Ok, let’s start with the venue – The Waterloo Music Bar, nestled fittingly on Waterloo Road, one of Blackpool’s oldest streets. Once a prestigious hotel famed for its Crown Green Bowling, this historic building has been reborn as one of the UK’s most celebrated grassroots music venues. Despite its reputation, this was my first visit—and it certainly won’t be my last.
Calling it a “decent venue” would be a massive understatement. If you’re a fan of live music and crave an authentic atmosphere, The Waterloo is a pilgrimage worth making. Having heard glowing reviews from musician friends who’ve played here, I was finally persuaded to experience it for myself—and I’m glad I did.
From the moment I arrived, the experience was seamless. The security team were an absolute dream—polite, helpful, and respectful. It’s rare to feel so welcomed before even stepping inside. And once through the doors, I was hit with a sensory overload. This isn’t your average pub—it’s a rock ‘n’ roll sanctuary.
Two motorbikes suspended above the bar immediately caught my eye, setting the tone for the venue’s bold and immersive design. The place is a visual feast, lovingly curated by a man named Ian—who may not look like Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, but certainly knows how to style a music venue. Even the ladies’ toilets are themed, with drum kits repurposed as sinks. Every corner pays homage to rock legends like Motörhead and AC/DC, and ordering my first drink from Lemmy’s Bar felt like a proud moment for a fellow Stokie from Lemmy’s hometown of Stoke-on-Trent.
The vibe was warm, inclusive, and electric. Whether you’re a Waterloo virgin or a seasoned regular, the staff and crowd make you feel instantly at home. I was even given a tour of the venue by owner Paul and Ian gave me clear guidance on where I could shoot photos, and although there was no dedicated photography pit, the audience were incredibly accommodating letting me slip to the front for a few shots without hesitation.
Support Act: Soul Revival
Opening the night was Soul Revival, who delivered a thunderous set that fused classic rock with a gritty, modern edge. Though I missed the start of their performance, what I did catch was enough to leave a lasting impression. Their track “Dark Shadows in My Heart” was a standout—raw, soulful, and emotionally charged. The vocals soared, matched by stunning riffs and a rhythm section that pulsed with intensity. Soul Revival laid the perfect foundation for what was to come.
Headliner: Apriori
Now to the main event—Apriori, the powerhouse trio consisting of: Tony Lang – Lead Vocals/Guitar, ‘Mouse’ – Drums/vocals, Mark Wilson – Keys/Vocals
As a live music photographer, I was tipped off by a fellow ‘togger’ to shoot this band—and I’m so glad I listened. The crowd’s deafening cheers as Apriori took the stage were a clear sign of the love and loyalty they’ve earned. Dressed in classic rock threads and radiating warmth, they launched into “Turn It Up”, a catchy, high-energy banger that had me hooked from the first chord.
Tony and Mouse—looking like long-haired rock vampires—whipped their locks with wild abandon, while key-master Mark Wilson, moshed his way through each note with infectious energy. Their sound is a bold twist on hard rock: gutsy guitar riffs, thunderous drums, and atmospheric keyboard layers that replace the traditional bass with something more cinematic and immersive adding richness to each song.
Apriori’s influences are clear yet uniquely blended. Brothers Tony and Mouse grew up jamming to Hendrix, but Mouse’s love of metal—think Slipknot and Disturbed—adds a heavier edge to their sound. The result is a stunning identity that’s both familiar and refreshingly original.
Their setlist was stacked with crowd pleasers:
“Nah Nah Nah” – an infectious anthem, “Get Up”, “Voodoo Love” – a personal favourite, instantly replay-worthy and “Making Love to the Devil” – dark, seductive, and unforgettable – another favourite.
Apriori are a band that truly shine live. Their third album, Voodoo Love, launched at this very venue last year, drew fans from across the UK and even internationally—a testament to their growing cult following. With their fourth album on the horizon, they’re clearly not slowing down. Having already been featured on Planet Rock, HRH Radio, and in Classic Rock Magazine, Apriori are carving out a serious space in the UK rock scene.
Apriori are far more than a local act—they’re a band on the rise, combining technical prowess, magnetic stage presence, and a fearless approach to rock music. Their set of 20 high-energy tracks delivered a night of raw, immersive rock that I’ll never forget.
And The Waterloo? It’s a venue run by musicians, for musicians—and it shows. The synergy between Apriori and The Waterloo was electric. A match made in rock heaven. I only wish I’d had “a priori” knowledge of just how good this night was going to be.
Apriori continue their tour performing this Saturday 13th September 2025 at the Giffard Arms Pub, Wolverhampton, WV1 3NX
Doors open from 7:30pm.
