Dawn Osborne

Opener Dan Byrne, a man who has just signed a music publishing deal and is on the verge of a debut solo album, is a man on the up. He also happens to be a really genuine friendly guy. He only gets to play half a dozen songs tonight, three from his solo EP, but he makes a great impression with the time he has. He clearly has amazing pipes and is a gifted songwriter, making it easy to remember and appreciate songs like ‘Hard To Breathe’ even if you have only heard them once or twice before. He is appearing with a full electric band tonight and the big riffs and driving rhythms sound modern, as well as classic. He throws in new songs, also pretty memorable even on first listen: ‘Saviour’ and ‘Cherry & Leather’. With a favourite theme of his songs being the timeless subjects of relationships and attraction, he should never run out of inspiration for new material. He ended with ‘Death of Me’ the first song he wrote as a solo artist since his departure from Revival Black. He has a rabbit in a top hat tattoo and it will be interesting to see what more he can do in his debut release.

Dirk Schneider opened and Udo was full of memories as the last time he played a solo gig at Hammersmith supporting Ozzy in 1989! The set was, as advertised, exclusively Accept.

Proceedings opened with the awards! Head honcho Jonni Davis is on hand personally to present the awards in his own charismatic way, make sure everything is going well and the music is kept as loud as possible! He cares about the grass roots music industry dying and HRH gives newcomers a chance to cut their teeth and rise, making sure the UK gig scene is not just all about arena acts. He has also spent time recovering from a bike accident writing a book ‘Order Of The Black’ about warfare in the Scottish highlands, brought to life on the screen by amazing computer graphics illustrating hellish face to face mass combat in a time where honour was everything. Apparently, the book is set to be turned into a film. Jonni always thinks big and you need that in a person who really makes things happen. Portable speakers

Jayler were due to perform a special acoustic showcase for industry at Gibson’s Garage, but last minute the venue was changed when Gibson had its electric supply cut by accident. The event, therefore, took place nearby at the Karma Sanctum Soho hotel which has a reputation for special rock events and we were not to be disappointed despite the brevity, being only 30 minutes or so.

Spike is clearly amongst friends at The Cavern allowing him to be even more mischievous than normal. His solo shows are always an opportunity to hear more stories from the road and tonight was no exception.

As I go in I am extremely lucky to see Maggie Ginger’s lovely black and white sheepdog and give her a quick rub on the head. She is being well looked after with friends/family. This is the first time I have seen The Wildhearts since Ginger was diagnosed with the very serious condition MCL and so, obviously everyone is concerned and hopes he can be as well as possible. By the time I leave I am in no doubt that although Ginger has “Strength” tattooed on his arm, he has “Brave” tattooed on his soul.

TotalRock were privileged to be invited to private press viewings of the new Rockumentary about Iron Maiden ‘Burning Ambition’ prior to release and to the red carpet premiere. It is important to understand that partly focussed on the fans, the film was not actually produced by Iron Maiden the band. Band members took part by providing audio commentary and doing press events about it, but did not have control over the final thing.

Always love to go to The Hope and Anchor for the Rockaway Beach nights run by master of ceremonies Timmy DeRella as everyone involved has a long history in Rock ‘n’ Roll. Even that unassuming guy in the corner was probably on Top Of The Pops when Punk ruled the world!

I was really surprised and delighted when Spike told me that he had been invited to headline with Tyla as the Hot Knives at the Revenant Festival in Whitby. The product of two bands I love in my favourite quirky town at the time of the Goth Weekend which I always go to. So I already had a hotel and train booked to be there! Right place, right time! It was in the stars! This is something I could not miss and despite having an AAA pass I turned up as soon as the doors open and park myself at the front on the barrier to be able to see the whole thing. This might never happen again!!

Zakk Wylde runs a friendly ship and things are opened by the band of one of the Black Label Society family Dario Lorina’s Dark Chapel from Vegas who brought another slab of doom laden riffs, fast drum beats and wailing like Ozzy vocals. There’s enough melody to keep traditionalists happy with a ballad to boot and a death metal medley including ‘Ain’t No Sunshine’ and a bit of ‘Iron Man’.