By Gary Osbourne: review and images
If Saturday’s lineup was all about grit and groove, then NWOCR Sunday delivered a masterclass in showmanship, surprises, and sheer musical variety. From rising bands sharpening their craft to established acts redefining the classic rock sound, every performance brought something unique to the stage — from sleazy swagger and blues brilliance to theatrical madness and melodic mastery.
Here’s how the day unfolded.
White Tyger – Sleaze and Swagger in Full Flight
One of my favourite up-and-coming bands, White Tyger have come a long way since I first saw them at a bike fest in Rugby. Back then, they were knocking out covers with energy and charisma to spare — but now, performing their own material, they’ve levelled up in every conceivable way.
Their new drummer, Toby, has slotted in perfectly, a powerhouse behind the kit driving their sound with precision and flair. The confidence is there, the songwriting is sharper, and the stage presence is electric. Cowboy boots, swinging basslines, and perfect rock poses made them a photographer’s dream. Classic rock swagger meets foot-stomping attitude — White Tyger have evolved into a serious live act. Long may it continue.
Lead Feather – Vintage Spirit, Modern Power
Relatively new to the scene, Lead Feather are already making serious noise. Their blend of heavy rock and blues carries a distinct 1970s flavour — thick riffs, soulful solos, and plenty of melody.
The vocalist’s range is remarkable, and the bass player’s switch between bass and keyboards adds texture and depth. The rhythm section locked together flawlessly, laying the groundwork for some truly inspired guitar work. Tight, dynamic, and confident — expect big things from these guys as they rise through the NWOCR ranks.
Gone Savage – Old School Strength, Modern Edge
With over three decades of experience, Gone Savage are as tight as a drumskin. Heavy riffs, powerful grooves, and melodic vocals came together in a set that was both polished and punchy.
Their backing harmonies were spot on, and the drummer’s precision work tied it all together. This was classic hard rock delivered by a band that knows exactly who they are. Seasoned, skilled, and still bringing the energy — a standout performance.
Ashley Sherlock – Blues with Soul and Subtlety
Next up, the genre-defying trio Ashley Sherlock. Their sound was clean yet soulful — blues rock with an emotional edge. Sherlock’s guitar playing was expressive and articulate, while his vocals carried warmth and power in equal measure.
Even battling the flu, Ashley delivered a stunning set, proving what a professional performer he truly is. The rhythm section glued everything together perfectly, giving the songs room to breathe. Their songwriting feels timeless yet fresh — a band whose star is undoubtedly on the rise.
Sweet Electric – Glam Chaos and Golden Antics
Then came the madness — Sweet Electric, exploding onto the stage in a blaze of gold, glitter, and glorious noise. The frontman bounded across the stage in a shiny gold bomber jacket (describing himself as “looking like a gold condom”), and from that moment, chaos reigned.
This was pure glam rock theatre. Two guitarists throwing riffs and solos back and forth, a rock-solid rhythm section, and a frontman who never stopped moving. The sound was huge, the energy infectious. The crowd lapped it up — a rollercoaster of nostalgia, humour, and hard-hitting rock. A wild, unforgettable performance.
Ward XVI – Madness, Mayhem, and Musical Mastery
Then the stage transformed into something from a nightmare. Ward XVI don’t just perform — they inhabit their own twisted world. With their stage resembling a full-blown asylum, complete with cages, blood-red lighting, and sinister theatrics, they delivered an unforgettable show that fused horror with heavy metal.
Their drummer was literally caged, other members shackled, and the “Queen of Vice” commanded the stage with haunting vocals that soared over the chaos. Beheadings, mock rituals, and satanic whispers filled the stage, yet musically it was stunning — tight, creative, and atmospheric.
It’s horror rock at its most imaginative — think Alice Cooper on steroids. Ward XVI are a darkly brilliant spectacle that belongs in theatres as much as rock venues.
The Karma Effect – Anthemic and Unstoppable
Returning to pure, classic power, The Karma Effect hit the stage with arena-sized energy. Their anthemic blues-rock sound is made for big crowds — rich with soaring choruses, fiery guitar work, and a rhythm section that never misses a beat.
The frontman’s vocals were immense, perfectly supported by harmonies and strong keyboard layers. Each track felt purpose-built for the live setting, and their confidence on stage was infectious. The Karma Effect are one of the brightest hopes of the new rock generation, blending classic influences with modern fire.
Cats in Space – Melodic Rock Majesty
Closing out Sunday — and the festival — were the mighty Cats in Space, celebrating ten years of intergalactic rock glory. Ten albums in ten years is an incredible achievement, and tonight they reminded everyone why they’ve become such a beloved fixture in the UK scene.
With a stand-in bassist dressed to the nines, they still sounded flawless. Twin guitars shimmered, harmonies soared, and the rhythm section thundered beneath the band’s huge melodic choruses. It was slick, joyous, and utterly irresistible. The crowd sang every word — a fitting finale to an incredible weekend.
Cats in Space are more than a band; they’re a celebration of classic rock done right.
NWOCR Sunday had everything — from the swagger of White Tyger and the raw potential of Lead Feather, to the macabre brilliance of Ward XVI and the class of Cats in Space.
It was a day that showcased everything the New Wave of Classic Rock represents: passion, musicianship, diversity, and a deep respect for rock’s legacy. As the lights went down and the amps fell silent, one thing was certain — rock ‘n’ roll isn’t just alive; it’s thriving.
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