Live Review: Armored Saint - KK's Steel Mill, Wolverhampton
Support: Tailgunner and Straight for The Sun
16th August 2024
Words: Cat Finch
Photos: Tim Finch
Armored Saint delivered a stunning performance at KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton proving there is plenty of life left in this classic band yet. The night was a heavy metal feast, with opening acts Straight For The Sun and Tailgunner setting the stage for what was to come.
Straight For The Sun kicked things off with a raw and gritty performance that warmed up the crowd. Fresh off the back of a storming performance at Bloodstock on the New Blood stage they thrive on their set full of dirty riffs and catchy hooks and the Wolverhampton faithful seem to lap it up.
Classic heavy metal throwbacks Tailgunner are also in Wolverhampton just days after performing at Bloodstock. The youngsters with a sound fresh out of the 80’s worship at the altar of Iron Maiden and Judas Priest with a look to match. It’s another storming set from the group, highlighted by the guitar solos of Rhea Thompson on her fluorescent green guitar.
From the opening notes of ‘End of the Attention Span’ Armored Saint commanded the stage with the confidence and prowess of a band that has spent decades honing their craft. John Bush’s vocals were as powerful as ever, while the twin guitar attack cut through the air with razor-sharp precision. The rhythm section, with Joey Vera on bass and Gonzo Sandoval on drums, laid down a solid foundation of their classic sound.
The setlist was a well-balanced mix of both classic hits and newer material. Tracks like ‘Raising Fear’, ‘Tribal Dance’, and ‘March of the Saint’ took long-time fans on a nostalgic journey back to the band's early days, while newer songs like ‘The Pillar’ and ‘Standing on the Shoulders of Giants’ demonstrated Armored Saint’s ability to stay fresh and relevant.
Highlights of the night included a powerful rendition of ‘Last Train Home’ which had the audience singing along, and the anthemic ‘Can U Deliver’. ‘Reign of Fire’ and ‘Mad House’ closed the main set with a bang, leaving the crowd wanting more and hoping they return to these shores soon.
Photo Credits: Tim Finch Photography
