Live Review: Dan Byrne, Scarlet Rebels & The Dead Daisies – Holmfirth Picturedrome, 21 August 2025
On a warm August evening in the heart of Yorkshire, the Holmfirth Picturedrome played host to a triple-threat lineup that delivered one of the most electrifying rock shows of the summer. With Dan Byrne, Scarlet Rebels, and The Dead Daisies on the bill, fans were treated to a night of soaring vocals, thunderous riffs, and pure rock ‘n’ roll communion.
Opening the night was Dan Byrne, whose solo career has been steadily rising since his days fronting Revival Black. Backed by a lean but tight band, Byrne took the stage with quiet confidence and launched into “Hard to Breathe”, a brooding opener that showcased his remarkable vocal range and emotional depth.
His setlist, consistent with other August UK dates, included “Hate Me”, “Saviour”, and the sultry “Cherry & Leather”. Byrne’s voice was the centerpiece—equal parts grit and grace, with a delivery that felt both intimate and explosive. He prowled the stage during “Like Animals”, channeling raw intensity and connecting deeply with the crowd.
The highlight came with “Echoes of the Brave”, a track that’s become a rallying cry for resilience. Byrne’s vocals soared, and the audience responded with raised fists and heartfelt cheers. He closed with “Death of Me”, leaving the room in stunned silence before a wave of applause broke out. It was a short set, but Byrne made every second count.
Next up were Scarlet Rebels, the charged rockers from Llanelli, South Wales. Led by frontman Wayne Doyle, the band wasted no time igniting the crowd with “Secret Drug”, a track that blends melody with menace and sets the tone for their high-octane set.
Their lineup—Wayne Doyle (vocals/guitar), Chris Jones (lead guitar), Wayne Esmonde (bass), Gary Doyle (drums), and Josh Townshend (keys)—was firing on all cylinders. Doyle’s vocals were gritty and impassioned, while Jones delivered blistering solos that lit up the room. Esmonde and Gary Doyle locked into a groove that was both tight and thunderous, and Townshend’s keys added texture and atmosphere.
The setlist mirrored their recent London show, featuring “Streets of Fire”, “Grace”, and the emotionally resonant “It Was Beautiful”. One of the most powerful moments came during “Let Me In”, a track that builds from introspection to catharsis. The crowd sang along, fists raised, as Doyle poured his soul into every lyric.
Scarlet Rebels aren’t just a band—they’re a movement. Their music speaks to the disillusioned, the hopeful, and everyone in between. They closed with “Save Me”, a defiant anthem that had the crowd chanting long after the final chord rang out.
Then came the main event: The Dead Daisies, a supergroup whose pedigree includes stints with Whitesnake, Dio, Ozzy Osbourne, and Mötley Crüe. Their current lineup—John Corabi (vocals), Doug Aldrich (guitar), David Lowy (guitar), Michael Devin (bass), and Tommy Clufetos (drums)—is a dream team of rock veterans, and they brought the thunder.
Clufetos, known for his work with Ozzy and Black Sabbath, was a revelation behind the kit. His drumming was ferocious, precise, and full of flair—driving the band with relentless energy and groove. From the moment they launched into Led Zeppelin’s “Rock & Roll”, the Picturedrome was transformed into a cathedral of rock.
Their setlist pulled heavily from their recent UK tour dates, including “Long Way to Go”, “Rise Up”, and “Dead and Gone”. Corabi was in top form—his raspy vocals and magnetic stage presence kept the audience hooked. Aldrich’s guitar work was jaw-dropping, especially during “Bustle and Flow” and “Light ’Em Up”, where he unleashed solos that were both technical and soulful.
Midway through the set, Clufetos delivered a thunderous drum solo that had jaws dropping. The band then launched into “Love That’ll Never Be”, a bluesy rocker that showcased their versatility. Covers were sprinkled throughout, including “Take a Long Line” and a medley featuring “Highway to Hell,” “Seven Nation Army,” and “Whole Lotta Love”—a nod to their influences and a gift to the crowd.
They closed with “I’m Gonna Ride”, a swaggering anthem that left the audience breathless. The encore? A fiery rendition of “Midnight Moses”, their signature closer, which had every person in the room singing at the top of their lungs.
The Holmfirth Picturedrome was packed, and the energy was electric. Fans of all ages came together for a night that felt like a celebration of everything great about live rock music. The intimacy of the venue allowed for real connection—between band and audience, and among fans themselves.
The sound was crisp, the lighting dramatic, and the vibe pure joy. There was no pretension, no gimmicks—just honest, passionate performances from three acts at the top of their game.
This wasn’t just a gig—it was a masterclass in rock performance. Dan Byrne brought heart and vocal fire, Scarlet Rebels delivered grit and purpose, and The Dead Daisies—with Tommy Clufetos pounding the skins—reminded everyone why they’re considered rock royalty.
As the crowd spilled into the cool Yorkshire night, buzzing with adrenaline and awe, one thing was clear: rock is alive, and nights like this prove it’s still capable of stirring souls and shaking foundations.
Words by Mark Dean
Photos by Angie Meech for Antihero Magazine
The Dead Daisies
