VICTORIUS EMPIRE

Sunday evening we had a real treat in store
The combined talent and force of Satan's Empire and Victorius performing under the name Victorius Empire.
This fantastic pairing came about because unfortunately Garry Bowler and the lovely Alison Metcalfe who normally stage manages for us, (HOW YOU WERE MISSED ALISON...!) were away on hols and Satan's Empire were without a drummer.
First up were Satan's Empire with a shortened set with Victorius' s drummer Ryan Shepherd taking the throne.
I've said a lot about this band over the last few years but for me they are absolutely superb and one of the best live bands I've ever had the good fortune to witness.
Derek Lyon is such a great frontman with a huge personality and voice to match
Paul Lewis and Sandy McRitchie are excellent guitarists and you will go a long way to find a more precise and likeable bass player than Wayne Hudson.
It was a short, savage set and over before we knew it. Next were Victorius who had all taken the herculean task of driving all the way down from Scotland to be with us all.
WoW what a BAND !
They are modern Masters of Metal with such incredible musicianship, power and steel they stormed it. When Derek Lyon got back up on stage to perform the early Maiden Classic " Wrath child" they literally tore the roof off the place!
THANK YOU TO: John Gibbons, Stewart Kennedy, Ryan Shepherd, John Brandon who I think are still driving back to the top ends of Scotland in their van. What a journey conquered. 
You honoured us both and our lost daughter Molly with your friendship, your music, your dedication and your art
ALL HAIL THE EMPIRE!
ALL HAIL VICTORIUS THE GODS OF THE NORTHERN SKIES.........