It has had many uses over the years including an exhibition space and even a Covid vaccination hub but it’s unlikely the Crypt at Blackburn Cathedral has ever experienced anything like the Confessional Takeover before.

One of East Lancashire’s great musical success stories, Confessional has become one of the most eagerly anticipated and ground-breaking festival events.

Saturday night’s sold out event was a scaled-back affair compared to previous Confessionals held at the former Cotton Exchange and Holy Trinity Church in Blackburn, but its impact was just as great.

Four bands, each of whom you are likely to see on much bigger stages over the coming years, brought diverse, at times challenging and thoroughly entertaining sets to the party.

Pretty Shivers at Confessional (Picture: Newsquest)Darwen-based Pretty Shivers kicked things off and, for me, were the highlight of the event with their own brand of blues rock, soul and even a little country. Lead singer Miranda Myles’ powerful voice is truly a thing of beauty.

Next up, Manchester-based Hungry brought total commitment with a sound reminiscent of The Fall, the lead singer joining the crowd at one point to create a mosh pit in the Crypt.

Leeds duo Fake Dennis armed with just a laptop, box of tricks and bass were hypnotically engaging and headliners The Dream Machine, although beset with feedback issues at the start of their set had the swagger you would expect from a band with an album out and a number of high profile support slots.

Event manager Connor Synnott said: “Confessional is all about showing what is possible in Blackburn. We had barely two months to bring the festival together but the team have all been magnificent.

“Music fans have come to trust what we do. We are all regular gig goers and only bring bands to our event we totally believe in.”

Confessional has received funding from Arts Council England and next year will be its 10th anniversary.

“We’re planning something special so watch this space,” said Connor.