MY first Rockbitch show of the year and what an amazing line-up!

The first band Metanoia had just started when I arrived to a rammed venue - really packed and I don't think it was just because it was pretty cold outside. I have seen the guys before and they get better and heavier each time I watch them, so my expectations were very positive. There was such a good atmosphere too, which always helps encourage a band to excel.

Next up were Ugly Love from Tunbridge Wells, who played in Basingstoke last year, when they went down so well indeed. A contemporary punk band, with a nice collection of great, catchy songs, lots of attitude and a powerful performance. They got the crowd going a little bit more and proved that their previous visit was no fluke - they have really got it where it counts. They should have secured a further invite for themselves.

The middle slot was taken by Riot Underground, a female fronted classic rock band from Guildford, but with a least one member from Basingstoke. Think Suzi Quattro (but taller!) and you are in the right area in terms of the flavour of the band. But fair play to them, they did crack out songs which were varied and interesting and all exquisitely performed. The crowd was going pretty crazy now, with jostling the order of the day, but all in good humour.

If anyone felt that the show had peaked too soon, they would have been mistaken, because they hadn't reckoned on the main support band. Ashes to Angel come from Bristol and have been around for at least five years. They have used that time to build up a pretty fanatical following (mostly female) in the South of England. They might be considered unfashionably Gothic or Emo but their performances are 110% effort and energy. The adoring crowd reciprocated in kind and it got really hot down the front. I have a lot of respect for those guys.

The headline band, Orestea from Guildford, do (thank god) make semi-regular appearances  in Basingstoke, where they are always warmly received. Their female fronted melodic metal is the perfect blend of power and sophistication. The songs are well known now and very catchy. New material is welcomed and this was another flawless performance to the large appreciative crowd.

This was their second to last night of their tour and when they asked who had been to some of their other dates they'd played, I was one of the ones who raised their hands. And I would see them again.

Well done all the bands and Jon, as ever and the management and staff of the Bang Bar for a great Saturday night out.

Neil Duncan, ISSUEPUNKZINE