Review: New Wave Of Classic Rock Livefest 4

KK’s Steelmill (September 27^th – 28^th 2025)

Reviewer / Photographer – Dan Mann

After an excellent Livefest last year, I was certainly looking forward to returning to KK’s Steelmill for this year’s event.

I’ll be honest and say the first two band’s on the Saturday line-up weren’t my cup of tea, however they got a very positive response from the crowd, and that’s all that matters at a festival. Don’t get me wrong, I didn’t hate anyone’s set, it’s all a matter of personal taste.

The New Wave Of Classic Rock team always do an excellent job on the Livefest line-ups for what is an absolute bargain price.

Highlights for me on the Saturday – Ausin Gold, a band I always enjoy seeing, great songs and an entertaining set. And the fantastic Troy Redfern, the interation between Troy & drummer Nicky Waters is just great to watch. Anyone who at least doesn’t tap their feet during one of Troy‘s performances must be asleep!

Sunday’s line-up had some changes due to Departed not being able to play. I was delighted that Leadfeather were added, I’m just loving their performances both live and recorded. Also added was Ashley Sherlock, who was battling the dreaded lurgy, but who still gave us a great set.

My Sunday highlights were the afore mentioned Leadfeather, a highly entertaining Sweet Electric, and Cats In Space, who always deliver not just a set, but an immersive performance. Their combined years of playing shows, with a level of profesionalism that lifts them head & shoulders above other bands.

It’s not just great music that I like at such events, it’s also a chance to catch up with friends & acquaintances. KK’s is a superb venue (I wish it was closer) generally everything ran to time, decent sound and lighting and togs/media were well looked after.

A big thank you to Richard Brindley & Co for putting on Livefest, tickets for next year are already available, again at a bargin price – here

Below are photo sets in order of appearence, click on photos to enlarge: