Rockwich Festival – Small but Perfectly Formed

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Where – Witton Albion Social Club, Wincham, Northwich

24th/25th August 24

Review by Linda McDermott

Photographs by Linda McDermott and Matthew Pitfield.

Rockwich is a festival that is a truly hidden gem, cherished by rock enthusiasts that help sell it out every year. The event begins in a laid-back, intimate manner with an unplugged session on the first night, providing a perfect way to ease everyone into the festival spirit.

Having thoroughly enjoyed the unplugged night. (see separate review) I was looking forward to a full day of rock music.

Bands

The Wicked Jackals

Slyder Smith & the Oblivion Kids

Electric Black

King Kraken

Tom Killner

Thieves of Liberty

This House We Built

The City Kids

Ashen Reach

A’Priori

The Karma Effect

The Virginmarys

Screaming Eagles

The day kicks off at midday, gradually growing in attendance as more people arrive, some making their way from another festival held on the same weekend. The influx of attendees only adds to the excitement and the anticipation as people mingle and meet and greet each other.

The atmosphere in the room is building as the first band takes to the stage. Right from the outset, The Wicked Jackals dive into a high-energy set, their pounding rhythms and driving guitar riffs setting the tone for the day. It’s not easy being the first band to start the day but their raw energy and thumping beats instantly draw the crowd in, and the festival is officially underway with a bang.

Following them is Slyder Smith & The Oblivion Kids, and as they begin their soundcheck, one particularly dedicated young fan, barely 2-3 years old, waits patiently at the barrier, showing that you’re never too young to enjoy some great rock bands!

The band launches into their set with infectious beats, playing songs from their album, ‘Charm Offensive’ that have the audience singing along, their infectious performance building on the energy set up by the opening act.

Next on stage is Electric Black, a dynamic four-piece band brimming with raw talent. Their sound is a blend of high energy and hard-hitting beats, which gets the audience tuning in. The band’s chemistry and stage presence, makes their performance a memorable one that keeps the festival vibe going.

As the day progresses, the energy in the room is ramped up even further by King Kraken, who have just arrived from playing at another festival. They hit the ground running, with gravelly vocals and angst attitude, they pull the crowd closer to the stage to hear their offerings of rock/metal music. Their setlist includes well-known tunes from their album MCLXXX that have the audience singing along, turning the room into a sea of enthusiastic voices. I particularly love ‘Green Terror’ and ‘Bastard Liar,’ and I’m singing along with everyone else.

To give everyone a moment to catch their breath, the next band offers a slight change of pace with their blues-infused rock. Tom Killner, has been gaining momentum throughout the year, touring a debut album while gathering fans along the way. The band bring some southern style rock music to the event that has the crowd tapping their feet and enjoying the rhythm.

Following on from Tom, it’s the turn of Thieves of Liberty, a band that I had the pleasure of seeing two weeks ago at Firevolt festival. Their performance is a treat for the ears with James’ exceptional voice and the band’s overall musicality leaving a lasting impression. The anticipation for their soon-to-be-released debut album is high, and I for one am looking forward to getting my hands on that.

The music just keeps on coming and up next is This House We Built, a four-piece band that takes to the stage, with bouncing enthusiasm. The lead singer’s dynamic presence turns the small stage into his playground, bouncing around like a caged animal, belting out songs from their album with pure class. Meanwhile, the rest of the band manage to keep playing with perfection and trying not to get in Scott’s way. The crowd are loving it and are all smiles.

As the day progresses the room buzzes with conversation as people mingle and discuss the performances so far. Speculations about the upcoming acts fill the room, keeping a sense of excitement.

On stage next was The City Kids, a rock and roll band new to me, but as with all the bands that have played today, they do not disappoint. Their upbeat energy is contagious, and it is clear that many people in the crowd are already fans, singing along to the lively tunes. Their punky sleazy music is fantastic and keeps the momentum going strong.

The day highlights an impressive array of rock sub-genres, ensuring there is something for everyone. Adding to the mix are Ashen Reach, a heavy hard rock metal band who cater for those who love their rock on the heavier side. Their set is full of cracking tracks that ooze attitude, and they deliver a perfect head-banging experience that leaves the crowd wanting more.

Now eight hours into the day, my enjoyment is still growing because there are still four amazing bands to step onto the stage. Up next is A’Priori, a three-piece classic rock band that I never tire of seeing. On the brink of releasing their third album, they mix new tracks with fan favourites, creating a setlist that has the crowd singing along with enthusiasm. For a three-piece band, their sound is remarkably full, showcasing their tight musicianship and deep connection with the audience.

The third-to-last band is The Karma Effect who bring a distinct rock and roll flavour to the room. Their performance is upbeat and engaging, earning cheers from their audience, who revel in their sound. Encouraging everyone to join in, they keep the tempo high and increase the volume of singing from the crowd.

The penultimate act is the powerhouse duo The Virginmarys, who sound like a big truck has just smashed into the building with all the energy that Ally and Danny manage to create between them. They bring intensity, attitude, and immense talent, captivating the crowd completely. Their performance is so engrossing that at one point I forget to take photos, instead joining the crowd in singing along to the choruses. If you twisted my arm and made me choose a favourite band, it would have to be them. I can’t wait to hear their new album which is due for release on the 1st of November.

The grand finale lies with The Screaming Eagles, a band hailing from Ireland, returning to the festival with a familiar, much-loved sound that is a fitting way to end this brilliant festival. Their rock and roll style is infectious and tinged with the influence of AC/DC with a bluesy attitude that brings the day to a spectacular close. Their high energy performance, both musically and vocally has the roof raised and leaves everyone ‘hungry for more.’

This festival is a hidden gem, cherished by those who know of it. Its intimate and relaxed vibe, combined with the opportunity for bands to mingle with fans, creates a unique atmosphere that keeps it selling out every year. Despite its small size, it delivers a perfectly formed rock experience that leaves a lasting impression on all who attend it.

I suggest you follow the festival and its community to be in with a chance of grabbing a ticket

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Rockwich Festival https://www.facebook.com/RockWichFestival

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