Tue 20 Jan – xBishopx, Ringworm, Kingdom, Hang The Bastard, River Freshney

The first band on tonight are Hang The Bastard. They're one of those bands that are constantly touring (especially in London), yet for some reason i keep missing them live. Tonight they play on of the tightest sets I've seen - everything works for them and with such precision and drive they deserve to be much higher on the bill.

The second band are River Freshney - and unkown to me it's their last show (thankfully!). As they launch into their first predictable thrash/metal 'song', it is only…

Sat 17 Jan – Royal Rumble 2009

Royal Rumble, put on by A Hero's Trial Promotion is the 2nd show for the young promoters. Being an all-dayer which showcased some of the best and up-coming UK and Euro hardcore bands is quite an achievment to say the least! Even more impressive was the organisation and large turnout of the gig which ran smoothly (with time to spare!)

It's 2.20 and the first band on are Search Party, a relativly unknown band hailing from Glasgow - this is their first show out of Scotland! If the band has any pre-gig nerves…

Tue 13 Jan – Killing the Dream, The Carrier, More Than Life, Unrestrained

As the crowd trickle in they are greeted with the first band of tonight - Unrestrained. The band, from Vermont, USA, are relatively unknown amongst most present and it is their first time in Europe. However this doesn't seem to faze the band, as they launch into an impressive set. With vocalist Ender addressing issues such as rape Unrestrained demand the rooms attention. The sincerity of their message is backed with the in your face relentless passion. If anything, their set tonight proves that there are bands…