REVIEW: My Chemical Romance joined by Queen's Brian May at Reading Festival

Band bring guitar legend out for a version of 'We Will Rock You' 

My Chemical Romance were joined onstage by Queen guitarist Brian May as they headlined Reading Festival for the first time tonight (August 26).

May joined the New Jersey band at the start of their encore to play on a version of Queen's 'We Will Rock You' then stayed for set closer 'Welcome To The Black Parade'.

Before the guitarist''s arrival the band had played a set drawing largely on tunes from their fourth album 'Danger Days: The True Lives Of The Fabulous Killjoys'. They produced a spectacular stage show, with fireworks, lasers, a multi screen video wall and confetti wowing the Reading crowd.

Way alluded to the recent riots in the UK during the show. He told the crowd:

"I know a few people have spoken about the recent events over here, but I just want to say this. It's amazing to be here with people who love music in a non violent way. If you're mad, don't throw a punch, don't start a fire about it, don't shout about it. Sing, that's the most powerful weapon you have."

When they played the festival in 2006 the band were victims of bottle throwing from the crowd. But this year the response seemed rather more positive, with audience member Pete Smith stating: "That was so good, I wasn't expecting loads, but they surprised me with how good they were."

Another crowd member, Andy Lilleshall, agreed, saying: "I was surprised by how many of their songs I knew, it was really good." Emma Grant also spoke highly of the set and the band's special guest, saying: "I loved it and I can't believe I've seen one of Queen play live. Best night ever."

My Chemical Romance's set ended a day that had seen performances from 30 Seconds To Mars, who drew a huge crowd for their second headline slot, Deftones, who covered Katy Perry's 'Firework' during their set and Rise Against, who made a surprise appearance on the tiny BBC Introducing Stage for a short acoustic set.

My Chemical Romance played:

'Na Na Na (Na Na Na Na Na Na Na Na Na)'
'I'm Not Okay (I Promise)'
'Planetary (Go!)'
'The Only Hope For Me Is You'
'DESTROYA'
'Mama'
'Sing'
'Vampire Money'
'The Kids From Yesterday'
'Famous Last Words'
'Teenagers'
'Dead!'
'S/C/A/R/E/C/R/O/W'
'Helena'
'We Will Rock You'
'Welcome To The Black Parade'

CREDIT:  www.nme.com