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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.

Spider Kitten – Album Review

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Spider Kitten – The Truth is Caustic to Love 

APF Records 

Release date: 27/06/2025 

Running time: 40 mins approx 

Review by: Alun Jones 

9/10 

The wild and wonderful world of Spider Kitten: a place, a frame of mind, an attitude – there is nowhere else like it.  Both welcoming and confrontational at the same time, this band follow their own desires and to hell with the consequences.  There are no rules in this lawless land, just an exploration of whatever realm of consciousness the band happen to be channelling at any one point.  But it all makes perfect sense. 

APF records have released this latest album by Spider Kitten, entitled “The Truth is Caustic to Love”.  Within its sonic walls are a myriad of styles and journeys, encompassing everything from the gloomiest of doom, sludgy grunge, magnificent acoustic ballads and Spaghetti Westerns.  Plus everything else you can think of. 

Now that’s probably the most pretentious intro to a review I’ve ever written, so I’d better back it up with some serious wordology.  The menacing crawl of ‘13 of 6’ is our first destination, its crushing heavy sections contrasted with sparse ambient passages, tense with expectation.  First single ‘The Dose’ is next, coming on like a Death Metal Melvins; followed by the delightful acoustic guitars and Mexican sunset of ‘Sueño’.  Then it’s back to the heavy, with ‘The Spoiler’ sounding like Alice in Chains on a major comedown. 

This contrast in light and dark isn’t necessarily a new idea, but with Spider Kitten, the experimental, melodic and melancholy moments seem more extreme.   

‘Three Shots’ is a central track here, and a personal favourite, with its moody, dusty Ennio Morricone soundtrack vibe.  ‘Woe Betide Me’ and the closer, ‘Guilty’, both have a weeping blues feel and offer some calmer moments.  These songs are surrounded by noisier relations, such as ‘Revelation #9’, ‘Crying Towel’, and ‘Wretched Evergreen’, all of which are gloriously abrasive and aggressive. 

Surprisingly, it doesn’t take multiple listens to appreciate “The Truth is Caustic to Love”.  This is because the heavy is beguilingly heavy and the mellower moments shine in the murk, and together it’s a fascinating smorgasbord of sounds and ideas.  Spider Kitten are beyond easy prediction, best just enjoy wherever they take us. 

You can find out more about Spider Kitten via Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, YouTube, X and Bandcamp.

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

Master Charger – Posthumous Resurrection Album Review

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Master Charger – Posthumous Resurrection 

Octopus Rising/Argonauta Records 

Release date: 02/05/2025 

Running time: 55 mins approx 

Review by: Alun Jones 

9/10 

This is a tough review to write.  It’s tough, because I need to write around 400 words about this release – but all I need to say, really, is something like “do not miss this awesome new album by Master Charger, it’s great”.  There’s nothing else that needs to be said.  So, let’s see if I can pad that out for another few hundred words, shall we? 

Yes indeed, the new release from Midlands, UK based Doom Lords, the one and only Master Charger.  I’ve been anxiously waiting for this to drop, as I became a convert to their cause when I saw these filth hounds live at Pentre Fest a while back.  Superb band.  An unholy amalgamation of Sludgey Doom and fuzzy Stoner with a heart-warming affection for Blues based Rock’n’Roll, I’m proud to wear the T-shirt and be an advocate for this three-piece from hell. 

We start with the rumbling, echoey drums of ‘Thy Kingdom Polluted’, which is quickly adorned by dirty, fuzzy guitars and trippy wah-wah lead.  The riifs have groove and it’s easy to get dragged along and nod that head.  ‘Only My Eyes See, Empires Rust’ follows this with a colossal doom riff that fries your brain, then it’s off on a ten minute plus odyssey with the title track.  Passing through different sections, this monster is the evil offspring of Sabbath and Cathedral. 

After all that full on Doom Metal savagery, even I could do with a little break.  And that respite is gifted to us in the form of ‘Fallen Angel Painted Doll’, an instrumental track that begins with some quite beautiful acoustic guitar.  Starting just like those genius Tony Iommi mellow moments on the early Sabbath albums, though this grows into full band folky ramble complete with harmonica.  Perfect. 

Before long we’re back in real business though: ‘When Hell Rode In’ and ‘Head Into The Sun’ sound like a Satanic ZZ Top jamming Venom songs.  Freaky acid tipped wah-wah heralds the start of ‘The Awakening’, which grows into another filthy groover.  ‘Mass Produced Mass Destroyed’ keeps on bringing the heavy, a brutal track that conjures ideas of both legendary Black bands, Sabbath and Flag. 

Finally, ‘Upon Roads Less Travelled’ cools things down – a short but classy instrumental that is the calm after the storm.  “Posthumous Resurrection” reaches its finale, and what a ride it’s been.  Visceral, muscley Doom Metal with outrageous riffs, thoughtfully composed variations – all the promises are delivered on, tenfold.  The only slight issue here is the lack of a vinyl release, which is patently criminal with an album this good.  But Master Charger have given us a killer album – another one for the end of year Best Of list.  Go buy it, NOW. 

There you go, over 500 words – no problem.  Reviews are easy when the music is this good. 

Check out Master Charger on Facebook, Instagram, Bandcamp and Spotify.

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

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!

The Best of 2025

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Happy New Year, everybody! Welcome to 2026.

As is now tradition here at Platinum Al’s Virtual Hot Tub, our first post of the New Year will recap the most popular blog posts of the last twelve months. This Top Ten covers all of the articles posted during 2025 – from day one to the very last – to give an idea of what you, the reader, has enjoyed most:

10. Berlin Wall – A Piece of History?

A school trip in 1990 brought this item into my possession. But is it a genuine piece of European history, or some concrete with paint on it? Read and decide for yourself…

9. Skateboard Museum – Sector 9 Longboard

2025 was a great year for my skateboarding. In this post, I looked at the Rolls Royce of my skate quiver, the trusty Sector 9 longboard.

8. New Deck 2025 –  Death Benson 

Another skate post, this one a look at my then-new deck and set up. Documented to preserve the memory of how it once looked! This Devil Woman graphic is a bit saucy and very cool.

7. Black Project – Blood Moon  Album Review 

The only album review to make the Top Ten, this mighty Hard Rock/Metal album by British band Black Project made some fine noise. Also featured on the Ever Metal website.

6. North West Doom Fest – Part 2 

A two day festival celebrating the joys of Doom Metal, North West Doom Fest was a fantastic event. This review of the second day, featuring bands from all over, made a healthy showing in the end of year figures.

5. Liverpool Comic Con May 2025 – Part 2

Comic Cons always fare well in these results, though Liverpool was the only one I attended last year. Day two of the convention lands at number 5.

4. Disneyland Paris 

Our family trip to Disneyland Paris in August 2024 made a big splash at number 4. A magical experience, not to be repeated – Star Tours was, of course, the highlight.

3. North West Doom Fest – Part 1 

The first day of this amazing Doom Metal festival in Chester certainly pulled in the punters. Loads of awesome bands, great music – I’m looking forward to this years event already!

2. KASP Gig Review 

Well, whaddya know?! Storming in at number 2 on this prestigious list, my review of this local band has proved popular, much like their excellent set. Hope to catch them again soon.

Which leaves us with our top performing blog post of 2025. The one with the most visits since publishing, the one that’s fired up the internet and brought the world wide web to the Virtual Hot tub. But what could it be?

  1. Liverpool Comic Con May 2025 – Part 1 

Well I said Comic Cons always do well, didn’t I?! What else could it be than Day one of my visit to Liverpool Comic Con, which included a whole bunch of Cosplay photos too. A great day out, highly recommended!

2025 was an incredibly successful year for the Virtual Hot Tub. We saw the highest number of visitors for years (2016, to be precise). Sometimes I wonder why I bother writing this trove of random nonsense, but last year showed me that it’s worthwhile. We have an audience, and you guys love it just as much as we do.

Thanks for reading Platinum Al’s Virtual Hot Tub. There’s no place else like it!

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!

The Death Wheelers – Album Review

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The Death Wheelers – Ecstasy of Möld 

RidingEasy Records 

Release date: 07/03/2025 

Running time: 30 mins approx 

Review by: Alun Jones 

8.75/10 

Mold is a small, quaint market town in the north east region of Wales.  Typical of settlements in this Celtic country, it has roots going back may hundreds of years.  Nowadays, there are numerous good pubs and restaurants and a really good record shop (among many other businesses).  Though why The Death Wheelers decided to write an album dedicated to the town, I have no idea.  Mold is, however, only the English name – in Welsh it is Yr Wyddgrug, which sounds much more metal. 

“Ecstasy of Möld” is a new album by The Death Wheelers, their fourth for RidingEasy Records.  They originate from Quebec, and if you’re not familiar with the band, they create hard rockin’ instrumentals that sound like a soundtrack for a long lost, scuzzy grindhouse flick about zombie bikers. 

Following  the short first track ‘Loud Pipes Take Lives’, which sets out the style template succinctly, we have ‘Homicycle Maniacs’.  It’s a full on, throttle revving gas guzzler not a million miles away from Motorhead or even Entombed.  Other tracks such as ‘Hella Hammered’ and ‘Blood, Bikes and Barbiturates’ are variations on the same inspirations, interjected with samples from obscure motorcycle exploitation movies. 

It’s all very cool, and the instrumental nature of the songs adds a whole different layer of gonzoid escapism.  Some different avenues are explored at points, such as the title track’s outro which shimmers with a surf guitar sound.  ‘The Heretic Rites of Count Choppula’ slows to rumbling doom metal, and the last song ‘Get Laid… To Rest’ ends on a more sombre, mellow note. 

With Ecstasy of Möld, The Death Wheelers have delivered an album that roars along the highway and easily retains the listener’s attention, vocals be damned.  ‘Cos let’s be honest, the singer is always the least important member of any band.  This album has a sleezy charm and plenty of fuel in the tank, I suggest you take it for a spin. 

Check out The Death Wheelers on Facebook, Instagram, Spotify and Bandcamp.

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

N.E.W. Metal Productions All Dayer

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N.E.W. Metal Productions All Dayer

26th July 2025

Mcleans Pub, Pentre, Deeside North Wales

By now, you’ll know my love of Mclean’s Pub in Pentre, Deeside, North Wales – from all the Pentre Fest gigs and so on I’ve covered from there. Thankfully, rather than make us all wait till February 2026 for the next full weekend festival, North East Wales Metal Productions have set up some “All Dayer” gigs at the same, friendly venue to keep us going. Plus, even more live events at XS, Wrexham.

Sadly, two bands had to drop out of this particular event. But no matter: the show would go on! And first up was our valiant comrade, Steve AKA Geordie from Bad Earth, performing a solo set in his Miserable Sinner guise. Now Bad Earth have been regulars at Mcleans for aeons, and it’s always great to welcome them back – or at least, one of them! Much merriment was had as the Sinner launched the afternoon’s proceedings. Key songs were covers of Billy Idol and Foo Fighters tracks that successfully got the crowd moving. Plus, a couple of older, now sadly retired Bad Earth tracks – ‘120 on the 55’ receiving a much appreciated airing!

Miserable Sinner

Up next, a new band on my radar, Fallen North. These boys have had a couple of new guitarists join recently, and if anything, they all seem really energised by the injection of new blood. Fallen North’s sound is a crunchy, riff laden heavy rock/metal creation, with pounding rhythm section, exemplary guitars and off-the-charts vocals. Very professional, yet still crazy good fun, these guys gave us a stunning set and even threw in a couple of cheeky covers (like RATM’s ‘Killing In The Name Of…’). This approach gave Fallen North the chance to enjoy themselves as much as the audience did!

Fallen North

HollowKin had travelled all the way up from the South West England area to play this gig, and it was a trip well worth it. These guys have had an EMQs featured on Ever Metal, so it was nice to actually catch them in the flesh. HollowKin gave us a set of utterly uncompromising, metalcore fury. Part speedy thrash, part bludgeoning, cold riffs and guttural vocals, the band haven’t been together all that long, but you’d never guess. An assured performance and solid musicianship.

HolllowKin

“Some Good Riffs” is an album title by our next band, Melted Messiah. Somewhat amusingly, they took this title from an Ever Metal review a couple of years back. It’s not often I get called out at these gigs, but I did. Luckily, I escaped unscathed! Melted Messiah are in fact a very, very cool blend of Stoner, Doom and Black Metal, and they belched out a brilliantly furious set with tongue firmly in cheek. Their sludgy thrash had many “good riffs” indeed and I became an instant fan of this two-piece of Scottish nutters. They travelled far to be with us, I really hope they come back!

Melted Messiah

Our final band of the evening was Syncolima, headlining the show – and justifiably so. They played at Pentre Fest a couple of years ago and I loved them then – seeing Syncolima agaiin, it’s easy to understand why. A superb blend of stoner rock, grunge and chugging metal, they had powerful riffs and catchy melodies. Heavy music with depth, performed by excellent musicians, means you can’t really go wrong with this Mansfield, Notts three piece. Magnificent stuff, no complaints from me! They’re on tour and come highly recommended by moi.

Syncolima

That’s almost it – but I nearly forgot to mentioned the well intentioned N.E.W. Metal Prod Ozzy tribute that the guys threw in the middle of the evening. With the Prince of Darkness sadly departing this mortal recently, a memorial to the great Oz was nicely timed. Our mates from Fallen North led the tribute, with ‘Crazy Train’ and ‘Mr Crowley’ before a group sing along to ‘War Pigs’. I made sure I got up front for that one, hoping it would be my moment to be discovered, but sadly it never happened. No one asked me to join a band, despite my fantastic performance. Oh, well…

Despite this insult, I had a thoroughly enjoyable time and came away with several new favourite bands. So a good result, regardless. Well done to Fozzy and Beany (and Frank and Kelly!), plus the Mclean’s staff, for putting this show on. More gigs soon – BE THERE!

North East Wales Metal Productions

Pentagram – Lightning in a Bottle Album Review

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Pentagram – Lightning in a Bottle 

Heavy Psych Sounds Records 

Release date: 31/01/2025 

Running time: 49 minutes  

Review by: Alun Jones 

8.75/10 

Pentagram are a band that refuse to die.  With roots going back some fifty years, and every kind of catastrophe from band splits, arrests and hard drug addiction, it’s some feat that we’re here to discuss a new album at all.  Like a bizarre hybrid of 80s slasher movie antagonists, Pentagram keep coming back to life.  Now, with “Lightning in a Bottle”, the band are back: the life support has been thrown on, this time by mad scientists Heavy Psych Sounds.   

The band’s only constant member is founder/frontman/vocalist Bobby Liebling, a complex and controversial character.  On this excursion, he’s joined by a new bunch of musicians who are venturing to keep the name and legacy of Pentagram alive.  Tony Reed is on guitar and production duties, Henry Vasquez on drums and Scooter Haslip handles bass.  All three have sturdy pedigrees earned from other bands, and their contributions here make them light years past being mere hired hands. 

Liebling’s story is both chaotic and scandalous, but this isn’t the time or place to cast stones.  Interestingly, on the track ‘Lady Heroin’, the singer explores the theme of his addiction in a mournful, self-torturing manner.  There’s no bravado here, with Liebling openly pondering on the destruction that addiction has wrought.  Musically, the song marries a solid riff with a forlorn middle section. 

‘I’ll Certainly See You in Hell’ follows this track, with a strutting pace and Liebling wailing like a deranged preacher.  After that we get ‘Thundercrest’ with its ruthless, pounding riff – forming a triumvirate of the best songs in the middle of the album.  Not that the rest of “Lightning…” is lacking: whether its aptly titled opener ‘Live Again’ with its head nodding urgency or the crawling doom fest of ‘Walk the Sociopath’, Pentagram have all bases covered. 

The biggest fear was always going to be Pentagram pissing on their legacy.  They are, after all, one of the great Doom Metal bands that are responsible for the development of the sub-genre.  Absolutely no fear of that here, though: “Lightning in a Bottle” sees this version of Pentagram releasing a reassuringly strong album.  The musical reputation of Pentagram continues to thrive. 

Check out Pentagram on Facebook, Instagram, Spotify or their website.

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

North West Doom Fest – Part 2

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North West Doom Fest 

4th – 5th April 2025 

The Saddle, Chester 

Saturday 5th April 

Following a blinder of an evening’s entertainment for Day the First of North West Doom Fest, I was rested and ready to go for Saturday.  Beginning at an earlier time in the afternoon, I unfortunately missed the first band of the bill, Hand of Omega, who played while I was still travelling into town.  Sincere apolgies for this to all, I must catch them again sometime. 

Arriving at the Saddle, the festivities were well and truly underway already.  A decent sized crowd were in attendance in the rear courtyard, cradling beers and nursing themselves back to full health.  There was no downer atmos that I could discern at all  however, everyone seemed amped for the music ahead. 

Moss Valley were the first band of the day that I actually got to see, and they were pretty damn good.  This three piece straddled a retro seventies vibe with added desert rock Kyuss stylings.  Great riffs and warm female vocals adding to the melodies, Moss Valley really made a huge impression.  It’s tough to pick favourites at an event like this, but MV were definitely contenders. 

https://www.facebook.com/mossvalleyband/

Up next we had a visit from the Pagan lords of the north, Sabbat Wolf.  This Leeds based band featured exemplary musicianship, again with a commanding female vocalist.  What I enjoyed here were the Sabbath worshipping riffs augmented by beautifully tuneful, mellow passages that reminded me of Pink Floyd.  Sabbat Wolf really stood out with these psychedelic flourishes and their unashamed occult theme – their song ‘Pagan Bloody Pagan’ tells you all you need to know! 

https://www.facebook.com/sabbatwolf/

Warpstormer had travelled up from Londonium to the ancient, walled city of Chester. These guys mix full throttle Metal with their Doom, think Orange Goblin rocking out at their trippiest.  It’s a Stoner Metal attack that could have been related somewhere to Entombed or Motorhead, but had enough power and groove to fit in perfectly at this gig. Warpstomer were real crowd pleasers and also really nice guys. 

https://www.facebook.com/Warpstormer/

Get your flat caps on and forget your fear of heights, it’s time for Shred Dibnah!  The world’s premier Steeple Jack Rock band graced the stage of NW Doom Fest, amid clouds of smoke and a pummelling performance.  With a portable chimney on stage belching out clouds, Shred Dibnah demolished the audience with roaming riffs and contrasting mellow sections that added to the hypnotic drill. 

https://www.facebook.com/shreddibnah/?locale=en_GB

Borehead were the next band of the day, and again a different take on the Doom template.  In contrast to other bands, these Londoners were largely instrumental – except for some weird and wonderful samples – with slow, fuzzy riffs more spaced out than Buck Rogers on a Venusian hookah pipe.  Cerebral stuff that you’d assume would be better appreciated on headphones with some refreshment, but it went over very well. 

https://www.facebook.com/boreheadofficial/

I was already familiar with the mighty Deathfiend – I caught them live a while back, and was happily smashed to pieces with their ferocious onslaught.  With elements of Death Metal and even Hardcore Punk in the Deathfiend sound, I wasn’t sure if they’d be too damn nasty for this festival, but they slotted right in neatly.  Outrageously heavy Doom riffs delivered with a fiery intensity, this band are a force to be reckoned with. 

https://www.facebook.com/DeathFiend1/?locale=en_GB

You know how sometimes you see a band that looks so cool, you want to join up?  Kill The Witch were that band at NW Doom Fest.  These guys meld together the Sludgiest of Stoner and Doom Metal, traversing varying tempos and styles but always remaining true to The Riff.  Roaring vocals top off a faster, more furious Sabbath sound that’s not without its clever invention and serpent-like surprises, throwing in some brutal hardcore along the way. 

https://www.facebook.com/killthewitchband/

Finishing off NW Doom Fest 2025 were the mighty Amon Acid. Another Yorkshire based band, their distorted Doom Metal was part Electric Wizard style occult Metal, with hypnotic, psychedelic passages added for kicks.  Yet again a different take on Doom with Hawkwind Space Rock and amazing Middle Eastern sounding passages seeping through the acid drenched fuzzy guitar, Amon Acid were a thoroughly entertaining musical experience, finishing the event in style. 

https://www.facebook.com/amonacidband/?locale=en_GB

And that, kids, was your lot.  Everything was wrapped up in a timely fashion so that the punters could make buses and trains home, all of us with beaming, happy faces – gorged on the joy of The Riff.  North West Doom Fest was a resounding success and I have to say I enjoyed every band I saw.  All of them had their own unique identities, whichever winding track they took from the original concept of Doom.  Cool venue, too.  Now I feel really stupid for not going last year.            

https://www.facebook.com/Thesaddleinnchester/?locale=en_GB