Chris Holmes Mean Man - Live Review

CHRIS HOLMES MEAN MAN / THE STATION, CANNOCK / 6th NOVEMBER 2022

Waiting outside the venue, on a cold and wet Sunday night, we didn’t see another soul. Cannock seems an odd place for a show, this only being our second time here at The Station, but walking into the venue, it’s really cool. Walls adorned with graffiti & posters of shows past, and a perfectly sized gig room, with sofas to add to the glam rock feel of the nights events! 

After meeting Chris before the show, we were already buzzed (check out the interview coming soon!) and we came out to a packed room. The atmosphere was electric and the crowd were already being entertained by Jayler, a young band from the West Midlands. With a great stage presence and a fantastic mix of old school rock covers, Jayler were the perfect support act. It felt like a wonderful juxtaposition to have a band just starting their career supporting an act who is into the twilight of his career. 

It was so blatantly obvious (not only by the uniform of W.A.S.P / Holmes t-shirts & leather jackets) but also the palpable adoration, that this crowd was of serious fans. This gig wasn’t something someone would happen across and come to find new music - this was a legacy show. And it felt like everyone in attendance were committed and lifelong fans. 

As soon as Chris and his band hit the stage, our question of “Will Chris stand in the middle of the stage even if he isn’t singing” was soon answered, it didn’t matter. Chris’ presence on stage was HUGE, wherever he stood, your eyes followed. Due to his recent recovery from throat cancer, Chris isn’t singing but this is something that he doesn’t seem to mind, as long as he has his guitar in his hand, Chris is happy. 

Chris and the band play a mix of W.A.S.P songs, Chris’ own material and ending with a few covers - it’s an absolute perfect mix. The band play the W.A.S.P tracks with a real enthusiasm, talent and gusto. On paper it could sound like a bit of a cover band situation but honestly it never feels like it, for all intents and purposes this is Chris Holmes playing Chris Holmes songs. 

The way that Chris interacts with the crowd is so genuine and authentic, during our interview with him he chatted briefly about how important it was for him to meet the fans and to be connected with them, this was evident each and every time he spoke. 

Chris and his crew, his wife Cathy, drummer Steve and the rest of the band couldn’t have made us feel any more welcome and accommodated. We look forward to sharing with you our interview with Chris, we talk about: the old days, his battle with cancer, his influences, his favourite and least favourite guitars on W.A.S.P albums and lots of other stuff… so keep your eyes peeled…