Sonisphere | livemusic.fm

Despite being a new kid on the festival block, Sonisphere sets out to impress with arguably one of the strongest line-ups in music and comedy with an innovative lack of dreaded stage clashes. Kicking off the Saturday morning and undoubtedly clearing out a few alcohol related cobwebs are Georgia's Family Force 5, like the bastard sons of Steel Panther and oddly, Justin Timberlake. It shouldn't work but it really does. Papa Roach score extra points for comedy value, for insulting every pop star going and flashing some flesh, while tearing into the likes of 'Lifelines' and new song 'Kick In The Teeth'.

As far as the real comedians go, the highlight is undoubtedly Tim Minchin, with songs about gingers and deluded rockstars, it's the last time to see him on a smaller stage for a long while. Not only very funny, but a ridiculously talented musician to boot. This ethic is something Motley Crue could learn from. Overpaid, overweight and (sadly) outstaying their welcome, the Crue are sorely lacking in tunes and energy.  Less JD and more Sanatogen is needed on the rider. For the art of entertainment look no further than Rammstein. With fire, fireworks and a giant foam-ejaculating mock penis (no, really), along with a keyboardist in a spangly suit sailing across the crowd in a dinghy, the bar has been well and truly raised for showmanship.

Madina Lake put on a brave face despite the lack of gravely injured bassist Matthew Leone, playing to a recorded track of his basslines, and it's due to their grit rather than sympathy that the set is well received, with a singalong for 'Let's Get Out Of Here'. Fightstar thrill with a filled-out repertoire and sound absolutely massive, despite stiff competition from Pendulum. Roll on next year!

Jen Thomas

http://www.the-fly.co.uk/words/reviews/live-reviews/8284/live-review:-sonisphere