Marco Mendoza | Powell-Payne
Molly’s Chambers, Birkenhead
18th September 2025
Legendary American bassist Marco Mendoza returned to UK stages this September with his Shoot For The Stars Tour: a series of intimate, high-energy shows following his triumphant stint with the Satriani/Vai band earlier this year. Claire Glover from Louder Than War headed across to Molly’s Chambers in Birkenhead to see the rock powerhouse in action.
Tucked away in the backstreets, Molly’s Chambers is a hidden gem of a live music venue, buzzing with atmosphere even on a midweek night with a smaller crowd. With a line-up like tonight’s though, it doesn’t take long for the place to really come alive.
Opening the night and lighting the fuse are Powell-Payne, a brilliant Welsh AOR quartet formed in 2022 by drummer Mark ‘Penfold’ Powell (ex-Psycho Kiss) and vocalist Adam Payne (ex-Airrace). Their debut album Voilà, fuses the classic AOR spirit with modern energy.
Joined by guitarist Aydan Watkins and bassist Alex Anderson, Powell-Payne deliver a set full of passion and precision, winning the crowd over with their mix of nostalgia and freshness. It feels like watching a band destined for bigger stages.
They are a hit with the crowd with a set packed with soaring melodies and unforgettable hooks; Voilà delivers an emotional punch that resonates with rock fans old and new. Powell-Payne has crafted a sound that is as nostalgic as it is forward-thinking.
With their debut album out in the world, this Welsh four-piece is ready to hit the road, bringing their electrifying live show to audiences everywhere. Big riffs. Big hooks. Big energy.
It’s time for Marco Mendoza to hit the stage with fellow superb musicians, Drew Lowe on guitar and Chris Allan on drums. The excitement and energy spikes even further, immediately. From the first notes, Mendoza oozes charisma and talent. He possess that rare mix of world-class musicianship and warm connection with the audience.
His setlist blends powerful originals, from Viva La Rock, New Direction, Hey Baby, and Scream And Shout with heartfelt moments like Leah, written for his wife, and punchy covers including Hole In My Pocket (Journey), Chinatown and Are You Ready (Thin Lizzy), plus a rousing Give Peace a Chance, that the crowd delight in joining in with.
At one point, Mendoza strolls into the crowd mid-song, shredding jaw-dropping bass lines while demonstrating and joking about his party trick: opening a water bottle with his mouth without missing a note. His vocals prove just as impressive, gritty and powerful, blended with touches of bluesy, jazz free-flowing style.
Mendoza’s career reads like a rock ’n’ roll hall of fame, from playing on Bill Ward’s solo album in 1989, co-founding Black Star Riders in 2012, and performing with Whitesnake, Journey, The Dead Daisies, Ted Nugent and Thin Lizzy. His solo albums, Viva La Rock and New Direction, recorded with Danish producer Søren Andersen, showcase a creative peak, and hearing those tracks live tonight is a real treat.
What sets Mendoza apart is his ability to turn a gig into a shared experience. He chats with the crowd, jokes between songs and signs merch and takes selfies afterwards, giving the same energy to fewer than a hundred fans in Birkenhead as he does to thousands in an arena.
It’s not surprising Mendoza’s live shows have earned rave reviews for their energy, spontaneity, and warm connection with the audience. He creates a concert experience that’s both electrifying and deeply personal.
Speaking about his tour tonight, he says he’s beyond excited to return to the UK. The love and support over the years has meant the world to him. After wrapping up the tour with SATCHVAI, he’s delighted to hit the road again and bring these songs to life.
Fans can expect highlights from Marco’s critically acclaimed albums Viva La Rock and New Direction, along with surprise covers from his extensive career.
As the night closes, it’s clear why Mendoza’s shows earn such glowing praise: electrifying musicianship, huge warmth, and a setlist that blends rock history with heartfelt storytelling.
Catch Marco Mendoza live for a night of unforgettable music and one of the best bass guitar performances you’ll ever see.
Follow Marco Mendoza on his website | Instagram | Facebook
Powell-Payne Instagram
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All words by Claire Glover. More writing by Claire on Louder Than War can be found at her author profile here. You can also find her on Bluesky and Twitter
Photos by Ian Parry
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