Review & Photos by John Rawstron

Star Circus

If there was any doubt that Star Circus are one of the UK’s most exciting rising rock bands, their performance at The Brickmakers in Norwich put those doubts firmly to rest, with their tour entitled “Destiny’s Door”

Opening for Chez Kane, Star Circus hit the stage with confidence, energy and a clear determination to win over every person in the room. From the moment the first riffs rang out, the London rockers delivered a set packed with huge hooks, soaring harmonies and irresistible classic rock swagger.

The band’s chemistry was impossible to ignore. Frontman Dave Winkler commanded the stage with charisma and powerful vocals along with amazing vocals from Sophie. While the twin-guitar attack created a wall of melodic hard rock that felt both nostalgic and refreshingly modern. Every song seemed tailor-made for a live audience, with massive choruses encouraging plenty of singing along and fists raised in the air.

What makes Star Circus stand out is their ability to blend classic influences with a contemporary edge. Their songs are full of memorable melodies and muscular riffs, yet never feel predictable. The crowd responded enthusiastically throughout the set, with many clearly discovering the band for the first time and quickly becoming converts.

Despite the challenge of opening for an established headliner like Chez Kane, Star Circus more than held their own. Their performance was polished, passionate and delivered with genuine conviction. By the time they left the stage, the audience was buzzing and the merchandise stand was attracting plenty of attention from newly won fans.

In a scene crowded with bands trying to recreate the glory days of rock, Star Circus bring something more important – authenticity, great songwriting and a genuine sense of excitement. Their set at The Brickmakers was a reminder that modern rock is alive, thriving and in very capable hands.

If this performance is any indication of what lies ahead, Star Circus are destined for much bigger stages in the years to come.

Chez Kane

Chez Kane Delivers a Night of Pure Melodic Rock Magic

Chez Kane proved once again why she is one of the brightest stars in modern melodic rock with a stunning performance that captivated the audience from the very first note.

Chez’s band members soon entered the stage and right from the moment a Rockier version of Irene Cara’s “Fame” Started played, you just knew that you were going to be in for an amazing night. Taking to the stage with confidence, charisma, and a powerhouse voice, Kane immediately had the crowd in the palm of her hand.

 Backed by an exceptional band, she delivered a set packed with soaring choruses, infectious energy, and the kind of polished musicianship that has become her trademark.  In the latter part of the set, Bassist Jimi offered some brief cheeky antics to the track “Tongue of Love”, which was met with plenty of laughter from the audience.

Right from the opening song “Personal Rock ‘N’ Roll the atmosphere was electric.  While Kane’s effortless stage presence kept the audience engaged throughout. Her vocals were nothing short of phenomenal, hitting every note with power, emotion, and precision.  Chez played a 17 song set from across her albums with a number of songs from her latest album “Reckless” without a break and showed so much energy on stage throughout.

What makes Chez Kane stand out is her ability to blend the classic spirit of 1980s melodic rock with a fresh, contemporary edge. Every song felt anthemic, and the passion she brings to the stage is impossible to ignore. Her pure stage presence demonstrated exactly why she has earned such a loyal and growing fanbase.

The connection between Kane and her audience was evident all night, creating a genuine sense of celebration and shared love for great rock music. The crowd responded enthusiastically, feeding off the energy coming from the stage and making the evening feel truly special.

By the time the final notes rang out, there was no doubt that everyone in attendance had witnessed a memorable performance. Chez Kane delivered a masterclass in melodic rock, combining outstanding vocals, superb songs, and undeniable star quality. It was a performance that left the audience wanting more and confirmed her status as one of the genre’s most exciting live performers.