A Night with some of the Sex Pistols: Punk’s Enduring Legacy
Saturday night erupted with energy as The Molotovs and the legendary Frank Carter took the stage alongside Steve Jones, Paul Cook and Glen Matlock of the Sex Pistols. If you were after a night infused with old-school punk vibes, beer flying through the air, and middle-aged men reliving their teenage years, then this was the gig to be at.
The evening kicked off with The Molotovs, a dynamic three-piece band that knew how to make an entrance. Lead singer Matthew was a whirlwind of energy, darting around the stage while belting out catchy tunes. His enthusiasm was infectious, pulling the crowd into the performance. Bassist and backing vocalist Issey Carts matched this level of vigor, headbanging and leaping around with a relentless spirit, while drummer Ice provided a solid backbone, keeping the beats crisp and on point.
As the band opened with their own high-octane tracks, the audience began to sway and bounce, although it took a bit of time for them to fully engage. Adorned in Union Jacks, both on the stage and worn by Carts, the band created a sense of unity with the crowd, and halfway through their set, the energy reached a fever pitch. The Molotovs played with just the right amount of volume, the drum and bass resonating through the venue, transforming the atmosphere. Their self-described ‘explosive’ style was on full display, showcasing a tight-knit chemistry that felt like a well-oiled machine.
As The Molotovs concluded their set, the stage was set for the evening’s main attraction. The lights dimmed, and the crowd erupted in anticipation. Frank Carter, Glen Matlock, Paul Cook, and Steve Jones stepped onto the stage, and the collective excitement was palpable. As they launched into the iconic Holidays in the Sun, the venue came alive. The energy in the pit surged, with pushing and shoving creating a visceral connection among fans, while those in the balcony screamed along to timeless anthems like Pretty Vacant, God Save the Queen, and Submission.
A standout moment of the night came when Frank Carter, embodying the spirit of punk, leaped into the crowd during Satellite. As he navigated through throngs of fans—keeping security on high alert—his presence electrified the audience. The unexpected intimacy of this moment prompted people to rally around him, eager to share in the experience. Carter encouraged the crowd to spin, and they obliged, transforming the moment into a whirlwind of excitement. This was punk music at its core—unfiltered, raw, and communal. When Carter returned to the stage and realised his mic pack was missing, the promptness with which it was passed back to him underscored the genuine connection between the band and its fans.
As the set progressed, it became clear that despite the years and changes the Sex Pistols have undergone, their chemistry remains intact. Frontman Frank Carter didn’t attempt to mimic the legendary Johnny Rotten; instead, he infused the band with his unique style and infectious energy. Yet, the essence of the Sex Pistols—rebellion, authenticity, and a love for chaos—remained alive and well.
The band powered through classics like No Fun and E.M.I, with the audience roaring in response, their voices blending into a tapestry of nostalgia. Each song felt like a testament to punk’s enduring legacy, a reminder of its roots and its evolution. When the set neared its conclusion, the crowd erupted in chants for more. True to form, the band delivered, treating us to an electrifying rendition of My Way, which seamlessly transitioned into Anarchy in the UK.” This particular choice felt especially relevant, echoing the sentiments of a generation grappling with social unrest.
Even though not all original members were present, the performance encapsulated the core of what the Sex Pistols represent. Frank Carter stood as a perfect figurehead, channeling the essence of punk while forging a path of his own. It was a night marked by shared experiences and a palpable sense of community—a true celebration of punk culture.
As the final notes rang out and the band took their bows, it was clear that this was a night to remember. For many, including myself, it reignited the flame of rebellion and passion that punk rock embodies. The thrill of witnessing such iconic music live, along with the electric atmosphere, made it a memorable evening.
Leaving the venue, I couldn’t help but reflect on the significance of the night. The Sex Pistols, alongside the electrifying presence of Frank Carter and The Molotovs, reminded us that punk is more than just music; it’s a lifestyle, a movement, and a way to express dissatisfaction with the status quo. Here’s hoping for more performances in the future, as the legacy of the Sex Pistols continues to inspire new generations. The spirit of punk is far from dead; it’s alive, thriving, and echoing in the hearts of fans everywhere.
