The Caves, Edinburgh
15/10/25
Spear of Destiny was formed by Kirk Brandon in 1983 and have continued to create iconic music for over 50 years. After the dismantling of the punk-influenced band, Theatre of Hate, Kirk Brandon empowers audience with his unique style of new wave, punk-power and rock energy. Finding his feet in the London music scene, Kirk soon became an influential figure and attracted a collective of talented musicians such as Craig Adams and Stan Stammers.
Spear of Destiny were renowned for their live performances and were soon supporting acts like U2 at Milton Keynes Bowl in 1985. With studio albums like “One Eyed Jacks” and “World Service” reaching top 20 spots in the UK charts, they were soon playing at Reading Festival and another support gig for U2 at Wembley Stadium.
This then propelled the band to the status they have now. Moving forward, Spear of Destiny released albums through the 1990s and 2000s and are on their mini tour of the UK in October 2025. Covering cities from Edinburgh, Newcastle, Exeter and London this is sure to be a welcomed treat for many a fan.
Kicking of their tour in the historic city of Edinburgh, the Caves was a perfect venue for them to unleash their iconic legendary mix of punk classics such as ” Never Take Me Alive”.
A strong audience of die-hard fans eagerly awaited Kirk’s entrance, and he was received with great enthusiasm. Completing the bands line-up was, Craig Adams The Mission & The Cult) on bass, Adrian Portas ( New Model Army) on guitar and Phil Martini on drums. Not wasting a minute, they struck a chord and bang!
From the first second to the very last lyric sung, Spear of Destiny were after the audience, like a runaway train, gathering speed and building the audience up with classic songs from past and present days. Their musical genius was clear to see. Years of dedication right here in front of us and it didn’t disappoint.
The guitar riffs, the tightness of the band, the delivery, the energy, the commitment, the beat of the drums and the depth of the bass were mesmerizing and the crowd embraced it with every fibre in their bodies. The one thing that stood ou was Kirk Brandons words / message at the end.
After a difficult year of personal loss, I was thinking about life pre-gig and thinking you need to live. Live every precious moment, live life and enjoy its wonders. As Kirk left us his message was to live life, live it, live and love every moment. What more can I say ? Thanks Kirk for a wonderful night!
Raymond Speedie
themumble.uk 