Winterstorm – Troon Town Hall – Day 3

Review By Darren McIntyre

Winterstorm is a festival held in Troon Town Hall that has been rocking the Ayrshire coast since 2016 and has seen many of the world’s top acts grace the main stage and bring us the best music has to offer. This weekend is a little different as we are mixing it up with many acts being here for the first time, many are returnees and many it is a welcome visit that will see them playing in the UK for the very fisrt time, I rock up and collect my media pass and head into the Town Hall where I see many familiar faces from the last 8 years and that puts a smile on my face. The place has a real buzz about it as we feel the energy oozing from every pour of this classic rock weekend that is sure to put a smile on everyone’s face, as the main hall fills up we can feel the excitement, Day 3 kicks off like the previous 2 days before as we welcome more newcomers to the festival, step forward Tailgunner who are a heavy metal 5 piece from the UK who have been together since 2018 and have given us 5 singles, 1 EP and their debut LP Guns For Hire in July 2023, the band swarm onto the stage and immediately kick in the doors with the barnstorming –

Guns For Hire – From the off we get a thundering snare drum punch that is running freely with a sludgy twin guitar salvo that really lets this track kick some ass as the place goes nuts for some Tailgunner. The vocals shatter the silence as the soaring tines mix well with this gutsy opener as the band settles their nerves and really gives it to us straight as the place gets their horns in the air and stamps their feet to this rousing monster that is the perfect way to get their debut festival appearance off the ground, next up comes –

White Death – A familiar snarling snare drum / double bass drum kick are erupting from the outset as this fast and furious rock n roll track kicks in the doors and lets us have it. The full on bassline is hitting us with dar, full grooves that wrap themselves around this thundering beast as it opens and really punches us straight in the face, we get galloping guitar riffs that really bring this track to our attention as it wanders freely through the hall and brings the soaring vocals front and centre as we rock out with this killer 5 piece as they savour every minute on the hallowed Winterstorm stage and bring us the best is sizzling fist pumping rock n roll that just lets them express themselves as we roll into –

Beast In The Night – A thundering drum roll erupts from the back of the room as this foot stomping monster makes itself known to us as we continue the furious riffs that let this track come to life. Vocals are powering all through the venue as we get into this exciting unit as they suck every last morsel from us in Troon tonight, the rhythm section is drilling down with a thundering snare drum beat that is joined by bass kicks and colossal cymbal crashes that give this track depth, swagger and bags of attitude. The place is certainly embracing the band as they are holding on for dear life as they deliver the set of their lives right now and boy can we see it, hitting us next is the soaring monster –

In The Hall Of The Mountain King – A slick deafening guitar lick pours from the stage as this killer cover track just erupts into life as the place gets ready for what is to come. We get a familiar riff that is a twin salvo that just catches our attention as the rhythm section joins the party and brings the heat to this epic arrangement as we get ready, a furious guitar riff explodes and really gets the juices flowing as this cool intrumental beast comes for us as the band really brings an intrumental tune that lets us feel the diversity from this killr outfit, we roll into –

New Horizons – We kick in the doors with another fast, furious beast that brings the rhythm section into our periphery as they up the tempo as this thundering beast gives it to us straight. The growing twin guitar riffs are giving this track some meaty licks as the soaring vocals fill every corner of the venue as we fist pump our way through this sizzling monster set that is just brimming with cool licks and a thundering rhythm section that just pops. Bassline is dropping dark, meaty funk grooves all over us as this kick ass track does what it says on the tin and then some, we are getting pulled in every direction as this killer outfit really brings the noise and then some, we are hurtling through the set and come to the second last track in the form of –

Crashdive – A shredding guitar riff pours from the stage as this foot stomping monster explodes from the off and really gets all up in our faces as this epic track tells it’s own story. The rhythm section is again hitting us with a pounding snare drum kick that really elevates this band as they really give it everything up there, the place is really getting into this outfit as they are blowing away the cobwebs and letting us have everything they have as they really bring us their best live show that lets them tell us what they are all about. The galloping riffs are working really well as the dark, brooding bassline drops killer funk tones that are letting this track breathe, the crisp, clean soaring vocals are letting this track breathe as we rip into the last track of their high energy set in the form of –

Painkiller – Ripper vocals pour into the hall as this epic cover rises up and really gives it to us with both barrels as the band get into their Judas costumes and really deliver a roaring cover. The rhythm section is pounding away and hitting us with a furious snare / bass kick groove that just elevates this cracking cover to the next level as we feel the energy dripping from every pore of this classic little outfit. The killer riffs are just on the money as the band channels their inner Priest and really deliver a cool foot stomping track that just punches us straight in the face as the soaring twin guitar riffs are melting our faces as it really brings the festival to life as we await the epic guitar . rhythm combo that is just so unmistakeable as the killer vocals do this track justice and then some.

Tailgunner  –

                  Craig Cairns  –  Vocals

                  Zach Salvini  –  Guitars

                  Rhea Thompson  –  Guitars

                  Thomas Hewson  –  Bass

                  Jani Pasanen  –  Drums

We catch our breathe as we await the next newcomer to the hallowed stage and it comes in the form of buddies of mine who I have followed from their arrival in the musicworld way back in 2019. They have gone from strength to strength with a slew of singles and a ripper debut album Life’s Machine that thrust them into the blues rock limelight and really gave them the platform to tell us what they were all about, I have done all their live streams, singles and album releases and can tell you that they are one of the nicest group of people you could ever meet. I saw them in Edinburgh a couple of years back then brought them to Glasgow and they went down a storm with their incredible grooves and soaring twin vocals that just captivated them to the big stage, we are welcoming them to Winterstorm for their debut performance for which I am sure will not be their last, the saunter onto the stage and set out their stall and drop in the foot stomping monster that is –

Bad Choices – Ed kicks off tonight’s proceedings with a slick, gritty guitar licl that is flowing alongside a mellow, dsrk bassline that just wraps itself around Troon as this colossal musical ensemble comes together and lets us feel the groove. The soaring twin vocals are insane as we get the full force of Chloe & Lindsey as they shatter the air with their epic tones that just set the festival on fire, the pounding rhythm section is hitting us with a solid foundation as Donna brings the heat to us tonight. The place is just bopping along to this killer 5 piece as they drop the hammer upon us and let us know what they are all about, we roll into –

17 – A cool punchy rhythm beat comes at us as the pounding bass kicks work well with a solid snare drum punch that lets this rasping monster come at us as we feel the energy oozing from the stage. A cool dark brooding bassline is wrapping itself around Winterstorm as Billy brings the coolness to us tonight as we get into this blues rock eruption as they hit us with all they have and then some, their are epic, crisp guitar licks as Ed really gets in the zone anf lets us feel the swagger that he brings to the party right here on the Ayrshire coast. The band are tight, on fire and really embrace the festival with huge smiles on their faces as they look out as the swelling crowd who have come to support them and what they are all about, up next –

Guilty Love – This is my favourite track from their first album and it’s a monster as we get the soaring vocals of Chloe that just instantly grabs your attention as this grooving beast comes for us. The epic bassline drops in with cool, dark, delicious grooves that just catch your attention as the track just builds with real vigour as the band hits their stride and just delivers a faultless arrangement that makes this band an instant hit right here @ Winterstorm. Ed strolls around the stage strutting his wares as he rolls of lick after lick as the pounding rhythm section delivers cool beats that let this incredible piecve of music do it’s thing and then some, coming for us next –

Run & Hide – Donna brings the track to life with a thundering salvo that allows Ed to drop in with his killer riffs that then brings together Chloe & Lindsey as they let their colossal range set this track free. The funking foot stomping groove is hitting us with delicious tones that are what this band are all about as they set their stall out and just deliver a slick, clean vocal harmony piece that is wrapped is a fantastic beat. Ed steps forward and gives us a sweet, clean solo that just ticks all the boxes as Billy wanders towards us and gives us a deep, meaty bassline that brings this scintilating track together as we feel the full force of this 5 piece juggernaut as we stroll into –

Unravelling – This rocking beast comes at us with a thundering snare drum kick as Donna lets us have it as the ripping guitar licks are letting the track breathe as we settle into this colossal outfit. The epic vocals are just insane as we feel the emotion, depth and sheer joy oozing from the two girls as they really bring the groove to Troon tonight, I will say that it has been a pleasure watching this band go from strength to strength as they show us what they are made of. The crowd are clapping and hollering as the dark, delicious bassline drops cool funking grooves all through this toe tapping rock n roll classic as we just want more from these guys and I think we are going to get it, we stroll right into -Fairy Tale – We bring the tempo down a little as Lindsey brings her smouldering vocals to the stage tonight as the ripping guitar licks are filling every corner of the venue as Ed lets us feel the groove. The rhythm section is coming for us with a real solid snare drum kick that just gives this track depth, attitude and really cements this band as ones to watch for sure,

The musicality, togetherness and closeness of this band are just incredible as the slick guitar solo oozes from the stage and it brings a cool bassline that just brings the heat to this soaring beast of a track that just builds and builds and really lets the girls control the groove of this epic piece of music, we are soaring through the setlist and hit the second last song of the night in the form of -Heavy – Chloe steps up to the mic and unleashes her incredible vocals that are running freely with a deep bassline groove that really showcases this outfit and what that bring to the table. The rhythm section is commanding the room with it’s deep pounding snare punches that bring a cool bass kick that just fills the room, Lindsey lets her epic vocals light up the room as we stroll through this emotion filled rocker track that just allows you to stop and think of things that are on your mind. The band are just so tight and bring something special to Troon as their musicianship is just on point as we watch them wrap their infectious sound this epic festival tonight as we come to the last track of their set in the form of -Sink Or Swim – Lindsey chats with us and thanks us for coming out to watch them do their thing as we feel the emotion pouring from her vocals as this colossal track comes at us with a coolm bassline as Billy drops the hammer and really gets the juices flowing on this last track. The rhythm section is doing it’s thing as a solid sanre drum beat hits us with sheer tone as this fast paced rocker track arrives, the place is just watching the stage as this fantastic outfit leaves their mark and lets us know just how good they are. The roaring track is full of soaring vocals that just tell us that this band are on the up and will have more in their tank in the future, we are gifted a cool dark bass solo as Billy wanders the stage dropping colossal grooves that then bring in Ed as he rips into us with a soaring solo that just brings the place to life, fantastic debut set from not only a cool melodic 5 piece but friends of mine that I will say I am glad they reached our crackin little festival.

Brave Rival  –                    Chloe Josephine  –  Vocals                    Lindsey Bonnick  –  Vocals                    Ed Clarke  –  Guitars                    Billy ‘ Danger’ Dedman  –  Bass                    Donna Peters  –  Drums

Chantel McGregor is a blues rock guitarist from Bradford, England who attended the Leeds College Of Music where she achieved a number awards. Her awards include Outstanding Musicianship, First Class Honours Degree in Popular Music. The achievements kept coming with Young Artist Of The Year 2011, Best Female Vocalist 2012, Guitarist / Best Vocalist 2013, Guitarist Of The Year 2014 & she has just been named HRH Blues Guitarist Of The Year, had numerous tours around the UK and is just an incredible person, musician and all round good egg. Chantel makes her 3rd visit to our incredible festival and I am sure tonight’s set will be nothing short of fantastic. tonight is something a little different as she has with her James on keys which I am sure will be just awesome, as Chantel wanders onto the stage with socks on she sets out her stall, says hello and thanks us for coming out as she bring her set to life with the fantastic –

Southern Belle – Chantel plugs in her guitar pulls it over her head and lets the track come to life with a clean lick that allows her mesmerising vocals take the track onwards. Tonight is different as Chantel is flying solo of sorts as it’s her & James to entertain us. The place is silent as we just fix iur glare on the Stave Strange Stage as she just lets her killer vocals fill the venue as we welcome our queen of the festival. The tone is sweet and the guitar licks are a plenty as we just settle in and lose ourselves in this amazing artist and what she brings to this epic little festival, we roll into –

Walk On Land – The tone is just incredible as Chantel’s mesmerising vocals flow effortlessly through the hall as we sit sliently and feel the track wash over us as this cool arrangement unfolds. The addition of the keys adds something different to the track as we just feel the track build as Chantel lets the tone come at us as we witness something incredible right here tonight, the place is sitting motionless as we feel the emotion oozing from this awesome piece of music as the place just sits and feels the musicality come at us. The sweet guitar licks are just filling every corner of the venue as Chantel stands motionless and really cuts loose with her guitar and loses us in the immense tone that is raining down on us as we watch quietly as this incredible track does it’s thing and then some, I will say that this incredibly talented musician is the real deal as she just lights up this fantastic place with her precision playing, up next –

Anaesthetize – Chantel chsts with us and raises a few laughs as she tunes up her guitar and brings this incredible track to life with her smouldering vocals that just sets the track free. We are just feeling the depth of Chantel as she puts a different spin on tonight’s show as you can hear a pin drop as she takes us on a journey that will help you feel the depth, emotion oozing from this incredible musician. The guitar playing is just on the money as Chantel wanders freely around the stage as she drops colossal guitar picks that just elevate this haunting, melodic number that ticks all the boxes, we drop into –

Caught Out – A cool dark guitar riff flows from the stage as this psychedelic groover comes to life and allows Chantel to bring her melodic vocals that just elevate this awesome rocker track. Her guitar work is simply stunning as this mellow little number lets our imagination run wild as we get a crunchy lick that just lifts the track to the next level as we just enjoy the cool riffs and incredible lyrics that come at us in this composition that has just walked freely through Winterstorm as a cool solo erupts and just fills the room with killer grooves, delicious tones and an exquisite musician who is at the top of her game as she drops the hammer and really brings Troon to it’s senses as this cool foot stomping track awakens us and lets us know that Chantel is in the house, up next –

Can’t Make you Love Me – Chantel tells us that this is not a George Michael song but in fact her incredible song that is oozing with emotion as we get a sweet acoustic pick that allows this incredible track to make itself known to us. The soulful melodic vocals are just incredible as she showcases her soaring tone that works incredibly well with the way that this track has been presented to us, we are mesmerised by the quality, musicianship and lyrics that are hitting us right now as we sit motionless as we are taken on the journey with Chantel as she delivers a real thought provoking number that ticks all the boxes as she strums effortlessly on her guitar as her epic vocals allow the track to wander freely through the main hall in Troon right now, we are being treated to something special right now and we roll into –

Cat Song – The tempo is rolling in as a cool acoustic ripple floes from the stage as Chantel brings the groove to us and just cuts loose and really gets in about it with this toe tapping ditty that is just awesome.

Home – A sweet acoustic trumming groove flows from the stage as Chantel lets her epic melodic vocals take the track to another place as we sit sliently and feel the tone wash over us as this fantastic track really tells it’s own story. The place is just sucking in all the tone that Chantel is bringing to us as she sjowcases her incredible vocals that lend themselves to this fantastic arrangement as we feel the emotion oozing towards us. The place is just feeling the love as Chantel brings something special to us tonight and I can say that I have seen Chantel several times and can honestly say that she has never sounded better imho, we are strolling through her setlist and just loving the authentic tones and well thought out lyrics as we stumble into –

I’m No Good For You – Chantel swaps guitar and brings a real fuzzy electric feel to the number as we get cool keys that really elevate this sweet number that just catches our attention. The vocals are insane as Chantel brings emotion, depth, soul to this number as we sit motionless and feel the hairs on our arms stand up with the chills that are oozing from this super talented musician right now, the tempo changes pace as a little gritty guitar riff opens up and we get all down and dirty as Chantel shifts gear as this groover leaves it’s mark on the fine folk of Winterstorm right now, we get to the business end of the show as Chantel rips up her playbook and hits us with the colossal –

April – The mesmerising guitar licks ooze from the stage as the ‘prog’ song comes to life as Chantel gets into the track and really cuts loose as the soaring chords fill the entire place as we ready ourselves for this epic arrangement. The slick, clean guitar licks are just incredible as we are taken on a journey with this foot tapping groover that is a real assault on the senses as we feel the tone wash over us as the place looks on with sheer juy. The festival has been waiting on this all weekend let me tell you as this incredibly talented musician just lights up the place with her epic fingerwork that just takes us with it as the cool keys tinkle our senses as we are enjoying every note that is oozing from the stage, we come to the last track of the set and it’s a doozie –

Creep – The keys intro is just awesome as we let Chantel’s soothing vocals take the song down the road as the place is silent as we feel the emotion wash over us as this track builds. The arrangement is just incredible as the piano tones wrap themselves around the song and really make it sound so different that we are just in awe of this incredible musician, we await the build up as the song builds into a real cool emotion filled ditty that just breaks as Chantel’s awesome vocals shatter the silence as we feel the lyrics wash over us as this cool set comes to an end as we wish it have gone on for hours.

Chantel McGregor  –

                               Chantel  –  Vocals / Guitars

                               James  –  Keys

There is some fantastic talent on show this weekend and as we shuffle downstairs to see what’s occuring we stumble upon the impressive Connor Liam Byrne & The Bad Kissers as they get ready to storm the Sessions Stage. The great thing about this awesome festival is that you unearth hidden gems that will take you by surprise and today is no exception, the place is filling up nicely as Connor takes to the stage and launches into Switch Off that instantly gets the crowd moving and a grooving.

The place has a real buzz about it as Liam struts around the stage and really soaks up the festival atmosphere as he drops in tracks like Blue, the colossal You Do You which really lifts the crowd. We rumble through the cool Stuck In My Head, Not Me and excellerate towards the super epic Glorious, Glamorous whu=ich take sthe place by surprise as we get the name Connor Liam Byrne stuck in our heads as we hit the funky beast that is Trustfund Boogie that gets our feet mooving and shaking as the place welcomes another new debutaunt to the classic wee festival on the Ayrshire coast.

Connor Liam Byrne  –

                                 Connor Liam Byrne  –  Vocals / Guitar

         

We catch our breathe and saunter into the main hall as we welcome the incredible talents of SEVI who are an alternative / hard / rock band from Sofia, Bulgaria who are making their Winterstorm debut today. Not much is known about this Bulgarian powerhouse but like most we are going to find out what makes her tick as she saunters onto the stage to rapturous applause, we get the intro music blasting through the house PA a s the gig gets underway with the awesome –

Ghosts – The intro slides in as the thundering rhythm section kicks in with a solid snare drum beat and epic cymbal crashes that let this bruising beast leave it’s mark. Sparing melodic, anthemic vocals flow from the stage as the boys bring the groove as we get into this foot stomping arrangement, the dark, grooving bassline is hitting us with a cool funk feel that really wraps itself around this opening salvo that is just towering above us atm. The tempo is a real punchy tone that lets the soaring vocals lead the way as a slick, clean guitar riff builds around this cool opening nuber that allows Sevi the room she needs to get the gig underway, up next –

Follow Me – A haunting bell sounds as the air remains calm as this haunting number gets ready to bring the tempo to the fine folk pf Troon tonight, The drum sampler kicks in a slick guitar riff oozes from the stage as this melodic number brings the track to life as a gritty guitar riff kicks in as we get dark, meaty bass grooves that just allow the track to take us to somewhere new. The soaring vocals are bringing a cool tone to us as we get to grips with this melodic Bulgarian outfit as they deliver a cool tone that has us punching the air and stamping our feet to this cool beat that is coming at us right now, we are feeling the heat from this charismatic singer as we roll into –

Insane – A crunching guitar riff joins a pounding rhythm section as it brings the heat to this soaring number as Sevi wanders around the stage and just brings the groove to us tonight. There are cool guitar shreds that are pouring from the stage as the band hits their stride and settles their nerves as this symphonic number builds and builds as the band deliver a dark, brooding feel that seems to resonate with the crowd as they are bopping along feeling the love coming from their powerhouse frontwoman as she takes us through our paces as we stroll into –

Am I Allive – A pumping bass kick brings this sizzling number to life as snare drum punches fill the air as Sevi belts out her vocals as this cool number erupts and really brings their track to life. There is a real melodic feel to this track as a deep pounding bass kick works well with the cool, meaty bassline that is wrapping itself around this awesome piece as the tempo builds with sheer joy as the band really seems to be enjoying themselves as the crowd gets behind their infectious brand of symphonic rock that is on the money, we roll into –

Never Again – Sevi steps forward and gets her fist in the air and tries to get us moving as the double bass kicks ring out and let this growling monster rear it’s head as this beast rolls in. The soaring vocals are sharp, melodic and really give the track some direction as we feel the energy coming from the stage as the band settles into their stride and really look like they are enjoying themselves. The rhythm section is commanding the room from the kit as the cymbal crashes drop upon us as the bassline delivers cool grooves that allows the track to breathe and take us to another place as the gritty crunching guitar licks come at us and really give the track swagger as we move onto –

Dark Knight- A darkness suttounds Winterstorm as this brooding track comes hurtling towards us with a deep pulsing bassline that really gives the track depth as the soaring vocals break through. The boys are really getting into the festival as the crowd are enjoying the tempo that is hitting us right now, the mellow, dark bassline is hitting us with mellow tones that work so well with the epic symphonic tones that are coming at us right now, the killer guitar licks are soaring as they deliver a slick, clean tone that helps this track build and give us more of an insight into this growling beast from Bulgaria, up next –

The Art Of War – There is certainly something different about this growling band as they deliver a killer riff that is followed by a solid rhythm section that provides the heat in this fist pumping number. The vocals are just tearing through Troon as they bring a cool tone that seems to be working on the rock n roll people of Winterstorm, the whole place is getting into this melodic juggernaut that has crashes right into the Ayrshire coast on a mission to bring the very best anthemic tones to us tonight, the hits keep on coming as we stroll into –

The Spell – A cool grinding guitar shred opens the track up as a punchy rhythm section brings the heat with pounding bass kicks and solid snare drum beats that get the juices flowing. The dark bassline is wandering freely through the track as it drops cool grooves that let the soaring vocals shatter the silence that surrounds Winterstorm tonight, we have been brought a real growling beast of a band that just delivers soaring melodies that work well with a cool guitar lick that brings swagger to this cool set as the slick, clean solo builds and builds as we head into the business end of this epic set as we get –

Higher Than The Stars – Piano tones linger through the PA as this haunting ballad style track oozes from the stage as Sevi leans in and lets the colossal beast rear it’s head. A pounding rhythm section controls the groove as we hurtle towards the end of the set and feel the energy rising as the band just brings us a sweet mellow beat that works so well in this melodic number, we are getting to grips with this fantastic outfit as they really settle into their stride and rock out with us as we head into the final track in the form of –

World That Doesn’t Fit – The finishing track of their set begins with cool synth style intro that lets Sevi bring her soaring melodic vocals to let the tone wander off and let the track bring the heat. The real mellow cool strings that are floating freely through the arrangement really let our imagination run wild as snare drum taps let the rhythm section bring the groove, The tempo changes pace as a real soaring beat comes through as the cymbal crashes fill the air as the boys hit us with a real cool guitar riff that works so well with the dark, meaty bassline that is letting the track break free and really showcases the incredible vocals that Sevi is bringing us.

SEVI  –

           Svetlana  –  Lead Vocals

           Ivo Calabov  –  Lead Guitar

           Rally Velinov  –  Bass

           Nick Nikolaev  –  Drums

Next onto the main stage are another debutant band in the form of Girish & The Chronicles who hail from Gangtok, Sikkim, India, they got together in 2009 and have quickly cemented themselves as a staple band on the rock n roll circuit, the boys have supported the likes of Nazareth, Skid Row, Kamelot, Bonfire, Mike Tramp & Guns n Roses. The boys have given us 3 studio albums and a slew of singles and are pleased to make their Winterstorm debut right now so please settle in as we get ready to blow the roof off of Winterstorm right now, we begin with  –

Love’s Damnation – Whoops and hollering comes from the crowd as this colossal band of rockers kick off their debut show with the fantastic rasping guitar laden track that lets Girish bellow out and bring his soaring vocals to Winterstorm tonight, The bassline is dropping a dark, delicious groove all through the track as the boys turn up the heat and let this crunching beast leave it’s mark right here right now, the sizzling guitar licks are wandering freely through the track as the rumbling rhythm section comes atus armed with killer cymbal crashes that really let the people know that GATC are in town and they mean business, we applaude loudly as the boys lead us into –

Wounded – Girish chats with us and tells us that Yogesh has lost his bag en route from Manchester to Glasgow but says the show must go on as a cool piano tone wanders through the intro as Girish leans in and brings his soaring melodic vocals to the festival as a deep pulsing bassline wraps itself around this colossal melodic rocker ballad. The boys are really enjoying themselves as this punchy number leaves it’s mark as we feel the energy pulsing through the stage as the boys build in confidence as this roaring monster brings a slick, clean solo that just lights up the hall with ease as the boys just drive their juggernaut show right through Troon tonight, we stroll into

Killer Of The Night – A toe tapping groove opens this track as Giriash brings his melodic vocals that just let the track erupt with ease as this cool number really gives the place real energy. The rhythm section is hitting us with pounding snare / bass kicks that really allow the arrangement to wow us with it’s intense riffs and cool dark bassline that wanders into a slick, clean, crisp guitar solo that just pops as the boys let rip with their infectious brand of rock n roll that is off the scale for sure as Girish takes the roof off with his incredible power driven vocals that are the star of the show for sure, we roll into –

Hail To The Heroes – A cool guitar lick brings this bass driven track to our attention as the cymbal rolls wander through the intro and bring this track to life. We are clapping and whooping as this thundering monster comes to life with a sweet clean guitar riff that has a deep bass groove for company as the place just warms to these 4 rock n roll renegades, the beat is intense, infectious and really brings depth to the set as the boys are firing on all cylinders for sure. The rhythm section is commanding the room with solid beats, cymbal crashes and a real full on groove that just allows the boys the room they need to get this monster rocking and rolling. The place has really warmed to these boys as they bring something different to the festival but I can tell you they are a welcome addition to it and hopefully they will be back as we stroll into –

Love Hurts – Sweet clean guitar licks wander through the intro as cymbal rolls bring the rhythm section to our attention as this cover track gets a work out for sure. The soaring vocals are really something else let me tell you as the ballad track brings a sway to the crowd as we feel the emotion pouring from the stage as we really get into these boys, Girish asks us to sing back to him and we do as we stroll into –

Rock n Roll Is Here To Stay – Cymbal taps wander through the intro as cool guitar licks get this foot stomper off the ground as we sing back Hey Hey as this rocking monster bursts into life. Bass kicks are working side by side as the snare drum beats let the rhythm section kick in as the bassline drops cool funking beats that really give the track depth and swagger, the rasping vocals are just punching holes through the roof of this fine old building as Girish really delivers a phenemenal vocal performance that instantly makes these boys the find of the festival for sure, we stroll into the last track of their set as they thank us for coming out and making them feel so welcome as they deliver –

Every Night, Like Tonight – Girish bellows out are we ready Winterstorm as this bruising monster erupts into life with a shredding guitar riff that just gets the juices flowing. The rasping gritty vocals are just kicking in the doors and letting us know that they are enjoying themselves and don’t really want to stop, we put our fists in the air and feel the energy oozing from the stage as the boys dig deep and bring us a fresh rocking groove that just delivers with ease as the boys drop the hammer with a foot stomping beat that is just catching us off guard as a slick, clean solo flows through the place as we rock out with the boys and wish they could play longer.

We get a little break from all the rocking and rolling as Ian has brought us a little surprise with The Ayrshire Rock Choir as they assemble in the main hall and bring us a cool rendition of Aerosmith’s Don’t Want To Miss A Thing, John Parr’s Your The Voice, Keane ‘s Somewhere Only We Know and finishing off with the colossal Guns n Roses Sweet Child O Mine which brought the house down as they sung their way to rapturous applause. Great addition to the night as we await our next warriors.

We come to one of the highlights of the festival in the form of Bournemouth based rockers South Of Salem who are again debutants on the Ayrshire coast as they bring their infectious groove to Scotland. We have seen the boys a number of times but this will be a little special as it will be a rock n roll experience that many of us will not forget, the place is in darkness except for lit up crosses and stroble lights that adorn the stage as we await the arrival of these boys from the south coast. The place is in silence as the house PA blasts out and off we go –

Let Us Prey – Thundering rhythm section blasts out like a hurricane and really gets this crowd going as the snare drum punches fill this hall and let this beast come to us. There is the twinned guitar attack that really brings the rock element to this thundering rock track that just builds and builds as the groove comes at us and just allows this riffed beast the room it needs to let these boys hit full pelt. Bass chords are handing us deep meaty funk grooves that just let the rhythm section control the groove and really let loose as the soulful deep vocals really show themselves to this swelling Troon  audience as the first opening track delivers what they said it would do. As the crowd show their appreciation Joey bellows out a massive hell yeah and thanks us for coming out and supporting live music which gets a real loud cheer, the boys are just thankful for being able to do what they do as we get another belting beast of a track in the form of –

Jet Black Eyes – A pounding beat rings out as gravelly vocals come to our ears as this fist pumping beast makes itself known as the place screams at the top of its voice. The dark cool bassline is hitting us with a dark, delicious groove that just tells us that SOS are in the house as they drive their infectious track onwards as the rhythm section brings a pounding snare / bass kick that really gives this track depth and bags of attitude that gets the crowd all pumped up as we ripple through this crunching setlist that is just perfect for this kind of festival as we get down and dirty with these epic rockers as they deliver a heart pounding classic track as Joey brings his melodic vocals to the seaside tonight, up next –

Made To Be Mine – A crunching guitar salvo comes hurtling towards us as the pounding bass kicks let this track come to life as the place is bubbling under the surface as we get all hot and bothered. The vocals are just awesome as Joey drives the SOS juggernaut towards us as we feel the energy oozing from the stage tonight as a deep bassline drops awesome grooves that just elevate this roaring track that has the place bouncing with joy as we feel the heat oozing towards us as the boys just dig deep and really let us know that the 9 hr drive was totally worth it. A pulsing bassline drops in the middle as the sing along begins as the boys take a break and let us do all the work as we stroll into –

Hellbound – As we navigate through the set we are met with a snare drum beat that is followed by a reaw guitar riff that lets Joey bring in his growling vocals that let this track breathe, The boys are going down well as the place is buzzing with the energy oozing from the stage as this melodic rocker track builds and just lets us know that South Of Salem are in the house as we throw our horns in the air , the place is alive with the glow of these 5 rockers doing their thing as the place welcomes them with open arms before a cool shredding guitar lick rolls through the venue as the boys up the anti and really give it to us, we applaude and holler as we move onto –

Static – Cymbal crashes fill the air as crunching guitar shreds pour from the stage as the boys turn up the heat and let this bruiser come at us as we feel the love coming from the boys. The vocals are just filling the air as we get into the groove as the boys kick in the doors and really let us have it, we get a solid rhythm section that just delivers with a real big sound that commands the room as the boys set out their stall and just give it all they have tonight. We are getting something special from the boys tonight as I think they wanted to lay down a marker for their Scottish support. Joey gets us to sing along as the boys dig deep and really let us have it, next up –

Vultures – From the off we get a thundering rhythm section that hits us with a real heavy ended cymbal crash that allows the track to open and really give it to us. The soaring gravelly vocals are flowing freely through the venue as the boys give us what we came for, a rousing, fist pumping rock n roll show that tells us that these boys have really matured throughout their time as they entertain us. The full on bassline is handing us a real dark, meaty full on groove that just lts the track build as the boys do their thing and take us along for the ride, we are soaring through the setlist and roll into –

Deathe Of The Party – A pounding snare / bass kick gets this shredding beast off the ground as Joey comes in with his rasping cool vocals as the boys come for us. The twin guitar assault is ripping Winterstorm a new one as the boys dig deep and really let us have it as the place goes nuts for these 5 warriors that have given us all they have tonight. The bass is dropping cool, dark brooding tones that really elevate this crunching track as the place feels the love coming from the stage as the boys bring us a real gritty rocking affair that is littered with double bass kicks that really get this track pumping, next up –

Left For Dead – A real heavy rhythm section leans in and brings us a thundering groove that is helped along with a deep snare drum beat that lets the track kick in the doors and really give it to us. The vocals are flowing effortlessly through the venue as we feel the energy oozing from the boys as they are bringing us a real gritty rocking set that just brings life to the stage as the boys are grabbing this chance by the scruff of the neck and really showing Scotland what they have in the tank. These boys are just up there enjoying themselves as they rock out, give us what we want and just getting on with their business, the place is bouncing and really getting into these lads as they have just grabbed Winterstorm and shook it till their is nothing left, we roll into the last track of their set in the form of –

 Thundering gritty riffs are flying from the axemen as the kick off this monster pounding track, ear shattering drums are descending upon us with a furious heat that is coming to us, we get bass chords that are throwing out heavy chorded beats with a real plundering groove that slots in well with the arrangement, vocals come at us and they have a thunderous grungy dark gravelly vibe that is just fantastic, solo is rushing towards us and is full of delicious meaty laden chords with a fantastic direction and furious riff with an awesome hook and pick up that just sing, this is a raw energy bursting gritty powering performance from a really awesome bunch of guys, fantastic piece of music with all the trimmings.

South Of Salem  –

                            Joey  –  Vocals

                            Kodi  –  Guitar

                            Dennis  –  Guitar

                            Dee  –  Bass

                            James   –  Drums

Victory Or Die is the rock n roll lovechild brought about by Messrs Sweeney / Stewart after a 5 day jolly to LA LA Land last year to take in the glorious sights of The Sunset Strip that were about to inspire these two rock n rollers. The boys have been smashing up venues since their inception in 2023 and are gathering pace with their electrifying sound, stellar stage presence and hollering good tunes that has seen these boys hit the stage with the likes of Warrior Soul, Paul Di’Anno with more to be confirmed. The boys have been hard at work behind the scenes recruiting new desciples to the fold and working on new material and tonight they make their Winterstorm debut and we are possibly going to hear the loudest band of the weekend so prepare your ears to be melted, the boys take the stage to rapturous applause as they welcome us to the madhouse and thank us for coming to spend time with them as they drop into –

New Rock Revolution – A thunderous rhythm section kicks in the doors as this killer track explodes in front of us as the killer bass kicks tell the story. The cool gravelly vocals let this 80’s rocker track unfold as the boys bring us the Sunset Strip vibe that is just bubbling under the surface as the killer rhythm section punches us straight in the face with these awesome beats that are wrapped in killer guitar riffs that just lift the tone to the next level for sure, we are getting our monies worth tonight let me tell you as these boys are giving us blood, sweat and tears tonight as they want us to feel the rawness that they are giving us tonight, we are heading to the business end of the show as the boys hit us with –

Evacuation –  We continue as the boys give us what we came for, rock n roll with sheer power drenched licks that come packed with a solid rhythm section that is hitting us with colossal punches that make it easy to see why these boys work. The foot stomping riffs and the epic basslines are letting us feel our way through this colourful setlist that has come to melt our faces and allow us to get down and dirty right here in  Troon, the place is jumping as the killer vocals bellow all through the venue as Jason tells it like it is with killer lyrics that make it easy to see why these boys got together. The whole arrangement is brimming with enrgy, swagger and depth as we welcome another banger that has certainly caught our attention, we move onto –

I Lose Control – A sludgy guitar riff erupts from the off as a pounding rhythm section brings this foot stomping beast to our attention as the boys come together and let this awesome track come to life. The a full on bassline is wrapping itself around this fist pumping groover that lets Jason bellow from the rooftops as his gravelly vocals tell their own story as this rousing barn storming number leaves a path of destruction as it unravels and lets the guitar solo kick in the door and bring us a sweet, slick, clean salvo that builds and builds as the boys hit the ground running with a real killer track. The rhythm section is pounding away and gives us sweet snare drum punches that are wrapped in thundering bass kicks that are finished with cymbal crashes that really give this track some bite, the boys are just bubbling under the surface and are about to explode with this fiery, bruising beast that will certainly grab your attention. The place is going nuts for possibly the loudest band that has ever graced the stages of Winterstorm, we roll into –

Death Squad – A thundering rhythm section comes at us with a deafening beat that hits us with a real solid snare drum punch as the shredding guitar licks kick in the doors and melt our faces. A cool funking bassline is dropping awesome grooves that wrap themselves around this growling monster as the track erupts with a rasping punchy beat that just tells us that the loudest, mental outfit have touched down in Ayrshire as we feel the energy flowing freely through this energetic face melting ball busting set that just makes you want to pogo all over the place. The rhythm section is commanding the room as it hands out grungy beats, cymbal crashes that just let these boys do their thing, up next –

Hang The DJ – Picking up where we left off comes a growling beast that delivers snare drum beats that let the boys come for us with a real gutsy arrangement that just works with their impressive rocking sound. The vocals are a real gritty gravel tone that so fits this track as a deep pulsing bassline wraps itself around these rocking misfits as they destroy The Sessions Stage with this impressive monster track that just rips your face off with it’s intense sound, swagger and ballsy attitude, this is a roasing beast that builds and comes in waves as the boys just take the bull by the horns and really rip up the playbook with this rasping colossus that just tells us that these boys are here and here to stay, we roll through the setlist and arrive at –

House Of Love – This is a real smooth arrangement that brings us mellow riffs and emotion filled vocals that just whisk us off to another place. The boys show their diverse side as they take this track onwards with sheer musicality as we stand and watch this killer track unfold, we are getting a real solid showing that brings in searing guitars, mellow vocals with delicious basslines that are wrapped in pounding drums that are the shining light of this killer gig, Carlos is driving this crusier as it navigates it’s way through this awesome face melting set that has everything a good rock show brings, we move onto the raucious – 

Hotrod Nightmare – We get a funking power drenched groove that has meaty basslines that control the groove as the rasping vocals erupt and let this cool punchy track come at us. The rhythm section is hitting us with pounding bass kicks that bring snare drum beats that welcome soaring cymbal crashes that really let this track come to life, the killer shreds from Andy are working well as Jason follows on with his cool licks that let this track work it’s magic. The funky groove is a real foot stomper as the boys hit their stride and give us shredding riffs with deep pounding snare drum kicks that really allow this track the room it needs to grow, we roll straight into –

The Bone Trap – Snare drum raps come through as the powering guitar riffs fill the air as these boys come for us with cool groove that is just what the doctor ordered. The fierce tone is just grabbing us by the collar and shaking us with sheer vigour as this killer punchy rock track leaves it’s mark, we get gravelly rasping vocals that tell us that these boys are really getting into the swing of things as the pounding rhythm section commands the room with killer punches that bring cymbal smashes that take this monster all the way and then some, This has been a real triumph for the boys and I thing that they have scooped up some new fans as they clear the room with all the bodies that have been felled by their face melting, gut busting kick ass show.

Victory Or Die  –

                        Jason Sweeney  –  Vocals / Guitar

                        Andy’Paws’ Christie  –  Lead Guitar

                        Brian Stewart  –  Bass / BV

                        Carlos Marin  –  Drums / BV