FIREVOLT - SUNDAY REVIEW

Here we go again heading back to the sunny fields in Stockport for the Sunday at Firevolt Rock Festival.

Needs saying the travelling down there was not my favourite thing in the world, 2 hours of travelling by 4 modes of transport - tram, train, uber and shuttle.

If anyone's car sharing from Bury in 2026 this would be greatly appreciated!

The sun gods were smiling down again on us today, another glorious day for rock music music here at Whitebottom Farm in Stockport, no where else id rather be celebrating my birthday to be honest, in a field with some of the most kind, and like minded people all here to enjoy the same love of music.

Firevolt Rock Festival stands as a vibrant testament to the unifying power of music, drawing together individuals from every conceivable background. United by an undeniable passion for rock, attendees transcend their differences, forging a universal shared experience that not only promotes profound social connections and builds lasting bonds, but also creates indelible memories and fosters enduring friendships.

Far more than just a multi-stage event, Firevolt acts as a vital lifeline for those seeking emotional solace and genuine social closeness. Within its exhilarating atmosphere, individuals find a safe haven to build trust, significantly lower stress levels, and experience a profound increase in feelings of happiness, leaving them with an undeniable, uplifting sense of well-being.

If you want to go to a festival and feel safe, happy and grow not only ever lasting friendships, but people who you can call your festival family then Firevolt is the place for you.

With that we head off to go and see our first band of the day Liberty Slaves over on the Bludsucker stage.

Liberty Slaves are a hard rock n roll outfit, and boy do these boys know how to get a party started.

From the moment they walk out on stage the crowds roar, and you can feel the electricity buzz in the air.

Hailing from Huddersfield, the electrifying rock n' roll band Liberty Slaves unleashed a torrent of energy onto the Firevolt Festival stage, effortlessly getting the crowds pumped up with their signature sound.

Their set was a masterclass in raw power, featuring a relentless barrage of fast and dirty songs that instantly ignited the mosh pit.

Not content with just speed, the band weaved in incredibly slick solos that showcased their undeniable talent, while anthemic tunes soared through the air, prompting massive singalongs.

Beyond the undeniable musical prowess, Liberty Slaves exuded an overall stage presence that was pure, unadulterated sexiness, making their performance an unforgettable highlight of the festival.

Next up we catch Sonny Jim over on the Grand Central stage.

Making a significant impression at this year's Firevolt Rock Festival, the aptly named Sonny Jim proved that a small rock and roll outfit can indeed pack a colossal punch, effortlessly commanding the Grand Central stage with their huge sound.

Ahead of their much-anticipated performance at Firevolt, these dynamic rockers had already set the stage by unleashing a compelling new promo video for their latest EP, 'Fake It Til We Make It'. This visual piece served as a powerful testament to their raw energy and undeniable rock n' roll abilities, giving fans a tantalizing taste of the electrifying show to come.

They came, they saw, they performed and they smashed it!

Next we head over to the Trooper stage where we catch the fabulous Soul Revival.

The Soul Revival explodes onto the stage, a band absolutely brimming with adrenaline and infectious energy.

Their sound is a potent mix of flourishing solos, rhythmic songs that compel bodies to move, and major, powerful percussive beats from the drums that echo throughout the venue.

Frontman Steve, with his powerful, confident yet commanding vocals, ignites every chorus, pulling the audience deeper into their electrifying performance.

This is a band full of irresistible grooves and hooks, enough to truly sink your teeth into.

The sheer, bounding energy they unleash on stage is enough to give you whiplash – these boys are undeniably fresh and on top form with their captivating performance here at Firevolt.

We head back over to catch Tom Killner on the Bludsucker stage.

Tom Killner is an explosive UK award-winning singer/songwriter/guitarist who proficiently straddles the line between genres, distributing soulfully intwined blues, Southern rock, country, and Americana.

With his performance here at Firevolt, Tom brings us a memorable showcase of guitar-slinging, hip swaying songs.

There’s a passion and determination in Killner's delivery that feels like it is deep rooted in his bones; his guitar tone is full of rich slick guitar slides dripping with soul which is tantalising to watch, while his vocals carry the kind of sleek seductiveness which draws you in.

What truly sets his music apart, however, is his deep amazing soulful voice – there is nothing forced or artificial here, as he pours his heart and soul into every word, and the sincerity and passion is undeniable.

Can we have him back next year for a full day please?

Next we head over to the Trooper stage for Blue Nation.

This 3 piece will get you ready to be electrified as Blue Nation, a powerhouse band hailing from Birmingham unleash a seismic fusion of Riff-based Melodic Blues Rock.

Their unforgettable sound is meticulously crafted from a reservoir of iconic influences, seamlessly blending the timeless appeal of The Beatles, Cream, and Led Zeppelin with the vibrant energy of 90's Brit Pop, along with more recent inspirations like Rival Sons and Vintage Trouble.

Fronted by a mesmerizing vocalist whose songs ooze with pure soul and passion, Blue Nation showcases three very accomplished musicians who have truly mastered their craft to a tee, who deliver us an awe-inspiring live performance, this intense experience and undeniable stage presence leaves audiences begging for more.

Back over on the Bludsucker stage we see The Lazys next.

This band will definitely leave you feeling hot under the collar, as this fun loving band bounds about on stage commanding the audience with their sexy sultry smiles, and racey riffs.

Aussie rockers The Lazys electrified the Firevolt Festival, delivering a completely mesmerising performance to a sell-out audience that proved these boys are showing no signs of slowing down, instead they doubled down on their stage presence.

Their high-octane set scorched the stage with red-hot energy, with the band proving that they are one of the fiercest progressive rock acts on the planet.

If you want a rock n roll band that will leave you wanting more, then The Lazy's are undeniably the band to see.

From the moment they hit the stage, their blistering guitars, thunderous drums, and raw, unapologetic vocals create an electrifying atmosphere that grips you instantly. Each riff is delivered with a punch, every drumbeat a jolt, ensuring a high-octane performance that’s both relentlessly energetic and incredibly tight.

They don't just play songs; they unleash a torrent of pure, unadulterated rock, building to a fever pitch that leaves audiences exhilarated, sweat-soaked, and already itching for their next dose of gritty, anthemic sound.

The band was proudly showcasing their brand-new single, "Hot Under The Collar,".

A fabulous set by an almighty band that's going places!

Back over on the Trooper stage we catch the fabulous Dan Byrne.

Its no secret this young man is a family favourite, having seen him at Manchester's very own SOS Festival, i was eager to catch up with him again and catch his set.

Dan Byrne, the chart-certified rock musician from Liverpool, commanded the Trooper stage at Firevolt to a packed out audience, with his dedicated following traveling from far and wide to witness his set.

With soaring melodies and an incredible vocal range, this young man proved himself a powerful frontman and artist.

His silky vocals, childlike smile, and beautiful harmonies were enough to give goosebumps, showcasing his immense talent and leaving the masses in awe. His set, brimming with passion, effortlessly evoked a shared experience among his fans through his songs, unequivocally making it the highlight of my day.

Due to childcare arrangements, The Picture Books would regrettably be my last band of the festival, though they were a group I truly enjoyed watching, despite being a little out of the ordinary.

This German duo, championed by 'Paul Cash's Pure Rock Fury' radio show, completely holds no bars, producing raw, gritty, blues-infused rock sounds that defy easy categorization.

With Fynn on vocals and Philipp on drums, there truly seems to be nothing this band can't do; they possess a unique instrumental sound forged from solid guitar riffs and thunderous drumming that's utterly intriguing to watch, propelling you into that feel-good zone that lifts you up like a powerful wave of euphoria.

A band i urge everyone to go and see! A brilliant set!

What an absolutely incredible experience Firevolt rock festival has been!

For my first time venturing here, it truly exceeded all expectations.

I spent Friday and Sunday completely immersed, watching some jaw-droppingly talented bands that put on unforgettable performances.

Beyond the music, the atmosphere was electric; I met so many amazing people, and the sun was incredibly kind to us all weekend, adding to the perfect vibe.

It was fantastic catching up with some old friends and making some brilliant new ones, cementing the feeling of community that permeates the festival. I genuinely cannot wait to come back next year and do it all over again!

A massive, heartfelt thanks goes out to Bev & Strett and the entire team – what a bloody incredible event you've created!

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