Sophie James

WRITER
Sophie James is a veteran music lover and gig-goer from Shropshire. She is a frequent attendee on the thriving West Midlands Gig Scene and, prior to that, London and the Southeast.


She was raised on a diet of ELO, Queen, Lizzy, Quo and Slade when they were regular charters. Sophie lived through NWOBHM, and now revels in the more recent NWOCR. "I adore da Blues."

Her musical gold dust is Judas Priest, a Road to Damascus moment when she first heard them.

"Musical Kryptonite? Yes. Amazing musicians, but sorry, they don’t move me."

She Burns Red – A Thrilling And Emotional Ride

Gig Review: The electrifying performance of She Burns Red at KK's Steel Mill. Get ready to be blown away by their killer material and captivating stage presence. Words: @sophzrocks Photography: @jason_samuels_photography71 @sheburnsredband @kkssteelmill

Tattoo Molly / Classic Rock Vibe But With More Bite

Album Review: The explosive debut album from Tattoo Molly - Power. Delivering high-energy rock 'n' roll with gritty riffs, soaring solos, and exuberant vocals. Words: @sophzrocks @tattoomollyuk

South Of Salem / A Powerful, Striking And Seductive Allure

Gig Review: South Of Salem at KK's Steel Mill. A Mesmerising show with Scottish sensations She Buns Red. The electrifying energy of their UK Headline Tour. Words: @sophzrocks @jason_samuels_photography71 @southofsalemofficial @kkssteelmill

The Karma Effect / Sumptuous Saturday Night Vibes At The Giffard

Following a recent appearance across town at NWOCR Live Fest, The Karma Effect rocked The Giffard Arms. A Night of Electric Energy and Soulful Grooves. Words: @sophzrocks Photography: @flamingpint @thegiffardarms @thekarmaeffectuk

Doomsday Outlaw Deliver The Goods At KK’s Steel Mill

The electrifying performance of Doomsday Outlaw at KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton - a night filled with gritty rock, infectious melodies, and powerful vocals. Words: @sophzrocks Photography: @inglisnomad @doomsdayoutlaw @kkssteelmill

Jared James Nichols Puts the Powerful into Power Trio

Powerhouse guitarist Jared James Nichols rocks Wolverhampton with mesmerising performance. Our report from the electrifying show. Puts powerful into Power Trio Words: @sophzrocks Photography: @inglisnomad @jaredjamesnichols @kkssteelmill

Within Temptation / Bleed Out Consummate Cutting-Edge Symphonic Metal

Within Temptation / A Consummate Exhibition Of Cutting-Edge Symphonic Metal. The adept songwriting and lavish arrangements unite in perfect synchronicity to form such an inviting, dynamic, encompassing and addictive sound. Words: @sophzrocks @wtofficial

NWOCR / Triple Sonic Assault Slays Sunday Slumber

NWOCR Livefest | KK's Steel Mill - The Fallen State's triumphant return, Trucker Diablo's rock 'n' roll power, and Jackie Chambers and the vivacious Syteria.Words: @sophzrocks Photo: @jason_samuels_photography71 @nwocrlivefest @kkssteelmill @syteriaband @thefallenstate @truckerdiablo

NWOCR / Day One Opening Trinity Sets The Bar High

The electrifying performances of Brave Rival, Gallows Circus and White Raven Down at NWOCR Livefest 2023. A rock-filled day of bluesy riffs and captivating vocals.Words: @sophzrocks Photo: @jason_samuels_photography71 @nwocrlivefest @kkssteelmill @braverivalband @gallowscircus @white_raven_down

Sam Millar / One Of The Best Slabs Of AOR Since Aldo Nova’s Subject

Sam Millar More Cheese Please: A Synth-Driven Pop Rock Delight with Infectious Hooks and Nostalgic Vibes. One Of The Best Slabs Of AOR Since Aldo Nova's Subject. Words: Sophie James @samwellmillar

Sophie James

WRITER
Sophie James is a veteran music lover and gig-goer from Shropshire. She is a frequent attendee on the thriving West Midlands Gig Scene and, prior to that, London and the Southeast.


She was raised on a diet of ELO, Queen, Lizzy, Quo and Slade when they were regular charters. Sophie lived through NWOBHM, and now revels in the more recent NWOCR. "I adore da Blues."

Her musical gold dust is Judas Priest, a Road to Damascus moment when she first heard them.

"Musical Kryptonite? Yes. Amazing musicians, but sorry, they don’t move me."

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