Derry punk-rock trio CHERYM lit up the stage, during their recent support of Bo Ningen at The Dome in Tufnell Park.
CHERYM are one of those bands who truly deserves the spotlight for their incredible talent. The trio of Hannah Richardson (Guitar and Lead Vox), Alannagh Doherty (Drums, Vox) and Emer McLaughlin (Bass, Vox) are remarkable musicians who effortlessly compose classic-sounding tunes with stadium worthy sing-along anthems.
They bounded onto the stage with their customary enthusiasm and proceeded to set the place alight. Kicking off with opener ‘Alpha Beta Sigma‘ from their debut album Take It or Leave It, the high-energy song set the tone for the whole set.
Behind the anthemic chorus, was a serious message as Alannagh pointed out:
It’s about freedom from fear and freedom to physical integrity, and overall it’s about having the freedom to just BE a woman.”
CHERYM have never been afraid to express their political views, both on and off-stage, frequently speaking out about gender issues, inequality, mental health and the right to just be yourself. Hannah’s shout-out in support of the trans community, was a beautiful gesture as they dedicated their 90’s influenced pop-punk belter ‘Abigail’ to them.
Other musical highlights included ‘Taking up Sports‘, an ode to a sapphic football girl crush, which highlighted Hannah’s raw and powerful vocals and chorus that still remains in my head. Older song ‘If I Was a Man’ and ‘Listening to my Head’ from the debut album also showcased their wide sonic palette. CHERYM’s musical talents were on full display throughout the gig, including furious drum solos from Alannagh, melodic guitar solos from Hannah and five-string bass playing badassery from Emer.
They also had fun with the audience, making sure they were full engaged, with Hannah jumping into the mosh pit area at one point and starting a mass sing-along.
CHERYM closed their all-too-short set with ‘It’s Not Me It’s You’, a fast-paced stomper of a song about self-care, filled with their trademark harmonies, catchy chorus, urgent guitars, mixed in with an additional slice of grunge, which wouldn’t be out of place on an album by their influences Avril Lavigne and Green Day.
The show was a magical blend of rock star flair, audience engagement, and humorous yet emotional banter. They’ve been supporting The Undertones, Enter Shikari and Snow Patrol amongst others, but from this show it’s evident that these ‘Derry Girls’ will be headlining stadiums in their own right soon. Can’t wait!
Follow CHERYM on website | bandcamp | facebook | instagram | youtube | tiktok
Noise rock opening act Lead Ashtray, have just released their new album Unfiltered and gave a performance to boot. Members Shoko Yoshida (Vocals) , Stuart Drums (Drums), Adrian Aversion – (Bass), Taku Hidesome – (Guitar), wowed the crowd with their unique brand of experimental rock. Shoko also paced the stage like an uncaged tiger, waiting to pounce which all added to their surreal energy.
I definitely look forward to hearing more from Lead Ashtray.
Follow Lead Ashtray Bandcamp | Facebook
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