Photos By Sam Conquest
Friday at Love Rocks Festival was everything a rock fan could hope for. The sun was shining, the crowd was growing, and from the opening act to the evening headliners there wasn’t a weak performance to be found. It was a day that celebrated classic rock, modern metal, southern grooves and unforgettable musicianship.
Opening proceedings were London’s In Search of Sun, a five-piece outfit whose polished stage presence almost felt like a boy band that had discovered heavy metal. Their infectious energy and huge choruses immediately grabbed the audience and set the tone for what was to become a fantastic day of live music.
Next came Greyfox Conspiracy, fronted by former Sons of Liberty vocalist Rob Cooksley, better known as Greyfox Growl. Blending heavy metal with southern rock swagger, the band delivered a powerful, hard-hitting set packed with thunderous riffs and commanding vocals. Their chemistry on stage continues to grow, and they looked every inch a band destined for much bigger stages.
Cry For Mercy returned to Love Rocks after impressing last year, and the classy power trio didn’t disappoint. Their Schenker-inspired UFO-style riffs mixed effortlessly with hints of Whitesnake and Bad Company, creating a timeless hard rock sound that felt both familiar and fresh. Tight, confident and packed with quality songs, they continue to build an impressive reputation.
There was a retro vibe from Silveroller, whose late-’60s and early-’70s image perfectly matched their music. Bass and keyboards drove much of their sound, with moments that recalled the glory days of Deep Purple Mk III. Their set was packed with groove, vintage rock attitude and some excellent musicianship.
Puzzle Tree offered something slightly heavier. The five-piece mixed classic rock with metal influences, producing riffs that occasionally hinted at Metallica. While the vocals took a little while to fully settle, they steadily grew in confidence and by the end carried echoes of Evanescence, giving the band’s sound a distinctive identity.
A revitalised Jack J Hutchinson followed with a set full of familiar favourites, including the excellent “Bullets.” In keeping with the festival’s family-friendly atmosphere, Jack even humorously altered the introduction to “Don’t Let the Bastards Get You Down,” earning plenty of laughs from the crowd. His guitar work remains exceptional, with flashes of Jimmy Page woven effortlessly into his solos.
Australian brothers Sisters Doll made their first ever appearance on English soil and immediately won over the audience. Entering to spaghetti western-style guitar music before exploding into high-energy melodic rock, they blended Bon Jovi melodies with touches of The Who and Kiss. The frontman’s wonderfully wild appearance even brought to mind a slightly dishevelled Russell Mael, adding even more personality to an already entertaining performance.
Northern Irish favourites Trucker Diablo maintained the momentum with their trademark high-octane classic rock. Their new single “World’s On Fire” slotted seamlessly into the set, while their superb cover of John Farnham’s “The Voice” became one of the day’s standout singalong moments.
Closing Friday were festival favourites Robert Jon & The Wreck, who once again reminded everyone why they are one of the finest southern rock bands touring today. Their 90-minute set was packed with feel-good country rock, outstanding musicianship and the effortless chemistry that has become their trademark. One of the band’s greatest strengths is the way Robert Jon happily steps back to allow every member their moment to shine.
Henry James was sensational on lead guitar throughout, while the extended version of “Cold Night” featured a magnificent Blackmore and Lord-inspired exchange between guitar and keyboards that left the crowd captivated. True to form, the band delivered another unpredictable setlist, ensuring even longtime followers experienced something fresh.
As anyone who has seen Robert Jon & The Wreck will tell you, it’s almost impossible to listen to their music without wearing the biggest smile imaginable. They were the perfect ending to a superb Friday at Love Rocks Festival—a day filled with outstanding performances, incredible musicianship and the kind of welcoming atmosphere that keeps fans returning year after year.
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