My top 3 gigs of 2008

Here they are:

1. Iron Maiden @ Twickenham, July - by a distance

- with a full 1980s set list, a brilliant stage show, and such a wonderful back catalogue, it really is difficult to fail, and they didn't. A full house at Twickers meant that the coffee shops of Whitton had not seen a Saturday quite like it. Here's Wasted Years from you tube.

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2. Y&T @ The Point, Cardiff, September

- another throw back to the 80s, Dave Meniketti and Co turn in a stunning display down in the Bay. 2 and half hours of classic rock kept the packed house happy.

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3. Status Quo @ Cyfartha Castle, Merthyr Tydfil, July
- and then my surprise choice. Expecting a day out in the watering holes of Merthyr Tydfil rounded off with a bit of music at the Castle, Quo surpassed themselves with a powerful display of great riffing and tunes. Definitely older like us all, age has not wearied them. A highly worthwhile live experience.

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Also on the shortlist were:
- Magnum @ Caldicot Castle, July
- Waysted @ HRH, December
- Saxon @ Cardiff Students' Union, November
- Stone Gods @ Cardiff Students' Union, November