W.A.S.P. at Wulfrun Hall, Wolverhampton - review

The show marked the interim opening of the city centre venue during the refurbishment of the Civic Halls - and, in light of recent terror attacks, extra security measures were in place too.

As we went through the searches and barriers it admittedly felt a little like we were heading into a festival than a gig, but the additional checks were very welcome and reassuring.

A metal fence also surrounded the venue’s entrance, with the road blocked so no cars could come through.

Though it’s unfortunate the city has had to bring in these measures and senses are clearly heightened, it was good to know we were being looked after.

As the show began, Wild Child Blackie Lawless stepped out onto the stage dressed all in black, with his trademark bushy black hair and eyeliner.

Though the star may now be 61, his vocals were excellent; his range and strength unwavering throughout.

The LA band performed the entire Crimson Idol concept album from start to end, as clips from the newly-released film played on three big screens behind the group.

The Re-Idolized tour marks 25 years of the iconic hit album.

For those who are not aware, the story tells of a Jonathan Aaron Steele, a troubled teen looking for love.

Discovering music years later, he rises to international superstardom, which is later followed by a catastrophic fall.

While the sound most certainly let the band down, their performance was great.

Lead guitarist Douglas Blair shone in particular, with solid, powerful riffs; complemented perfectly by the growling bass played by Mike Duda.

Douglas looked amazing too; bare-chested (and in great shape), wearing just a leather waistcoat, black cuffs and jeans.

Highlights from the album included a thrilling rendition of I Am One - during which the floor shook from the power of the drums and bass - and a great performance of Doctor Rokter.

Though Blackie’s vocals were actually excellent, with a range I was surprised he still so powerfully possesses, he was unfortunately drowned out much of the time by the rest of the band.

A shame; as it would have otherwise been a very good performance.

I also didn’t think a lot of the film either; but would perhaps need to watch it in its entirety to be able to comment.

Following the performance of The Crimson Idol, the band had then promised a set of greatest hits would follow for ‘part two’ - but just three songs were played before the band bid the fans farewell and left the stage.

They were great choices though: Love Machine, Golgotha and a wonderful rendition of 1984 hit I Wanna Be Somebody, which saw fans clapping their hands in the air and singing along, filling in gaps left by Blackie.

“Goodnight Wolverhampton, we’ll see you soon,” said Blackie, before leaving the hour-long set.

Though the show was disappointing overall, the band were very good - and Idol Blackie most certainly impressed on vocals. After 35 years of being in the business, they still keep playing Harder Faster.