The legendary punk rock pioneers, the Sex Pistols, launched their much-anticipated tour at Rock City, Nottingham, on September 20th, and the night was nothing short of iconic. The stage was set for a high-energy, unforgettable show with Paul Cook, Steve Jones, and Glen Matlock, joined by Frank Carter of Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes on vocals. XS NOIZE was there to witness the magic firsthand.
From the moment the band took the stage, it was clear that this wasn’t just another sold-out show—it was a reunion of punk history. Rock City was packed to the rafters with eager fans, many of whom were crammed into spaces where they couldn’t even see the stage, content to hear the legends play. As Carter, Cook, Jones, and Matlock stepped into view, the audience erupted into loud cheers and applause, so overwhelming that the band had to pause before they could start. The atmosphere was electric, pulsating with anticipation.
The second the opening riff of “Holidays in the Sun” hit, the crowd exploded into a frenzy, and from there, the energy only escalated. Mosh pits formed, bodies thrashed, and voices roared in unison as the band tore through their setlist. At times, Carter’s vocals were almost drowned out by the sea of fans shouting every lyric, especially during anthems like “Pretty Vacant,” “God Save the Queen,” and the rebellious “Anarchy in the U.K.” It was a communal experience, with the audience acting as a second voice to Carter’s raw, passionate delivery.
Bringing Frank Carter on as the frontman was a stroke of genius. He injected a youthful, ferocious edge into the performance while honouring Johnny Rotten’s original snarling energy. Carter’s fresh take on the vocals added a new dynamic to the classic tracks, giving them a sharp, modern edge without losing their trademark defiance. His chemistry with the original members was undeniable, as the band fed off his intensity, creating an unforgettable synergy on stage.
The three founding members—Cook, Jones, and Matlock—seemed revitalized, visibly excited to share the stage with Carter. Together, they delivered a performance that felt both nostalgic and fiercely current, proving that the rebellious spirit of the Sex Pistols is still alive and kicking. The band and Carter brought an explosive energy that left the crowd hungry for more.
The collaboration between Frank Carter and the Sex Pistols feels like a match made in punk rock heaven. It’s clear that something special was born on that stage, and fans can only hope this partnership leads to new recordings and more tour dates in the future. If this show is any indication, the Sex Pistols are far from finished—and punk is far from dead.
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