Home Gigs Gig Review : H.E.A.T., Art Nation, and Chez Kane at the Rescue Rooms, Nottingham

Gig Review : H.E.A.T., Art Nation, and Chez Kane at the Rescue Rooms, Nottingham

43 min read
0
0
1,039

Review & Photography by Manny Manson for MPM

As the January chill continues to pummel through the country and Nottingham in particular, a brief respite from high winds and driving rain allows a vibrant queue, snake outside the Rescue Rooms side entrance. Breath-clouded conversations mixed with excited chatter as fans discussed favourite tracks and what they hoped to hear.

Inside, the venue buzzes with the usual anticipation of what lays ahead. The intimate, narrow, high-ceilinged space is charged with an electricity that could rival the amps being prepped onstage. The crowd, a Woolworths Pic ‘n’ Mix of seasoned rock fans and fresh-faced enthusiasts, swirled between the bar and the stage area, the air already humming with the promise of a night of melodic rock brilliance. By the time the house lights dim, the room is packed, and the energy can be cut with a butter knife.

Kicking off the night is Welsh vocalist Chez Kane, who’s, recently, been making waves in the melodic rock scene. Chez, formerly of Kane’d, a band that includes her two sisters, Steph and Stacey, has been carving a name for herself as a solo artist under the stewardship of Crazy Lixx’s Danny Rexon. Her self-titled debut album dropped in 2021, followed by her sophomore effort, “Powerzone” (2022), which doubled down on her vibrant 80s-inspired sound. Chez has become a shinning light for fans craving the punchy, feel-good energy of 80’s classic rock combined with a dynamic modern production, and it’s something she and her band deliver in spades.

Born to rock, Chez Kane grew up surrounded by music. Her voice carries the echoes of the giants, Pat Benatar, Lita Ford, and Debbie Harry’ but with a contemporary edge that makes her stand out in today’s scene. Partnering with Danny Rexon was a masterstroke, with his knack for retro-infused melodies aligning perfectly with Chez’s powerhouse vocals.

Her journey as a solo artist feels like the revival of an era, a veritable love letter to a time when rock ruled the airwaves, its living presence seen on the box in the living room corner and the national radio station, who, back then, embraced all genres of music, equally. Sigh, what went wrong!

Chez, beaming, struts onto the stage to deafening cheers, her cheeky trademark 80’s workout attire showing how this young singer is confident in her ability. Her band launched into “To Late for Love” (“Chez Kane,” 2021), a high-octane opener that immediately transports the crowd to the neon-drenched world of 80s rock. The guitars scream out with crystalline precision, as the bass throbs with a heartbeat-like intensity that you could feel in your chest. Chez’s voice, raw yet polished, cuts through the mix effortlessly, her command over the stage apparent from the first note.

Next up we have “All of It” (“Chez Kane,” 2021) once again, Chez lights up the stage with this banger of a tune, radiating pure ‘80s rock energy. Bathed in neon lights, she commands the crowd with powerhouse vocals, effortlessly blending melody and fire. The band delivers punchy drums, driving bass, and a searing guitar solo straight out of the golden era of arena rock. With every fist-raised chorus, the sound surges from the stage, big, bold, and dripping with nostalgia, the spirit of the ‘80s is alive and thriving and onstage here tonight.

Chez then ignites the stage with “I Just Want You,” (“Powerzone,” 2022) channelling pure ‘80s melodic rock magic. Bathed in vibrant neon hues, she delivers soaring, heartfelt vocals with a mix of power and passion, drawing the crowd into every lyric. The band locks into a tight groove, with thunderous drums, a pulsing bassline, and shimmering keys setting the mood. The guitar solo wails with emotion, drenched in nostalgia, while Chez works the stage with effortless charisma. As the chorus erupts, the sound surges from the stage—big, bold, and anthemic—proving once again that the spirit of classic rock is alive and electrifying.

Next up is “Nationwide” (“Powerzone,” 2022) Chez Kane tears into this one with unrelenting ‘80s rock energy, commanding the stage like a true arena queen. Drenched in neon and attitude, she belts out the anthem with soaring, fist-pumping power, her voice cutting through the air like a jet engine. The band roars behind her—thunderous drums driving the rhythm, a pulsating bassline adding weight, and searing guitars unleashing riff-heavy glory. The solo blazes with pure melodic fire, dripping in nostalgia and showmanship. As the final chorus explodes, the sound bursts from the stage—bold, electrifying, and unstoppable, proving that Chez Kane is bringing the golden age of rock roaring back to life.

Chez continues her saucy set with “Ball n’ Chain” (“Powerzone,” 2022), her fist punching the air as the audience roars along in approval. The band deliver a blistering display, the rhythm section locking into a groove that felt almost primal. Chez’s voice soared above it all, leaving no doubt that she’s another rising force in the rock world. The emotional core of the set came with “Love Gone Wild” (“Powerzone,” 2022) Slowing things down slightly, this song allowed Chez to demonstrate her incredible vocal range. The delivery is both powerful and vulnerable, she manages the delicate balancing act perfectly and the crowd are hooked, seemingly hanging on every breath. The lights have dimmed to a moody purple, casting an intimate glow over the stage as Tyketto’s, Harry Scott Elliot plays a soulful solo that seems to hang in the air long after the final note

Chez then storms the stage with “Get It On,” (“Chez Kane,” 2021) unleashing a high-octane blast of pure ‘80s rock swagger. Bathed in neon lights, she oozes confidence, her powerhouse vocals soaring over a driving rhythm section and slick, arena-sized riffs. The band locks into an infectious groove, the drums pounding with unshakable force while the bass rumbles beneath it all. When the guitar solo hits, it’s a full-throttle shred-fest, dripping with nostalgia and attitude. As the chorus erupts, fists pump, heads bang, and the sound surging from the stage is nothing short of electrifying—big, bold, and built for rock ‘n’ roll glory.

When “Rocket on the Radio” (“Chez Kane,” 2021) hit, the crowd’s enthusiasm was evident. Looking around briefly, fans were singing along, their voices merging into a joyful chorus, partly lost in the wall of sound emanating from the high alter like stage. The rhythm section held the track together with a steady yet energetic drive, while the guitarists Elliot and Ready deliver a solo that screams with emotion, bending notes in a way that felt almost vocal in its expression. The dynamics on stage were electric, the band are clearly enjoying themselves, judging by their beaming smiles, as much as the audience.

The final track, “Powerzone” (“Powerzone,” 2022) the title track to the latest long player, itself turns the energy up another notch, with its infectious melody igniting the crowd who needed no excuse to get light in their loafers. The onstage interplay between the guitars and drummer adding a sparkle, as their interaction creates a tight, pulsating groove that underpinned Chez’s soaring vocals. Her stage presence is, as always, magnetic, a fusion of talent, confidence and charisma, she has the crowd eating out of her hand. As the final chords rang out, the crowd erupted, fully aware they’d witnessed yet another very special performance from this diminutive Welsh dynamo.

The setlist was a celebration of the 80’s power ballad era, full big choruses and anthemic hooks.

The intimate crowd in tonight now jostle and bump as they try to get to the bar and the toilets. The Rescue Rooms definitely plays the little sister card to the larger Rock City next door so the limited amenities available have the crowd squeezing past each other to get around as they get ready for

Swedish rockers Art Nation, who have been steadily climbing the melodic rock ladder since their formation in 2014. The band was founded by charismatic frontman Alexander Strandell after his departure from Diamond Dawn, a move that signalled his desire to push the boundaries of melodic rock further. With a clear vision of creating emotionally charged, dynamic music, Strandell quickly gathered a group of like-minded musicians who shared his passion for both technical precision and heartfelt delivery. The lineup has shifted over the years, but the essence of Art Nation has always remained: soaring melodies, dramatic arrangements, and lyrics that resonate deeply with listeners.

Art Nation’s 2015 debut album, “Revolution,” immediately caught the attention of melodic rock aficionados. The album showcased the band’s ability to craft anthemic rock tracks filled with infectious hooks and powerful instrumentation, drawing comparisons to heavyweights like Journey and Europe. Tracks like “Need You to Understand” and “Don’t Wait for Salvation” introduced Art Nation as a band capable of blending nostalgia with a contemporary edge.

In 2017, their sophomore album, “Transition,” marked a significant evolution in their sound. While still rooted in the melodic rock tradition, the album leaned into modern production techniques and layered arrangements, creating tracks that felt fresh and innovative. Songs like “Fallen Worlds” and “Brighter Than the Sun” became live staples, showcasing the band’s knack for crafting uplifting anthems with emotional depth.

By 2020, the release of “Liberation” saw the band experimenting further, embracing a heavier, more polished sound that appealed to a broader audience. This progression continued with 2022’s “Inception,” an album that many consider their magnum opus. With tracks like “When Stars Align” and *“Take Me Home,” the album cemented their reputation as one of the leading lights of modern melodic rock.

Art Nation’s journey is defined not only by their music but also by their resilience. Despite lineup changes and the challenges of maintaining momentum in an evolving music industry, the band has continued to grow stronger. Their ability to connect with fans through both their recordings and live performances has earned them a devoted following, and their place on the Rescue Rooms bill alongside H.E.A.T and Chez Kane is proof of their rising stature in the rock world.

Art Nation took the stage with the kind of poise that only comes from seasoned performers. I can’t believe this is the first time I’ve caught them considering they’ve been going for a decade The first notes of “Brutal and Beautiful” (“Inception,” 2023) thundered through the speakers, Strandell’s powerful vocals cutting through a wall of melodic guitars. The guitar was mesmerising, its harmonised riffs creating a rich, layered sound that filled every corner of the room. The lighting shifted from warm reds to icy, neon blues, mirroring the track’s dynamic shifts and adding a theatrical flair.

Then comes “Thunderball” (Single Nov 2024), if it seemed that the energy had momentarily dipped, it’s now right back in the red. Lights flash like lightning as the guitars rip into a razor-sharp riff, the rhythm section a thundering force behind them. Strandell owns the stage, fist raised, leading the crowd into the chant-like chorus. It’s pure arena rock swagger, the band enjoying the energy of the packed venue. Christopher Borg’s solo is pure fire, every note dripping with attitude. When the song crashes to a close, the venue erupts, this is what rock was made for.

Next up is the atmospheric “Echo” (“Inception,” 2023), a track that balances modernity and nostalgia. Strandell’s charisma is magnetic as he prowls the stage in his duster coat and eye make-up, making eye contact with fans he urges them to clap along. The synth flourishes in the mix adding a shimmering quality to the track, while the drummer, Lundgren delivers a heartbeat-steady rhythm that anchored the soaring melodies.

It’s straight into “Set Me Free” (Liberation, 2017), and the energy shoots back through the roof. The twin guitars blaze into action, the band moving in perfect sync as the driving rhythm takes hold. Strandell prowls the stage, microphone outstretched, urging the audience to sing back every word. The instrumental break sees Borg and his fellow guitarist launch into an explosive solo run that wouldn’t be out of place on an ‘80s rock masterpiece. The final chorus explodes, fists in the air, sweat flying, this is arena rock in its purest form.

Then comes “Halo” (unreleased single, live debut), a slow-burning anthem that builds from an atmospheric shimmer to a full-blown rock epic. The band holds back just enough, letting the song’s grandiosity take centre stage. The guitars weave between rich melodies and soaring leads, while the rhythm section provides the perfect foundation for Strandell’s powerhouse vocals. The crowd are transfixed, caught in the song’s tidal pull, before the final chorus erupts in one last wave of cathartic energy.

Art Nation wrapped up their set with the exhilarating “Need You to Understand” (“Revolution,” 2015), a final burst of energy that see’s the entire band giving their all. The interplay between the musicians is great to see, and Strandell’s voice soared effortlessly above the mix. The audience’s cheers reached a fever pitch as Strandell gets on the barrier reaching over the crowd as his final notes resonate. The band leave the fans with no doubt who Art Nation are and that they had delivered an unforgettable performance creating a swathe of new fans.

The crowd are now “ready and willing”. Kenny and the boys are up next, as the crowd feverishly go about getting ready for this delve into Swedish rock. Having seen, the band on numerous occasions, I totally get the vibe and smile as the girls make themselves bigger on the barrier, Kenny has previously used the barrier as part of his incorrigible performance, needless to say it goes down well!

Swedish hard rock juggernauts H.E.A.T have redefined the boundaries of melodic rock since their explosive debut in 2007. The band stormed onto the scene with their self-titled album, “H.E.A.T.” (2008), bringing high-energy anthems and arena-sized choruses that paid homage to 80s giants like Europe and Bon Jovi while carving out their own unique identity. Their follow-up albums, “Freedom Rock” (2010) and “Address the Nation” (2012), cemented their reputation as one of the most exciting acts in modern rock.

While their sound evolved to embrace more polished production and experimental elements in albums like “Into the Great Unknown” (2017), they never lost their knack for crafting songs that are both infectious and emotionally resonant. 2022’s “Force Majeure” marked the triumphant return of original vocalist Kenny Leckremo, bringing the band full circle while injecting their music with renewed energy and passion. H.E.A.T.’s ability to combine bombastic hooks with electrifying live performances has earned them a fiercely loyal fanbase.

The band’s current line-up, Kenny Leckremo (vocals), Dave Dalone (guitars), Jona Tee (keyboards), Jimmy Jay (bass), and Don Crash (drums), operates like a well-oiled machine. Their chemistry is evident both on record and on stage, where their dynamic interactions and relentless energy create, as previously stated, an unforgettable energetic experience.

From the second H.E.A.T hit the stage, it’s pure, unfiltered melodic rock chaos. The Swedish juggernaut wastes no time as the opening riff of “Disaster” (“from the new album,” April 2025), this new track epitomises everything great about H.E.A.T: pulsating riffs, soaring vocals, and a chorus designed to make you lose your voice. Kenny Leckremo, dressed in a sharp leather jacket, immediately commands the room, his long hair flailing around him as his voice cuts through the wall of sound like a siren.

The rhythm section of Jimmy Jay and Don Crash are a rock-solid foundation, their interplay locking in seamlessly with Jona Tee’s shimmering tinkling on the keyboards, hat wearing Dave Delone has his head down as he rips out a searing lead riff on his custom red bodied Kramer guitar. The song is an instant hit with the collective in tonight and I’m sure the temperature in the room has climbed once again.

The set continues with “Emergency” (Tearing Down the Walls, 2014), as it slams into the crowd like a freight train. Frontman Kenny Leckremo charges forward, hair flying, his vocals slicing through the air like a siren call. The chorus explodes—“It’s an emergency!”—and the crowd scream it right back. The duelling of Dave Dalone’s screaming Kramer and Jona Tee’s electric keys lock in tight, while Jimmy Jay’s bassline thunders beneath them, the pulse of a band in absolute top gear.

The explosive “Hollywood” (“Force Majeure,” 2022) Is up next and is a visual and auditory feast. Bright, strobe-like, neon-soaked lighting adds to the swagger of the track as it hits like a time machine, back to the golden age of rock excess, this punctuates, the track’s pulsating rhythm, and the band’s adrenaline red-hot energy. Lights blaze in time with Crash’s drum attack, and the crowd’s fists pump to the now totally infectious beat. Leckremo stalks the stage, belting out the chorus with arena-sized conviction, the whole venue shaking as the band unleash their full-throttle energy. Jona Tee’s keyboards add an almost cinematic flair, while Jimmy Jay’s basslines and his good self, rumbled through the floor. Dalone’s guitar work, both intricate and blisteringly fast, perfectly complemented the track’s larger-than-life energy.

With no time to breathe, “Rise” (H.E.A.T II, 2020) kicks in, its anthemic grandeur taking hold. The stage is a wash of red and gold as Leckremo commands the audience like a battle-hardened general. The song’s soaring, defiant chorus is tailor-made for nights like this, with Dalone’s guitar leads weaving between soaring synths and relentless drums. It’s anthemic, it’s relentless, and it’s H.E.A.T at their peak.

As they effortlessly rock into “Nationwide” (Force Majeure, 2022), another full-throttle, pedal-to-the-floor rock ‘n’ roll missile. The band ride the song’s thunderous rhythm, the audience swept up in its electrifying momentum.

The chorus, pure, fist-pumping joy, sees the entire venue chanting along, a sea of hands in the air. The interplay between the guitar and keys adds a layer of stadium-filling grandeur, and by the end, it feels like the roof is about to come off as the crowd join in with the chanting. And then just when you think they might ease up, “Harder to Breathe” (H.E.A.T II, 2020) slams in with riffs sharper than a razor’s edge. There’s no mercy, no moment to collect yourself—this is high-octane, turbocharged rock at its finest. Leckremo’s vocal range is on full display, soaring through the verses before launching into a full-throttle chorus that demands every last bit of audience energy.

Things take a sultry, bluesy turn with “In & Out of Trouble” (Address the Nation, 2012). Jona Tee’s soulful keys lay the foundation as Leckremo channels every ounce of raw passion into the mic. The track oozes old-school rock seduction, the band stretching every note for maximum impact. The guitars sing, the rhythm section grooves, and the entire venue sways under the spell of pure rock magic.

And then, chaos. “Beg Beg Beg” (Freedom Rock, 2010) roars in with the swagger of an unhinged rock ‘n’ roll riot. Leckremo whips the crowd into a frenzy, this might have something to do with his rather tight apparel, or is it his voice practically daring them to go harder. Dalone and Tee trade solos, their fingers flying at lightning speed, while Crash lays down a groove so filthy it should come with a warning label.

By the time they hit the breakdown, the crowd is whipped into a state of absolute hysteria. Just when things can’t get any wilder, Crash steps up for a drum solo, taking the spotlight with a furious, heart-pounding display of sheer rhythmic destruction. His sticks are a blur, each beat rattling through the venue like an earthquake. The crowd eat it up, every thundering hit raising the energy another level. Then, as the final cymbal crash rings out, the band explodes into “Back to the Rhythm” (Force Majeure, 2022), the song’s high-speed riffs launching the gig into overdrive once again.

The massive, fists-in-the-air singalong of “Living on the Run” (Address the Nation, 2012) follows, and its pure melodic rock perfection. The crowd scream every word, their voices merging with Leckremo’s in an electrifying display of unity. Dalone’s lead guitar work soars with skyscraper-high emotion, while the rhythm section, drive the song forward with effortless groove. This is what arena rock is all about.

Then comes a monumental first—the live debut of their unreleased single, “Bad Time for Love”. The atmosphere shifts—this is a moment. The band launch into the song with razor-sharp precision, the crowd instantly hooked by its anthemic drive and massive hooks. Leckremo delivers each line with an intensity that makes it clear—this is going to be a future fan favourite.

As the night draws toward its climax, “1000 Miles” (H.E.A.T, 2008) sends the venue into melodic rock euphoria. The synths shimmer, the guitars slice through the air like jet engines, and the chorus—oh, that chorus—is nothing short of glorious. The crowd sing every word as if their lives depend on it, and the explosive outro sees the whole venue erupt in a sea of raised fists and cheers. The night wouldn’t be complete without “One by One” (H.E.A.T II, 2020), its epic, war-ready intro setting the tone for an absolute powerhouse of a track. The band’s energy is off the scale, and the chorus hits like a battle cry, uniting band and crowd in a shared moment of melodic rock supremacy.

And then, the grand finale, “Tearing Down the Walls” (Tearing Down the Walls, 2014). This is it. The moment of the night. The song’s anthemic opening chords send the audience into a frenzy, the sheer scale of its chorus making the whole venue shake. Leckremo leaves nothing behind, his voice soaring to impossible heights. Dalone’s guitar solo slices through the air, a moment of pure, raw emotion. As the song roars toward its earth-shattering conclusion, the entire band pour every last drop of energy into one final, climactic moment—and then, with one last thunderous note, it’s over.

The lights fade. The crowd are somewhat breathless, but still chanting, still hungry for more. Tonight, H.E.A.T set the place on fire. This was a masterclass in melodic rock, explosive, electrifying, and absolutely unforgettable.

As the final chords ring out and the band take their bows, the Rescue Rooms was a scene of pure elation. Fans cheered, clapped, and shouted their appreciation, basking in the afterglow of a performance that will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the highlights of 2025.

We had just witnessed a celebration of melodic rock, and it must be said, at its finest. Chez Kane, Art Nation, and H.E.A.T.  all delivered performances that were as distinct as they were exceptional, each band bringing their unique flavour to the stage.

From Chez Kane’s effervescent 80s-inspired anthems to Art Nation’s polished modern Gothenburg inspired rock and H.E.A.T.’s arena-ready bombast, the night was, yet again, proof to the enduring power of great music performed with passion and skill. The Rescue Rooms may be a small venue, but tonight, the fans made it feel like the centre of the rock universe.

Load More Related Articles
Load More By admin
Load More In Gigs
Comments are closed.

Check Also

L.A. GUNS: After 40 Years L.A. Guns Are Still Grinding With A New Album, ‘Leopard Skin,’ Out April 4

It was almost 40 years ago that L.A. Guns established themselves as the undisputed sleaze …