What a weekend. Over three thunderous days — Thursday through Saturday — The Black Market Venue in Warsop was transformed into the pulsing heart of international rock ‘n’ roll mayhem. INSANE Rock Festival 2025 lived up to its name in every sense, delivering a genre-defying, sweat-drenched celebration of sound.Curated and led by the ever-unpredictable Lord Bishop (USA), the lineup brought together a storm of talent from across Europe and the UK, proving that big things can — and do — happen in small towns.Kicking things off was Italy’s Sarava Aristi, making her UK debut with a searing performance that fused fiery vocals and Mediterranean soul into something truly unforgettable. From there, the UK came in hot: The Wichitas, The Kostanzas, and ROOM 201 delivered punchy, attitude-laced sets that had the floor bouncing and the crowd howling.The party didn't stop there. Germany’s PIY-PunkRock Karaoke made their first-ever UK appearance and quickly became a crowd favourite, letting fans take the mic and scream their way through punk anthems with a live band. It was chaos. It was brilliant. It was INSANE.International highlights rolled in thick and fast:
- Pika Dias Solo (Portugal) impressed with raw blues grit and poetic edge.
- Coldia & The Quitters delivered melodic thunder straight outta Italy.
- Gwyn Ashton (Wales/Australia) gave a masterclass in rootsy, guitar-driven power.
- Hollywood Pops (UK) tore up the stage with a theatrical, high-octane performance that was impossible to look away from.
- The Curfew and The Hugo Steady Band flew the flag for Warsop, reminding everyone why local talent still hits hardest.
- And of course, Lord Bishop Rocks (USA) himself took to the stage, bringing his signature mix of funk, soul, rock, and absolute madness to the mix.
From start to finish, INSANE Rock Festival wasn’t just a gig — it was a movement. A sweaty, loud, beautiful gathering of underground heroes, rising stars, and rock diehards from across the globe. Warsop felt it. The floorboards felt it. We’ll be feeling it for weeks.
