Working with Wolforna for as long as I have (yes, it’s me behind their press releases) has taught me a few things about their live setup. The first: people go nuts for ‘Penrose’. Originally released as part of the ‘Harlequin’ EP back in Covid-grappling 2021, it’s soared over time on streaming platforms and always grabbed people’s attention at shows, thanks to the beauty of the picked-string intro. It’s offered a change of pace mid-setlist from their usual fast, ferocious, heavy standard, too. So, as the preliminary instalment of singles from their upcoming live EP, this is a true treat.

‘Penrose Live’ is a ballsy refresher of a classic Wolforna tune, to put it bluntly. Harnessing the might and firepower of three guitars this time, instead of the prior two, you can detect a blistering sound that’s far beyond the song’s former capabilities. It was initially pulled together this way for their ‘Tales of the Damned’ EP release gig at Headrow House last November, but it made sense to give the fans what they wanted here in playable format. And if the punchier depth of sound wasn’t enough, you’ll find a couple of outro solos for good measure as well — once again deftly displaying the talents of their guitarists.

So while it’s no reinvention of the wheel, it has had a few custom modifications that make it run like a dream. Certainly, it’s credit also to the band’s hardworking ethos, and how well they listen to what really pleases the crowd when they perform. Go on, then — get it downloaded.