Right from my initial hearing of the hugely impressive debut EP from Europa Reign (reviewed here), I eagerly anticipated their predestined appearance at KK’s Steel Mill, as these Wolverhampton lads have a sound that deserves to be delivered on a vast platform with the benefit of a mighty sound system.
Europa Reign
KK’s Steel Mill, Wolverhampton – 3 October 2025
Words: Sophie James
Photography: John Inglis
Some minor confusion over running orders with Straight From The Sun was quickly resolved, so it was Europa Reign who would open the final evening of the Kira Mac Defiant tour.
It was unsurprising that five of the six songs performed were culled from said EP, which I described as “a hugely satisfying and impressive genesis”. A sole newbie was aired, but of course, more on that later.
From the moment they struck the opening chord of the pulsating Villainous, the colossal sound grabbed your attention. 
A universe away from August’s Launch Show within the intimate confines of the Giffard Arms, Ash Nesbitt and Aaron Sanders’ strident guitars sliced through Jamie Roberts’ pounding rhythm, while Andy Owen’s primal howls pierced the air with potent clarity.
The incessant brutal rhythm of Thrash/Grunge crossover Rust increases the momentum. Andy, in his black kilt, cuts an imposing figure, his performance akin to going into battle.
“We filmed our debut video here, it’s good to be back.”
The intricate ascensions of Marionette narrowly missed being my standout of the EP. I simply adore the way the melodies supplement its machine gun cadence. Tailor-made to grace stages like this, the harmonic interplay between the guitarists built to a quite delicious solo from Ash.
My second opportunity to hear the unreleased Shush!, the crystalline mix enabled one to better define its diverse elements. It’s pealing, drum-punctuated intro pauses for dramatic effect before the main riff kicks in, accompanied by Sabbathy tones from Jonny’s bass. These yield to a predominantly unaccompanied verse before the grinding rhythm ignites the chorus.
I noted Andy’s vocal was a mere whisper at times, with occasional flashes of guitar seemingly reminding us of their presence.
The insistent riff of debut single Broken Heart followed. It amuses me that, given its title, it steers well clear of power ballad territory. Given the right conditions, the middle eight could be regarded as ‘mosh-pit inducing’. As more warmed to their sumptuous sound, that may soon become a distinct possibility.
At this point, I recalled a pre-show conversation, with Andy pointing out he was suffering from ‘a bit of a cold’. One would never have guessed, as his vocal capacity suggested he had bundles more in reserve.
“Last chance to move your head.”
And so to the conclusion and imho the zenith of the short set with the preposterously contagious Treachery. It is truly flawless, but its pinnacle is Aaron’s rare foray into the spotlight to deliver THE most glorious solo.
This alone transports you back to that Damascene moment when you were blinded by Metal’s shining light. What better way to conclude than on a song I consider to be one of the best I have heard this year.
Everything about this performance lived up to my fervent expectations, and I will expand by stating that they are everything you hope for in a Metal band.
Europa Reign fully exploited and commanded the environment, showcasing their talent and enormous potential, affirming where they truly belong.
I cannot recommend their Debut EP highly enough, and two live viewings confirm they deliver on that promise. I eagerly anticipate catching another headlining set soon.
