Cassidy Paris/Fireheart -
Trillians, Newcastle, Sunday 24th May, 2026
Set List: Wild Hearts, Wild Nights/I Don't Need A Best Friend/I'm Not Dreaming/(Good Is) Good Enough/An Hour To Forget/Write Me A Letter/Staring At The Sun.
This was the Last night of the 'Finish what we started' Tour. Rock band, Fireheart for what is now their 3rd tour back to back. They were really good when I first got to see them in Manchester and even better in Sheffield supporting Dan Byrne. Now at Trillions in Newcastle supporting Cassidy Paris have they managed to keep improving?
Bret Barnes was absent doing wedding gigs. Keeping that commitment he made before the tour was announced. So 'For The Forsaken' Bassist, Daniel Hunsdon stepped up as his replacement. The chemistry between the band members was undeniable and the humour they brought to the stage was infectious. It felt like the band were all sharing an inside joke with the audience invited to be part of it.
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Rhythm Guitarist, Kev Baker and Vocalist, Russ Grimmett made a conscious effort to include Daniel throughout the performance, ensuring he felt like a genuine part of the band. It was a small gesture but one that really highlighted the close-knit nature of the group. It was impossible not to get swept up in the atmosphere they created.
Lead Guitarist, Neil Hackett looks completely at home in his role. Stepping forward confidently, he peered out at the crowd from beneath his trademark hat delivering every solo with style and confidence.
The camaraderie on stage was matched by the quality of the music. Fireheart were incredibly tight with every member contributing to a powerful and engaging performance. Russ Grimmett's voice showed the slightest signs of strain after the tour and there was a hint of emotion too, knowing this was the final night. Even so, his performance remained strong and full of character.
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Chris Hopton was exceptional behind the drums. Despite being positioned at the back of the stage, he constantly interacted with his bandmates, laughing along and making sure he wasn't lost and his presence was felt throughout the set.
As this was the final night of the tour the celebrations spilled onto the stage. Pete Newdeck, drummer for Cassidy Paris, joined Fireheart on stage - this time taking on vocal duties while playfully disrupting Chris Hopton behind the kit. Cassidy Paris and her father, Guitarist, Steven Janevski, soon joined in the chaos, creating a wonderfully memorable finale. It was light-hearted, entertaining and the perfect way to bring the tour to a close.
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This version keeps your enthusiasm while making the review read more like a professional live review for publication.. Excellent performance.
Set List: Walking On Fire/Wannabe/Stronger/Finish What We Started/Here I Am/Midnight Desire/Butterfly/I Still Think About You/Like I Never Loved You/Danger/Turn Around/Nothing Left To Lose/Getting Better/Watch The Fire.
This was my first time seeing Cassidy Paris perform live, although I had previously interviewed her for my YouTube channel, Dales Rock Interviews and Metalliville Zine.
Joining her on stage were her Father, Steven Janevski (Wicked Smile) on Lead Guitar, the exceptional Pete Newdeck (China Blue/Midnight City) on Drums and the effortlessly cool Brazilian bassist Vinnie Tex, who looked every inch the rock star.
Cassidy has the art of looking good absolutely nailed. She oozes star quality, strutting confidently around the stage, flicking her hair and effortlessly striking pose after pose that looked ready for Instagram. Dressed in a police-inspired outfit, complete with sunglasses, she certainly knew how to command attention.
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But was the performance all style and no substance? Absolutely not. The band were phenomenal. Stage left, Vinnie Tex was almost competing with Cassidy for attention, throwing out just as many hair flicks and rock-star poses while laying down some outstanding bass playing. He was impossible to ignore.
Pete Newdeck was, as expected, exceptional behind the drum kit. A seasoned professional. His experience and class shone through every song, providing the heartbeat that drove the band forward.
Steven Janevski quietly went about his business on guitar but there was something genuinely heart-warming about the relationship between Father and Daughter. Cassidy regularly leaned towards him, sang alongside him and shared countless smiles throughout the set. It was a lovely reminder that beneath the glamour and stage presence this is still a family enjoying every moment together.
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There was a definite 'Coyote Ugly' vibe to both the music and the performance, with plenty of attitude, confidence and rock 'n' roll swagger. Cassidy's voice however is what truly stole the show. She can really sing. Her vocal performance was powerful, controlled and virtually flawless throughout the set.
The only minor issue was the sound since the bass caused her vocals to distort through the speakers. It was noticeable, but never enough to spoil what was an outstanding performance. The crowd loved every minute of it and there was a genuine party atmosphere from start to finish.
Like Fireheart before them, the evening ended in glorious chaos. Russ Grimmett took to the stage for a few speeches before members of both bands joined together for a celebratory finale. Even merch man, Fred Hale - who has since replaced Vinnie Tex as Cassidy's bassist joined the fun.
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It was the perfect way to bring a fantastic evening to a close. So was Cassidy Paris all about Instagram poses and sultry looks? Not a chance. Behind the image is a genuinely gifted vocalist, backed by an outstanding band and blessed with the charisma of a true rock star. She has the looks, the presence and, most importantly, the talent to match.
An excellent night from start to finish.
By Dale Holford