably just me):
Death Skateboards ‘Blinky’ 8.25″ deck (with free griptape)
Yes, another entry in my ongoing quest to commemorate every skateboard I own. As I’ve said before, these blog posts are really just for me – so I can look fondly back on the boards I’ve owned over the years.
Actually, this is just a new deck only. I bought a new deck – a Death Skateboards Lurk II model – got it gripped, and switched my old Independent trucks and Death wheels over to this skateboard.
The trucks, wheels, bearings and hardware were all in fairly good condition still, so no need to go crazy. Those trucks cost big money!
I chose another Death deck, as I have done for a while, and so far it’s going great. Cool graphic too, till I scraped most of it on tail stalls and rock’n’rolls. The Lurk II is 8.25″ wide which suits me fine.
Here are the stats if you’re interested:
Death Skateboards Lurk II 8.25″ deck (with free Jessup griptape)
Independent Trucks 144 Mid Stage II
Death skateboards wheels 52mm
Independent Trucks GP-S bearings
Independent Trucks allen bolts 1″
The deck was purchased online from Native Skate Shop. You’ll already now I’m a big fan of Death Skateboards, with this order I also bought a Death t-shirt, to proudly declare my allegiance.
A weekend of full on metal and hard rock, Pentre Fest is a highlight of my musical calendar. Held at McLean’s pub in Pentre, Deeside, North Wales over two days, the event always showcases some of the best bands from around a vast area of the UK.
This year I missed Friday’s gig as I was otherwise engaged. However, I was raring to go for Day 2, and a whole load of awesome music. Here’s my review for Ever Metal, covering everything I could of that day’s entertainment.
Day 2
Day 2 at Pentre fest – you could say I was a bit excited to get going. The ever-reliable Edd Case was performing in the marquee outside as I arrived, so I missed a chunk of his set sadly, as I paid my hard earned coin to get in and neck my first ale. Luckily, Edd did another slot of his excellent acoustic performance later on, so I got to catch him then. I think he was filling in for some band called Trashatouille, who couldn’t be arsed to turn up and attempt to play their own acoustic effort.
First band on the indoor main stage was Scarfoot, and they made a hell of an impression. A three-piece band, they add an extra edge to their already formidable musicianship with the use of a 12 string guitar or a Dobro. This gives the band a huge, Zep-epic and individual sound. They all play with a convincing passion and were absolutely enthralling. I’d never seen them before, but had caught singer/guitarist Oliver Carins last year doing a solo acoustic set. Next time, these guys need to be higher up the bill! Scarfoot also blazed all over the acoustic stage later on, with a similarly massive sounding set, even without the drums.
Frank Williams
Next on the second stage: a World Exclusive Live Debut! Frank Williams in his first official live gig, though sadly not billed asVictim of Damp. Frank is a Pentre Fest die hard, an unsung hero who has supported the event and pitched in with Fozzie and Beany from the beginning. This afternoon, Frank graced us with some acoustic covers (nice bit of Floyd) and banter, then introduced some comrades to help with humorous originals such as ‘Beany’s Car is Full of Shit’. Excellent crowd participation helped Frank’s set gallop home as a pedigree winner.
It really wouldn’t be Pentre Fest without these guys. With a line-up change – or should I say, addition – in the shape of new vocalist, Gaz (who used to be the drummer. Come on, keep up!). This latest incarnation of Lullaby for a Unicorn was a refreshed and fun stallion, rather than a lame pony. There’s a little work to do to settle the new line-up in, but it was the same boisterous energy as ever as the Unicorn boys turned Pentre into a beautiful, rainbow adorned meadow. Or blood-soaked battle field of metal mayhem, you choose.
Scarfoot was next on the second stage. I’ve already covered that, go back and read it again.
Despite a tech issue with the bass throwing a wangler with the first song, The Human Condition kept their shit together and provided another surprise. I had done no research whatsoever and didn’t know what to expect. By Odin’s beard, The Human Condition are a megalithic, doom metal colossus! Doom in the vein of Candlemass, or think Geoff Tate screaming for Trouble. Riffs are drip fed, leaving the audience begging for each new note. Add the most powerful live vocals I’ve heard in eons, and you have a force of biblical proportions. I bought a CD. You should check them out NOW.
Back to the Second stage for an acoustic Pelugion set – but we’ll get to them later.
A melodic deathcore band from Manchester way, Portrayal of Ruinn isn’t quite my thing on paper, but fucking awesome live. Possibly the most energetic band on stage at Pentre Fest all day, their combination of gutsy, nasty metal and bouncy, yet ferocious vocals proved a winner. They also know how to pace their set brilliantly – a few mellow sections lull the crowd into a comfy security blanket, only to have it ripped maliciously away. It’s the audio equivalent of a Video Nasty psycho killer – you’re never safe, Portrayal of Ruinn will never stop – and they will get you in the end!
Reading back my notes here, and I can’t make a thing out of them. All I can fathom is that I REALLY liked this band: “Syncolima = great!” is about all I’ve got. They were excellent. Some kind of biker/stoner super heavy rock, they have groove aplenty and massive fuzzed out riffs. This three-piece from Mansfield, Notts were unmissable. New album “Wavelengths” is out soon, you’d be wise to watch out for it.
Wait a minute – it’s that bloke from Bad Earth doing an acoustic set! Yes, it’s Steve from one of Pentre Fest’s favourite bands, backed with the other two ‘orrible ‘erberts, Karl and Ben (so semi acoustic, then?). The Bad Earth songs translate surprisingly well to the stripped-down sound, though they can’t compare to the full force fury of the full trio amped up and going for it. But then, what could? A great set that also included some cruel (ie hilarious) comedy signage behind Steve’s head, it also delivered a much needed bongo workout that was otherwise sadly lacking this year.
Mind. Blown. Thank the trident of Posiedon, King Kraken travelled up from South Wales (a right old trek) to play Pentre Fest, and I’m so glad they did. The Kraken are a huge, boisterous metal machine with crushing riffs and awash with an almost psychedelic lead guitar. My favourite band of the day, despite fierce competition – I made off with some booty from the merch desk and toasted their performance with a tankard of ale. Please check this band out, you will not regret it. Magnificent!
Last year, one man electronica fiend Leatherback was first on the Pentre Fest main stage. This year, it’s a second stage headlining slot, which worked well. Nine Inch Nails comparisons are obvious, but relevant when there’s a cover of a Reznor classic included. Leatherback ripped through a roaring set that went down extremely well with the lively crowd, even though it was freezing outside – receiving a well-deserved, enthusiastic reception.
Pelugion had performed an excellent acoustic set on the second stage earlier, which seems to have been a great way for them to warm up for their main stage appearance. I’ve seen these guys before at Pentre Fest and they never disappoint. Skull smashing mega riffs, born from Sabbath and with a dose of Alice in Chains and early Soundgarden – a stoner/alt metal monster – is what you can expect. These guys are super professional, but with grit and determination that keeps the performance compelling.
Headliners on the final day of Pentre Fest, The K*nts drove over five hours from down Essex way to entertain us. With hits such as that Christmas favourite ‘Boris Johnson is a F*cking C*nt’ and ‘F*ck the Tories’, we knew we were in for a treat. Hilariously, the Green Room reserved for the bands had been double booked with a meeting for a local Masonic Lodge. I wonder how The K*nts and this bunch of blazer-and-badge wearing eighty-year-olds got along back stage. Honestly, you can’t make this shit up. It’s like Phoenix Nights on crack.
A strange choice to headline a metal festival for some, never the less The K*nts put on a top show and had the audience on their side before the first song was even finished. Delightfully obscene, but with a political edge that helps retain a tiny bit of highbrow cred too, it’s like Sham 69 with Tourette’s. Most of the song titles are unrepeatable for a family website like Ever Metal, but let’s just say that The K*nts and their filthy brand of punk rock and humour were a mad but genius way to finish Pentre Fest off. And it probably will be finished off, if those old Masonic dudes have anything to say about it.
Oh, and yeah – Fuck the Tories.
It was my absolute pleasure to cover Pentre Fest for Ever Metal again this year. Huge thanks to the bands, the audience, and the staff at McLean’s for putting this on. And finally, thanks to Fozzy and Beany for daring to dream it up and make it happen.
I just wish Pentre Fest could be every weekend. Or once a month, at least.
OK, I get no one reads these posts about my latest skateboard, but I’m not writing this for an audience. I’m writing it for me. One day, when I’m ancient like Yoda, I’ll be able to look back and have a memento of skateboards I’ve had in the past.
Wish I had at least a photo of the decks I had when I was a kid in the 80’s. That would’ve been cool. As it is, I can’t even remember them all. Not so anymore. Now, I’ll have a permanent record of them all.
For the first time in a long time, I saved up some cash and bought a full, new set up. For a while, I’ve been recycling my trucks (and sometimes wheels) to be as economical as possible. This time, it was new everything – ordered from the very nice folks at Native Skate Store.
Here are the details:
Death skateboards Benson Devil Woman II 8.25″ deck (with free Jessup grip tape)
Independent Trucks 144 Mid Stage II
Death skateboards wheels 52mm
Independent Trucks GP-S bearings
Independent Trucks allen bolts 1″
The set up has been fantastic so far, deck has nice pop and the trucks turn great. I love the graphics by Liane Plant (regular readers may remember I have an 8.5″ version of this deck to go on the wall, and I’m a big fan of Death skateboards). No complaints at all.
Though I’m not going to be able to share this post on Facebook due to the “offensive” graphic…!
Continuing my ambition to document all of my skateboard decks, here’s my latest set up for 2021. My Death “Script” in red got worn out through a load of skating (or attempted skating, ha!), so I needed a replacement.
To take over as my day to day skateboard, I ordered another Death deck, the Benson Devil Woman from good ol’ Native Skate Store. It’s 8.5″ wide, great concave and a spectacular graphic from the legendary Liane Plant.
So amazing is this graphic, that I had second thoughts about skating it.
I already had a Death Patrick Melcher deck that I had bought and was planning to hang on the wall. Fantastic mermaid graphic (by L. Plant again, of course) which I’ve shared before on the Virtual Hot Tub, and I thought it would be great as a display piece.
I was in a pickle: do I set up and skate the Benson as intended, or switch to the Melcher? Both great graphics, great shapes and great boobs – but as classic as they are, I needed something to ride.
As the Melcher Mermaid is 8.25″ wide, that was the final deciding factor. Slightly less wide than the Devil Woman, I felt that this would suit me better. I’ve been right so far – the mermaid feels slightly more “me” than my previous 8.5″ Script deck.
The Patrick Melcher is set up with my Independent trucks and Death wheels – and I love it.
Which means that the Benson Devil Woman will go on the wall as an art piece. At least for now…
Rather than just write a post about my latest set up – as I have done in the past – I decided it was time to shake things up a bit. You see, I’ve inadvertently become a collector of skate art. I don’t have a lot, but I have a few pieces. Though I’m destroying this art on a regular basis, so who knows how my collection will develop – if at all.
Regular readers will already know that I’ve been partial to equipment from Death Skateboards for a long time. UK based company, great ethos, cool and durable products. You may have also seen my previous blog about my Richie Jackson pro-model. That was where the addiction started.
The art for the Richie Jackson deck was drawn by an artist called Liane Plant. I loved it’s detailed, clear and defined lines – a realistic portrait of Richie the master, done in an art nouveau* style. Very clever and quite beautiful. At least it was, till I skated it and shined the graphics off.
Liane has also produced other graphics for Death (along with other skate companies, bands etc). Last year when I needed a new deck, I picked up the Patrick Melcher model, which has a fantastic mermaid graphic. I was all set to stick the trucks and wheels on, then shred it – when I decided not to. This amazing creation will go on the wall instead.
I’m not a deck collector – they’re too expensive – and to be frank, in a house already cluttered with vinyl, toys and other collections, I just don’t have room. The only deck I have on the wall is a reissue of the classic Santa Cruz Rob Roskopp face, drawn by Jim Phillips. If I had the space and the cash, I’d have loads of skateboards on my walls. But for now the Melcher mermaid remains something of an anomaly.
Then this year, I bought another Liane Plant graphic – Eddie Belvedere‘s iron maiden model. Again, another intricately detailed work. It’s bold and grim, a very heavy metal deck graphic melding hot chicks and medieval torture. Totally in your face. But like the other graphics, I love it because of the realism that Liane has created in the characters.
I set up the Eddie Belvedere deck with my Indy trucks and Death wheels, and I’ve been skating it for a while. Great deck, lots of pop, now with a messed up graphic. Never mind, that’s what skateboards are for.
I am slightly regretting shining the graphics on this one though. Let’s see what my next deck will be. I’ll need something to skate, but will I be vulgar and unrefined enough to defile another work of art like this??!
You can see more of Liane Plants work here and on Instagram.
A few weeks back, I got a new deck and (eventually) set it up to ride. I took some photos to commemorate the beautiful graphic and general awesomeness of the full, set up skateboard. Here it is, for our mutual enjoyment.
Again, I opted for a Death deck – and again a Richie Jackson model. Great company, inspirational skater. This is an 8.25″ wide model.
According to the graphic, it’s a Richie Jackson “Collectors Shred Sled” – but this particular baby ain’t going on the wall. Oh no, it’s for shredding, not collecting.
The deck was ordered from Native Skate Store. The merchandise arrived with no problem at all, everything was perfect.
I also ordered a set of 53mm Death wheels from Native. Together with a new set of ABEC 5 bearings, and my previous set of Independent trucks, I was able to piece together the work of art you see here.
It’s a great set up and I’ve really enjoyed riding it so far. No complaints whatsoever. The deck width is perfect for me for me these days, so I’ll stick with that for now. The wheels are rolling well too, I’d forgotten how nice a feeling it is to ride a new set.
These photos were taken a few weeks ago, and this skateboard doesn’t look as fresh as it used to. There are quite a few scrapes from concrete and the number of those marks is growing. But hey, that’s the way it goes. It’s great to skate and that’s all that matters.
Still, it’s nice to be reminded of that brand new, virgin set up in these photos. There’s just something incredibly rad about getting – and skating – a new skateboard. I never get tired of it.
Time for another new deck. I got this Death Skateboards Richie Jackson deck a while ago, thought I’d share some pics of it for posterity.
I bought the deck from Native Skate Store, who provided a really good online service. I requested that it was gripped (as I’m crap at gripping decks) and it arrived all done and looking pristine. It was very affordable and delivered quickly, no pain at all.
Regular readers will already know that I’m a big fan of Death Skateboards. I’ve had several Death decks and I’ve loved ’em all. A very cool company with a rad, individual approach to skating and a great aesthetic – their products are tough and reliable, always up to the job.
This time around I opted for the Richie Jackson pro model. Richie is an inspirational skater who constantly evolves and develops new ideas. His innovative style is just ridiculously creative and constantly forging new ground. Google him now!
The extraordinarily detailed Art Nouveau graphic is breath-takingly detailed, I probably should’ve just kept the deck to put on the wall. I’ve skated it and the graphics are shined from rock’n’rolls on curbs. Should’ve bought two, I guess. Such is the transient nature of skateboard graphics…
This phenomenal art is by Liane Plant, and I think her work is incredible. Some of the best art I’ve seen on a skateboard since the eighties classics. I apologise whole heartedly to Liane for destroying the graphic. It may well be a crime for a skater as bad as me to defile something so beautiful.
So anyway, the deck is 8.25″ wide and I set it up with my trusted Independent trucks and Death wheels. So far, it’s been a blast.
Thanks to all the above, long may you roll!
The Death Skateboards website is here. Go take a look.
Richie Jackson is all over social media, just search – you won’t regret it. There’s some stuff on the above Death website, too.
The amazing art of Liane Plant can be seen here. I need some T-shirts and stickers.
You can visit Native Skate Store for all your needs by clicking here.
And finally, here’s a picture of me being a total dork, trying to ape Richie Jackson’s style, rocking an old paisley shirt. Just thought some of his psychedelic magic might rub off. I bought that shirt back in 1990, knew it was worth keeping hold of… And no, I didn’t really wear the shirt to skate in, I chickened out. As great as Richie is, even I am a little old for hero worship on that level…!
Three days of the heaviest of metal, featuring underground, unsigned bands from across the UK, walking distance from my house. How could I resist?
I’ve been to McLean’s pub in Pentre, Deeside several times over the years – usually for functions such as birthdays. I had no idea, though, that they were regularly hosting gigs of the rock/metal variety. Pentre Fest came out of the blue, but I managed to make it down for Saturday evening.
Pentre is a small area within Deeside, North Wales – and McLeans a fairly well known pub/function place. Take it from me, the fact that Pentre Fest existed was a surprise at first.
As I was late arriving, I missed the first few bands, including the excellent Bad Earth. I’ve seen them a while ago supporting Karma to Burn and they were excellent. A bad start for me, I fully intend to see Bad Earth again sometime.
The first band I witnessed were Pelugion – they were a great introduction to the festival. A metal band with a healthy element of stoner/doom, Pelugion rocked out in a Judas Priest or Megadeth vein. They also excelled when they got into a slower, Sabbath like groove – bringing to mind Alice in Chains or Soundgarden. Really impressive.
Outside the actual venue was a marque hosting acoustics acts. This was proved handy between bands, especially on a sunny day like this when you could sip a beer outside with some live entertainment.
I saw Pelugion again performing a great acoustic set, which culminated in a heartbreakingly good version of Soundgarden’s “Black Hole Sun”. Serious hairs standing up on back of the neck time. Wonderful stuff – the Pelugion singer has pipes indeed.
The names of other acts in the acoustic tent escaped me (sorry everyone), but I did see a fantastic one-man rendition of Tenacious D’s “Tribute”, and a band doing some classic rock covers. And I do love me some classic rock.
Back inside, next up were Impavidus from Manchester way. Their set consisted of some incredibly locked in, expertly performed and aggressive metal. With a sound not too far away from Carcass, the pleasant surprise with this band is the amazing singer, who happens to be female. There just aren’t enough girls in rock/metal, but Michelle impressed with a vocal ranging from slinky Siouxsie Sioux to a commanding metal growl. Excellent show from all of the band, across the board – and a decent bunch of folks, too.
Up next on the indoor main stage were thrash titans Incinery. Their scorching hot set of purest thrash metal glistened with speed and precision. Obvious comparisons would be Slayer at their fastest, with the riffs of Testament or even Sepultura. Absolutely no fucking about delivery and really gripping viewing, Incinery bring back the best of old school thrash and drag it with them into the future.
Amusingly, in a very Phoenix Nights kind of way, whilst all this blistering metal was being unleashed on the main stage, there was 60th birthday party in the next room. Absolutely bloody hilarious! I wonder what Granny made of it…?
But back to the music, and next on the bill were Haerken (apologies for the spelling, I can’t find the right symbol on my keyboard). A different tale altogether from what we’ve experienced so far, Haerken introduced some Medieval themed mayhem with a killer presentation. Dressed like knights or druids etc, their Olde Worlde death fest was brilliantly presented and featured some intricate musicianship. Sharp as a gleaming sword and just as lethal.
Finally, headlining Saturday night, were the exquisitely named Sodomized Cadaver, from good old South Wales. With a band name and song titles in the classic controversy baiting death metal style, it was obvious what we would be getting. The heaviest band of the day, with a brutal rip-your-face-off musical attack, these boys mercilessly slaughtered the gathered metal hordes. Vastly entertaining, their savage yet brilliantly played Metel Angau* was murderously superb.
And that was it. At least for me, as I could only attend Saturday. Next year, I’m attending all three days and YOU’RE COMING TOO.
Awesome live music from the metal underground, Pentre Fest also delivered a great atmosphere and camaraderie amongst some very cool people. Let’s have another!
The Facebook page for Pentre Fest is here. There are links to all the bands over the full weekend – do the research, it’s worth it.
Platinum Al's Virtual Hot Tub 