Simon Rushworth
All week we’re pointing you in the direction of this year’s must-see bands at Download 2012.
And while you can’t afford to miss big-hitting headline acts Metallica and Black Sabbath it’s the crazily good undercard that makes this year’s Castle Donington event so exciting.
Today we focus on one of the surprise names on the 2012 bill as the reformed Little Angels emerge from a near 20-year hiatus to star alongside fellow Brits Quireboys, Europe and Red, White & Blues.
Look out for more previews in the next 24 hours and from tomorrow follow us on Twitter via @rushonrock as we bring you all the latest news and reviews from Download 2012!
Band: Little Angels
Where: Zippo Encore Stage
When: Friday June 8 (17.15-17.55)
Who: Reformed Brit rockers with a string of early 90s hit singles in the bag
Why Watch Little Angels: This is their first major show since they suddenly called time on their career almost two decades ago. Responsible for number one album Jam and a string of singalong pop metal hits there were few better entertainers back in the day.
Why Miss Little Angels: If Billy Talent or The Defiled are more your bag then there are clashes. And if you can’t stomach the thought of various 40-somethings – including Ronan Keating’s manager – belting out songs like Young Gods and Do You Wanna Riot then avoid at all costs.
Must hear: She’s A Little Angel from 1989’s Don’t Prey For Me is a stone cold classic and the band’s signature anthem. It reached number 21 in the UK singles chart in 1990 and was one of 10 top 40 Little Angels singles in four years.
Overrated: Womankind is more weepy ballad than balls-to-the-wall rocker and Little Angels were always way better at the latter. As a result may not make the Download setlist despite claiming the title as the band’s biggest charting single (number 12 in 1993).