Punk Rock Factory ‘Stick To The Covers’ Tour in Birmingham 2024
Bringing their signature brand of high-energy, humour-filled pop-punk/alt rock covers, Punk Rock Factory tore the roof off of Birmingham's O2 Institute on 11 October. Wolves of Glendale kicked off the night with their unique blend of comedy and rock, proving to be the perfect opener for Punk Rock Factory's light-hearted, nostalgic vibe. Their crowd interaction, particularly the wild mashups they created from audience requests, had the room howling with laughter and fully invested in the madness. By the time Punk Rock Factory hit the stage, the crowd was already buzzing, primed for the main event.
From the first note, PRF held the audience in the palm of their hand, delivering an incredible setlist packed with punked-up versions of classic tracks. Their set was relentless, with barely a moment for fans to catch a breath as the fourpiece whipped through hit after hit, delivering riveting renditions of everything from animated anthems to pop classics. The night's loudest moment came during their raucous cover of the "SpongeBob SquarePants Theme Song”, with fans screaming every word back to the band with an intensity that rivalled any concert. This moment was a perfect example of what makes Punk Rock Factory so much fun: even when you know what's coming, they somehow still manage to surprise you.
Throughout the evening, the band's playful stage presence was on full display, with vocalist and guitarist Peej Edwards leading the charge in engaging the audience and keeping the energy up. Their costume changes, swapping hats and jackets to match a certain song's theme, added an extra layer of entertainment, further proving that these guys know how to put on an awesome show. The crowd went wild when they previewed their upcoming single — a punk reinterpretation of Take That's "Back for Good” — and it was met with an overwhelmingly positive reaction.
One of the quirkiest moments of the night was their cover of the "Toys 'R' Us" theme tune, a seemingly random choice that still had the audience singing along. The band's unparalleled ability to take unexpected songs and turn them into punk anthems is part of what makes them so distinctive. As they closed the night with a final round of singalongs, it was clear to see that PRF is constantly progressing as an alternative act, jumping from strength to strength with each performance.
Overall, Punk Rock Factory's show at the O2 Institute was a riotous celebration of nostalgia and punk energy, leaving the Birmingham crowd eager for more. Their flair for transforming beloved tunes into mosh-pit anthems, combined with a whimsical, interactive approach, makes them a must-see for anyone looking to experience a truly unforgettable night of punk rock fun.
PRF’s brand new album, All Hands on Deck, is due for release on 14 February 2025, and is available to preorder and presave now! In the meantime, whilst you wait for the forthcoming record, you can listen to their infectiously joyful cover of Bewitched’s “C’est La Vie” on all streaming platforms.
Written & Photographed by Hope Small - Portfolio
