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."

Kickin Valentina / The Essence And Energy Of Live Performances Bottled

Album Review: Kickin Valentina - Explosive new album Star Spangled Fist Fight a blend of fierce riffs and anthemic choruses set to release on April 19, 2024. Words: @sophzrocks @kickinvalentina @MightyMusic666

Ashen Reach / The Fear Is The Soundtrack To Approaching Storms

Album Review: Ashen Reach – The Fear - Out 22 March 2024. The Fear warrants the utmost acclaim. As a pathfinder towards their second full-length, the future is even more appealing. Words: @sophzrocks @ashenreach

Kickin’ Valentina / Takin’ A Ride With Anthemic Riffery

The high-octane Takin' A Ride from Kickin' Valentina is a relentless blast of anthemic riffery that will leave you craving more. From Star Spangled Fist Fight. Words: @sophzrocks @kickinvalentina @MightyMusic666 @FromTheVaultsRecords @EMZProductions @Uprising.Records.de

The Soul Revival Deliver A Mouth-watering Prospect

Won't Bring Me Down from The Soul Revival - a perfectly crafted and impelling slice of modern hard rock that will have you hooked from the first chord. @thesoulrevivalofficial @sophzrocks

South of Salem Unleash Explosive Sophomore Death Of The Party

Album review: South Of Salem explosive sophomore album, Death Of The Party, showcases melodic riffs and infectious hooks. Find out why it has fans raving. Words: @sophzrocks @southofsalemofficial

Living Colour – Something Of A Phenomenon In Wolverhampton

Live Gig Review: Living Colour Delivers Mesmerising Performance as Special Guests to Extreme in Wolverhampton. An astounding night of eclectic influences. @sophzrocks Photography: @jason_samuels_photography71 @livingcolourofficial @thehallswolverhampton

Extreme / An Incendiary Masterclass Of All-Round Virtuosity

Gig Review: Extreme Civic Hall: A Phenomenal Performance You Didn't Want to Miss - 1 December 2023. On this showing, the band Extreme have years more gas in the tank. Words: @sophzrocks Photography: @jason_samuels_photography71 @extreme_band @nunobettencourtofficial @gary.cherone @pat_badger_official @kevin_figueiredo_official @Wolvescivic

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

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."

New Metal News