Review - Catfish & The Bottlemen - Cardiff Castle 20/07/2024

After cancelling their performance at the Principality Stadium in 2022, fans feared it might be the end for Catfish and the Bottlemen. However, on Friday, they made a triumphant return to Cardiff Castle!

Friday was the warmest day we've had this year, and fans dressed in band merch were seen all around the city, buzzing with excitement for what promised to be a fantastic comeback. This gig, the first announced after releasing their recent single 'Showtime,' had fans eagerly competing for tickets. It was their second show since their comeback, following their performance at Sefton Park in Liverpool.

The evening kicked off with a set from 'The Big Moon.' Although I only caught the end of their performance, having seen them support other acts previously, I can attest to their ability to set a great tone for the night. Their lively and engaging presence on stage always manages to energise the crowd, making them an excellent choice to warm up the audience for the main event.

As Catfish and the Bottlemen took to the stage at Cardiff Castle, they were met with a huge applause. They opened with the fan-favourite 'Kathleen,' instantly getting the crowd’s hands in the air and setting a high-energy tone for the evening. This was followed by 'Soundcheck,' during which inflatable crocodiles sold at the merch stall bounced around the front of the stage, adding a playful touch to the vibrant atmosphere.

The mid-section of their set consisted of hits like 'Conversation,' 'Business,' and 'Homesick,' maintaining the momentum and keeping the audience fully engaged. My favourite moment was during '2all,' as it’s my favourite Catfish song, and hearing it live again alongside best friends was a nice experience. The energy throughout the set was exciting, with everyone singing along, hands in the air, and many fans perched on shoulders.

Despite a few moments where the energy from the stage dipped, the passionate and consistent atmosphere from the fans never waned. The band closed with an electrifying performance of 'Cocoon,' leaving the crowd on a high note. Although they delivered a familiar setlist, mirroring the one they performed in 2021, and didn't include their most recent single, the night was still enjoyable. Their set began around 9:15 and wrapped up just before 10:40, leaving many of us wishing for at least one or two more songs. The abrupt ending felt somewhat anticlimactic, especially given the high energy and enthusiasm bestowed on them by the crowd.

Overall, it was nice to see Catfish make their comeback, and it made me reminisce about my late teenage years. For extremely dedicated fans, this must have been a great night, but for me, it was the crowd's energy that truly made the evening memorable.

Review - ExTC - Acapela Studio - 20/07/2024

Images - Tony Woolway

2 June 1981, one of UK’s finest bands to evolve from Punk/New Wave XTC played what was to be the band’s final UK live appearance at Cardiff’s Top Rank, promoting their Black Sea album.

It proved a fateful day for fans of the band after the prolific and influential singer/songwriter Andy Partridge’s well documented breakdown meant the band were never to play live in the UK ever again.

Fortunately it didn’t affect the flow of brilliant recordings as the band, almost Beatle-like, transformed into a studio band, that have been a major influence to many of those who followed.

Then a few years ago fans were treated to the rarest of occasions when the returning powerhouse of a drummer Terry Chambers, after relocating to the UK from Australia, hooked up with bassist Colin Moulding for a series of gigs in their hometown of Swindon.

It was a wonderful, but brief encounter as, quickly as he reappeared on the scene, Moulding disappeared back into the shadows after a job well done.

Thankfully, drummer Chambers decided to stick around and with his band of talented brothers, set about more live work leading to a long-awaited return to Cardiff, back to where it all fizzled out many years ago giving fans both young, and now, quite old, a chance to relive what a glorious sound the four Wiltshire chaps helped create.

Along with guitarist and vocalist Steve Hampton and bassist Terry Lines, TC and friends lovingly recreate the sound of XTC with a set pack full of songs that featured in such a long and very creative time for one of UK’s finest ever bands.

Chambers certainly has lost none of the power that helped drive the songs of Partridge and Moulding, proving what an essential part of the sound his drumming helped produce. Certainly with Moulding in tow, the pair where undoubtedly one of the best rhythm sections to come out of new wave, and British music generally.

Opening with the classic no 1 that never was “This Is Pop” and swiftly followed by the classic “Statue of Liberty” the band moved swiftly on to the front foot, dipping into and featuring songs from most of the group’s recorded work through the years.

Hampton in particular took centre stage replicating much of Partridge’s eccentric guitar riffing whilst holding down much of the show vocally. Terry Lines on bass wonderfully reproduced the melodic and quirky Moulding bass lines plus, when required stepped up to the microphone on a few tunes to take the lead, all the while providing backing vocals.

There certainly wasn’t any let up in the pace and following a short break, the band came back with a clutch of songs that blew away the very appreciative audience.

“Sgt Rock”, “Respectable St” and a superb “Living Through Another Cuba / Generals and Majors” lead not unsurprisingly to the bands biggest and best remembered hit “Making Plans For Nigel” .

One of group’s later songs “Stupidly Happy” featured one of the evening’s highlights as one chap kicked off his shoes to perform a David Byrne-like dance performance that beautifully synced with the music, so good that the group would be well-advised to take him on tour with them !

Ending the evening with another single that should have been a massive hit “Life Begins at the Hop” it was a terrific finish to a night of perfection and smile-induced nostalgia. Even the missing members would agree that XTC lives on in the very capable hands of Terry Chambers and EXTC.

By Tony Woolway

Setlist

This Is Pop

Statue of Liberty

No Language in Our Lungs

Love on a Farmboy's Wages

Real by Reel

Towers of London

Paper and Iron

Senses Working Overtime

Jason and the Argonauts

Ball and Chain

The Ballad of Peter Pumpkinhead

Summer's Cauldron / Grass

No Thugs in Our House

Sgt. Rock (Is Going to Help Me)

Rocket From a Bottle

Respectable Street

Living Through Another Cuba / Generals and Majors

Making Plans for Nigel

Stupidly Happy

Life Begins at the Hop

Dea Matrona - Review - Clwb Ifor Bach - 11/05/2024

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The night began with an acoustic set by Eleri, who quickly warmed up the packed crowd downstairs at Clwb Ifor Bach. In addition to her original songs, she delivered a captivating cover of Nancy Sinatra's "These Boots Are Made for Walkin'." which the crowd thoroughly enjoyed, singing along enthusiastically. It was heartening to see the venue full for the support act, a rarity these days but a true testament to Eleri's talent as a live performer. Her performance concluded with a big round of applause, perfectly setting the stage for Dea Matrona. Eleri will be performing next on May 21st at The Moon, with other support slots to be announced. Don't miss the chance to see her live—highly recommended.

Following Eleri, Dea Matrona took the stage, greeted by an eager and energised audience. They started their set with a powerful drum intro that had everyone clapping and raising their hands. The band's high-energy performance and dynamic stage presence kept the crowd engaged throughout, leading to thunderous applause after their opening.

The setlist was a well-crafted mix of their original hits and some well-chosen covers. Highlights included "Stamp On It," "So Damn Dangerous," and the lead single "Black Rain" from their latest album For Your Sins, which was my favourite song of the night. Their rendition of Prince's "KISS" and Sophie Ellis-Bextor's "Murder on the Dancefloor" had the crowd singing and dancing along, showing the band's versatility and ability to keep the energy high.

Prior to performing "Wilderness," Dea Matrona asked the audience if they had seen them play before, with many shouting out that they had seen them in Bristol. The band then inquired if it was anyone's first time seeing them, and a large number of people responded with enthusiastic cheers, highlighting their growing popularity.

Another standout moment was the introduction of "Dead Man’s Heart," where the band embraced a country vibe, complete with sparkly cowgirl hats, and had the crowd shouting "yeehaw." This playful interaction showcased their ability to create a fun and engaging atmosphere.

The evening concluded with a powerful encore of "Make You My Star," leaving the audience on a high note. This was my first time seeing Dea Matrona live, and I've been listening to them nonstop since. Their debut album is sure to be a hit with fans of rock and country. While it features strong pop elements, their music has a unique sound that blends various genres seamlessly. The album is truly impressive. Their stage presence is electrifying, and they deliver a captivating performance with their band. I will definitely be going to see them again. Speaking with a couple of enthusiastic fans, it's clear that Dea Matrona has a strong following. The atmosphere was fantastic, and everyone seemed to have a great time, making it a night to remember at Clwb Ifor Bach.

Set List:

Stamp On It

Get My Mind Off 

Stuck On You

Did Nobody Ever Love You?

KISS (Prince Cover)

Wilderness 

Nobody’s Child

So Damn Dangerous 

Oh Well

Black Rain 

Glory, Glory 

Dead Man’s Heart

Every Night I Want You

Muder On The Dancefloor (Sophie Ellis-Bexter Cover)

Red Button

Make You My Star (Encore)

Keane - Celebrating 20 Years Of Hopes And Fears - Utilita Arena - 08 May 2024

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The evening started with the support act The Lathums who are a indie rock band from Wigan.

They played a number of heart warming tunes and were well appreciated by the sell out crowd.

Keane celebrating their 20th anniversary of their debut album Hopes and Fears played a flawless set of 22 songs starting with Can't Stop Now and ending with Bedshaped.

Highlights included Bend and Break, Your Eyes Open, Everybody's Changing, Is It Any Wonder, This Is The Last Time and Somewhere Only We Know.

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Tom Chaplin is an accomplished frontman and he owns the stage, the other band members  are also note perfect with the both excellent Tim Rice Oxley on Piano and Richard Hughes on Drums.

A Keane concert is not so much about the visual but about the music.

The band known for their likeable demeanour gave their best adding a personal touch to the evening.

Here's hoping to see them celebrating Hopes and Fears on it'.s 30th anniversary.

Review - Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band - Principality Stadium 05/05/2024

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It was a triumphant return to Wales for the legend that is Bruce Springsteen and his E-Street band opening his European tour in Cardiff last night in true ‘Boss’ style with a stunning 3-hour set that left his adoring fans stunned.

I must confess that not being a great Bruce fan, it took some convincing to attend this gig, yet walked away cheerful in the fact that I’d just witnessed one of rock’s greatest ever performers and after all these years I finally ‘got’ what all the fuss was about.

Looking extremely fit for all of his 74 years and backed by the quite brilliant E-Street band his songs played live take on a life of their own played with jaw-dropping intensity and power, almost like a religious experience, worshipping at the Church of Bruce.

Opening with So Young and in Love the tempo was set early on as Bruce and band powered from song to song with little or no introduction. Songs like No Surrender and Better Days were anthemic and incredibly uplifting whist his control throughout, changing tempo and pace showed what a great and iconic performer he’s become so comfortable and at home amongst his thousands of fans, knowing full well that he can do no wrong in their adoring eyes. And he certainly delivers.

His mega band consisting of E-Street Band stalwarts Nils Lofgren, Steve Van Zandt and Jake Clemons ( nephew of the late Clarence Clemons, former E-Street giant) were what you would expect from a band with so much experience and talent, a joy to listen to as they superbly supported their leader through such an exhausting evening.

Sadly, the heartfelt solo acoustic tribute to his friend George, Last Man Standing, was drowned out by inane chatter that tends to be a problem of late at this type of gig. That and the constant stream of people heading to the bar does frustrate but fortunately Bruce was so good that this irritation was quickly forgotten.

Major highlights for me were his cover of the Commodores Nightshit, slotted effortlessly in amongst Springsteen classic like the stunning The River and Because The Night whilst the last 30 minutes of a quite splendid show was one of the best I’d ever seen with both band and crowd bonding for what was an electric finish, from one of rock’s true greats.

Setlist

So Young and in Love

(tour debut, first time since 2013)

Lonesome Day

No Surrender

Prove It All Night

Darlington County

Ghosts

Better Days

(tour debut, sign request, first time since 2017)

The Promised Land

Spirit in the Night

Hungry Heart

If I Was the Priest

(tour debut, sign request)

My City of Ruins

(interspersed with band introductions)

Nightshift

(Commodores cover)

The River

(tour debut)

Last Man Standing

Backstreets

Because the Night

(Patti Smith Group cover)

She's the One

Wrecking Ball

The Rising

Badlands

Thunder Road

Encore:

Born in the U.S.A.

(tour debut)

Born to Run

Bobby Jean

Dancing in the Dark

(followed by band introductions)

Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out

Twist and Shout

(The Top Notes cover)

Encore 2:

I'll See You in My Dreams

(solo acoustic)

Frank Carter and the Rattlesnakes: Live in The Great Hall 06/02/2024

Cardiff is the first date on Frank Carter and the Rattlesnakes’ new UK tour, following their fifth album ‘Dark Rainbow’ being released on the 26th of January.

Despite being the first night of the new tour, the entire set is perfectly executed, the band never missing a beat as they frame the stage - each member swaggering over to a new position to receive fresh cheers from different faces. Carter in particular fully engages with

the crowd, choosing to tower above them on the front barricade, or off of the corner of the stage, soaking up the crowd’s adoration as they clamor to be close to the front man.

Before Carter can perform his set, opening acts Hot Wax and The Mysterines welcome a growing crowd. First up, the three-piece band Hot Wax channel the likes of Courtney Love in a dynamic grunge inspired set.

Soon followed by The Mysterines, a four-piece band whose alternate rock sound is haunting and almost hypnotizes the audience.

Carter’s set is a mix of his top hits and material from the new album, the blend proving that this band should be considered icons within modern rock music, and that as time passes they only improve.

Moving between heavy classic rock songs like ‘Devil Inside Me’ to slower ballads such as ‘Sun Bright Golden Happening’ Carter’s seductive vocals are smooth and consistent, never missing the mark and managing feats such as belts and yells still in key.

The audience is able to participate by listening to Carter’s demands, forming a female only mosh pit mid show, and later asking the audience to get to the ground before leaping up on Carter’s que, creating absolute chaos.

Teasing the crowd, Carter and the Rattlesnakes leave the stage keeping them in the dark as they chant for one more song. Returning they play two more before thanking the crowd and leaving on a mysterious and slow note, their theatrics only adding to the enjoyable night.

Set List:

1. Can I Take You Home

2. Brambles

3. American Spirit

4. Queen of Hearts

5. Self Love

6. Kitty Sucker

7. Wild Flowers

8. Tyrant Lizzard King

9. Devil Inside Me

10. Juggernaut

11. Honey

12. Happier Days

13. Sun Bright Golden Happening

14. Lullaby

15. Crowbar

16. Man of the Hour

17. Thunder (Encore)

18. Dark Rainbow (Encore)

Penny Rich Live in Porter’s

A storm of pure energy, Penny Rich bring Noise Rock to the student scene and are met with violent enthusiasm. Ear protection highly recommended!

Penny Rich came to Porter’s to perform a single launch show for their latest track ‘PC’ released via streaming services on the 24 th of November. But before they could close the show with the track, they tear up the stage with a mix of their hits from their debt album ‘If Everyone’s An Expert, What’s Left To Be Learnt?’.

A later show than most in Cardiff, the warmup acts started from 9pm. First up, a relatively new band FUBELT played a post-punk set, with hints of psychedelic rock mixed through their music. Droning guitars and almost chanting lyrics change rapidly into full punk screaming, shocking those who were unfamiliar with their work, while energising their fans. Next up was a band with slightly more experience, having been around since 2011 - This Is Wreckage. Their harsh basslines are reminiscent of Rage Against The Machine and, accompanied by grating vocals, their music has an overall grungy tone.

Penny Rich is extreme and certainly not for the faint hearted, but if you enjoy punk music or noise rock, then their live performance and crowd interaction will blow you away. Right out of the gates they create a wall of sound, attacking their instruments with reckless abandon. Their first track ‘Last Meal’ has the audience moving erratically along with the tempo, head banging to the gritty hook threaded through the piece. The vocals of both lead and backing singer are impressive to say the least, achieving almost chainsaw like screams and maintaining this energy to the very end, still managing prolonged growls in songs such as ‘Sugar Pill’.

The command they have over the crowd is unbelievable, successfully controlling the moshing whirlpool and even clearing a section for the bassist the jump into. Riled up fans attempt to jump onto the stage throughout the show, and encouraged by the band, a microphone is placed into the crowd for them to join in, people clamouring to be the first to shout along.

Closing the show, they thank the crowd for staying out late, and break into their brand-new single ‘PC’. The track is relentless making use of the reverb and feedback their setup allows, constantly creating an aggressive sound. Certainly a band to watch if punk music is your scene.

Set List: 1. Last Meal 2. Spirals 3. Violent Glitch 4. On and On 5. Sugar Pill 6. Expert 7. PC.

The Sweet, Tramshed, Cardiff, 17/12/2024

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The evening started well with a good set from the American Blues singer Sari Schoor.  I thought I should give the support act a mention!

I have to tell you the first single I ever bought was Blockbuster so I was really looking forward to this concert. Taking to the stage with what else but Action, as the set opener, the crowd in the packed Tramshed knew they were in for a great 90 minute set.

There are bona fide classics that original member Andy Scott knows that need to be played. These were all present. The band also played new material, such as Don't give me water and Changes from their forthcoming album Full Circle which were well received by the crowd.

Lead singer Paul Mansi delivers a fine vocal performance and the band's harmonies are spot on.  You can see this is a band that really enjoys playing together.

The last part of the set was filled with classics like Teenage Rampage, Love is like Oxygen and Blockbuster. The band  finished with what else but Ballroom Blitz, hands lapping and voices in unison, as The Sweet proved again why they are a class act.

I was pleasantly surprised to see a number of people in the crowd in their thirties, so the band are finding new fans all the time.

Try to catch these guys if you can!

Steve Davies YYFM