Review: Southern Uprising “Down at the Barn”

Shottle, Derbyshire (September 23^rd, 2023)

Reviewer / Photographer: Dan Mann

This was my first chance to sample the annual Southern Uprising festival, and what a fantastic time I had. With a well laid out site, reasonably priced drink, food and merch, a great looking stage set up, plenty of cover in case the weather decided not to play ball, things were already looking good.

I had a quick look at the cars, trucks and motorbikes parked up for the Custom Show, which had a public vote for the winners, then ventured down to the stage for the first band of the day.

(Click on photos for full size)

Opening any event can be a tricky thing, but Old Glory & The Black Riviera delivered an excellent set. I wasn’t familiar with the band, but their performance makes them a band to keep an eye on.

Next up were a band I’m pretty sure I’ve seen before, whether that’s true or not, Backwoods Creek are a band I’d be happy to watch again. Like the openers, it’s great to see younger bands writing and performing music that’s not trendy or mainstream, but is the sort of music we love, so hats off to them.

Third band on the bill were a band I certainly have seen and photographed before. Greyfox Conspiracy‘s singer Rob Cooksley (aka Greyfox Growl) was also the days master of ceremonies. I enjoyed them the last time I saw them, but their performance at Southern Uprising was on another level, the band delivering their brand of southern rock with confidence & conviction.

Next were a band who were if I’m honest originally the main reason for deciding to attend. I’ve seen Medicine Hat a few times in the past, first time was at the Marquee back in the mid 90’s! Singer Mark Jackson & I have been friends for over 30 years and he’s actually part of this site’s review team. So I guess I’m somewhat biased, but to say they delivered the goods would frankly be an understatement. The crowd fuelled on the vibe (and a few beers) got into the swing of things with plenty of dancing going on in front of the stage. Superb!

There was a change from the original headliners with Burnt Out Wreck stepping in to replace Skinny Molly who withdrew from all European appearances for reasons unknown. To replace a festivals headliners is a challenge for any band, but Burnt Out Wreck, ably fronted by ex-Heavy Pettin’ drummer Gary Moat, more than rose to the challenge. Whilst they’re not a southern rock band, this didn’t stop the crowd from thoroughly enjoying their set. A quality band is a quality band at the end of the day!

It wasn’t only the bands that delivered the day’s entertainment. As well as the afore mentioned Custom Show, there were prizes for those who managed to stay on the mechanical bull, with all money going to the Children’s Air Ambulance, a Daisy Duke contest & Reenie’s Rockettes performing on stage in the marquee, plus a big shout out to DJ Mick Moonshine for supplying the music between bands.

A big thank you to Charlie and his team for such a cracking day. I’ll be back next year for certain.

© All photographs are copyright of Dan Mann/RPR Photography. They may not be altered or used without express permission.