Category: Blog
-
After the Manifestation
A worthy weekend was spent in the service of Subterranean Manifestation III; an uncompromising all-day assault of Death, Black and especially War Metal in the capital. With the show itself magnificently arranged by Subterranean Promotions, I was drafted in for the essential duty of delivering the artists to and from the airport and venue. Driving…
-
A time apart in the tarmac tundra
Scattered sparsely along the A1 and elsewhere, OK Diners are a reasonably recent addition to the roadside repast. Offering a British take on the American Diner experience, the kitsch 1950s decor is matched with piped Rock ‘n’ Roll and a sense of novelty nostalgia. Behind the neon and chrome facade, a sincere wholesomeness pervades the…
-
Fire blades from the Tomb
With all the kerfuffle going on, I neglected to honour the long-awaited debut album from Torino’s Ponte del Diavolo – “Fire blades from the Tomb” A unique miscela of Doom Metal, Black Metal, and more than a smattering of Darkwave. With many surprises along the way, this all-too short album culminates with a crushing Nick…
-
Against the “Sin” of Association
I’ve taken some time to collect my thoughts on the recent accusations levelled against my band and bandmates, despite fervent demands that I make an immediate statement of disassociation. I will not be rushed by those on the periphery who have offered no other interest in my presence than spiteful gossip. I’ll spare repeating the…
-
Under the Hood
It’s been a frantic few weeks pulling everything together for the MENTORS tour, with complete line-ups only secured as the New Year ticked into being. An exhausting endeavour, although I’m never one to back away from such challenge. Given timing and circumstance, I knew this wouldn’t be an easy ride. Cancellations and complaints forced swift…
-
The Year that Was…
Fully reflecting the contemplative spirit of 2023’s waning hours, I look back upon a successful twelve months with HeathenStorm Productions and the bands I’ve had privilege to work alongside. Doing my part for old friends and UK scene stalwarts has always been one aspect of why I do what I do. But beyond that, it’s…
-
In Defence of Offence
It’s no secret that MENTORS have drawn ire in their half-century of history. Starting in the 1970s with the “I Can” attitude of youthful rebellion, these offensive upstarts pioneered the Shock Rock genre through their indomitable lyrics and style. Appalling, gross, and tongue planted firmly in collective cheek, this band were here to repulse and…
-
The road to Mount Doom
Looking back at a victorious weekend working with American Doom Metal legends Orodruin, supporting Yorkshire’s Iron Void on the first leg of their 25th Anniversary UK tour. Driving, loading, and handling merch and door duties for a trio of riff-heavy shows in Bradford, London and Bristol. Life on the road is seldom smooth, and there…
-
Memories of Midsummer Madness
After a 2500+ mile round trip to the mountain, I finally have time to reflect upon the journey. One which took me across eight countries and to the brink of wild abandon. The first time I’ve celebrated my actual birthday in Abtenau, it was humbling to receive such kindness from friends old and new. My…
-
Behind the Merch table
I recently had the privilege of working the merch table for melancholic doom siren Jayn Maiven’s DARKHER, as she played a packed out local show at The Trades Club in Hebden Bridge. One of my favourite musicians, as well as a good friend; it’s always a delight to be part of the crew – whether…
-
A New Year’s Missive
In this interim week of crapulent self-indulgence, there’s nothing more fitting (unlike one’s trousers) than looking back over the past twelve months. A year which has seen triumph and tragedy alike. Coming into the first free year since lockdown, things were always going to be unsteady. Eager to reconnect with others and embrace new challenges,…
-
Bradford Invades Britain
Way back at the turn of the century, November 2000 to be precise; The Enchanted threw together a small UK tour alongside Bradford bands Bloodstream and Purity Cries. Our first extended endeavour, we found great success in overcoming the challenges of getting to and from venues and making sure folk turned up. With an aesthetic…