Stone Broken + Scarlet Rebels, Dover Booking Hall - 17th February 2023

Perhaps a controversial opinion, but they’re not the most exciting band to watch. Frontman Rich mostly stands centre stage, fixed to his spot, with guitarist Chris and bassist Kieron like bookends at either side in all black ensembles. Drummer Robyn adds a splash of colour with her vibrant hair and infectious smile but there’s no sense of danger. In fact, they seem like lovely people. And maybe that’s just it. 

That said, the Come Closer tour finds the band in excellent form. Like most bands, Stone Broken seem re-energised through nearly two years of enforced lockdown and the joy of returning to live performance is apparent. Starting the set with Revelation, it’s oddly jarring to hear a backing track used to provide the synthesised sounds of the latest album. Not that the enthusiastic Dover crowd seem bothered; this is the band’s third visit to the venue and they’re greeted like returning heroes. And it’s a good track; a bit of a departure from the no nonsense rock of their debut; it feels more modern, almost dance-able but still really rocks. 

It’s not difficult to see why Stone Broken has such a devoted following; the ability to write taught rock songs with unashamedly huge choruses is impressive. The cornerstones of the catalogue are all in place; the irresistible chorus of Stay All Night, the driving thump of Heartbeat Away and the crunchy riff of Let Me Go. The newer tracks successfully keep the momentum going, particularly the moody Black Sunrise, surely destined to become a setlist staple. 

There is a lull; the acoustic section mid-set feels a little too long. And, as Rich admits, is out of their comfort zone. New(ish) songs Over the Line and This Revival are solid but not particularly standout. In contrast, Wait For You is spectacular, a song that could be huge if it only got the right exposure. The heartfelt performance is moving and surely dampens the eyes of many in the crowd (including this writer). 

Thankfully, the heavy riffs return for the last few songs with Not Your Enemy closing out the evening, a distillation of all that Stone Broken do best. Rich Moss even leave his spot and ventures into the crowd, a friend deputising on guitar. And though I’m still not a total convert, it’s hard to argue with these songs that sound like they are destined for much bigger rooms. 

It would be remiss of me not to mention Scarlet Rebels, who start the evening with a fantastic set. Whatever’s in the water in South Wales at the moment, it’s certainly generating a lot of quality rock music. Opener I’m Alive really grooves, with a wonderful guitar riff and some impressive soloing. And final song Heal is quite beautiful; though unusual to finish with a ballad, it’s performed with so much passion that I’m left wanting more. Wayne Doyle is a superb vocalist and does a great job handling some particularly annoying drunk lads who unfortunately have something to say between every song!