The Last Day of the Maid of Stone Festival

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Review By Glen Parkes

How lucky were we to have two glorious days of sunshine for this fantastic festival? Quickly becoming a fan favorite, everywhere you looked, people were enjoying their day, creating an atmosphere that was nothing short of magical. As we walked in, the final day was about to kick off, promising another incredible round of performances.

We started the day with Gianni Scalera and The Jury on the Firestarter Stage, setting the tone perfectly with an energetic and engaging performance. check them out at the above link . After the last two bustling days, their set was a refreshing way to dive into the final day’s festivities.

Sticking around the Phoenix and Inferno stages,for the last day my day continued with the guys from Preacher Stone a revelation. Although I had never seen them live before and had only reviewed their music from afar, they took the stage with a force that truly blew me away. Their powerful performance was nothing short of electrifying, marked by an intensity and energy that immediately captured the audience’s attention. Each member of the band brought their A-game, delivering a set that was both dynamic and deeply engaging. Their energy was so infectious that it quickly spread through the crowd, creating a vibrant and exhilarating atmosphere. By the end of their performance, it was clear that they had not only impressed but also won over many new fans, myself included. Their commanding presence and exceptional musicianship left a lasting impression, turning me into an enthusiastic supporter eager to see more of what Preacher Stone has to offer.

Next, I made my way to the Phoenix Stage to catch Seething Akira, and it was a fantastic decision. Having had the opportunity to chat with the lads backstage before their set, I can attest that it was a great conversation, filled with genuine camaraderie and enthusiasm. Their performance on stage was nothing short of outstanding, brimming with high-energy antics and exceptional crowd interaction. They had an undeniable ability to connect with the audience, keeping everyone engaged and energized throughout their set. Adding to the experience, they even played up to my camera, striking poses and engaging with it in a way that made the whole event even more memorable. Their willingness to interact and create a fun atmosphere not only showcased their talent but also their charisma and dedication to giving the fans an unforgettable show. The combination of their engaging stage presence and the pre-show conversation made for a truly enjoyable and immersive experience.

The treat of the day for me was Jared James Nichols, an incredible musician whose talent left a lasting impression. From the way he commands the stage to the way he pours his soul into every note, his performance was absolutely mesmerizing. Each guitar riff and vocal line seemed to emanate from a place of deep passion and skill, captivating the audience and creating an electrifying atmosphere. His stage presence was undeniable, drawing everyone in and keeping them enthralled from start to finish. Off stage, Jared James Nichols is just as impressive, exuding a friendly and down-to-earth demeanor that makes him a genuinely nice guy to talk to. His warmth and approachability add another layer to the already unforgettable experience of seeing him perform live, making it clear that his talent is matched by his character. Overall, witnessing Jared James Nichols in action was a highlight of the day, a testament to his extraordinary abilities as both a musician and a person.

A quick detour to the Firestarter Stage brought me to Black Roze, an up-and-coming band that once again blew me away. Their raw talent and stage presence are definitely something to watch out for.

Wandering back to the main stage, I caught Living Colour, and from the very start of their set to the final note, they had the crowd in the palm of their hand. Their performance was nothing short of spectacular, a true testament to their enduring talent and charisma. Each song was delivered with such energy and precision that it was impossible not to be swept up in the excitement. The band’s chemistry was palpable, their stage presence electrifying, and their musical prowess undeniable.

From powerful vocals to masterful guitar solos and an impeccable rhythm section, Living Colour proved why they have remained a force in the music industry for so long. The audience was completely captivated, responding with enthusiastic applause and cheers after every song. It was clear that this was a performance that would be remembered long after the final chord faded.

Next up were Massive Wagons, who took to the stage with an explosive energy that kept the tempo of the day incredibly high. From the moment they started playing, it was clear that they were determined to ensure the energy never dropped, delivering an electrifying set that had the audience fully engaged from beginning to end. Each band member brought their own unique flair to the performance, blending together seamlessly to create a powerful and dynamic sound that resonated with everyone in the crowd. Their stage presence was commanding, and they interacted with the audience in a way that made everyone feel like they were a part of something special. The driving rhythms, soaring vocals, and electrifying guitar riffs all contributed to an atmosphere of pure rock and roll euphoria. It was impossible not to get caught up in the infectious energy of their performance, and as the set progressed, the audience’s enthusiasm only grew. Massive Wagons proved themselves to be masters of their craft, leaving a lasting impression with their high-octane show.

Staying with the Phoenix Stage, I caught Larkin Poe, and it was an absolute treat. The girls were on fire, delivering a performance brimming with passion, skill, and an undeniable stage presence. From the first note, their energy was palpable, captivating the audience and drawing everyone into their soulful blend of rock and blues. Their musicianship was impeccable, with each song showcasing their technical prowess and deep musical connection. Although I didn’t see their entire set due to a much-deserved beer break after a long weekend, the portion I did witness was nothing short of phenomenal. The harmonies were tight, the guitar work was masterful, and their overall performance was electric. Even during my brief intermission, the buzz from their performance was evident, as people around me continued to rave about their incredible stage presence and the powerful impact of their music. It was clear that Larkin Poe had left an indelible mark on everyone who was lucky enough to catch their set.

The final band of the night was Mr. Big, and we were incredibly fortunate to experience a full set from them. This was especially remarkable considering that the lead singer had been in the hospital up to an hour before the show. Despite his obvious pain, he displayed incredible resilience and dedication, stepping onto the stage and delivering a performance that left everyone in awe. His ability to push through and perform under such challenging circumstances was a testament to his professionalism and passion for music. Each song was executed with precision and heart, and the band’s chemistry was as strong as ever.

The lead singer’s vocals were powerful and emotive, resonating deeply with the audience. His stage presence was captivating, drawing the crowd in and keeping them enthralled from start to finish. The rest of the band members matched his energy, delivering tight, dynamic performances that showcased their exceptional talent. It was clear that they were all giving their all, not just to perform but to create an unforgettable experience for their fans. The audience responded with enthusiastic applause and cheers, fully appreciating the extraordinary effort and skill on display. Mr. Big’s performance was not just a highlight of the night but a shining example of true showmanship and dedication to their craft..

As the weekend drew to a close, a few heartfelt thanks were in order. First and foremost, immense gratitude goes to Chris Wright for organizing what can only be described as an exceptional weekend. His dedication and hard work made the entire event possible and thoroughly enjoyable for everyone involved. Thanks are also due to the hardworking guys and girls on the stages, whose efforts ensured seamless performances, and to the vigilant security staff who kept everyone safe throughout the event. Special recognition goes to two key backstage figures, Mark Byford and the amazing Alison Lee. Their help and support were indispensable, and without their tireless efforts, none of this would have been possible. A personal note of thanks goes to Alison, with whom I shared some light-hearted moments. I took loads of bad photos of her just to wind her up, but it was all in good fun, a playful way to show appreciation for her incredible contributions. Overall, the weekend was a triumph, a testament to the collaborative efforts of all these dedicated individuals.