Review: Savfest 2022

The Victoria Bikers Pub, Leicester

Reviewer/photographer: Dan Mann

Due to the ‘unique’ way that Facebook makes posts/events visible I very nearly missed Savfest 2022 altogether. Thankfully I was able at last minute to attend on the Friday of this charity event.

To give you some background to Savfest, this charity event, was set up by Alan Savill in aid of the Ian’s Chain Charity after the suicide of his son Ian. Anything that helps those in society struggling with mental health in all forms is a worthy cause. Supporting it with an eclectic mix of rock bands is something I’m more than familiar with having put on Fibrofest twice.

I didn’t get to see every band that played on the Friday, but those I did see I really enjoyed regardless of whether they were my thing or not. Each band played a decent set length, and none of them were just going through the motions, there was real energy and passion on display, the crowd totally engaging with each performance.

With a fantastic outside stage , plus the inside stage, the swap over between bands was seamless, all introductions done by the compère of compères, Mr Pete K. Mally!

I must mention two blokes who took to the stages to talk about their own struggles with mental health and how they’ve rebuilt their lives. Very emotional and inspiring. I must also mention the venue. The Victoria Bikers Pub may put some people off as it’s a ‘bikers pub’. It’s a great place to see bands, with as mentioned a fantastic outside (covered) stage and inside stage. Excellent sound, great and friendly service by all the staff, and just a great friendly atmosphere. Do check them out.

Here’s to Savfest 2023, and please do visit the Ian’s-Chain website and social media: