Live Review: Wednesday 13 - KK's Steel Mill, Wolverhampton
Support: South of Salem
3rd November 2024
Words & Photos: Tim Finch
As the log autumn nights settle over thw Black Country, at KK's Steel Mill crowds gathered for a rare and thrilling celebration of horror punk. Wednesday 13 returned to pay homage to his past, bringing a setlist full of Murderdolls hits and Frankenstein Drag Queens classics. With South of Salem as a high-energy opener, it was a night to remember for fans of the macabre.
South of Salem kicked things off with a gritty, tight performance. Their setlist showcased the band’s mix of dark, melodic hard rock and heavy riffs, including standout tracks like ‘Let Us Prey’ and ‘Death of the Part’y. Their energy and commanding stage presence set the tone for the night, bringing the crowd into a frenzy with ‘Cold Day in Hell’. This was no mere warm-up; South of Salem have built a brand worthy of a headline slot!
After a brief interlude Wednesday 13 took the stage to the familiar, haunting notes of ‘Chapel of Blood’, immediately tapping into the nostalgia that Murderdolls fans had been waiting for. With a set largely dedicated to Murderdolls classics, fans were treated to visceral renditions of songs like ‘Death Valley Superstars’ and ‘Slit My Wrist’, throwing everyone back to the early 2000s horror-punk explosion. From ‘My Dark Place Alone’ to ‘Die My Bride’, the energy was electric, with each track feeling like a celebration of the music’s unique legacy.
The Murderdolls-heavy setlist was punctuated by songs from Frankenstein Drag Queens From Planet 13, adding a chaotic, almost celebratory vibe to the night. Tracks like ‘197666’ and ‘Welcome to the Strange’ reminded everyone of the rawness and punk defiance that has long defined Wednesday 13's music. The crowd erupted when he launched into ‘People Hate Me’, with the venue becoming a cauldron of chanting fans.
Ending the main set with ‘Nowhere’, Wednesday 13 had already left the audience more than satisfied, but the encore was the icing on the cake. A chilling cover of Billy Idol’s ‘White Wedding’ was quickly followed by the defiant anthem ‘I Love to Say Fuck’. Finally, ‘Dead in Hollywood’ closed the night, sending fans home buzzing.
This show was more than just a trip down memory lane—it was a tribute to the late Joey Jordison and a celebration of the Murderdolls’ impact. For fans of Wednesday 13’s horror-punk world, it was a dream setlist come to life.
Photo Credits: Tim Finch Photography
