Ugly Kid Joe/Scarlet Rebels/Muddi Brooke -
KK's Steel Mill, Wolverhampton Friday 28th November, 2025
The proceedings kicked off with a burst of energy, led by two young ladies and a long-haired, bandana-wearing drummer who are Muddi Brooke. They comprise of Harriet McDonnell (Brooke) (Lead Vocals/Guitar), Anna Melidone (Bass/Backing Vocals) & Morgan (Drums).
Straight away, the charismatic singer, Harriet impressed the crowd. Dancing effortlessly with Anna before turning to the mic, she immediately commanded attention with her voice and showcased an impressive vocal range. It became instantly clear why she has been the subject of so much buzz and excitement.
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While their sound doesn't quite fit the traditional mould of heavy rock, the band delivers what can be best described as radio-friendly rock, characterized by infectious energy and tight musicianship. Every single song was performed with remarkable precision and enthusiasm, demonstrating a high level of dedication to their craft.
Visually, both Brooke and Anna commanded the stage, looking every inch the rock gods. Specifically, Anna's distinctive technique on the bass, she plays it like she is a lead guitarist.
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Brooke had two thick black paint streaks running down her cheek, a cool look reminiscent of 80's Glam Rock bands. This look serves as a brilliant interactive feature, allowing fans to pay £5 at the merch table to have Brooke herself apply the make-up.
With great songwriting backing an even better live performance, it is a band that will definitely appeal to younger fans. They are surely poised to grace a Glastonbury stage with legions of enthusiastic followers. One to keep an eye out for.
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Scarlet Rebels are a five-piece Welsh melodic rock band from Llanelli, South Wales whose are made up of Wayne Doyle (Vocals/Rhythm Guitar), Chris 'CJ' Jones (Lead Guitar), Josh Townshend (Rhythm Guitar/Keyboard/Piano), Gary Doyle (Drums) & Wayne 'Pricey' Esmonde (Bass Guitar).
They delivered a truly memorable and energetic set when I was at Stonedead Festival 2024, so I am aware of what they can deliver. proving exactly why they are a band on the rise. Wayne Doyle is the powerful lead singer. With incredible musicians at his side the band have managed to amass an arsenal of instantly memorable tracks, the band's blend of melodic yet hard hitting rock is irresistible.
The setlist was a dynamic mix of fan-favorites like the anthemic 'Streets Of Fire', the captivating 'Secret Drug', 'Grace', 'It Was Beautiful', and 'Declining', along with newer, compelling tracks such as 'Let Me In', leaving no doubt about the strength and consistent quality of their songwriting.
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Their ability to craft catchy songs with a genuine rock edge makes them one of the most exciting and essential bands to see live on the current circuit. They know how to effortlessly work the crowd, inspiring everyone to sing and dance along. Beyond their captivating stage presence, their true professionalism shone through during several minor equipment hiccups.
The eagle-eyed gig-goer might have noticed guitarist Chris's strap repeatedly falling off; first, singer Wayne seamlessly assisted him mid-solo, and later, a crew member attempted repairs while Chris continued his flawless performance.
This 'keep calm and carry on' attitude was mirrored by frontman Wayne, who delivered a powerful and unaffected vocal performance despite battling a cold. Ultimately, their ability to maintain high energy and musical integrity through unforeseen issues cemented them as true pros.
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Scarlet Rebels are extremely entertaining and enjoyable. It was a fabulous set and a great way to warm up the crowd.
Setlist: Intro/Neighbor/Jesus Rode a Harley/Panhandlin' Prince/Goddamn Devil/Kill the Pain/So Damn Cool/Amends (Another Animal cover)/Cat's in the Cradle (Harry Chapin cover)/I'm Alright/Merry Xmas Everybody (Slade cover) (Solo performance by Chris Catalyst)/C.U.S.T./No One Survives/Devil's Paradise/Milkman's Son/Failure/That Ain't Livin'.
Encore: Paranoid (Black Sabbath cover)/Ace of Spades (Motörhead cover)/Everything About You.
Out came Vocalist, Whitfield Crane to the excited Wolverhampton crowd. He wore a T-Shirt with Ozzy Osbourne as a young child. Very fitting for the area that Ugly Kid Joe are performing in. After the intro they performed 'Neighbor', one of the heavier songs and the crowd lap it up. All in good spirits, singing and putting hands in the air when Whitfield commands it.
Both Klaus Eichstadt (Lead Guitarist) and Chris Catalyst (Rhythm Guitarist) were very playful with each other and that chemistry rubbed off with the audience with the line-up completed by Mike Squires (Bass) & Cam Greenwood (Drums).
The first half of Ugly Kid Joe's set demonstrated their tried-and-tested formula for engaging a crowd. Frontman Whitfield often leaned or crouched down, involving the audience directly, while the guitarists playfully swapped sides and danced together, creating an atmosphere full of smiles and laughter.
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Beyond the sheer energy and stage presence, one factor remained constant: the band's flawless execution. The rhythm section, though often unnoticed in its precision, was a perfect, foundational engine, ensuring every single song moved along without a single missed beat.
Whitfield I feel has ways been underestimated because of the one main song he is known for, but his voice is outstanding, he is such a great singer and frontman. Very charming and cheeky as we moved around the stage. The crowd love him.
We had a different singer mid set with Guitarist, Chris Catalyst taking centre stage where he sang the Slade song 'Merry Xmas Everybody'. Again, a perfect song for the area we are in. Everyone knows this and sang this with full voice and loads of Christmas cheer. In the latter end of the show we were treated with songs from 'Menace To Sobriety', 'Stairway to Hell' and 'Rad Wings of Destiny'. It was a great set and the crowd loved it.
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The encore was not what I expected though. Both songs were performed with a tongue firmly in cheek: Black Sabbath's 'Paranoid' & Motörhead's 'Ace Of Spades'. This is where Whitfield really showed us how good his voice is. He nailed them and it was a great fun way to finish the show.
Yet, the night was not truly finished until that song finally arrived: the moment the entire crowd had patiently waited for. Yep, you know the one: 'Everything About You' of course! From the very first note, every lyric and melody was lived and loved by every person present. The venue was absolutely bouncing, and a tangible wave of electricity could be felt surging from the front barrier to the back row, providing a truly fabulous and unforgettable conclusion to the show.
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Ugly Kid Joe are wonderful performers and gave us a memorable show. A perfect night of entertainment.
By Dale Holford