The 4 days in Blackpool for Rebellion has become something of a pilgrimage each August for PRUK and thousands of other punks. Arriving the day before the festival proper starts has multiple advantages – avoiding the massive queues at the wristband exchange and seeing some bands at the ever expanding fringe events being just two.
First stop on Wednesday was Friarton Duck who may or may not have a close resemblance to David and Scott from David Delinquent and the IOUs. A gloriously ramshackle half hour of covers later and the Galleon Bar was ready to buy into whatever religion ministers Delinquent and Sweeney were selling.
After a bit of scran and a few beers with friends it was time to head to Blackpool's only brewery, Rhythm and Brew Room, handily located yards from the Winter Gardens.
First up were local boys Graffiti Club. A rambuctious mix of punk 'n roll with a hint of skatecore that was great fun. A tight rhythm section allowed for Jordan's vocals to shine. A great appetiser before the carnage of the full festival.
Following Graffiiti Club, River Ratts kept the energy levels up with their own brand of emotional skacore. With hints of the Flatliners they were engaging, energetic and the perfect finale to the opening night. One to keep an eye on.
