Blaze Bayley/Absolva –
The Local Authority, Friday, Sheffield, Friday, 17th March 2023
First up is Blaze's support band, Absolva. The fans love Absolva as they always tour with Blaze, they have become synonymous.
Plenty of people in the crowd were donning Absolva merch and going crazy when they came on. Chris Appleton's ability to play and be a solid frontman is astounding, keeping the crowd hooked while he is playing a solo or on an instrumental break.
Luke Appleton’s riffing and backing vocals are solid. Never missing a note and smashing the show out of the water. Martin Mcnee’s drumming was on point as usual. His tenure as a heavy metal drummer, especially side by side with Chris Appleton allows his drums to have perfect intonation with the rest of the band.
Karl Schramm's bass playing is phenomenal. He goes crazy on the stage all while maintaining composure and not ever missing a note or messing up. He also maintains a connection with the audience which is great to see from a bass player. Schramm is up their with the best.
Although all excellent musicians in their own right. They are a powerhouse of a band. Never failing to impress with every release and subsequent show/tour. Armed with a loyal, strong fanbase, they have secured their place in metal history.
 Absolva - Photograph 9 |  Absolva - Photograph 8 |
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 Absolva - Photograph 6 |  Absolva - Photograph 7 |
 Absolva - Photograph 5 |  Absolva - Photograph 4 |
 Absolva - Photograph 3 |  Absolva - Photograph 2 |
 Absolva - Photograph 1 |
My third time seeing Blaze, I was filled with anticipation for yet another night of heavy metal perfection.
Blaze's long tenure as an artist shows through with every release. He never fails to deliver an album of pure gold, his lyrics coupled with his unique, powerful voice makes him an unstoppable force.
The show was excellent, with classic blaze titles as well as “Futureal” and “Man On The Edge” from his years with maiden. I have been lucky enough to sit down and talk to him in the past. He is an excellent person and great to chat to.
Unfortunately, not long after the show, Blaze suffered a heart attack and had to go into surgery. I speak for everyone at Metalliville Zine and the Metal community when we wish you a speedy recovery. We hope to see you on the road again when you are ready.
 Blaze Bayley - Photograph 6 |  Blaze Bayley - Photograph 7 |
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 Blaze Bayley - Photograph 8 |  Blaze Bayley - Photograph 5 |
 Blaze Bayley - Photograph 2 |  Blaze Bayley - Photograph 4 |
 Blaze Bayley - Photograph 3 |  Blaze Bayley - Photograph 1 |
By Alex 'Reaper' Holmes