Rocking afternoon at Castle (From Gazette Series)

Rocking afternoon at Castle

9:50am Thursday 15th October 2009 in

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Stereophonics

Cardiff Castle

THIS gig obviously meant a lot to the boys. To return to the stunning scenery and historic setting within the grounds of Cardiff Castle was a dream come true for the band and their legion of fans.

They played this venue more than a decade ago and as a way of saying thank you for their ensuing success, tickets went on sale priced the same as they were back in 1998.

Comedy rap group Goldie Lookin Chain roused the soaking crowds for an afternoon of Welsh appreciation and plenty of smiles.

But the main event was all about the music. It was a wet and windy afternoon when the Welsh rockers took to the stage but their performance was anything but watery. Kelly Jones and the band were up for it, playing to an adoring home crowd their new tracks intermingled with the songs which made them a household name, Mr Writer, Have a Nice Day and Dakota.

Kelly’s gravely tones sound as good as ever and watching his super-cool stage strutting it is easy to see why he has reached idol status.

Stereophonics’ last release was a best of album but their latest sounds have been worth waiting for.

The new album, Keep Calm and Carry On, doesn’t stray far from the band’s guitar-rocking roots but the foursome seem to have developed more soul and confidence in their own skin.

The first single due for release on November 2 is Innocent, an upbeat lament with a catchy chorus which will no doubt make it another big hit.