Where – Witton Albion Social Club, Wincham, Northwich
24th/25th August 24
Review and photographs by Linda McDermott
The annual Rockwich Festival is held at Witton Albion football social club and is always a highly anticipated event that sells out every year, thanks to its ability to attract a fantastic lineup of up-and-coming bands. Bands such as Massive Wagons, Mason Hill, South of Salem, The Treatment, Daxx & Roxane, Kickin Valentina and She Burns Red have all graced the stage. This intimate gathering is a celebration of music and rock community, featuring a mix of acoustic and full-band performances that are talked about for weeks after the event. The festival takes place over two days, starting with an unplugged night that sets the tone for the main show the following day.
The venue, with a capacity of over 300 people, provides a cozy and engaging atmosphere, allowing the audience to connect closely with the performers. The festival kicks off around 7 p.m. on the first night with an unplugged session featuring three bands, each bringing their unique sound and energy to the stage. The unplugged night serves as the perfect warm-up, creating a relaxed and intimate environment where both the audience and the performers can get into the festival spirit.
Atlas
The first band to take the stage is known for their melodic hard rock sound, but for this unplugged session, Atlas deliver a fantastic mix of songs from their three albums along with a few well-chosen covers such as ‘Dead or Alive,’ Bon Jovi, ‘Shine,’ Mr Big and ‘Here I Go Again’ by White Snake. Their stripped-down performance showcases their versatility and musicianship, proving that their hard-hitting rock can translate beautifully into an acoustic format. The band’s ability to adapt their songs for this setting highlights their talent and offers a fresh take on their music, setting a high bar for the rest of the evening.
Video
You’re Not Alone https://youtu.be/bhZmfu6u-Fs?si=sCd49hwPaL-oKOwl
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/atlasprojectuk
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/atlas_music_uk?igsh=MTR4bHNiYXltaWJpeQ==
Jason Sweeney
Next up is a Scottish solo performer, who not only captivates the audience with his music but also entertains them with his sharp wit and comedy talent. His between-song banter is a hit, keeping the crowd laughing and engaged throughout his set. His performance is a blend of humour and musicianship, featuring both original songs and covers, including ‘Sweet Child Of Mine,’ Guns & Roses and ‘I want to Break Free,’ Queen. His ability to connect with the audience on a personal level makes his set memorable and adds a light-hearted element to the evening. Jason has several singles and EP releases but is now involved with Victory or Die so look out for him under that guise.
Video
Woman In Love https://youtu.be/I8PSlmRS8c4?si=LmHyOT9k2_KR7Cxj
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mrjasonsweeney
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jasonsweeneymusic?igsh=MTdjcm1zMjhvMHlqNw==
Molly Karloff
The final act of the unplugged night is a three-piece band that has a growing reputation and a solid following. Having seen them perform a few times before, it’s clear that they are constantly growing, delivering a sound that is heavy and polished. They have several singles and an EP to their name, and I am personally looking forward to an album. Their set is a testament to their talent, as they played for over an hour and a half, keeping the energy in the room.
As with the other performers the guys added in a few covers, which I personally don’t mine as it sometimes shows where their influences come from. They add in ‘I Wouldn’t Believe Your Radio’ by The Stereophonics and ‘Black Hole Sun’ from Sound Garden, with the drummer getting up to join in the chorus with the rest of the band and most of the room. Molly Karloff are going from strength to strength with their distinctive heavy alternative rock sound, and now their unplugged version of their songs. I feel it’s not only their music that is driving them forward but it’s their chemistry and stage presence that shines through as well, making for a very satisfying conclusion to the end of the night.
Video
Black Flame https://youtu.be/kHqhtmWe7VE?si=NQrU0LfN3ZF7MxMP
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/MollyKarloff
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mollykarloff?igsh=MXd3azAwY2x4OGFxdg==
Overall, the unplugged night is a resounding success, gently easing everyone into the festival experience and building anticipation for the main event the following day.
The intimate setting, combined with the high caliber of musical talent, creates an unforgettable evening that leaves the audience eager for more. This little festival, with its focus on showcasing emerging artists and fostering a sense of community, continues to be a highlight of the local music scene, drawing crowds year after year.
If you want to attend Rockwich watch out for tickets as they are snapped up quickly, even before any bands are announced, that’s an indication of how much people have faith that the lineup is going to be exceptional.
I suggest you follow the festival and its community
Rockwich Festival https://www.facebook.com/RockWichFestival
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