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Live Reviews

Download Festival

Donington Park

10th to 12th June 2022

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With the pandemic taking a hold back in early 2020, Download Festival became one of the first major festival victims. It was perhaps fitting therefore that the small Pilot version of the event was the first step on the road back to normality last year.

Read our review of Download Pilot Festival

That does mean though that as we head into Donington Park in 2022, it is the first fully fledged festival since the 2019 edition. After three long years, it is finally time for rock and metal fans to convene again on these hallowed grounds.

There are a number of changes this year to the layout of the festival but the best change is the installation of a strange golden orb in the sky. The usual brown flooring has also been painted green. Yes, goodbye Drownload and hello sunburn!

The main changes to the festival relate to the layout of the campsites, parking and transport hubs. Given these new changes, a little extra signage may have assisted seasoned attendees finding their way around, but in general the changes work well. There is a lot of walking required, however there always is at Donington Park however the event is laid out.

Once inside the area the setup is pretty standard if a little cut back with smaller stages, fewer food stalls and no wrestling or other extra areas. But, it’s Download and everyone is just glad to be here.

FRIDAY REVIEW

So then, on to the music! Opening the main stage on Friday are NWOCR favourites Wayward Sons who make the most of their short time on stage. They are quickly followed by Canadians Theory (of a Deadman) who also only have a short time to show their stuff. Thankfully for them they are able to call upon some festival-perfect material as the crowd sing along to ‘Bitch Came Back’, ‘Hate My Life’ and ‘Bad Girlfriend’.

Recently rejigged Bury Tomorrow follow on the main stage and bring the first real taste of heavy to the festival. The band are clearly honoured by the opportunity and try their best to win over the audience, with our first pyro of the weekend helping to add to the occasion. By the time the band leave the stage and a pile of bodies in the audience, the set has to be considered a success.

We go walkabout next and visit first the second stage for a man who has already played Download Festival with both Alter Bridge and Slash, Myles Kennedy. With two solo albums now to his name, Kennedy only grows his legacy with another top class performance.

Read our review of ‘The Ides of March’ from Myles Kennedy

Secondly we head to the Avalanche Stage for something new. American pop-punk band Meet Me @ the Altar have intensifying hype around them, and keeping with the tone of the day they are able to grasp this opportunity with both hands. Expect bigger things from the band in the near future.

As day one begins to draw to a close with catch two of Download’s house bands with Skindred on the main stage and Airbourne over on the second stage. Both bands attract big crowds, because fans know what to expect from them. High energy, entertaining rock shows are delivered by both as fans get to revel in what they have missed over the last three years.

Read our review of Airbourne live in Norwich

Having delivered an incredible headlining performance at the Pilot event last summer, Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes return to Donington Park next to headline the second stage. Carter and co show the crowd what they missed last year with another stunning performance. This band must be considered one of the best live bands on the planet and who would put it past them headlining the main stage in the future.

Read our review of ‘Sticky’ from Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes

Download Festival after all needs to begin focusing on that next generation of headline acts, because many of the old guard are saying farewell. It is the ‘End of the Road’ for KISS, but not before one final triumphant showcase this year.

The band are able to deliver all the pageantry of a KISS show with every party trick played with precision. As the fans walk away with ‘Rock and Roll All Nite’ stuck in their heads, the band have brought the party and night one is closed out in style.

SATURDAY REVIEW

Saturday morning brings a fresh day with the sun still shining bright, but early risers at the main stage are left waiting with opening act The Raven Age almost forty minutes late. When the band do arrive they are able to show their continued growth with a matured performance.

This delay subsequently leads to a 30+ minute lag on main stage times throughout the rest of the day which plays havoc with fans carefully curated schedules. It does mean however that we can head to the second stage and catch the energetic Cassyette who is capitalising on the momentum earned over the last year.

It’s then back to the main stage for the classic rock sounds of Those Damn Crows and Monster Truck. Both bands continue the impressive start to the festival. Clearly every act is out to cast off the shackles of recent years and make an impression.

Both of these bands leave the fans wanting more, which is all a band can do with these early festival slots. It’s probably a good thing then, that these two bands will be touring the UK together later this year!

Up next for us is one of the performances of the weekend from Holding Absence over on the Avalanche stage. With songs like ‘Afterlife’ and ‘Wilt’ seemingly made for festival crowds to sing along to, the band completely own the packed tent during their time on stage.

Read our review of ‘The Greatest Mistake of My Life’ from Holding Absence

Shinedown are also a band that knows how to control a crowd, and they have a large crowd to play with next on the main stage. With a new album on the way, the band incorporate new tracks ‘The Saints of Violence and Innuendo’ and ‘Planet Zero’ into their tried and tested, crowd pleasing set.

It’s then back to the Avalanche stage for another standout performance. This time it’s Creeper on the stage, the band again showing an innate ability to hold the audience in the palm of their hands. Creeper continue to grow and evolve and it will be interesting to see where the band head next.

Read our review of Creeper live in London

We stick next to the Avalanche stage for headliners Funeral For A Friend. Perhaps it’s the fact that we’ve just witnessed two fantastic performances on this stage from Holding Absence and Creeper but something feels a little off for this set. It’s not a lacklustre performance as the band give it their all, but on a weekend full of great performances what is probably a really good one feels a little underwhelming.

There is never anything underwhelming however about Iron Maiden. The band are icons for a reason and their current stage show is possibly their best ever. With Maiden on form and a packed Donington Park in fine voice, this headline set was always going to be one for the ages, and it doesn’t disappoint.

Read our review of ‘Senjutsu’ from Iron Maiden
SUNDAY REVIEW

Now onto Sunday morning, with hangovers taking hold, feet aching and stamina’s waning. It’s up to Wargasm to blow away any cobwebs as they open the main stage, and that’s just what they do. The band are developing into something of a marmite band, but there is no doubting the passion and energy that they put into every performance; and judging by the reaction they go down very well this morning.

Sidetracking from the music for a moment, we commented in our Neck of the Woods Festival review about the cost of food and drink this year. There are no surprises therefore that prices are high at Download Festival, but the quality on offer at that price is disappointing. Inflation is one thing, but shrinkflation begins to rub, and more than one meal this weekend leaves a sour taste in our mouth (figuratively and literally in one case!).

Well, if the amenities on offer are disappointing, thankfully the music isn’t. As we have said, the quality of performances this weekend is consistently high. Both The Velveteers in the Dogtooth tent and The Last Internationale on the second stage are fine examples of this quality from top to bottom.

Massive Wagons follow on the second stage and again appear on top form. As many bands have this weekend, they tailor their set list perfectly for their time on stage and it’s wall to wall bangers as the kids would say.

Tremonti next are more methodical as they display their technical prowess. Mark Tremonti and co are mightily impressive and the audience are equally receptive.

Read our review of ‘Marching In Time’ from Tremonti

We shoot then across to the main stage where Rise Against are another band that fail to meet expectations. The band are an incredible force, but sadly today they struggle to translate from the stage for whatever reason.

Read our review of ‘Nowhere Generation’ from Rise Against

Volbeat have no problems though as they are instantly able to grab the audience. They deliver a career spanning setlist to the delight of the field, which shows just why they have established themselves as potential future headliners.

Read our review of Volbeat live in London

We then find time to dart across to the Avalanche stage one last time as Trash Boat showcase one of the albums of last year, ‘Don’t You Feel Amazing?’. Trash Boat have really come into their own and have the entire tent bouncing along.

Read our review of ‘Don’t You Feel Amazing?’ from Trash Boat

Korn are the penultimate band to play the main stage this weekend and they make the most of their position with one of the best performances of the festival. The band are longtime Download Festival favourites and they evidence today just why that is.

Read our review of ‘Requiem’ from Korn

There is another look at the future next as Yonaka pack out the Dogtooth tent. Those that have made the effort to catch the band are rewarded by an incredible performance from one of the most exciting young rock bands around.

Read our review of ‘Seize the Power’ from Yonaka

Last but certainly not least with have Biffy Clyro who are one of the biggest rock bands in the UK, but seemingly another marmite band amongst regular Download Festival goers.

One thing for certain is that those that chose to the stay until the end are rewarded by way of a sublime headlining performance. Biffy Clyro are another level live act and tonight they deliver a superb closing show fitting of closing this event.

Read our review of Biffy Clyro live in London

Consistent high calibre performances have encapsulated the return of Download Festival this weekend. The event has a special place in the hearts of its fan base and will celebrate next year with a special four day 20th anniversary celebration. We can’t wait!

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Read our review of My Chemical Romance live in Milton Keynes

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News Report

Every week we roundup the best music news from the past week!

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News Report

Your 2022 Glastonbury Festival line-up is here!

Welcome to another edition of our weekly music News Report! Where else could we start this week other than the line-up reveal for the mother of them all – Glastonbury Festival!

Yes, Worthy Farm is set for a spectacular celebration this June which will be headlined by Billie Eilish, Paul McCartney, Kendrick Lamar and Diana Ross.

Highlights on the line-up include Fontaines D.C., HAIM, IDLES, Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, Primal Scream, Self Esteem, Skunk Anansie, Squid, Supergrass, Turnstile, Wolf Alice and Wet Leg.

All the info can be found here.

Read our review of Wolf Alice live in Norwich

Beautiful Days reveal line-up

No Glasto tickets? Well, perhaps your summer lies at Beautiful Days festival who this week revealed their line-up!

Performing over the weekend will be the likes of Flogging Molly, The Specials, Levellers, The Dandy Warhols, Maximo Park, Seasick Steve, Funke And The Two Tone Baby, Billy Bragg, The Magic Numbers, Samantics, Millie Manders And The Shut Up and more.

Tickets and info here.

Read our review of ‘Nature Always Wins’ from Maximo Park

Latitude Festival announces line-up

Another option for festival lovers this summer is Latitude Festival who this week revealed their line-up. Headlining this year will be Lewis Capaldi, Foals and Snow Patrol.

They will be joined by the likes of Manic Street Preachers, Fontaines D.C., Maximo Park, Self Esteem, Bessie Turner, Gaffa Tape Sandy, JOHN and Porridge Radio.

Tickets here.

Read our review of Fontaines D.C. live in Cambridge

2000trees add Creeper and more

The always incredible 2000trees Festival this week grew their 2022 line-up with the additions of Creeper, The Regrettes, Puppy, Strange Bones, Calva Louise, Sick Joy and Gloo.

They join an already packed bill including headliners Jimmy Eat World, Thrice, Turnstile and IDLES.

Tickets are here.

Read our review of Creeper live in London

Boardmasters line-up gets bigger

The flow of festival announcements continue as we press on with our News Report with the latest line-up for Boardmasters.

Playing the festival this year will be the likes of George Ezra, IDLES, Bastille, Kings Of Leon, The Wombats, Self Esteem, Pale Waves, CRAWLERS and Peaness.

Tickets and info here.

Read our review of IDLES live in London

Live At Leeds In The Park adds more acts

Live At Leeds will be hosting an outdoor edition this year and this week the line-up saw a number of huge additions.

Playing the event will be Bombay Bicycle Club, The Vaccines, Sports Team, The Pigeon Detectives, The Snuts, Dream Wife, The Mysterines, Lauran Hibberd, Kid Kapichi and Zuzu.

Tickets and info here.

Read our review of The Snuts live in Colchester

Bingley Weekender reveal line-up

Bingley Weekender this week revealed a packed line-up for this year including headliners Rag’N’Bone Man, The Libertines and Pixies!

They’ll be joined by the likes of White Lies, Peter Hook & The Light, The Amazons, Sea Power, Lottery Winners, Beans On Toast, The Hara and Asylums.

Tickets and info here.

Watch The Full Pelt Music Podcast with guest Beans On Toast

News Report

Limp Bizkit add additional UK Dates

Our News Report moves on now to the latest tour announcements. We start this week with Limp Bizkit who have added two additional dates in the UK whilst also moving their existing dates to September.

Tickets are here.

Read our review of ‘Still Sucks’ from Limp Bizkit

Salem announce new UK Tour

This week also saw Salem announce a new UK Tour set for April. ‘The Unholy Communion’ Tour will feature guests Bad Nerves and includes a dates at The Underworld in Camden.

Tickets are here.

Read our review of Salem live in Norwich

Von Hertzen Brothers announce UK Tour

Also stopping in at The Underworld in Camden will be Von Hertzen Brothers who this week announced a UK Tour to take place in May.

The tour will be in support of new album ‘Red Alert In The Blue Forest’ which arrives on March 18th.

Pre-order the album and grab your tickets here.

Listen to ‘All of a Sudden, You’re Gone’ from Von Hertzen Brothers on our ‘Hard & Heavy’ Spotify Playlist

News Report

Red Hot Chili Peppers debut ‘Poster Child’

Red Hot Chili Peppers – ‘Poster Child’

New music releases take centre stage now in our News Report, and we start with global superstars Red Hot Chili Peppers. This week the band debuted new single, ‘Poster Child’, which you can listen to above.

The track comes ahead of new album, ‘Unlimited Love’, which arrives April 1st.

Pre-order your copy here.

Listen to ‘Black Summer’ from Red Hot Chili Peppers on our Spotify Hot List!

Placebo unveil new single ‘Happy Birthday In The Sky’

Placebo – ‘Happy Birthday In The Sky’

Another huge act readying the release of a new album is Placebo. This week they released their latest single, ‘Happy Birthday In The Sky’, which you can listen to above.

Commenting on the track frontman Brian Molko says:

“Happy Birthday In The Sky for me, is one of the more heartbreaking moments on the album. Happy Birthday In The Sky is a phrase that I’ve been using for quite some time.  When I say, happy birthday to people who aren’t with us anymore, it communicates the kind of heartbreak that we’re really, really good at communicating I think. You know that sense of loss, that sense of desperation. It’s as if a part of your body and your soul has been ripped from you unfairly. And you pine and you pine, and you wait.

What I am thinking is that this is kind of so visceral and so intense emotionally that it’s really going to communicate something very powerful to the listener. And that’s basically all I’m interested in. At what cost? Who cares. As long as the song really, really moves people, then whatever sacrifices you have to make in order to get there are fine with me. It’s not such a bad thing to inhabit these emotions – you’re very, very much alive and in the moment while you’re doing so.”

Their new album, ‘Never Let Me Go’ arrives on March 25th.

Pre-order your copy here.

Listen to ‘Beautiful James’ from Placebo on our Spotify Hot List!

Puppy debut ‘Shame’

Puppy – ‘Shame’

Another new track to enjoy this week came from Puppy as the band debuted ‘Shame’, which you can listen to above.

The band will release their new album, ‘Pure Evil’ on May 6th.

Pre-order your copy here.

Listen to ‘…And Watched It Grow’ on our ‘Hard & Heavy’ Spotify Playlist

October Drift debut ‘Insects’

October Drift – ‘Insects’

A couple of bands next who we recently featured on our ‘Discover’ New Music Playlist on Spotify. Firstly October Drift who returned with new track, ‘Insects’ this week which you can listen to above.

Regarding ‘Insects’ vocalist and guitarist Kiran Roy says, “It’s a coming-of-age song, about feeling life pull you in different directions. It’s about growing up but finding yourself smaller and more up against it than ever. I wrote the lyrics after visiting the Kelvingrove museum in Glasgow and seeing all the Victorian butterflies and beetles pinned up on display.”
 
The latter is reflected in lyrics of the powerful chorus as Kiran sings, “We’re still insects pinned to walls, trying to crawl, trying to crawl”.

More from October Drift here.

Listen to ‘Airborne Panic Attack’ from October Drift on our ‘Discover’ New Music Playlist

James and the Cold Gun debut ‘It’s Mutual’

James and the Cold Gun – ‘It’s Mutual’

The second of those ‘Discover’ New Music bands in our News Report this week is James and the Cold Gun who this week released new track ‘It’s Mutual’, which you can check out above.

More from the band here.

Listen to ‘Plug Me In’ from James and the Cold Gun on our ‘Discover’ new Music Playlist

News Report

Speaking of our ‘Discover’ New Music’ Playlist, let’s see who has been added this week!

‘Don’t Come Back’ – Guise

The first track added to the playlist this week is the brand new single from Guise. You can check out ‘Don’t Come Back’ now on the playlist.

The single comes ahead of their debut album, ‘Youngest Daughter’ which will be released through Xtra Mile Recordings on April 29th.

‘Lies’ – Cosmic Ninja

The next band added this week is Cosmic Ninja with their track ‘Lies’. The single features on their forthcoming new EP, ‘Dissident Transmission’ which arrives on April 8th.

Commenting on the track, the band said: “‘Lies’ is about the dishonesty and corruption rife in UK politics. The endless lies and lack of integrity has reached an extreme level—we are fearful of the consequences and the damage it is doing to society. Politics has lost sight of trying to make a better place for everyone and, instead, those with influence climb to the top and pull up the ladder by any means necessary.” 

“In most lines of work, you would be held accountable for lies, but, for politicians, it seems acceptable practice; a tool that is extremely effective in misleading and wrongly influencing public opinion. This song is about calling out those lies, seeing through the misconception and positively challenging those walking blindly through corruption.”

‘Love Kills The Demons’ – Krush Puppies

Finally this week we have added the new track from Krush Puppies, ‘Love Kills The Demons’. The band will release their debut EP of the same name on May 6th.

It’s an acknowledgment from vocalist and bassist Alexa about the night terrors she had for years, where she’d be up all night seeing shapes in the darkness. Then she met someone and suddenly it all went away as if his presence made her feel safe.

Alexa explains, “This faceless shadowy figure would sit at the end of the bed and wake me by pushing on my chest so that I was gasping for air. I used to be up all night, then I met someone and suddenly I started sleeping all the way through, soundly next to him. I guess I suddenly felt safe, which feels very soppy now I’m having to write it down. But I can’t describe this overwhelming sense of peace that I felt almost instantly. I came into the studio with the chords and melody, then we all finished it that day. A few weeks later we recorded it with John Bisset, and Jenny and I sang the whole song together in unison, so our voices kind of blended to make one. It almost sounds like a whole new band member.”

Thus concludes our weekly News Report. Remember to also check out our ‘Discover’ New Music Podcast. We released two more episodes this week with recently Playlisted acts as guests. Our chats with both Daytime TV and PET NEEDS are available now.

Audio Options here

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Watch our ‘Discover’ New Music Podcast with guests Daytime TV

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Magazine

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Every week we roundup the best music news from the past week

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News Report

Download Festival line-up grows

News Report

Welcome to a bumper edition of our weekly music News Report! A plethora of festival announcements to get through this week, so let’s get start with Download Festival!

New additions this week included Skindred, SKYND, Dirty Honey, Kid Brunswick, The Velveteers and the incredible Yonaka.

They join a massive line-up headlined by Kiss, Iron Maiden and Biffy Clyro. Other highlights include A Day To Remember, Korn, Shinedown, Volbeat, Rise Against, The Pretty Reckless, Airbourne, The Darkness, Funeral For A Friend, Creeper, Boston Manor, Trash Boat, Holding Absence and many more.

Tickets and info here.

Read our review of Creeper live in London

Teenage Cancer Trust announce annual Royal Albert Hall shows

News Report

Incredible one off gigs in aid of a fantastic charity in an amazing venue. That’s the annual Teenage Cancer Trust shows at the Royal Albert Hall.

This year acts include Don Broco, Yungblud, Madness, The Who, Liam Gallagher and Ed Sheeran.

Tickets are here.

Read our review of ‘Amazing Things’ from Don Broco

Community Festival to return to Finsbury Park

This week also saw the announced return of Community Festival to London’s Finsbury Park.

The bill will include Two Door Cinema Club, The Wombats, Nothing But Thieves, Circa Waves, Pale Waves, Kid Brunswick and more.

Tickets and here.

Read our review of ‘Fix Yourself, Not the World’ from The Wombats

Y Not Festival announce 2nd wave of acts

This week also saw Y Not Festival reveal their second wave of acts including Thursday headliners The Kooks!

Also added this week were Jake Bugg, The Hunna, We Are Scientists, Blood Red Shoes, The Mysterines, Noisy, Daytime TV, MarthaGunn and more.

They’ll join the likes of Stereophonics, Manic Street Preachers, Nothing But Thieves, Levellers, Pale Waves, Dinosaur Pile-Up, Black Honey, Yard Act, The Futureheads, Dream Wife, Beans On Toast, Lauran Hibberd, REWS and many more.

Tickets here.

Watch Beans On Toast on The Full Pelt Music Podcast

Slam Dunk Festival update line-up

Slam Dunk Festival updated their line-up this week following a couple of drop-outs. Joining the bill are Streetlight Manifesto, Stand Atlantic, Cassyette, MC Lars and more.

The event will also feature Sum 41, Alexisonfire, Neck Deep, Dropkick Murphys, Beartooth, The Used, Deaf Havana, Hot Milk, Cancer Bats, Nova Twins and many more.

Tickets are here.

Read our review of ‘Below’ from Beartooth

Splendour Festival adds second day

Nottingham’s Splendour Festival this week revealed the event will stretch to two days this year with acts including Richard Ashcroft, Supergrass, Razorlight, The Magic Numbers, Ocean Colour Scene and Happy Mondays.

Tickets are here.

Listen to The Full Pelt Music Podcast

New festival Wide Skies & Butterflies set for North Norfolk

A brand new music festival is heading to the Raynham Estate in North Norfolk. Taking place this August, Wide Skies & Butterflies will feature headline sets from The Vaccines, Hot Chip and James!

They’ll be joined by the likes of Editors, Everything Everything, Levellers, Scouting For Girls, Natalie Imbruglia, Toploader, Lauran Hibberd and MarthaGunn.

Tickets and info here.

Listen to our ‘Discover’ New Music Podcast

Gateways Festival reveals line-up

Our smorgasbord of festival goodness continues with Gateways Festival who revealed their line-up this week including headliners Jake Bugg and The Charlatans.

Also onboard for the event are The Subways, Ash, The Sherlocks, Dream Wife, Lottery Winners and many more.

Tickets and info here.

Read our review of The Subways live in Norwich

Suffolk gets new Festival

Suffolk also has a new festival to enjoy this August as At Ease debuts in Euston Park.

The event will feature Kaiser Chiefs, Jake Bugg, Happy Mondays, Natalie Imbruglia and more.

Tickets are here.

What’s your Origin Story?

News Report

The Wombats announce extra tour dates

We move our News Report on now to the latest tour announcements.

The Wombats this week announced a load of additional dates for their upcoming UK Tour.

Tickets are here.

Read our review of ‘Nothing’s On But Everyone’s Watching’ from Daytime TV

James Bay announces new tour

Also announcing new tour dates this week was James Bay who will be hitting the road this Spring.

Tickets are here.

Listen to our Spotify Hot List

Nick Alexander Memorial Trust shows featuring Pet Needs and more

The Nick Alexander Memorial Trust has revealed the NAMT On The Road tour for next month with headliners Pet Needs.

They’ll be joined at select shows by BERRIES, Ghosts of Men and Paul Henshaw.

Tickets are here.

Watch our ‘Discover’ New Music Podcast

Static Dress announce headline tour

The last tour announcement in our News Report is a hot one from Static Dress who will play a run of headline shows this April.

Tickets are here.

Listen to ‘sober exit(s)’ from Static Dress on our ‘Discover’ New Music Playlist

News Report

Florence + The Machine return with ‘King’

Florence + The Machine – ‘King’

Our News Report turns now to the latest new releases and this week saw the return of Florence + The Machine.

You can listen to the new single, ‘King’, above now and stay up to date with what else is coming here.

Listen to ‘King’ on our Spotify Hot List

Bowling For Soup debut ‘I Wanna Be Brad Pitt’ and announce new album

Bowling For Soup – ‘I Wanna Be Brad Pitt’

Another band releasing new music this week was Bowling For Soup, who returned with new single ‘I Wanna Be Brad Pitt’.

That’s not it though, as the band also revealed that new album ‘Pop Drunk Snot Bread’ will arrive April 22nd!

Listen to the single above, and pre-order your album here.

Fatherson debut ‘Better Friend’

Fatherson – ‘Better Friend’

Fatherson continue to build towards new album, ‘Normal Fears’, which arrives April 1st with new single, ‘Better Friend’.

Speaking on the single, frontman Ross Leighton says, “”Better friend is about losing touch with people when you’re growing up and wishing you were better at staying in touch. Sometimes life gets in the way, but if the last few years has taught me anything life is better with the people you love.

It’s an anthem about friendship and an apology for letting it slip. It was the first song that I wrote for Normal Fears in my old bedroom in Kilmarnock and it really felt like the first normal fear I had going into the record. It became this reference point for melody and groove that the rest of the record built on.

I think everybody has felt a bit out of sorts before and gotten themselves into a space where they lose touch with people that are close to them. This song for me is a reminder to just get back in touch and start to rebuild. I love it!”

Listen to the track above and pre-order your album here.

Listen to ‘End Of The World’ from Fatherson on our Spotify Hot List!

Bob Vylan unveil ‘Health Is Wealth’

Bob Vylan – ‘Health Is Wealth’

One of the most important artists emerging over the last couple of years Bob Vylan have continued to preview their upcoming album ‘Bob Vylan Presents The Price Of Life’.

The album arrives April 22nd and can be pre-ordered here. Before then you can check out the latest single, ‘Health Is Wealth’ above.

Listen to ‘New England’ from Kid Kapichi & Bob Vylan on our Spotify Hot List!

News Report

Our final News Report section highlights our latest additions to our ‘Discover’ New Music Playlist.

‘THE ANGEL – LOUIS DUNFORD

North London singer/songwriter Louis Dunford shares brand new single ‘The Angel’ from his forthcoming second EP ‘The Popham’.

Speaking about the track Louis says: ‘I wrote this song about my home town. Anyone who’s lived in North London as long as I have will recognise the people and the places I’m talking about in the lyrics. Some that are still here and some that are not. It’s my family and friends favourite song I’ve ever written. Everyone’s London is different. I tried my best to capture ours’ .

‘GIVE IT TO ME’ – CLASSLESS ACT

Los Angeles rockers Classless Act will be joining huge tours with both Dorothy and the Motley Crue/Def Leppard/Poison/Joan Jett Stadium US Tour on their schedule. Check out recent single ‘Give It To Me’ on our Playlist.

IT’S ART’ – BLACKGOLD

Described as masked misfits bringing nu-metal vibes, the mysterious Blackgold emerged from the shadows this week with debut single, ‘It’s Art’.

Check out all tracks on our ‘Discover’ New Music Playlist’, and remember to also check out our ‘Discover’ New Music Podcast wherever you listen to or watch your Podcasts. We have multiple Episodes coming this week and just talked with recent Playlisted acts Youth Illusion and Scruffy Bear!

Read our review of ‘A Mouthful Of Magnificent Spite’ from Salvation Jayne

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Features

The Year In Review 2021

The Year In Review 2021

Full Pelt Music looks back on 2021 for our Year In Review

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2020 was a year that we all wish we could forget. Could 2021 be any better? Well, it started off just as the previous year ended; with the live music industry on its knees. Lockdown restrictions still ruled out any live in person shows, with even socially distanced shows initially outlawed.

Come late spring, things began to look up and a number of “test” events were planned. We were lucky enough to attend the Pilot Download Festival and the euphoria of being amongst fellow music fans in a field can’t truly be put into words. Things were looking up!

Live music would eventually make a full return but sadly as we write this The Year In Review 2021 feature, the sector is once again holding its breath waiting for the Government to take action. Alas, true normality may still be a long way off, but for a few months this year we got to feel alive again.

That alone elevates 2021 above 2020, but there is plenty more to unpack. We recently undertook our now annual countdown of our top albums of the year over on our social media. 2021 was a truly exceptional year in terms of album quality. Those musicians kept in lockdown last year certainly found their creativity and compiling a list of the top 50 albums of the year was highly competitive.

Read our Album of the Year 2021 feature

In our The Year In Review 2021 article, we will be revealing our end of year award winners. As with last year we will announce our Album of the Year, Single of the Year, Artist of the Year, Gig of the Year and Festival of the Year.

This year however we have an additional award to hand out. 2021 was a big year for Full Pelt Music, our first full year in existence. We’ve grown and we’ve enhanced our focus on new music. We launched initially our ‘Discover’ New Music Playlist on Spotify through which we highlight the best up and coming artists.

We also launched not one but two Podcasts this year, including the accompanying ‘Discover’ New Music Podcast where we truly shine the spotlight on your new favourite acts. As such, this year we will also be awarding the ‘Discover’ New Artist of the Year award!

Before we get to those awards though, let’s run you through a few of our highlights this year. First of all, as mentioned we also launched The Full Pelt Music Podcast this year. Fittingly our inaugural guest was Frank Turner, the winner of both our Gig of the Year and Artist of the Year awards in our 2020 Year In Review.

Across the Podcasts this year we’ve had the pleasure to talk with Press To Meco, Beans On Toast, Miss Vincent, Planet Fatale, Mercutio, Light By The Sea, Freddie and the Fabs, The Damned Few, Project Renegade, Icarus and Smoke! Be sure to check out these conversations, and also to Subscribe on Youtube or wherever you listen to your Podcasts. After all, we will have plenty more for you to enjoy in 2022.

The Music Industry has seized on the opportunity to entertain this year both live and on record. We’ve reviewed 66 albums, 2 festivals and 27 gigs in 2021 as fans have been treated to incredible releases and some truly stunning live shows. Again, perhaps the enforced break has allowed creativity to breed innovation.

So with that in mind, let’s work through those award catagories!

Album of the Year

As we’ve already referenced, the pure quality of releases this year made compiling our Top 50 Album of the Year List very tricky. It was hard work but we did it, and you can read the full list here.

The quality is demonstrated best by last year’s winners IDLES only reaching a still respectable number 7. The winner however had to be ‘Blue Weekend’ from the incredible Wolf Alice who continue to go from strength to strength. After three stunning albums, there is no ceiling for this band and we can’t wait to catch songs from the album live in 2022.

Winner:

‘Blue Weekend’ by Wolf Alice

The Contenders:

‘Written & Directed’ by Black Honey, ‘Typhoons’ by Royal Blood, ‘Seize the Power’ by Yonaka and ‘Transmute’ by Press To MECO

Previous Winners:

2020 – ‘Ultra Mono’ by IDLES

Single of the Year

We move on now to our award for the Single or Song of the Year. This year has again seen us locked down for considerable amounts of time and many will have sought solace in Playlists such as our Spotify Hot List.

In selecting our track of the year we considered which songs we’ve come back to time and time again, which songs remain as fresh now as they did on first listen and what songs simply just resonate on a different level.

Our winner is an incredible track from the fantastic album ‘Transmute’ from Press To MECO. ‘A Test Of Our Resolve’ ticks all of the criteria and also sounds absolutely massive live.

Press To MECO – ‘A Test Of Our Resolve’
Winner:

‘A Test Of Our Resolve’ by Press To MECO

The Contenders:

‘My Town’ by Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes, ‘Afterlife’ by Holding Absence, ‘Midnight’ by Creeper and ‘Haven’t Been Doing So Well’ by Frank Turner

Previous Winners:

2020 – ‘Obey’ by Bring Me The Horizon feat. Yungblud

Artist of the Year

Artist of the Year now and for this award we look for somebody who has had a huge, perhaps even career-defining year. Last year we gave the award to Frank Turner for his incredible work for the #SaveOurVenues campaign through his Independent Venue Love series.

This year our winners are a band that also dabbled with livestreams during that first lockdown. This year however has been a hugely important year for Biffy Clyro. A new album, ‘A Myth of the Happily Ever After’ came hot on the heels of last year’s ‘A Celebration of Endings’. It’s another quality album from a band that continue to deliver consistently great music.

The band also had a huge impact on the live music scene this year. Firstly, the band rode to the rescue by stepping in as late replacements for Queens of the Stone Age to once again headline Reading and Leeds Festivals.

Secondly, the band played huge outdoor shows in Cardiff, Glasgow and Margate to help signal the return of live music after around 16 months of lockdown. Highlights of both their Reading and Glasgow performances aired on the BBC.

Lastly, the band played a completely sold out and very intimate ‘Fingers Crossed’ Tour across the UK. Their shows this year giving fans an opportunity to witness songs from not one but two albums live for the first time.

Biffy Clyro – ‘A Hunger In Your Haunt / Unknown Male 01’
Winner:

Biffy Clyro

The Contenders:

Enter Shikari, Bring Me The Horizon, Creeper and Wolf Alice

Previous Winners:

2020 – Frank Turner

Festival of the Year

Festivals made a belated return from lockdown restrictions in late summer, although the majority of the usual seasons events were still cancelled. For our Festival of the Year however we can’t look anywhere other than the special event that laid the groundwork for all events to return, the Download Pilot Festival!

Back in June the Government test event was the first opportunity for music fans to camp in a field and rock out for three days. The camaraderie and atmosphere this situation created, combined with the uniquely intimate Download layout and line-up made for a once in a lifetime experience.

British bands took centre stage and delivered an incredible weekend of music; with bands and fans both desperate to experience live music again. Thanks to all involved we can hopefully experience a full fat Download Festival again this summer.

Read our review of the Download Pilot Festival!

Winner:

Download Pilot Festival

The Contenders:

Reading Festival and Lost Evenings

Previous Winners:

2020 – Wild Fields Festival

Gig of the Year

Last year’s winner of Gig of the Year was a socially distancing outdoor affair, this year however true live music returned! Picking a winner this year is difficult because the pent up frustration of lockdown on both musicians and fans vented fully across some amazing gigs.

We reviewed 27 of those shows this year and there were some very special moments amongst them. The winner however must go to Bring Me The Horizon who stormed the O2 Arena with You Me At Six and Nova Twins in tow.

The night was a massive middle finger to any remaining doubters and the band solidified themselves not just as arena fillers but as festival headline ready. Fitting therefore that they have recently been revealed as headliners for Reading & Leeds Festivals next year.

Read our review of Bring Me The Horizon live in London

Winner:

Bring Me The Horizon @ O2 Arena

The Contenders:

Creeper @ O2 Kentish Town Forum, Idlewild @ Electric Brixton, The Offspring @ Wembley Arena, Biffy Clyro @ O2 Kentish Town Forum, Vukovi @ Norwich Waterfront Studio and Royal Blood @ Norwich UEA

Previous Winners:

2020 – Frank Turner @ Nottingham Arboretum

‘Discover’ New Artist of the Year

Our final award is a new award for this year where we shift focus on to the future. Having launched our ‘Discover’ New Music Playlist and Podcast this year we wanted to honour an act that we have featured and for whom the future is bright.

With their debut album ‘A Funeral For Youth’ cracking our top 20 for the year, Miss Vincent take the inaugural ‘Discover’ New Artist of the Year award!

Miss Vincent – ‘Rosaline’
Winner:

Miss Vincent

The Contenders:

Planet Fatale, Dead Nature and Thumper

So, it hasn’t been a usual year again, in fact at times it has been just as hard as 2020. 2021 has however reminded us of what we were missing. Stunning new music, incredible live shows and a return to some normality (nobody say ‘new’ normal!), make 2021 a year that will live long in the memory for many reasons.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our The Year in Review 2021 feature and we wish you a very Happy New Year. Here’s hoping 2022 is a good one!

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Features

Album of the Year 2021

Album of the Year 2021

We countdown our Top 50 Albums of 2021

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2021 has been another tough year to live through. There have been some signs of normal life, for example the return of live music, but we end it as we started with true normality a distant memory.

This year has however been a stunning year for new music releases. Yes, lockdown musicians and the odds are their creativity will take over. In Full Pelt Music’s first full year of existence we have reviewed 65 albums and the quality of those releases has been exceptional.

Last year we counted down our Top 20 albums of the year, with a special Advent Calendar countdown on our Twitter. This year we have expanded! Our 2021 countdown has taken place across all our social platforms, and has listed our Top 50 albums of the year!

With that social media countdown completed, it’s now time to compile our completed Top 50 in one place. So let’s get started!

Album of the Year 2021
What we said:

“there are stunning moments spread throughout the album”

Read our review of ‘Lo! Soul’

Check out:
Roddy Woomble – ‘Architecture in LA’
Album of the Year 2021
What we said:

“there are plenty of songs on this album that rate amongst the best that the band has produced”

Read our review of ‘Waiting For Good Luck’

Check out:
The Treatment – ‘Rat Race’
Album of the Year 2021
What we said:

“Garbage are an incredible musical force”

Read our review of ‘No Gods No Masters’

Check out:
Garbage – ‘No Gods No Masters’
Album of the Year 2021
What we said:

“we have thrashing guitars, thumping drums, bizarre lyrics and plenty of bells and whistles to emphasise his brilliantly quirky musicianship”

Read our review of ‘The Lunar Injection Kool Aid Eclipse Conspiracy’

Check out:
Rob Zombie – ‘The Triumph of King Freak (A Crypt of Preservation and Superstition)’
Album of the Year 2021
What we said:

“was anybody craving a new album from The Offspring in 2021? Perhaps not, but actually in this messed up world we live in, maybe, just maybe, we needed it!”

Read our review of ‘Let The Bad Times Roll’

Check out:
The Offspring – ‘Let The Bad Times Roll’
Album of the Year 2021
What we said:

“this is an artist pouring all of their self into their creation and discovering magic”

Read our review of ‘Watch Me Break Apart’

Check out:
Dead Nature – ‘Watch Me Break Apart’
Album of the Year 2021
What we said:

“this record manages to encapsulate the sound that the band has nurtured over the past few years both on record and in the live setting”

Read our review of ‘How to Ruin Your Life’

Check out:
Paris Youth Foundation – ‘The Back Seat’
Album of the Year 2021
What we said:

“remind you how gloriously heavy yet anthemic the band can get”

Read our review of ‘The Bitter Truth’

Check out:
Evanescence – ‘Use My Voice’
Album of the Year 2021
What we said:

“it won’t take long for people to stop and take notice of this great young band”

Read our review of ‘Fractured Party Music’

Check out:
Pet Needs – ‘Toothpaste’
What we said:

“this is Volbeat at their very best”

Read our review of ‘Servant of the Mind’

Check out:
Volbeat – ‘Shotgun Blues’
Album of the Year 2021
What we said:

“vitality shouldn’t be mistaken for relevance and whilst the band may have peaked commercially, they remain of utmost importance to a generation of music fans”

Check out:
Rise Against – ‘Nowhere Generation’
Album of the Year 2021
What we said:

“anybody that had any doubts about the natural talents of this group of musicians, they should now acknowledge a new force”

Read our review ‘The Battle at Garden’s Gate’

Check out:
Album of the Year 2021
What we said:

“over the top, outlandish, brash and most of all fun, the album not only lives up to but surpasses all expectations”

Read our review of ‘Van Weezer’

Check out:
Van Weezer – ‘Hero’
Album of the Year 2021
What we said:

“quality continues to run throughout the entire record and there is very little ease on the throttle”

Read our review of ‘Below’

Check out:
Beartooth – ‘Skin’
What we said:

“another very good release from a band overdue commercial success”

Read our review of ‘Into the Blue’

Check out:
The Joy Formidable – ‘Into the Blue’
What we said:

“a middle finger up at the haters”

Read our review of ‘Still Sucks’

Check out:
Limp Bizkit – ‘Dad Vibes’
What we said:

“a delicate masterpiece from a songwriter of the highest level”

Read our review of ‘The Hole Around My Head’

Check out:
Will Varley – ‘Pushing Against Us’
What we said:

“an enjoyable listen and the band clearly still has something to say”

Read our review of ‘The Ultra Vivid Lament’

Check out:
Manic Street Preachers – ‘The Secret He Had Missed’
What we said:

“up there with the best that Beans On Toast has released”

Read our review of ‘Survival of the Friendliest’

Check out:
Beans On Toast – ‘Humans’
What we said:

“it really is time to stop being surprised by the quality in this band”

Read our review of ’21st Century Love Songs’

Check out:
The Wildhearts – ‘Remember These Days’
What we said:

“the extravagance of the band is what makes them great and thankfully their 7th studio album has it in abundance”

Read our review of ‘Motorheart’

Check out:
The Darkness – ‘Jussy’s Girl’
What we said:

“for their tenth album the band has set out to create their masterpiece”

Read our review of ‘Coral Island’

Check out:
The Coral – ‘Change Your Mind’
What we said:

“a strong debut album that lays the foundations of what will likely be a long and successful career”

Read our review of ‘W.L.’

Check out:
The Snuts – ‘Glasgow’
What we said:

“this is a stunning pop rock album”

Check out:
Pale Waves – ‘Fall to Pieces’
What we said:

“the album is laced with quality and shows the ease with which AFI are able to produce catchy songs”

Read our review of ‘Bodies’

Check out:
AFI – ‘Dulceria’
What we said:

“Iron Maiden doing exactly what you’d expect Iron Maiden to do”

Read our review of ‘Senjutsu’

Check out:
Iron Maiden – ‘Senjutsu’
What we said:

“this is very much Numan at the top of his game

Read our review of ‘Intruder’

Check Out:
Gary Numan – ‘Intruder’
What we said:

“the signature of a band comfortable in their skin”

Read our review of ‘Pressure Machine’

Check out:
The Killers – ‘Quiet Town’
What we said:

“the very thing that identifies their sound is their lack of boundaries, their quirkiness and willingness to experiment”

Read our review of ‘The Myth of the Happily Ever After’

Check out:
Biffy Clyro – ‘A Hunger In Your Haunt’
What we said:

“well crafted and superbly delivered album that is well worth your time and attention”

Read our review of ‘A Matter of Life & Love’

Check out:
Skinny Lister – ‘Damn The Amsterdam’

The quality of this year’s releases has been truly phenomenal as our opening 30 albums attests. The competition is extremely tight for the coveted top spot and that is clear throughout the prestigious Top 20 that follows.

What we said:

“a sublime collection of upbeat, heartfelt and powerful songs that is bound to be stuck on repeat for the foreseeable future”

Read our review of ‘A Funeral For Youth’

Check out:
Miss Vincent – ‘Rosalie’
What we said:

“The Pretty Reckless have solidified themselves in the upper echelons of Hard Rock”

Read our review of ‘Death by Rock and Roll’

Check out:
The Pretty Reckless – ‘Only Love Can Save Me’
What we said:

“you are fully absorbed by the mix of heavy hooks and catchy sing-a-long pop vocals”

Read our review of ‘Dark & Beautiful Secrets’

Check out:
Normandie – ‘Hostage’
What we said:

“Trash Boat have delivered their best work yet and they appear ready to lead the charge for British rock”

Read our review of ‘Don’t You Feel Amazing?’

Check out:
Trash Boat – ‘He’s So Good’
What we said:

“there are moments of grandeur that harness the bands expansive sound spread throughout”

Read our review of ‘The Greatest Mistake of My Life’

Check out:
Holding Absence – ‘Afterlife’
What we said:

“the album attacks your senses and gets your feet stomping and your head banging”

Read our review of ‘When Life Was Hard And Fast’

Check out:
Ricky Warwick – ‘When Life Was Hard & Fast’
What we said:

“Trivium have well and truly earned their place at the top table of metal”

Read our review of ‘In the Court of the Dragon’

Check out:
Trivium – ‘Feast of Fire’
Album of the Year 2021
What we said:

“a stunning release from a band assumedly at the peak of their powers”

Read our review of ‘American Noir’

Check out:
Creeper – ‘Midnight’
Album of the Year 2021
What we said:

“there is a real good mix of sounds on this album which together encompass Kennedy’s various alter egos”

Read our review of ‘The Ides of March’

Check out:
Myles Kennedy – ‘In Stride’
Album of the Year 2021
What we said:

“the power of this album doesn’t just lie with Bennett of course and the rest of the band have summoned even more power and majesty then before”

Read our review of ‘The Hope List’

Check out:
Lonely The Brave – ‘Bound’
Album of the Year 2021
What we said:

“the album really feels like a love letter to both the bands own history and the music of those that influenced the members”

Read our review of ‘Medicine at Midnight’

Check out:
Foo Fighters – ‘Love Dies Young’
Album of the Year 2021
What we said:

“an album packed with rock club dancefloor fillers, designed to get you moving”

Read our review of ‘Sticky’

Check out:
Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes – ‘My Town’
Album of the Year 2021
What we said:

“there are grandiose ambitions spread throughout the album with the band obviously striving for more”

Read our review of ‘For Those That Wish To Exist’

Check out:
Architects – ‘Animals’
Album of the Year 2021
What we said:

“IDLES continue to be one of the most exciting and vital bands around”

Read our review of ‘CRAWLER’

Check out:
IDLES – ‘Car Crash’
Album of the Year 2021
What we said:

“an album of pure, unadulterated, adrenaline-filled pop rock pleasure”

Read our review of ‘Amazing Things’

Check out:
Don Broco – ‘Bruce Willis’
Album of the Year 2021
What we said:

“Press To MECO have always had a knack for creating ferocious yet catchy songs and this album is packed full of tasty rifftastic bangers”

Read our review of ‘Transmute’

Check out:
Press to MECO – ‘A Test Of Our Resolve’
Album of the Year 2021
What we said:

“the band are still able to mix catchy pop melodies with hard hitting beats to create a sound equally at home in front of mosh pits and dancefloors”

Read our review of ‘Seize the Power’

Check out:
Yonaka – ‘Call Me A Saint’
Album of the Year 2021
What we said:

“the duo however manage to amplify these electronic elements without losing their rock attitude and resonance”

Read our review of ‘Typhoons’

Check out:
Royal Blood – ‘Boilermaker’
Album of the Year 2021
What we said:

“a rare talent that have now reinforced their passion and ability to create great music for anybody who wants to listen but without concession on their vision”

Read our review of ‘Written & Directed’

Check out:
Black Honey – ‘Believer’
Album of the Year 2021
What we said:

“this record feels like it comes from a band at the peak of their powers, but knowing this group, they will still have plenty more to come”

Read our review of ‘Blue Weekend’

Check out:
Wolf Alice – ‘Smile’

Well there you have it! What a truly magnificent year for new music 2021 has been. What will 2022 have in store? Remember to discover the best new acts by following our ‘Discover’ New Music Playlist’!

Stay tuned for our 2021 Year in Review coming very soon.

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Read our review of Creeper live in London

Categories
Live Reviews

Creeper

O2 Kentish Town Forum, London

Wednesday 15th December 2021

Creeper

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CREEPER – O2 KENTISH TOWN FORUM – LIVE REVIEW

Since leaving their Callous Heart jackets on the KOKO stage back in November 2018 the normally well thought out plans of Creeper have hit road block after road block.

With their second record arriving during lockdown, this tumultuous period appeared to be ending with their arrival of their previously postponed headline tour. Alas, the show tonight at the O2 Kentish Town Forum in London takes place amid more uncertainty as the pandemic rages on.

Support act Wargasm are unable to play due to COVID and many of the sold out crowd clearly are also missing. The night should be a celebration, but the atmosphere is cautious, there is an impending sense of doom.

Music though is the great equaliser and can take away all of life’s worries, even if only for a while. Opening act Static Dress do a fantastic job of raising spirits and blowing away doubts. The crowd are instantly sucked in and the band capitalise on their short time on stage superbly. Crowd definitely warmed up!

With no Wargasm, it’s straight onto main support for this tour, Holding Absence. Having released one of the albums of the year in ‘The Greatest Mistake of My Life’, anticipation is high for their set. Over the next 30 minutes the band lives up to all of the hype that comes their way.  

An assured and uplifting performance from a band on a massive spike in upwards trajectory. ‘Afterlife’ and ‘Wilt’ close out a short but very sweet set which captures the hearts of those in attendance. It shouldn’t be long before Holding Absence are headlining venues of this size.

Listen to ‘Afterlife’ from Holding Absence on our Spotify Hot List!

Our headliners tonight however are Creeper. The band have battled adversity to arrive at their biggest headline show. Their cult following are out in force, even if the attendance drop reported by the Music Venue Trust is in evidence. The night has a special feel, and if any band can meet the high expectations then it’s Creeper.

Musically stunning and theatrically spectacular, Creeper take their audience on a journey of delight. From the time they arrive on stage to the moment they leave, Creeper exude confidence. This show builds on everything the band has presented since their inception and makes a statement. This is a band at the peak of their powers. This is the celebration that it needed to be.

A mixture of material features from across their career from their debut EP to recent release ‘American Noir’. The evolution of the band is clear for all to see, and so is the effort put into the show.

Read our review of ‘American Noir’ from Creeper

It may have taken slightly longer than expected to arrive at this level of venue, but on this showing Creeper are still on course to progress into even bigger buildings. This tour is a master class from the purveyors of grandiose rock and roll theatrics. Let’s hope that Creeper now get a clear run towards their destiny.

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Categories
Live Reviews

Salem

Waterfront Studio, Norwich

Tuesday 19th October 2021

Salem

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SALEM – NORWICH WATERFRONT – LIVE REVIEW

It’s almost a year since Salem released their debut EP. An EP that was never intended to be released but a pandemic and a lockdown or three saw Will Gould and Matt Reynolds pull the trigger.

Of course, Gould is normally associated with being the charismatic frontman for Creeper. That original EP was born out of the creative process for the latest Creeper album ‘Sex, Death & the Infinite Void’; with Gould looking for a different outlet for some of his punkier output.

Following the positive reception to that first EP it was almost inevitable that another should follow and soon enough ‘Salem II’ arrived. At that point Salem became somewhat more than a creative outlet and more of a full blown side-project from Gould’s perspective. The collaboration between Gould and Reynolds appears to have given them both a new lease of life.

Read our review of ‘Salem II’ from Salem

With two EP’s it was again an inevitability that live shows would follow. So with a band in place Salem revealed a lengthy trek around the UK and tonight they arrive in Norwich at the Waterfront Studio.

Opening on the tour are Welsh rockers James and the Cold Gun. Creeper have always carefully curated their support acts and it’s clear Salem will follow suit. James and the Cold Gun are an ideal opener that deliver a blistering opening set that gets the audience ready for the main event.

The likes of ‘Plug Me In’, ‘Cheating on the Sun’ and ‘Long Way Home’ showcase the quality that the band possess. With great material, confident stage presence and plenty of energy, the future should be bright for the band.

Clearly the future is also looking bright for Salem. Yes, the weight of Gould’s name does some heavy lifting, but there are not many bands who could play a 19 date UK Tour within a year of their debut EP! The fact is again it’s the quality of the material which helps convince people to leave their homes and check out this new prospect.

Listen to ‘DRACULADS’ from Salem on our Spotify Hot List!

With just the two EP’s and a bonus cover of The Damned classic ‘New Rose’ making up the set list, tonight is short but very sweet. Gould is on top form clearly enjoying the change of pace, and the band as a whole are well knit.

By the end of encore track ‘Destroy Me’ it is well and truly a case of mission achieved for Salem. The crowd go home thoroughly entertained and Salem continue to build their own legacy.

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Read our review of ‘American Noir’ from Creeper

Categories
Magazine

News Report

We roundup the best music news from the past week!

Full Pelt Music's Weekly News Report

Every week we roundup the best music news from the past week in our News Report. To stay up to date with the biggest news be sure to follow us on our social channels:

Download Festival 2022 gets bigger

Download Festival News Report

Welcome to another edition of the Full Pelt Music weekly News Report. We start this week with a clutch of festival news including the latest line-up announcement from the monster Download Festival for 2022.

New additions to the line-up include A Day To Remember, Volbeat, Shinedown, Black Veil Brides, Myles Kennedy, Creeper and Normandie.

They join the already announced line-up including headliners Kiss, Iron Maiden and Biffy Clyro! Plus Korn, The Pretty Reckless, Rise Against, Theory, Wayward Sons, Monster Truck, Those Damn Crows and Wargasm all playing the main stage.

The second stage will feature The Distillers, Airbourne, Lacuna Coil, Bush, The Darkness, Skillet, Tremonti, Massive Wagons and The Last Internationale amongst others.

The third stage is set to host the likes of Sleep Token, Funeral For A Friend, Holding Absence, Salem, Boston Manor, Trash Boat, Jamie Lenman and Static Dress. Whilst the fourth stage includes Blues Pills, British Lion, Higher Power and many more.

Tickets and information can be found here.

Read our review of Download Pilot Festival

Bearded Theory’s Spring Gathering 2022 line-up revealed

Bearded Theory News Report

Another festival revealing their 2022 line-up this week was Bearded Theory’s Spring Gathering which takes place 26-29 May at Catton Hall, Derbyshire.

The event will be headlined by Placebo, The Flaming Lips and Patti Smith. Also playing will be The Mission, Shame, Wilko Johnson, Ferocious Dog, Lauran Hibberd, Nova Twins, The Ninth Wave, October Drift and many more.

Tickets and information can be found here.

Listen to ‘How Am I Still Alive’ from Lauran Hibberd on our Spotify Hot List!

Just Push Play reveal 2022 headline act

Just Push Play News Report

Our final piece of festival news comes from Bury St. Edmunds charity festival Just Push Play. The event has just announced that 2022 headliners will be Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons!

Joining them on July 30th next year will be Empyre, These Wicked Rivers and Samarkind will more to come.

Tickets are available here.

Read our review of ‘We’re the Bastards’ from Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons

Alkaline Trio & Taking Back Sunday set for UK Tour in 2022

Alkaline Trio Taking Back Sunday News Report

Tour news now as our News Report progresses. First up we have news from across the pond as Alkaline Trio and Taking Back Sunday reveal a short run of UK shows for next March.

The two bands will play Newcastle, Glasgow, Manchester and Birmingham before finishing the run at Brixton Academy.

Tickets are here.

Read our review of ‘Senjutsu’ from Iron Maiden

The Feeling reveal 2022 UK Tour

Also touring in 2022 is The Feeling who are hitting the road later in the year in October. The tour will support their upcoming new album ‘Loss Hope Love’ that will arrive May 6th.

For tickets and pre-order information head over here.

Check out our ‘Discover’ New Music Podcast!

Supergrass set for Brixton

Supergrass this week announced a huge London show at Brixton Academy. The single date will include special guests Ash.

Tickets here.

Twin Atlantic reveal next phase

Twin Atlantic this week revealed the next phase for the band with a line-up change, new album, new single and special tour announcement. The band will hit the road in May 2022 to celebrate the Anniversary of ‘Free’.

The band also debuted new single, ‘One Man Party’, which you can check out below. The track will feature on new album ‘Transparency’ which arrives January 4th.

Tickets and pre-orders are here.

Twin Atlantic – ‘One Man Party’

Read our review of Twin Atlantic live at Norwich Waterfront

Sleep Token unveil November tour

Our final tour announcement comes from Sleep Token, who will be hitting the road in November for the ‘This Place Will Become Your Tomb’ tour. Support comes from A.A. Williams.

Tickets here.

Check out our ‘Hard & Heavy’ Spotify Playlist

Biffy Clyro announce new album

Biffy Clyro – ‘Unknown Male 01’

The latest new releases now for our News Report. Up first, the news that Biffy Clyro will be releasing a brand new album on October 22nd. In announcing ‘The Myth of the Happily Ever After’, the band also debuted new track ‘Unknown Male 01’, which you can check out above.

You can pre-order the new album here.

Read our review of Royal Blood live at Norwich UEA

Don Broco debut ‘Uber’

Don Broco – ‘Uber’

There isn’t long now until Don Broco release their latest album, ‘Amazing Things’ on September 17th. This week saw the band debut the latest track, ‘Uber’, which you can hear above.

Pre-order the album here.

Read our review of ‘Transmute’ from Press To MECO

Hot Milk debut ‘Split Personality’

Hot Milk – ‘Split Personality’

Fresh from the main stage at Reading & Leeds Festivals, Hot Milk this week debuted their latest track, ‘Split Personality’, which you can listen to above. This comes ahead of their September 10th EP ‘I JUST WANNA KNOW WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I’M DEAD’.

Pre-orders here.

Listen to ‘I JUST WANT TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I’M DEAD’ on our Spotify Hot List!

Wayward Sons debut ‘Bloody Typical’

Wayward Sons – ‘Bloody Typical’

Rockers Wayward Sons this week debuted their latest single, ‘Bloody Typical’, which you can hear above. This track is the latest to be taken from their upcoming album, ‘Even Up The Score’ which is out October 22nd.

Pre-orders are here.

Listen to ‘Faith In Fools’ from Wayward Sons on our ‘Hard & Heavy’ Playlist

Jim Lockey and the Solemn Sun debut ‘Medicine’

Jim Lockey and the Solemn Sun – ‘Medicine’

Finally from our News Report this week, news from the reformed Jim Lockey and the Solemn Sun. The group debuted their brand new track, ‘Medicine’ this week which you can check out above.

For more from the band, head here.

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Read our review of ’21st Century Love Songs’ from The Wildhearts

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News Report

We roundup the best music news from the past week!

News Report

Every week we roundup the best music news from the past week in our News Report. To stay up to date with the biggest news be sure to follow us on our social channels:

New additions for Reading & Leeds Festivals

Reading & Leeds News Report

Welcome to another edition of our News Report, where we roundup the best music news from the past week. We start this week with festivals and the behemoth that is Reading & Leeds Festivals. The twin events take place in just two weeks!

This week organisers revealed that Dinosaur Pile-Up, Loathe and Holding Absence will join a bill already including Biffy Clyro, Liam Gallagher, Wolf Alice, Yungblud, Fever 333, Creeper, Wargasm, Bob Vylan, Yonaka, Boston Manor and Demob Happy.

Check here for more details.

Read our review of ‘American Noir’ from Creeper

Bloodstock Festival drop first 2022 names

Bloodstock Festival News Report

Bloodstock Festival this week revealed the first names for their 2022 edition, before the 2021 edition was even over!

Huge names on the bill include Lamb of God, Mercyful Fate, Testament, Bury Tomorrow, Static-X and Butcher Babies.

Tickets are here.

Read our review of Download Pilot Festival

Biffy Clyro head to Margate

Biffy Clyro have a busy summer lined up as they headline Reading & Leeds Festivals alongside shows in Cardiff and Glasgow. A new addition to their schedule is a special show at Dreamland in Margate which was announced this week.

More information on all shows here.

The Dead Daisies set for UK Tour

Rock collective The Dead Daisies are set for a UK Tour later this year. Announcing the tour, it was also revealed support will come from The Quireboys (except Cardiff).

Tickets from here.

Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes debut ‘Go Get A Tattoo’

Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes – ‘Go Get A Tattoo’ feat. Lynks

We turn to the latest new releases now in our News Report. The incomparable Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes this week debuted their latest single, ‘Got Get A Tattoo’ which features Lynks.

The track will feature on their upcoming album, ‘Sticky’, which you can pre-order here.

Hear ‘My Town’ from Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes on our Spotify Hot List!

Trivium unveil new single ‘Feast of Fire’

Trivium – ‘Feast of Fire’

American metal lords Trivium have this week unveiled their latest single, ‘Feast of Fire’ which you can check out above. The song comes ahead of their new album, ‘In The Court Of The Dragon’ which you can pre-order here.

Listen to ‘Feast of Fire’ on our ‘Hard & Heavy’ Spotify Playlist

Introducing the ‘Discover’ New Music Podcast!

At Full Pelt Music we are eager to put the spotlight on new music. We recently debuted our ‘Discover’ New Music Playlist on Spotify where we feature some of the hottest fresh talent from across the globe.

Now, we are proud to announce the accompanying ‘Discover’ New Music Podcast! Yes, we’ll be talking to some of those bands being spotlighted by our Playlist.

You can find the latest episodes here, or catch the video edition here.

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Read our review of ‘Pressure Machine’ from The Killers

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Magazine

News Report

We roundup the best music news from the past week!

Full Pelt Music Weekly News Report Roundup

Every week we roundup the best music news from the past week in our News Report. To stay up to date with the biggest news be sure to follow us on our social channels:

Slam Dunk Festival reshuffles line-up one final time

Slam Dunk Festival News Report

Welcome to another edition of our weekly News Report. We start off on the festival front with some news from Slam Dunk Festival. All events have been hit hard by the pandemic, perhaps none as badly as Slam Dunk however.

One of the first events to postpone due to the very first lockdown, the event has been postponed multiple times since. Each change has also seen changes in line-up. Some bands have been added, then dropped out and then been added again!

Now, with the event just a month away, organisers have finalised the line-up. That has seen the loss of headliners Sum 41, but the additions of the likes of Creeper.

The final line-up now features acts such as Don Broco, We Are The In Crowd, Creeper, Roam, Frank Turner, Alkaline Trio, Funeral For A Friend, Trash Boat, A, Normandie, Vukovi, Wargasm and many more.

Tickets are available here.

Read our review of ‘American Noir’ from Creeper

Reef announce the ‘Shoot Me Your Ace’ Tour

Reef A News Report

We shift the focus of our News Report now onto tour news and first up is the newly announced ‘Shoot Me Your Ace’ Tour from Reef! The band will be embarking on a UK Tour next April starting in Newcastle and finishing up in Norwich.

Helping to make this tour a must see extravaganza are the always great A. To join the fun, pick up your tickets over here.

Read our review of A from Download Pilot Festival

The Vaccines set for ‘Back In Love City’ shows

The Vaccines News Report

Vaccines have helped the country head back towards ‘normal’ (whatever that is), and now The Vaccines will be helping music venues come back to life!

The National Lottery’s #ReviveLive Tour with the Music Venue Trust sees fans get a second ticket free for lottery players. There are many great acts playing these shows, and that now includes The Vaccines.

Tickets available here.

Read our review of Seasick Steve as part of #ReviveLive

Wargasm announce debut UK Tour

Wargasm

One of the hottest new bands to emerge over the past year, Wargasm, have now announced their debut tour of the UK. The shows are booked in for November this year and tickets are available here.

Read our review of ‘Wargasm’ from Download Pilot Festival

Zuzu reveals UK Tour dates

Another new act hitting the road later this year is Zuzu who will play 13 shows across the UK in December. Tickets for this tour are available from here.

Guns N’ Roses release new music

Guns N’ Roses – ‘ABSUЯD’

We move onto new music releases now in our News Report and another band moving on is Guns N’ Roses. As the band move onto the next phase of their mega reunion, we arrive at a point whereby we get new music from the legendary act.

This week the band debuted ‘ABSUЯD’ which has now also featured in the bands live shows in the United States. Check out the new single here.

Don Broco debut ‘One True Prince’

Don Broco – ‘One True Prince’

Don Broco continue to build towards the release of their next album, ‘Amazing Things’. This week the band debuted their latest single, ‘One True Prince’, which you can check out above.

You can pre-order your copy of the album here ahead of its release on 17th September.

Listen to ‘Manchester Super Reds No. 1 Fan’ from Don Broco on our Spotify Hot List!

PVRIS unveil ‘Monster’

PVRIS – ‘Monster’

This week also saw the unveiling of the latest single from PVRIS as they band debuted ‘Monster’.

Check out the latest from PVRIS here.

Listen to ‘Monster’ on our Spotify Hot List!

Twin Atlantic ‘Bang On The Gong’

Twin Atlantic – ‘Bang On The Gong’

There is plenty of new music releases this week to sink your teeth into. Next up is Twin Atlantic who have just debuted their latest track, ‘Bang On The Gong’.

You can comply with that request here.

Read our review of Twin Atlantic at Download Pilot Festival

Alien Weaponry debut ‘Buried Underground’

Alien Weaponry – ‘Buried Undergound’

Finally this week for our News Report, one last new release to enjoy. Alien Weaponry have debuted their new track ‘Buried Underground’ ahead of the release of their new album, ‘Tangaroa’, which is out September 17th.

Pre-order your copy here.

Listen to ‘Buried Underground’ on our ‘Hard & Heavy’ Spotify Playlist!

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Read our review of ‘Seize the Power’ from Yonaka