Planet Of Women, with Voodoo 6, Lauren Harris, Son Of A Gun and HeKz.

Esquires Bedford Lev 2 666 - 6th June 2006.

To start a truly explosive night of Rock, HeKz emerged upon the stage, and blasted their way through an exciting set of crowd pleasing originals, combined with two new songs, including the epic masterpiece "Exodus" and "New Song". Their set served to remind us just how remarkable these guys are as musicians and performers. The front man had a remarkable command of his audience, and the harmonious guitar work of Adam and Danny was a treat, matched by Niko's exceptional drumming. They certainly set the tone for outstanding musicianship this evening.

Keeping up the trend of phenomenal performances, SON OF A GUN were up next, and they were energetic and fun to watch. The whole band contributed both arrogance and talent into their set, and their songs were laden with tasty vocal harmonies and infectious grooves. Having seen Will before with his old band, it was good to see that he is a truly versatile bass player, and Simon Paul's guitar work here was nothing short of exceptional.

SON OF A GUN were followed by the first of the download warm up acts, LAUREN HARRIS. The singer certainly filled the stage with her well-honed vocal abilities and vibrant stage presence, and captured the attention of all in the audience. She and her band clearly enjoyed their set and this rubbed off on the crowd too. Catchy anthemic tune "Get Over It" was a highlight of their sadly short set, although a barefoot singer, and an array of (mostly) successful stick tricks from the drummer made this a set not to be missed.

VOODOO 6, featuring a member of Lauren Harris' band erupted on stage next, with their dirty basslines, enhanced by a driving groove and finished off by a dual lead guitar attack. Vocally, Voodoo 6 were incredible. Lead man - Henry Rundell gave his all and produced some of the highest notes of the night, and Richie Faulkner's virtuoso guitar work was astounding. Overall their sound and performance was one which I'm sure Bedford would willingly welcome back, and they are sure to do well this year at Download Festival.

Last up were PLANET OF WOMEN who were unfortunately a member short, but nonetheless put on a great show. There were times when the singer would embark upon a drunken rant, but what struck me was their contagious sleazy rock n roll, adorned with intricate guitar work from the left-handed "Static". Although the crowd had started to dwindle, their interaction was something else, and as they rounded off the evening's entertainment with "One More Drink for the Road", they managed to include Matt Young's and Henry Rundell's powerful vocals to serenade the end of a memorable day.

Review by Richard Taylor. www.bedfordmetal.co.uk

REVIEW 2 BY MARTIN STAPLETON

A discussion arose after tonight's gig as to who has been the biggest musical legend to have walked through the doors here at Esquires? A debate that can rage on and on, it was fuelled further this evening by the visit of a certain Mr. Steve Harris, founder member and bass player of Rock Gods of the past 30 years, Iron Maiden. Although sadly not here to perform, he was here to watch over his daughter LAUREN who, as part of a Download festival warm-up, is hoping to carry on the dynasty. Although she only plays for just over 15 minutes with members of VOODOO SIX she showed use the potential she possesses. With dark hair and model looks, the voice is strong and powerful and she leaves the stage to a good applause. Voodoo Six carry on in their own right with a set of roof tumbling sounds.