The Steel Daffodil

Ebbw Vale v Newbridge - Match postponed!

2012-02-11T10:17:00.003Z

Oh well, after a busy old start to 2012 I was really looking forward to my first live rugby match of the year with the visit of Gwent neighbours Newbridge but sadly the hard overnight frost and ice has put that one to bed.

Unfortunately this now leaves Ebbw with another Gwent Derby to fit in alongside Tredegar and Bargoed.

Today's match ball sponsor would have been Eye For Finance :)

Welcome to 2012!

2012-01-02T17:49:00.003Z

Happy New Year to all followers of the "Steel Daff".

Hope it's a good one for you. Normality will soon resume here with the usual rugby, cricket and music - oh and I've got a new camera :)

Be lucky!

My top albums of 2011

2011-12-12T20:09:00.008Z

Ok, here we go. There's been plenty of good stuff out this year, so what makes it to my favourites list? In time honoured fashion, here's the top three in reverse order.

3. Megadeth "Thirte3n"

A magnificent return to form for Dave Mustaine's baby. The usual heavy riffing combined with pointed lyrics which have moved on from the days of death and destruction. Maybe Mustaine's (relatively) newly found Christianity gives him a wider outlook on life with social issues and comments on abuse of democracy now getting good prominance.

At a time when Metallica's standing in rock circles is falling, this stunning set of tracks should have got some tongues wagging when they reunited with their old band mate recently at their 30th Anniversary shows.

All we need now is a UK return for Megadeth. Hard Rock Hell 6?

2. Black Country Communion "2"

No surprise here. I could ditto everything I said about 2010's debut album and add some, as this is no doubt up at another level.

With every classic rock influence in the book (and, yes, cliche), this album can be played time and again. Four outstanding musicians gelling with a great producer, backed up with some high voltage live appearances all makes for a potent cocktail of energetic, classy and thoughtful hard rock.

1. Coldplay "Mylo Xyloto"

Yes, that's right, you haven't misread it - Coldplay get my vote for album of the year (and I get banned from The Steelhouse!

The band that nobody admits to liking superbly span the often wide gap between pop and rock. This is an absolute gem and the band's best work since 2004's "A Rush Of Blood To The Head", which quite frankly it needed to be after the disappointments of albums three and four.

Where to start? Well, in a music world where the indie art rock form longs for a Pink Floyd or a 1990s Radiohead, this more than nicely does the job.

What I like most is, well, everything, from the fact that it's forty minutes long like albums used to be, and so it's not padded out with filler, to the sheer quality of the tracks. "Paradise" plays as background to many a sports montage on TV at present, "Charlie Brown" is excellent and so is "Every Teardrop Is A Waterfall".

Vocals, guitar, rhythm, in all elements, it is truly the outstanding record of the year.

Also on the shortlist:

Deep Purple with Orchestra "Live in Montreux 2011", old songs performed magnificently. Girlschool "Hit and Run - Revisited", a NWOBHM classic with modern production. Whitesnake "Forevermore", a real feel of old school buried beneath the surface. The Answer "Revival", a solid third output. Chickenfoot 3, it's their second album, but hey...Michael Schenker "Temple Of Rock", breaking free from the MSG shackle.

Whitesnake, Newport, 07/12/11

2011-12-10T15:00:00.007Z

And so we come to the final part of a trilogy of Deep Purple family gigs taking place this autumn/winter in the UK with the fourth appearance at the Newport Centre of David Coverdale and his ever changing support cast of Whitesnake (I make it version 16 - keep up at the back). In fact, this was the penultimate show of the 90 date Forevermore 2011 World Tour.

Mr David Coverdale

A sizeable crowd (including many familiar faces) turned up on a cold South Wales night to pay homage to one of the great frontmen of rock over the last 38 years, right from those early days of being plucked from obscurity to front Purple mark 3 which was, back in 1973, the biggest selling (and loudest) band in the world.

Once the excellent Red, White and Blues has fulfilled the support slot, it was time to get down and sing along to some of the signature tunes of 1980s rock: Bad Boys, Give Me All Your Love (youtube), Love Ain't No Stranger, The Deeper The Love (youtube), Is This Love?, Fool For Your Loving (youtube), Here I Go Again, Still Of The Night and a collection of old Purple stuff in Burn/Stormbringer and Soldier Of Fortune.

Here's a song for ya

So what was it like?

First, the positives. Whitesnake have an impressive back catalogue with many tunes which will last for a very long time and, in David Coverdale, there is the very model of a heavy rock frontman: even at 60, in fine shape, eloquent and with hair the envy of men half his age.

His interaction with the crowd is well known, and this made for a real Christmas party atmosphere. His supporting musicians are well crafted, and shine most on the newer material like the new album's title track "Forevermore" and, from the last album, "Can You Hear The Wind Blow?"

So it cannot be said that it was not an enjoyable evening.But...

...even as an ardent Whitesnake fan...

...I have to point out that this incarnation of live Whitesnake is a mere shadow of days gone by.

It just has to be said that DC's voice is a long way from the force it was and, to be brutally honest, varies between a husky growl and screams, with little in between on the 'heavy metal' numbers. The backing group help out enormously on vocals with as many as four of them singing out at some stages. Coverdale ducks out of many sections, leading crowd sing alongs of both a collective and, increasingly, individual nature by passing the mike to audience members.

DC with Doug Aldrich...

My biggest criticism has to be reserved for what I consider to be the amount of time wasted. After an impressive start to the show for around half an hour, the momentum of the gig was completely ruined by an interminable instrumental section: around 10 minutes of twin guitar solos, followed by a mindnumbing drum solo (I lost count after 11 minutes - amazingly some people were still filming it) and an excruciating band introduction section complete with cringeworthy cover versions of Cream , Aerosmith etc.

...and with Reb Beach

Not complete with that we had the appearance of a gift bearing Father Christmas during the classic Fool For Your Loving which, coupled with Coverdale's increasingly scripted innuendos and gestures (he's more like Frankie Howerd every tour), did make me wonder if the long awaited sequel to Spinal Tap was being filmed.

Goodnight from mark 16 Whitesnake

So for all the goodies that a Whitesnake show can bring, this one brought it's fair share of car crash viewing. Far better for those instrumental sections to be removed (it's £40 a ticket y'know), get the bar stools out, and sing some blues / acapello. 1987 it isn't. And I speak for many I think when I say that I want to see a performance not a pantomime.

Will it happen? Dunno, but DC could take a leaf out his old bandmate Glenn Hughes's book and go back to basics, drop the heavy metal frontman image and act like the seasoned and talented pro he is.

If he doesn't, he runs the risk of ridicule and unravelling a great reputation.

Will I go again? Dunno, depends on ticket price, locality and whether the show changes.

We can all hear the sound of the windmill going round. Perhaps it's time the tune was changed before it stops turning altogether.

Whitesnake 2011

Hard Rock Hell 5, Pontins Prestatyn, 01-03/12/11

2011-12-09T21:38:00.004Z

Oh well, off we went to the 5th annual Hard Rock Hell and, to be honest, I thought it was the most disappointing to date.

With most of the budget blown on the no-show headliner Ace Frehley, who pulled out in the week leading up to the festival, the rest of the bill suffered and so it proved over the weekend with few memorable moments.

Highlights included discovering the excellent Gentlemen of Distorted Sound on Friday afternoon, a fine Wolfsbane set Friday evening, listening in to Dan Baird at midday on the Saturday, an entertaining Saturday afternoon set from Reckless Love (Poison/Motley Crue wannabees), and two fine performances from the Quireboys and Michael Monroe on the Saturday evening.

Let's hope for a better line up next year.

Deep Purple with Orchestra, The Songs That Built Rock, LG Arena, Birmingham, 27/11/11

2011-11-29T19:19:00.007Z

Quite simply, magnificent! The best band to walk the earth 1968 - 2011.

Whilst many still have their doubts about the continuing viability of Deep Purple, there probably weren't many of those present at the Birmingham NEC on this evening.

Backed up by a 28 piece orchestra, the band were simply on fire.

Yes, there were no surprises in the set list, indeed it was identical to that of the current DVD/CD, but that does not detract the supreme musicianship of the old masters: Ian Paice on drums - the best in the business, Roger Glover on bass - quite sublime, frontman Ian Gillan on great form, Steve Morse on guitar - now been in Deep Purple longer than the man in black, and Don Airey on keyboards - now well established and paying homage to the sadly unwell Jon Lord.

Ian Paice has said that they'll know when it's time to finish, but on this evidence that'll be a couple of years yet - let's just hope there's a (long overdue) album in the pipeline.

As I said on the DPAS site:

"The kind of magical sound produced by these musicians could only be performed by the greatest band ever to walk the planet. I wasn’t around to see Purple in their 1970s pomp, but I’ve seen them many times since the reunion and this was the best. In fact, it gives me hope for another few good years!"

Pics

Gillan

Roger Glover

Together

Steve Morse

Ebbw Vale 50 Glamorgan Wanderers 11, 19/11/11

2011-11-20T11:45:00.003Z

Ebbw Vale recorded another comfortable win against limited opposition to secure their place at the top of Division One East, a victory made all the sweeter by being against a side who have often been the club's nemesis.

That said the Wanderers provided a little more with ball in hand than some recent opposition which belied their lowly position in the table, and, with the evergreen Gareth Cull still kicking well, I'd expect them to record a few more wins in the 2nd half of the season.

As for Ebbw, it was the usual case of being fitter, faster and just better in every aspect of the game.

From the Ebbw website:

The second half of the league season began with a double for Ebbw, as they continued their winning streak to defeat Glamorgan Wanderers by 50 points to 11 at Eugene Cross Park on Saturday, scoring 7 tries in the process and bagging yet another bonus point.

The game started well for Wanderers as they put pressure on the home defence, winning a penalty that Gareth Cull converted. Cull missed a second shot before Tom Macpherson grabbed Ebbw's first, beautifully converted by Dorian Jones. Ten minutes later, Charlie Simpson scored a second and this was followed before half time by tries for Dan Haymond, on in place of Tristan Davies who was stretchered off, and another for the pacy Macpherson, to send the Steelmen in 26-6 up with the bonus point secured.

Wanderers scored a well worked try early on, Mike Stephens crossing wide out but after that it was one-way traffic as Ebbw's forwards won a plentiful supply of ball and the backs put together some excellent running rugby. A Jones penalty made it 29-11, and tries followed for Dan Dearden, Dan Haymond and Dai Jones. Dorian Jones contributed 15 points through 6 conversions and a penalty.

In another outstanding team performance, Josh Powell was awarded the Man of the Match accolade - but, again, it could have gone to any number of players, including Ronnie Keynes, Ashley Sweet and Dan Haymond.

All at Ebbw Vale RFC were pleased to see Tristan Davies return to the club this evening following the Wanderers game. Tristan suffered a nasty knock while challenging for the ball during the early stages of the game and was taken to Nevill Hall Hospital for assessment, where he was given the 'all clear'.

Pics

Glenn Hughes, The Glee Club, Cardiff, 16/11/11

2011-11-18T08:38:00.008Z

Former Deep Purple man Glenn Hughes took in Cardiff as part of his book promotion tour and entertained us with an evening of spoken word and acoustic music.

Whilst taking pics was a little difficult, I did manage a few video clips (below) and got the autobiography signed.

Set list (I think)
It's Only A Dream
Seafull
Coast To Coast
Will Our Love End
What Is a Woman's Role
Holy Man (video)
From Now On
This House
Frail
Too Late to Save the World
Imperfection
Satellite
Crossfire
Little Secret
Faithless (video)
I Don't Want to Live That Way Again (video)

plus Cold as an encore.

Black Sabbath - Reunited in 2012

2011-11-12T10:41:00.001Z

Forget the gloomy economic news. Forget any other news. There is only 1 story in town.

They're back. Click here.

UFO, UK Tour, 2012

2011-11-07T16:01:00.004Z

They're back and, so far, age has not wearied them.

Formed back in 1969, and survivors of multiple line up changes, the beating heart of UFO remains strong and they're back again next year, O2 Academy, Bristol, Sunday 25th March, just after the clocks go forward, and if that doesn't start spring with a bang, nothing will.

Full tour details here on the UFO website.

Ebbw Vale 34 Rumney 5, 05/11/11

2011-11-06T10:53:00.009Z

Ebbw Vale recored another bonus point victory and, with Newbridge losing at Gilfach Goch, went to the top of the table, where we hope they'll stay.

Opponents Rumney were dogged and not a little cynical. In fact, their only try came from a bizarre moment when play continued with 2 balls on the field, and our defence unsurprisingly a little stretched.

In fact that probably summed up a pedantic and slightly shambolic display from another WRU joker with a whistle who seemed intent on maximising the number of scrums.

From the Ebbw website:

Ebbw Vale returned to the top of the D1E table for the first time since the win at Bedlinog in April which saw them capture the championship on the season's final day. It was pretty much business as usual for the Steelmen as they dominated every aspect of the game and scored 5 excellent tries against a struggling but dogged Rumney team who looked every inch a bottom three outfit. The visitors have developed a well-earned reputation as one of the division's strongest scrummaging sides and must have fancied their chances, given the absence of four of Ebbw's most experienced front rowers in Ross Jones, Mathew Williams, Robert Sevenoaks and Jonathan Williams. However, the young trio of Josh Powell, Ben Parry and Dan Goode confronted the challenge and emerged covered in glory, having given their opposite numbers a torrid time and laid the foundation of their team's 34-5 victory.

Man of the match was again Ashley Sweet, but, to be honest, I could have written that before the game.

Pics

An early scrum

and another...

ooo look, a scrum

Thank goodness for class like Ashley Sweet...

... time...

...and again

Early 2nd half pressure

Ebbw Vale 57 Blackwood 3, 22/10/11

2011-10-23T12:01:00.004+01:00

The Steelmen put in their best display of the season as they overcame the 15 men of Blackwood (and one WRU referee) to romp home with a bonus point and a sackful of tries.

From the Ebbw Vale website:

When the teams in 3rd and 4th place meet, you can expect a nervous, tight affair with the game turning on a missed tackle here, a spark of brilliance there, a penalty kick sailing over - or wide. Not so at Eugene Cross Park on Saturday, when 3rd placed Ebbw Vale handed out a real drubbing to a very disappointing Blackwood side, scoring 9 tries in the process. Producing some of their best rugby of the season, and with the pack dominating every aspect of the forward battle, Ebbw's backs clicked, playing with a precision and pace that the visitors could not counter.

Everyone of Ebbw's players was superb, so I really won't single out any individuals for attention - well apart from one.

It may seem churlish to criticise the refereeing after such a comprehensive victory, but if it weren't for the bizarre decisions of the official, it could easily have been another 20 points or more for the Vale. Some unbelievable stuff was witnessed.

Pics

Y&T, Coal Exchange, Cardiff, 15/10/11

2011-10-19T10:07:00.008+01:00

Is there such a thing as a bad night with Y&T? On last Saturday's evidence, once again the answer is no, as Dave and the boys turned yet another great night of classic tracks and material from the latest record 'Facemelter'.

This was Y&T's fourth October visit to Cardiff in four years playing at four different venues:

2008 The Point, 2009 The Globe, 2010 Millenium Music Hall, 2011 Coal Exchange.

Worryingly they all seem to close after Y&T have played.

The set list was as expected these days: Black Tiger, Mean Streak, Summertime Girls, Rescue Me, Lipstick and Leather, I Believe In You etc etc.

Pics

John Nymann

Dave Meniketti

Mike Vanderhule on drums

Brad Lang on bass these days following Phil Kennermore's death earlier this year

After the gig

Brad....

...and Dave

You tube clips to follow

The Answer, Steelhouse, Ebbw Vale, 14/10/11

2011-10-16T10:29:00.013+01:00

Well, they were the biggest band yet to play the Steelhouse and it showed, as tickets for The Answer were sold out weeks in advance. And what a night they delivered.

First up were Gentlemen's Pistols, an impressive hard rocking foursome who looked as though they'd just been transported from a student demo in 1972. But looks are deceptive, as they played heavy and energetically, with influences from Budgie to ZZ Top to Kings of Leon and, yes, a little bit of Sabbath.

And then the main men. Now when you spent a year and a half on the road as support to AC/DC you will have played some pretty big gigs. Ebbw Vale 'Welfare' is no Madison Square Gardens, but with a new album out called "Revival", Northern Ireland's The Answer have done literally that and gone back to the grassroots roots in playing smaller gigs around the UK. All in all, it was a priviledge to have them at the Steelhouse.

With material drawn heavily from the new record, Revival got a major plug but it was the older material like Preachin' that brought the house down.

Pics

The Answer

Cormac Neeson...

...again

Micky Waters on bass

Up close and personal

Paul Mahon

Watch the TV Cormac, we're watching the World Cup on that tomorrow!

In the pit...

...with the faithful

James Heatley on drums

Hanging with the band

Great blokes, great night, they deserve to play much bigger venues.

You tube clips to follow...

Ebbw Vale 59 Tredegar 17, 08/10/11

2011-10-08T11:20:00.004+01:00

Despite trailing 0-10 in the early stages, Ebbw Vale's pace and power eventually proved too much for a poor, but committed, Tredegar side in the neighbours' first competitive fixture for over 15 years.

A bonus point victory eventually came Ebbw's way early in the second half and superior fitness took its toll in the last quarter as the Steelmen ran in a batch of touchdowns.

From the Ebbw website:

"Tredegar have struggled in the league so far this season, following their excellent promotion campaign, but they started very brightly and took the game to the hosts. After 18 minutes, scrum half and captain Rhys Hallett got his hands to an intended Ebbw pass, booted ahead and crossed under the posts. The conversion and a later penalty by outside half Amber made the score 10-0 and Tredegar supporters had the faint whiff of an upset in their nostrils. However, there were signs that all was not well in the visitors' ranks as they responded to Ebbw pressure with a raft of infringements that earned them two yellow cards. A pushover try from Nicky Coughlin and a Tom Macpherson touchdown were both converted by Dan Haymond to give Ebbw a 14-10 interval lead.

Ebbw got off to a good start after the break and Tom Daly crossed for the third try, Haymond again converted. Tredegar bounced back, a great individual effort by centre McGovern, converted by the accurate Amber, bringing the score back to 21-17. However, Ebbw were clearly the fitter and more organised side and this combination proved too much. Scrum dominance, line out supremacy and and powerful mauling took their toll. Tredegar conceded a penalty try as they collapsed a tryline-bound driving maul, and the bonus point was secured by the Steelmen. Outstanding contributions from Coughlin, Ross Jones, Ashley Sweet and man-of-the-match Ronnie Kynes built the platform for five more tries from Tom Ashmead (2), Tom Macpherson, Tom Daly and Callum Brennan. Dorian Jones and Charlie Simpson chipped in with two conversions each to make the final score 59-17."

Pics

Autumn Gig Guide: The Steelhouse and beyond - from New York to Ebbw Vale

2011-09-27T19:28:00.004+01:00

There's some rather splendid gigs coming up over the Autumn / pre-Christmas, which I shall undoubtedly be partaking in. Here goes:
.
Fri 30th Sept: Warrior Soul @ The Steelhouse, Ebbw Vale RFC
Fri 14th Oct: The Answer @ The Steelhouse, Ebbw Vale RFC (a sellout!)
Sat 15th Oct: Y&T @ The Coal Exchange, Cardiff
Wed 16th Nov: Glenn Hughes @ The Glee Club, Cardiff
Fri 18th Nov: Dizzy Lizzy @ The Steelhouse, Ebbw Vale RFC
Sun 27th Nov: Deep Purple (the greatest band in the world ever) @ NEC Birmingham
Fri 2nd / Sat 3rd Dec: Hard Rock Hell 5 including Magnum and Ace Frehley @ Pontins Prestatyn
Wed 7th Dec: Whitesnake @ Newport.
.
Now that should keep me going!

Ebbw Vale 44 Gilfach Goch 18, 24/09/11

2011-09-25T09:18:00.009+01:00

Ebbw Vale returned to winning ways, after their one point reversal at Bargoed last week, with an impressive bonus point victory over the early season pacesetters Gilfach Goch.

4 tries were in the bag by half time, and with 2 more after the break, including a hatrick for right wing speedster Wes Cunliffe, the Steelmen turned in their best display of the season so far (despite having to wear shirts with a salmon tinge - bring back the hoops!)

From the Ebbw Vale website:

"Ebbw's man of the match was tighthead prop Jon Williams who was part of a very effective and highly destructive front row unit with Ross Jones and Ben Parry, as well as replacements Mathew Williams and Josh Powell.

Team:

Dan Haymond, Wes Cunliffe, Dan Deardon, Tristan Davies, Tom Daly; Dorian Jones, Derrick Tredray; Ross Jones, Ben Parry, Jon Williams; Damien Hudd, Callum Brennan; Nicky Coughlin, Ronnie Keynes, Ashley Sweet. Bench: Josh Powell, Mathew Williams, Nathan Ace, Gareth James, Tom Macpherson."
.
First half pics
.

.
Second half pics
.

.
Ebbw visit Treorchy next Saturday.

England v India, ODI, Lord's, 11/09/11

2011-09-25T09:16:00.003+01:00

Our annual trip to Lord's this year was to catch the ODI between England and India, which ended in a part dramatic / part farcical Duckworth Lewis tie.

With thanks to London Underground, we had a walk from Baker Street on Sunday morning, not what you want with a 10.15 start.

India's innings faltered until a blistering stand from Dhoni and Raina ensured that they posted a respectable 280 which delighted the travelling hoardes from, err, Southall and Ealing.

But, as with other games in the series, India's bowling was weak and England chipped away at the target until rain brought a premature end with the scores level on the DL method. Ravi Bopara scored an excellent 96.

Scorecard

Pics

Steven Finn
.

Rahul Dravid

.

Bopara

Gloucestershire v Glamorgan, Day 3, Bristol, 02/09/11

2011-09-16T08:21:00.006+01:00

An astonishing 17 wickets fell on a topsy turvy day at Bristol, but ultimately it was Gloucestershire who held the whip hand and closed needing only another 133 runs for victory on the final day.

Glamorgan were made to pay dearly for a disastrous afternoon session during which they lost 8 wickets for 128 runs. This was after an excellent fight back during the morning's play when they managed to force a 37 run lead on first innings. Unfortunately, being dismissed for 148 second time around looked like being their undoing in this game, and a rare Gloucestershire victory over the daffodil county beckoned.

Scorecard

Gloucestershire started well but wickets tumbled

Nick James defends, Hamish Marshall watches

Will Bragg leaves

Jon Lewis to Stewart Walters

Walters c Coughtrie b Lewis 0

The County Ground, Bristol in late summer

Lewis to Allenby

Lewis (again) to Bragg

Mark Wallace plays and misses

The view from the Jessop Stand

Bragg defends

More pressure from Glos

By the end of the day, Glos were batting again

Gloucestershire v Glamorgan, Day 1, Bristol, 31/08/11

2011-09-15T09:26:00.003+01:00

Glamorgan closed Day 1 of their County Championship clash with Gloucestershire marginally in the ascendancy largely due to a watchful 63 from Will Bragg and an excellent 78 from Jim Allenby.

They recovered from a disastrous start where Gareth Rees fell for 0, due also to a patient 40 from makeshift opener Nick James. With Mark Wallace scoring another valuable 42, the Welsh county will be hopeful of adding to the total on Day 2.

.
Pics
.

Nick James drives

Will Bragg defends

Bristol

Bragg turns it off his legs

James looking solid
.

Glamorgan v Lancashire, CB40, Colwyn Bay, 20/08/11

2011-09-07T19:27:00.007+01:00

A superb Sunday afternoon's cricket at Colwyn Bay saw Glamorgan victorious by 69 runs in the CB40 tournament.

In front of a packed holiday crowd, Glamorgan posted a massive 328 off 33 overs, the highlight of which was a brilliant 144 from captain Alviro Petersen. He was well supported by Gareth Rees 76, Stewart Walters 51 no and Graeme Wagg 31 no.

Scorecard

Pics

Sajid Mahmood to Alviro Petersen

Petersen passing 100

Packing them in on the bank at Rhos on Sea

In the garden. "Can we have our ball back?

Graeme Wagg
.

This followed up an excellent win over Leicestershire in the 4 day Championship match.

Glamorgan v Leicestershire, Day 4, Colwyn Bay,19/08/11

2011-09-06T11:43:00.004+01:00

Glamorgan closed out an excellent 108 run victory over Leicestershire on the fourth and final day at Colwyn Bay, gathering 22 points in the process.

A contrived declaration left Leicestershire a target of 300 runs, but they were dismissed well short of it due to three wickets from the impressive Will Owen, three from Jim Allenby, and two each from ageless spin twins Croft and Cosker.

Earlier in the day Will Bragg scored his maiden first class century as Glamorgan declared on 216 for 7.

Pics

Studious Will Bragg on his way to.....

...a well deserved maiden ton

The timeless Crofty, on his way to a testamonial in 2012

Resistance from Leicestershire

Greg Smith bowled Cosker 43

Glamorgan v Leicestershire, Day 3, Colwyn Bay, 18/08/11

2011-09-05T08:25:00.006+01:00

Glamorgan had built a lead of 229 with 6 wickets left by the close of Day 3 at Colwyn Bay, thereby setting up an intriguing final day of the Championship match.

This was due to Leicestershire declaring on 309 for 7, seemingly as a result of some back room collusion between the captains. The total included an excellent unbeaten 127 from England prospect James Taylor.

In response, Glamorgan had moved onto 146/4 second time around largely due to Will Bragg's 67 not out.

Pics

The small, but well organised, James Taylor

Nick James bowling to Jigger Naik (he bowled him)

Petersen strikes a four

Gareth Rees defends against Nathan Buck

Petersen drives Hoggard

Rees looks solid

Glamorgan v Leicestershire, Day 2, Colwyn Bay, 17/08/11

2011-09-04T19:30:00.003+01:00

Despite rain preventing any play after tea, Glamorgan continued to have the upper hand of their County Championship clash with Leicestershire.

This was due to some spirited tail end wagging from James Harris 31, Rob Croft 31, Dean Cosker 39 and Will Owen 26no, then being followed up with 3 wickets from Harris and one from Cosker reducing the visitors to 140/4 by the premature close.

Pics

Allenby to Josh Cobb

Dean Cosker bowls

The excellent James Taylor

Will Owen delivers

Cosker to Wayne White

Glamorgan v Leicestershire, Day 1, Colwyn Bay, 16/08/11

2011-09-03T19:14:00.003+01:00

Glamorgan closed Day 1 marginally on top as they scored 328 for 8 on a Colwyn Bay surface offering a little more than usual for the seamers.

71 from Gareth Rees plus 55 apiece from Mark Wallace and Jim Allenby gave the home side the advantage at Stumps.

Pics

Matthew Hoggard

Petersen bowled Hoggard 1

Gareth Rees works one away....

...and passing 50.

Nick James gets his chance

Jim Allenby digs in

...as does James

The splendid Colwyn Bay CC

Allenby again

Claude Henderson

Glamorgan v Essex, CC Div 2, Cardiff, 02 - 05/08/11

2011-08-06T11:01:00.007+01:00

Glamorgan narrowly failed to close out victory on Day 4 of their Championship clash with Essex despite the best efforts of Dean Cosker with 5 wickets on the final afternoon (scorecard).

Highlights of the match for me were centuries from Alviro Petersen (Glamorgan) and Owais Shah (Essex), class acts who look a cut above Division 2.

Some images from the match

Gareth Rees and....

...Petersen put 184 on for the first wicket

Petersen passes 100...

...a fine player

Graham Napier

Mike Powell defends

Essex batting on Day 2

Shah defends...

...batting patiently.....

...and passing 100 on Day 3

Iron Maiden, Cardiff Motorpoint Arena, 01/08/11

2011-08-02T08:21:00.008+01:00

There's live shows, and there's Iron Maiden live shows.

Consistently hated by the press, adored by their fans, Iron Maiden stand as the backbone of British heavy metal music for over 30 years and their powers show no signs of abating.

With a successful album, The Final Frontier, under their belt in 2010, Maiden have been trotting the globe since to huge audiences and this night in Cardiff was no different. You could not have crammed another person into the CIA safely.

This will explain why the pics are not up to normal standard - anyone who's tried to stand near the front of Maiden show will understand, staying on your feet is battle enough!

Dave Murray and Adrian Smith

Bruce

Murray, Janick Gers and Steve Harris

Set list
Satellite 15... The Final Frontier (video)
El Dorado
2 Minutes to Midnight
The Talisman
Coming Home
Dance of Death
The Trooper
The Wicker Man
Blood Brothers (video)
When the Wild Wind Blows
The Evil That Men Do
Fear of the Dark (video)
Iron Maiden
The Number of the Beast
Hallowed Be Thy Name
Running Free

Glamorgan v Nottinghamshire, Swansea, 31/07/11

2011-08-01T07:53:00.005+01:00

Although it ended in defeat to a strong Nottinghamshire outfit, the CB40 match at Swansea finished off an excellent 5 day festival by Glamorgan down at the old St Helen's ground.

The old place isn't the force it was, but there aren't many finer settings for cricket in the world than the sea front ground at Swansea.

I can remember when a score 160 off 40 overs used to be competitive. Those days are long gone as Notts rattled up 281, with Glamorgan falling 21 runs short on 260. 541 runs in 80 overs? Not bad eh? (scorecard)

Simon Jones

Samit Patel

Gareth Rees...

..on his way to 90

Summer Hols in Ibiza

2011-07-31T09:20:00.003+01:00

Oh well, that's our 2 weeks in the sun come and gone for another year, and what a great holiday it was. The Hotel Catalonia Ses Estaques in Santa Eulalia in Ibiza was our chosen location.

.
Great views, decent town (very Spanish unlike the West of Ibiza!) and fine weather. Superb!
.
Some images here.
.

Judas Priest, Newport Centre, 15/07/11

2011-07-30T20:43:00.008+01:00

For the final time in Wales, the mighty Judas Priest.

Although I've seen Judas Priest many times over the years, this was the first time since 1988 that they'd played Newport. Then, as a 19 year old student I had a real buzz of excitement about seeing the band and 23 (!!) years later it was no different.

They really are masters of the stage and have performed their brand of heavy metal successfully since 1969 (a vintage year).

On this, their final tour, appropriately called 'Epitaph', they played a vast array of material for well over 2 hours right across the back catalogue, some oddments but plenty of crowd favourites.

If it is the end, then what a way to finish.

The stalwarts: Glenn and Ian

The new guy: Richie Faulkner

The frontman and master: Rob Halford

Setlist

Rapid Fire

Metal Gods
Heading Out to the Highway
Judas Rising
Starbreaker
Victim of Changes (video)
Never Satisfied
Diamonds & Rust
Dawn of Creation
Prophecy (video)
Night Crawler
Turbo Lover (video)
Beyond the Realms of Death
The Sentinel
Blood Red Skies
The Green Manalishi (With the Two Pronged Crown)
Breaking the Law (video)
Painkiller
The Hellion

Electric Eye (video)
Hell Bent for Leather (video)
You've Got Another Thing Comin'
Living After Midnight

The Priest

Epitaff??

Epitaph

Thank you

Roger Daltrey, Tommy, Newport Centre, 10/07/11, More pics

2011-07-13T20:44:00.006+01:00

With many thanks to Mr P, a few extra pics from the Daltrey show in Newport on 10th July.

Roger Daltrey, Tommy, Newport Centre, 10/07/11

2011-07-11T09:36:00.013+01:00

Not usually being of the kind to doff my cap to royalty, I must admit to changing my tune slightly when it comes to Rock Royalty, and in that category there don't come many more regal that the mighty Who singer Roger Daltrey, surely one of the definitive frontmen of the genre.

A war baby of 67 years, he still cuts a fine figure of a performer and a voice which, by his own admission, was under threat two years ago, but which now has the all clear to keep him singing, he says, until he's 80.

This, of course, was not The Who, the only connection being the presence of guitarist and key vocalist Simon Townsend (brother of), and the young band turned in a fine display.

Through the first half of the show, we had the full version of Tommy, in the 2nd half we had a selection of various odd'n'sods (did you get that?) including The Who classics;

I Can See For Miles

Behind Blue Eyes

Pictures Of Lily

Young Man Blues

Baba O Reilly

On reflection, you can get a little sad about these things. With Pete Townsend's deafless seemingly beyond repair and the 'other 2' long gone, you did get the feeling that it was a case of 'And Then There Was One' (that's for the Genesis fans), in that we may not see The Who again.

If not, let's enjoy Daltrey whilst we can.

There's pots more over on My You Tube Site.

Rugby fixtures 2011/12

2011-07-08T19:52:00.002+01:00

The fixtures for next season are out and are available here.
.
How (in)appropriate that our first opponents are those that knocked us out of the Play Offs, Glamorgan Wanderers.

Catch The Rainbow, Steelhouse, Ebbw Vale, 17/06/11

2011-06-20T16:08:00.006+01:00

The excellent Catch The Rainbow visited the Steelhouse at Ebbw Vale RFC last Friday and turned in a blistering (and loud) set.

.
In no particular order:

Eyes Of The World
Kill The King
Man On The Silver Mountain
Since You Been Gone
Tarot Woman
Lost In Hollywood
All Night Long
Love's No Friend
Stargazer
Mistreated
Gates Of Babylon
Long Live Rock'n'Roll (you tube)

Pics

Ian Richardson...

...on guitar

Carl Sentance

Catch The Rainbow

Ebbw Vale RFC - a new beginning

2011-06-12T22:05:00.005+01:00

With the old club going into liquidiation, it looks as though at last we'll have a new club free of debt.

Details here.

England v Sri Lanka, Day 3, Cardiff, 28/05/11

2011-05-30T20:37:00.004+01:00

Day 3 of the Cardiff Test did not get under way until 2pm due to morning drizzle, but after play started it was relentless accumulation from Alistair Cook and Jonathan Trott, who both posted hundreds in a record stand. (report).

Trott bats and bats

as does Alistair Cook

The Saturday crowd was the healthiest

with Jeff Thompson at tea

Trott passes 100 (you tube)

under the floodlights

Alistair Cook passing 100 on you tube.

England v Sri Lanka, Cardiff, Day 2, 27/05/11

2011-05-29T10:20:00.005+01:00

The best weather of the recent Test Match in Cardiff was on Day 2, Friday, which saw Sri Lanka build up a total of 400 (report).

Andrew Strauss leads out England

Kumar Sangakara in the nets

Lunchtime Q&A: Jeff Thomson and Alec Stewart

Tommo...

with Alec Stewart in the 12th man tent

A good Friday crowd

right around the River Taff End

Tremlett

Prasanna Jayawardene 112

Fury UK plus Triaxis, Steelhouse, 20/05/11

2011-05-21T19:49:00.007+01:00

Another excellent night at The Steelhouse (Ebbw Vale RFC) last Friday with (at last) some full on heavy metal from South Wales based Triaxis and main act Fury UK from Manchester.

In fact, I heard more Dave Murray riffs and Steve Harris bass lines in 3 hours than I would have done at an Iron Maiden soundcheck, but , hey, I'm not complaining.

Triaxis

First up were Triaxis, whose flyer quotes Priest, Megadeth and Testament as influences, and that's about right. To be honest, they're better than Testament, as a blistering 30 minute set proved when it went down a storm, topped off perfectly by a cover of Maiden's 'Wicker Man'.

Owen and Giles form a mean rhythm section, and Glyn's lead guitar is blistering, whilst the splendid guitar work of 'CJ' combined with dominant vocals of Krissie (pic) attracted the male attention. Check them out on myspace.

The excellent Triaxis

Fury UK

Fury UK (web) have established a good reputation in the rock world. Classic Rock rates them highly for example. They have 3 albums out, inclduing the latest, 'Way Of Life'.

They rocked hard and loud, and the three piece certainly pack a punch. Check them out (myspace)

Luke Appleton - bass

Chris Appleton - lead guitar and vocals

Next month, sees Catch The Rainbow, tribute band therein, at The Steelhouse. "Long Live Rock'N'Roll".

Glamorgan v Gloucestershire, Cardiff, 15/05/11

2011-05-17T09:23:00.004+01:00

Glamorgan eased to a 4 wicket victory over a poor Gloucestershire outfit at Cardiff on Sunday, and moved up to third in Group C of the CB40 competition.

In truth, it wasn't a great advertisement for 40 over cricket, as it was really cold for May and the pitch really slow and low thereby discouraging attacking stroke play.

Match report here

Will Owen to Chris Taylor

James Harris to Alex Gidman

Ed Young to Gareth Rees

Allenby lbw Taylor 30

Glamorgan v Kent, Cardiff, 10,11,12/05/11

2011-05-13T17:47:00.004+01:00

Glamorgan comprehensively defeated a poor Kent outfit by an innings and eight runs at the Swalec Stadium this to confound the critics who predicted gloom and doom following the winter of discontent.

Sharp bowling and outcricket built upon a consistent batting display, the highlight of which was a Mark Wallace century, ensured that the 4 day match was over in effectively 2 and a half days.

Full report here.

Dean Cosker bowling

Mark Wallace passing 100 here...

... and here

Cyprus @ Easter, April 2011

2011-05-10T21:30:00.002+01:00

This Easter, we had a splendid week of R&R at the Atlantica Golden Beach just outside Paphos in Cyprus.

Glamorgan v Essex, Cardiff, 07/05/11

2011-05-07T19:20:00.009+01:00

Rain ruined Glamorgan's 40 over contest with Essex on Friday night in front of a poor crowd at the Swalec Stadium.

The Dragons scored 222 in their 40 overs due to a patient 88 from skipper Alviro Petersen, 51 from Gareth Rees and 28 from Graham Wagg, before the heavens opened and we all went home early.

David Masters to Rees

South African bowler Lopsy Tsotsobe

Petersen drives Graham Napier

New England ODI captain...

...Alastair Cook

Cardiff under the lights

Wagg hits out

Ebbw Vale 13 Glamorgan Wanderers 16, 30/04/11

2011-05-01T12:05:00.009+01:00

A cruel bounce of the ball robbed Ebbw Vale of the chance to play for a place in next year's Premier Division. A 78th minute try by the Wanderes overturned Ebbw's lead gained through a penalty try just minutes earlier.

To quote from the Ebbw Vale website:

"In a tight and tense game at Cardiff Arms Park, it was the Premier Division's bottom side, Glamorgan Wanderers, who emerged as winners. For critics of the play off system, it was a Blues regional player (the excellent Josh Navidi) and a full back on permit from another Premiership team (former Ebbw points machine, Gareth Cull) who scored 13 of the Ely side's points.

We congratulate the Wanderers on a hard fought victory that will see them take on Division One West champions Bridgend next Saturday. Ebbw's points came from a penalty try after tremendous pressure by the Steelmen pack, and two penalties and a conversion by Dorian Jones.

Congratulations to Neil Edwards and his fellow coaches, players and backroom staff for the most enjoyable season for years, and here's to another one in Division One East next year."

We really got our game going in the 2nd half as our pack turned the screw on a faltering Wanderers, but it wasn't to be. Furthermore, I really can't see the Wanderers beating Bridgend next Saturday (nor do I think we would have).

And I really can't add anymore to that Trevor.

Ebbw Vale v Glamorgan Wanderers @ Cardiff Arms Park, 30/04/11

2011-04-29T17:14:00.003+01:00

Part one of the Premiership Play Off tomorrow versus the Wanderers with the winners facing Bridgend next Saturday.

Really looking forward to it, especially with the overall winners now having a place in the Premiership to definitely play for.
.
Can't wait!

Deep Purple Tour, November 2011

2011-04-19T10:16:00.004+01:00

They're back - 43 years after forming in 1968, the greatest band ever to walk the face of the planet are on a short tour of the UK.
.
Not only that, but they come equipped with a 38 piece orchestra and are dubbing the production, "The Songs That Built Rock" (shades of the Concerto?).
.
They play 4 dates in the UK, so catch them while you can - they won't be around for ever.
.
Me? I'm going to the LG Arena Birmingham, in the 3rd row from the front. Superb!

Glamorgan v Gloucestershire, 14/04/11 - 17/04/11

2011-04-18T19:43:00.009+01:00

Glamorgan started to put a winter of discontent behind them as they competed their first Championship win of the summer in fine April sunshine by defeating Gloucestershire by 189 runs at the SWALEC Stadium.

The full report is here.

Cosker bowls

. Banerjee to Petersen

. Gareth Rees in the runs .
...and again

.

Petersen out LBW

.

Chris Taylor fights on Day 4

A draw loomed...before James Harris come on with the new ball

Ebbw Vale 40 Merthyr 10, 09/04/11

2011-04-10T09:22:00.004+01:00

Ebbw Vale took another big step towards the Division One East title with a comprehensive victory over the Ironmen in the 'Metal Derby'.

If the truth be told, the game was over as a contest in the first quarter when the visitors were reduced to 14 men due to a stamp by the Merthyr tight head. In fact, just before half time, 14 played 12, as another 3 had entered the bin.

2 tries from Nicky Coughlin, and one each from Ashley Sweet, Tristran Davies, Dan Ajuwa, and Charlie Simpson confimred the bonus point win.

First half pics

2nd half pics

Ebbw have 2 fixtures left, home to Beddau and away to basement side Bedlinog. Two bonus point victories will guarantee the title, and then a form of play off to secure the right to promotion of some kind.

Click 't' to tweet the pics, or 'f' to facebook them!

Glamorgan: 2011 Season Preview

2011-04-03T11:33:00.003+01:00

2010 in a nutshell . . With 4 games to go, Glamorgan were in the box seat to secure the 2nd promotion place along with Sussex from Division Two, but 3 draws and a defeat (along with a last day Worcestershire run chase against a generous Sussex) meant that it was another season of Championship disappointment. . The 40 over cricket was woeful and directionless. In the T20, three early victories flattered to deceive and hopes disappeared around the time that Shaun Tait got recalled by Australia. Glamorgan's hierarchy agreed and looked overseas for a captain to replace Jamie Dalrymple. Matthew Maynard resigned as Director of Cricket in protest, and his son Tom left for Surrey. . 2011 prospects . Batting - looks thin. New captain Alviro Petersen is likely to forsake his Test opening role to bat at 3, but must deliver big runs to justify the controversy surrounding his cloak and dagger appointment (rumours abounded that Ricky Ponting and Graeme Smith were the first two choices). . Ben Wright and Gareth Rees must kick on from promising early careers, whilst beneficiary Mike Powell should play more after seemingly falling out of favour with the previous management. Stewart Walters was recruited from Surrey and Mike O'Shea came back from the Unicorns. Mark Cosgrove's runs will be sorely missed however. . Bowling - The seam attack is highly reliant on England Lion James Harris (2010: 63 wickets at little over 20). Allenby is an excellent first change, whilst Graeme Wagg is a good recruit from Derbyshire. . Regarding spin, Dean Cosker had an excellent benefit year last season over 50 wickets at 22 apiece, and of course there is a man called Croft, 41 in May, who shows no signs of finishing. With over 1,000 first class wickets for Glamorgan, he is a superb ambassador for club and country, and, as the country's most economical T20 bowler, could not be ignored despite the ambivalence of the now departed Maynard/Dalrymple axis. . Probable side . Championship: Gareth Rees, Will Bragg, Alviro Petersen, Mike Powell, Ben Wright, Jim Allenby, Mark Wallace (Wk), Robert Croft, James Harris, Graham Wagg, Dean Cosker. Pressing for places Huw Waters, Adam Shantry, David Harrison Twenty20: Mark Cosgrove, Jim Allenby, Alviro Petersen, Ben Wright, Mike O'Shea, Stewart Walters, Robert Croft, Mark Wallace (Wk), Graham Wagg, Huw Waters, Dean Cosker . Key Man – Alviro Petersen, as captain and Test class batsman, he has been given a difficult one year mission to repair the damage of the winter of discontent. . Rising Star - Ben Wright, starting to move out of the promising youngster category into established county pro, 2011 will be a year in which his obvious quality needs to show itself in volume of runs. . Managing Director and Coach - The 'global' search for a Managing Director resulted in the Chair of Cricket Review Group, former wicket keeper, Colin Metson, being (self?) appointed. Of more promise is the recruitment of Matthew Mott from New South Wales as coach. His first year can surely be little more than one of familiarisation and sorting out the wheat from the chaff. . ...and now for the fun bit... . Prediction - As much as I am Glamorgan to the core, I can't see anything but a season of struggle. Minus Cosgrove's quick fire runs in 4 day cricket, and with the seam bowling highly reliant on James Harris, mid table in the Championship's 2nd tier would be the most realistic expectation. . Supporters would like to see some direction after years of shapeless one day cricket. Like 17 other counties, a good start and a tail wind may result in a place in the T20 knockout stages.

Tom Hollister Trio, Steelhouse, Ebbw Vale, 18/03/11

2011-03-20T09:39:00.008Z

It was another packed (Steel)house at Ebbw Vale RFC last Friday night as the excellent Tom Hollister Trio went down a storm.

Smothered in the spirit of Cream, heavily influenced by the Hendrix experience and flavoured with some of the funk of late 70s Glenn Hughes, the notion of the power trio seems very much alive and well in 2011.

Check out the band here: Tom Hollister Trio

The band

Tom (bass and vocals)
.
Chris Buck (guitar)
...
...outstanding talent
.
.

You tube clip

Ebbw Vale 62 Treorchy 12, 19/03/11

2011-03-19T18:46:00.003Z

On a glorious early spring afternoon at Eugene Cross Park, Ebbw Vale demolished Treorchy with an eight try hammering of the visitors from the top of the Rhondda Valley.

Sam Collins, Wes Cunliffe, Nicky Coughlin, Ethan Matthews, Andrew Bevan and the outstanding Ashley Sweet were the individual scorers together with two penalty tries arising from collapsing the rolling maul, and this keeps Ebbw's Division One East title hopes alive (although news filtered through that Newbridge too had secured a bonus point victory over Blackwood).

.
First half pics
.

2nd half pics
.

Ebbw win, and it's the Steelhouse this Friday

2011-03-17T15:09:00.003Z

Super win for Ebbw Vale last night by 22-15 over league leaders Newbridge, avenging our defeat there back in September. Treorchy are next on Saturday afternoon, and the Steelmen will be looking for a third home win in a week, hopefully with a bonus point.

Before then, I'll have to shake off a Saturday morning hangover as on Friday night the club hosts another Steelhouse night with the excellent Tom Hollister Trio being supported by local lads Before The Escape. More details are here.

Ebbw Vale 39 Gilfach Goch 10, 12/03/11

2011-03-12T19:58:00.007Z

After some delay, at last a rugby match for me to report on!!
.
Ebbw Vale secured a bonus point victory with a powerful win over top half opposition Gilfach Goch, and helped get the promotion campaign back on track following last week's disastrous home defeat to Bargoed.
.
Ebbw were 17-7 up at half time with one try through Dan Ajuwa. A nervy start to the 2nd half was settled when the forwards got control and put in some superb driving mauls. Tries from Nicky Coughlin, Sam Collins and Charlie Simpson secured the five point win.
.
First half pics
.

Ashley Sweet

Damien Hudd
.

2nd half pics
.

Great lineout ball again
.

Some clips are here, here and here.

Judas Priest: One last time

2011-02-26T21:16:00.004Z

One of the great heavy metal acts of the last 35 years go out for their final tour this summer, and the great news is that they're coming to Newport Centre on Friday 15th July.

Always a great night, Judas Priest have delivered uncompromising, full on rock for most of our lives, and as they move into their 60s, it's time to check them out in Wales for what will probably be the last time.

KK and Glenn in Cardiff in 2009

Pic by me.

It'll be fantastic of course!

Manic Street Preachers, Blackwood Miners' Institute, 270111

2011-01-28T19:22:00.004Z

What a privilege it was to be at the Blackwood Miners' Institute last night to witness the Manics first show there for 25 years.

With only 180 tickets given away as part of the BBC Radio 2 In Concert series, it was the lucky few who got in to this homecoming event, as well as the usual media spongers and around 4 or 5 MPs showing their faces.

Anyway enough of that. The Manics took to the stage at 9pm and opened with 'Motorcycle Emptyness' before rampaging through a set of famous (If You Tolerate This...) and not so famous (Suicide Alley) tracks before closing the main set with Design For Life. A 3 track 'encore' (they don't do encores of course) went out on 6 Music finally ending with The Masses Against The Classes.

.
Pics
.

The splendid Jo Whiley introduces the band
.
.
James Dean Bradfield: The Voice
.

'The Wire'

The Band
.

And long after the gig goes off the BBC i player check out these you tube clips:

It's Not War Just The End Of Love

You Stole The Sun

What a night!

The Steelhouse Live, review

2011-01-22T21:04:00.005Z

What a great inaugural night at The Steelhouse (Ebbw Vale RFC) last night.

To see the club packed by 8.30 (and queuing to get in) on a January evening, with the winter weather as cold as the economic climate, is testament to the 'word of mouth / social network' publicity work put in by those involved with The Steelhouse project.

With great music, good beer and being surrounded by all the photos and memorabilia of the club, the entertainment was completed with young Abergavenny band Story To Be Told, and the popular 4th Street Traffic, who were excellent.

The Steelhouse opens its doors again on Friday 18th February. Click the link for more details. One thing is for sure - don't be late.

Rock lives - pop is dead.

Ebbw Vale 43 Rumney 6, 15/01/11

2011-01-15T17:03:00.004Z

Ebbw Vale romped to a 6 try bonus point victory on a windy afternoon at Eugene Cross Park.

Outstanding 2nd row Ashley Sweet

A poor Rumney outfit offered very little and, until the last 10 minutes, barely justified even the 6 points they gained.

The Ebbw tries were from Ashley Sweet, Ethan Matthews, Ben Parry (on you tube), Sam Mills, Dan Ajuwa and Wes Cunliffe.

So another bonus point for the Steelmen as the promotion challenge continues.

Blackwood 20 Ebbw Vale 23, 080111

2011-01-09T09:49:00.004Z

Ebbw Vale toughed out a narrow victory at Glan-yr-afon Park, having recovered from a 14-0 deficit in the first quarter.

They struck back through converted tries from Ross and Dai Jones, added to by 3 penalties from Sam Mills.

Ebbw had enough 2nd half pressure to earn a bonus point but as at Merthyr could not convert their efforts into tries. Nonetheless at a difficult venue the victory is welcome.

.
Pics
.

You Tube clip

Phil Kennemore RIP 1953 - 2011

2011-01-08T09:55:00.005Z

Sadly, Y&T bass player Phil Kennemore lost his battle with cancer yesterday aged 57.
.
There are plenty of tributes on the web starting with the Y&T homepage, and some fine words from his great partner in crime, Dave Meniketti.
.
Here's a pic of Phil taken by me at the Globe in Cardiff back in 2009.
.

The Steel House Live: Friday 21st January, Ebbw Vale RFC

2011-01-04T09:03:00.006Z

Great news about live rock in the Valleys.
.
Coming soon, a once a month live rock event at the home of Ebbw Vale RFC, "The Welfare", branded as The Steelhouse. Go here for details.
.
Good luck to all with the venture.

Merry Christmas and Peace to all

2010-12-23T11:44:00.002Z

Not really that much of a Christmas fan or indeed winter in general, but can I wish all my blog followers a very Happy and Healthy Christmas, and I hope that you have a peaceful, respectful and prosperous 2011.

I'm not expecting to watch any live Boxing Day rugby, so I'll post up as soon as I get to see something worth commenting on. At least, there's pots of cricket on!

The best albums of 2010

2010-12-21T18:09:00.011Z

As I've done for a few years now, here's my top 5 albums of the year.
.
1. Black Country Communion
.
Absolutely no contest, streets ahead of the competition. Yes, it could have been made at any time since 1974, but it wasn't. Joe Bonamassa, Derek Sherinian, Jason Bonham and, of course, Glenn Hughes join together to make the best supergroup of the moment.
.
Smothered in influences from Purple to Sabbath, from Free to AC/DC, it is the record of the year. I just hope to get to see them in 2011.
.

.
2. Iron Maiden "The Final Frontier"
.
1980 is a long time ago, and it feels that way on this, Maiden's fifteenth studio album.
.

If the short, sharp, punchy tracks of their early years is your forte, then this isn't for you. If Genesis did heavy metal, this is what it would sound like. Sectioned, thoughtful and challenging, it isn't for all, but, if you have the patience, you'll recognise a band at the peak of their genre, still filling football stadiums the world over.....and they come to our capital city (Cardiff) on 1st August next year. Bring it on!

.
3. Deep Purple "Come Taste The Band" (reissued 2010, original 1975)
.

I'm not sure that reissues count in such rundowns, but it's my blog so I'll make the rules.

Superbly remastered and repackaged, the unloved mark 4 version of Deep Purple finally get their moment in the sun, posthumously of course for Tommy Bolin.

Funky in parts, heavy in others, it is the forgotten illegitimate product of Purple's many complex relationships, and merits a 2nd Top 5 entry this year for Glenn Hughes (bass / vocals shared with David Coverdale), for whom 2010 surely stands out as much a creative high as it has for many years, if not ever.

.
4. Ratt "Infestation"

A great seventh album from the American rockers. Such a shame that their future is so uncertain as tensions within the outfit seem to have resurfaced, and are officially on hiatus.
.

5. Airbourne "No Guts No Glory"

If my top 4 are a little backward looking, then who's going to take hard rock forward. Debateably, Airbourne can help. AC/DC tribute outfit? Maybe. 3 chord wonders? Possibly. Loud, proud and entertaining? Certainly.

I always like to throw an unexpected one into my top 5 and this is it. Yes it's unsophisticated, but the no nonsense, balls to the wall rock of the Aussie energymeisters just begs to be noticed on this, their 2nd album. And I just can't help but love the anthemic Steel Town, which should be the background music for this blog.

There were other worthy contenders of course: Slash and his many vocalists, Manic Street Preachers returning to form, the excellent (final?) Scorpions album, and a solid Halford solo product.

There you go.

Hard Rock Hell 4, Prestatyn, Saturday 4th December 2010

2010-12-08T18:23:00.018Z

And so it was on to the Saturday of this year's HRH, and after a relaxing Saturday morning, midday was the time to get the gear back on, and go watch some bands.
.
Stage 2 - Glam, Sleaze 'n' Trash
.
First up on Stage 2 were the excellent Marseille, with some great melodic rock.
.

With a fire breather!

Marseille...
.
...rock Stage 2 ...
.
...not easy on Day 3 of the festival
.

Unfortunately, Stage 2 slid downhill after this, with a succession of 2nd division Motley Crue type acts such as Pretty Boy Floyd (below),

and also Enuff 'Z' Enuff (it was enough for me), and LA Guns.

Stage 3 - NWOBHM

Far better, for those of us who like our rock with more balls, was the short trip over to Stage 3 in the Queen Vic for an afternoon of NWOBHM influenced acts.

Headrush provided us with a harder edge altogether.

A solid metal sound
.
.

Next up were Jaguar, whose singer joined us in the crowd.

Oozing with NWOBHM riffage were the fine Elixir, with their Saxonesque brand of hard rock.

Elixir

.
Highlight of the afternoon were veterans Saracen who really should be playing a bigger stage than this. Marvellous.

Saracen rock the Queen Vic....
.

...on the Saturday afternoon
.

Saturday night

After some respite, it was back over to the main stage for the evening's entertainment.

Paul Di' Anno attracted a large crowd, as you would expect for the original Iron Maiden singer performing for the first time in 10 years in the UK. So no surprise then to hear Wrathchild, Charlotte The Harlot, Prowler, Killers and Phnatom Of The Opera (my you tube video). What a shame he ruined the set by coming across like an arrogant, xenophobic, homophobic football hooligan.

Next up were Helloween. Not that it's their fault, but they were the band to whom I lost my denim jacket and home brew in a crush when they opened at Monsters Of Rock in 1988. Not that I bear a grudge, I just found their power metal a bit over the top.

And then...

Michael Schenker Group
.

Ten o'clock on the main stage and it was what some of us had waited all day for.

After a slight delay it was straight into the likes of Armed and Ready, Cry For The Nations, Let Sleeping Dogs Lie, On And On, Into The Arena (my you tube video), and the UFO staples Lights Out and Rock Bottom.

Disappointingly, MSG got a bit of a slating on the HRH forum. True it is that Gary's voice is not what it was, but can any one else sing these tracks for MSG? I just think that a lot of the younger punters didn't know the material.

I loved it.

The Mad Axeman
.
Wayne Findlay and Gary Barden
.
Gary
.

...and with Schenker himself
.

Brilliant as ever
.

Saxon

You just can't go wrong with Saxon can you?

30 years plus of heavy rocking pleasure crammed into a one hour set gives you the likes of Heavy Metal Thunder, Strong Arm Of The Law, 747 Strangers In The Night, Denim And Leather, Demon Sweeney Todd, Dallas 1pm (my you tube video), And The Bands Played On, Battalions Of Steel and Wheels Of Steel.
.

Biff and Quinny
.

Doug and Biff
.

One of the most underrated frontmen in rock
.

After rocking out to Saxon, I must admit that my energy levels were falling fast as the midnight hour passed.
.

The final act on the main stage was another former Maiden frontman, Blaze Bailey. With a very heavy, loud sound it seemed a good show, but I gave it 15 minutes before popping over to Stage 2 to catch Viking Skull and their doom laden Black Sabbath style rhythms.

At 2am, that was it for another year, apart from the 4 hour drive home on Sunday morning. Here and gone in a flash, and another excellent weekend. At around £150 for entry and accomodation, Hard Rock Hell is surely the best value festival on the calendar.

Roll on HRH5. Y&T please?????????????

All pics (c) the webmaster.

Hard Rock Hell 4, Prestatyn, Friday 3rd December 2010

2010-12-06T17:36:00.019Z

And so it was THAT time of year again. You know, the manic weekend of Hard Rock at the 'Spinal Tap' village - (c) BP - that Pontins Prestatyn becomes on the first weekend of December.
.
Leaving home at 7.45 on a Friday morning, and encountering temperatures touching -13C driving through the Welsh Marches, I was questioning my sanity and maturity, but after another outstanding weekend of rock, I have to say I can't wait for next year to come around.
.
Friday afternoon in the Queen Vic
.
It's one of the few times of the year I get to check out new bands these days, and three were worthy of note.
.
Liberty Lies from the West Midlands were excellent (below).
.

.
I only saw the end of the quirky Scutty Neighbours (below with punter), whose singer was standing on the bar when I walked in.
.
.
Best band in the pub were Glasgow's 15 x Dead (below) and they won through on a fans' forum Dark Circle vote, and it wasn't difficult to see why, despite the fact that they looked like the long lost cousins of the Eastenders' Mitchell Brothers. It seems that Black Sabbath riffs are never too far away at a rock festival.

.
Friday Night - Main Stage
.
Diamond Head
.

.
There isn't much that hasn't been said about these NWOBHM veterans, therefore I'll just repeat the cliches: How on earth weren't they massive? How are they just a support band (at 5 o'clock in the afternoon)? And, good God, I never knew that was their track?
.
They were awesome, and of course they played Am I Evil? as well as other great stuff including Pray For Me (my you tube video).
.

.
.
.
.

Never really got into FM before (below), but I have to say they delivered a great set of professional, melodic rock.

.
.

UFO

Regular visitors to this blog will know how I feel about the magnificence of UFO's music. Tonight was no different.

Two new ones, Saving Me to open, and Helldriver (my you tube video), and then a stack of old classics to rock the Friday night crowd: Mother Mary, Only You Can Rock Me, Doctor Doctor, Too Hot To Handle, Shoot Shoot, Love To Love.
.

More details and better pics on the unofficial UFO site (here).

Phil Mogg

UFO - 2010 style
.

Paul Raymond
.

Phil and Barry Sparks
.

.
Paul Raymond, Vinnie Moore + fan

.
Uriah Heep
.

I actually feared for Uriah Heep. Sandwiched between UFO and latter day AC/DC reincarnation, Airbourne, the 70s veterans could have got blown away.

They had no need for my sympathy. Mick Box conducted the throng like the maestro he is, and they won over many sceptics with a thoroughly professional display, earning the first encore of the weekend. Check out Stealin' (my you tube video).
.

Mick Box

Airbourne
.

And so to the Friday night headliners. Brash, unsophisticated, three chord wonders they may be, but by God they can put a show on. (Haven't we heard that before about a long haired, stripped to the waist, Australian outfit?)

AC/DC rip off or not, you can't doubt their energy, volume or ability to work the crowd - I do wonder if they last as long as the previous two bands?

Anyway check out Girls in Black (my you tube video) to see how I got up close and personal!

Skid Row
.

My final band of the day was Skid Row. I never really bought into them in the Seb Bach era, but I thought they did a fine job here, following the raw energy of Airbourne. They have some great hooks in their back catalogue. Rock radio staples, 'Youth Gone Wild" and "Eighteen and Life (my you tube video) were present of course.

And so that was Friday done by about 1.30 in the morning, absolutely knackered but ready to do it all again on the Saturday.

All pics (c) the webmaster.

Hard Rock Hell 4

2010-12-02T07:56:00.001Z

...starts today!!!

W.A.S.P. Millenium Music Hall, Cardiff, 251110

2010-12-01T22:02:00.009Z

A few pics from WASP's disappointing gig in Cardiff.
.
Review to follow.
.

and on you tube Love Machine and Wild Child.

Merthyr 22 Ebbw Vale 20 201010

2010-11-20T17:23:00.005Z

On a dark, cold afternoon at the Heads of the Valleys, Merthyr remarkably came out winners of the 'Metal Derby' via the conversion of the last kick of the game, despite being completely outplayed for nearly all of the 2nd half.

Ebbw Vale will be gutted to have lost this. The official site reports that we crossed the Merthyr line nine times, 3 tries, 4 hold ups, 1 knock on and 1 forward pass, and that's how it felt, the Vale camped on the Merthyr line.

This is no doubt a blow to Ebbw's promotion hopes. It's one thing to lose at Newbridge, quite another to lose to a young and limited Merthyr outfit.

You can get a feel for how Ebbw Vale failed to turn pressure into points via this video playlist.
.

Treorchy 8 Ebbw Vale 36, 301010

2010-10-30T17:11:00.009+01:00

A fine bonus point win for Ebbw Vale, complete with 5 tries, as they overcame a spirited but limited Treorchy side on a glorious autumn afternoon near the top of the Rhondda Valley.
.
The tries were from Ajuwa and Jenkins in the first half, giving Ebbw a 17-3 half time lead which was not a reflection of the shared territory, and in the second from Sweet, Cunliffe and Collins to complete a comfortable win.
.
In fairness to Treorchy, I think there are worse sides in the division. They stole some lineout ball from Ebbw and had a commitment and intensity above that of one or two others we've played in recent weeks.
.
First half pics
.

Second half pics

Second half clip

Manic Street Preachers, Newport, 231010

2010-10-24T19:25:00.004+01:00

This was a splendid night at a sold out Newport Centre with Blackwood's most famous sons. Towards the lighter end of my rock music taste, the sound was excellent nonetheless and the set list by and large a throwback to the better albums of the 1990s.

.
Set list
.
You Love Us
Your Love Alone Is Not Enough
Motorcycle Emptiness
(It’s Not War) Just The End Of Love
Peeled Apples
Roses In The Hospital
Postcards From a Young Man
This Is Yesterday
La Tristesse Durera
Some Kind Of Nothingness
Ocean Spray
Masses Against The Classes
Everything Must Go
If You Tolerate This Your Children Will Be Next
Small Black Flowers That Grow In The Sky (acoustic)
You Stole The Sun From My Heart (acoustic)
Faster
No Surface All Feeling
Golden Platitudes
Suicide Is Painless (Theme From M*A*S*H)
Motown Junk
Tsunami
A Design For Life

.
No pics or clips this time I'm afraid. It was too packed!

Ebbw Vale 48 Ystrad Rhondda 12, 231010

2010-10-23T10:44:00.006+01:00

The Steelman easily disposed of Ystrad Rhondda with an eight try romp on Saturday afternoon and the bonus point in the bag at half time.

In truth it could have been 78-12, as Ebbw had far too much forward power and pace behind for the visitors. Dan Ajuwa got a hattrick, Ross Jones 2 tries, Wes Cunliffe 2 also and a close range effort from Hywel Jenkins. There were so many other good displays from the boys that it's difficult to single out individuals.

.
First half pics
.

.
Second half pics

.
All pics (c) the webmaster.

Glenn Hughes, Bristol, 121010

2010-10-13T16:43:00.005+01:00

I couldn't resist it - I just couldn't. A Tuesday night in Bristol it might have been, but it was well worth the trip to see Glenn Hughes in action again. Playing 'The Fleece' (little more than a pub) is quite a humbling moment for such a big act, but it says something for the man's willingness to take his music to the people.

.
Set list (to follow)
.

Muscle And Blood
Touch My Life [fan video ]
Orion
Sail Away
Medusa
You Kill Me
Can't Stop The Flood
Crave
Don't Let Me Bleed [my video ]
Keepin' Time
Steppin' On
Soul Mover
Addiction [fan video ]
Burn [fan video ]
.
Pics of Glenn and guitarist Søren Andersen
.

Superb!

All pics (c) the webmaster.

Ebbw Vale 35 Bedlinog 3 091010

2010-10-09T17:01:00.009+01:00

On an afternoon where the weather forecast of an 'Indian Summer' was hopelessly wrong (unless India has summers full of cool, damp drizzle), Ebbw Vale overcame a valiant but limited Bedlinog outfit to record their first bonus point win of the season.

Quite frankly, 35 points should have been 65 and, at one stage, it looked as though the Steelman had blown their best chance of a bonus point. Surely we need to attack space more and look for contact less? I thought we overdid the phases sometimes today. We have the best back three in the Division in Wilkes (15), Cunliffe (14) and Ajuwa (11) - bring them in on the correct angles!

Onwards and upwards.

.
1st half pics
.

2nd half pics

Album of the Year 2010

2010-10-06T16:44:00.005+01:00

I usually wait until December to make my choice of Album of the Year. This year I won't bother waiting.

By a distance, it's the debut output from the Hughes/Bonamassa supergroup Black Country Communion, a no nonsense classic rock record with all of the right influences: Purple, Zeppelin, Sabbath, Free, Bad Co, Maiden, DC.

It'll take something of 'Dark Side Of The Moon' proportions to top this. As Tommy Vance used to say, "Get It Now"

Images Of Cornwall, 021010

2010-10-05T08:24:00.005+01:00

Images of Cornwall taken last Saturday.
.

Disused tin mine workings at Botallack

Ancient open air theatre at St Just

Sennen

The view from the Minack Theatre at Porthcurno

Built To Last - "The Voice Of Rock"

2010-10-04T15:32:00.007+01:00

No need to say much here.

Picture taken in the bar of Princess Pavilion, Falmouth, Friday 1st October, 2010.

Glenn Hughes

"The Voice Of Rock"

Made In The Black Country

Glenn Hughes, Princess Pavilion Falmouth, 011010

2010-10-03T19:26:00.005+01:00

Wow! The five hour drive to Falmouth was worth every mile as Glenn Hughes and band delivered a supremely powerful set which was 'Cream like' in its intensity.

Ably backed by the talents of Søren Andersen - Guitar, Anders Olinder - Keyboards and Pontus Engborg - Drums, the former Deep Purple man delighted a 500 strong crowd with a collection of new, old and very old material.

.
Pics
.

Set list

Muscle And Blood (my video clip)

Touch My Life

Orion

Sail Away

Medusa (my video clip)

You Kill Me

Can't Stop The Flood

Crave

Don't Let Me Bleed

Keepin' Time

Steppin' On

Soul Mover

Addiction

Burn (my video clip)

All pics (c) the webmaster