"Don't trust anyone over thirty" was the famous hippie slogan in the mid-1960s. It is therefore hard not to see it as a paradox that the headliners coming to Poland represent the next, even more radical wave of rock, which gained fame and recognition towards the end of the following decade, meaning that today's kings of punk rock are now roughly in their seventies! However, the members of the Sex Pistols (for it is, of course, the band we're talking about) are billed - and eagerly awaited - as undisputed music legends, thereby reaffirming the enduring power and authenticity of the rock ethos. The artists are touring to celebrate the band's fiftieth anniversary. It should be noted, however, that there will be no shortage of members of subsequent generations of rock musicians on the festival stage. After all, Rockowizna is not only about the diverse facets of guitar music, but also a gathering that transcends generations - a quality reflected in its audience as well.
The biggest excitement on the first day of the event will, of course, surround the legendary Sex Pistols, one of the most iconic bands in the entire history of rock music. Although their recording career produced but a single studio album, the groundbreaking Never Mind the Bollocks, it was enough to spark a punk uprising that spread around the world. The band split up in 1978 (48 years ago), only to reunite on several occasions since then. Three members of the original line-up, guitarist Steve Jones, bassist Glen Matlock and drummer Paul Cook, remain at the heart of the group. They are now joined by Frank Carter, who has fronted the band for the past two years, taking over vocal duties from the legendary Johnny Rotten. Many fans will likely breathe a sigh of relief, as Rotten's political views in recent years, including his outspoken support for Donald Trump, have disappointed and alienated some of those who once admired him. Ironically, John Lydon, as he now performs under his real name, appeared in Poznań only weeks ago with his other celebrated band, Public Image Limited, reportedly to enthusiastic reviews. This time, however, the Sex Pistols return for only their second concert in Poland, their first in eighteen years and their sole Polish appearance this year, without their former vocalist. That is unlikely to diminish the excitement that surrounds their performance.
The same day also brings Nova Twins, the acclaimed British band, officially a duo, who began their career almost forty years after the Sex Pistols burst onto the scene. Made up of vocalist and guitarist Amy Love and bassist Georgia South, they describe their music as "urban punk". The programme also includes plenty to enjoy for fans of Polish rock, with legendary bands Lady Pank and Illusion joined by Łydka Grubasa and Stacja B.
The star of the festival's second day is the British quartet Wolf Alice. Over the past decade and a half, the band has built an impressive catalogue of four studio albums, several EPs and numerous singles, achieving remarkable success in the process: every album has reached the top of the UK charts and become a best-seller. Although best known as an indie rock band, their music also embraces elements of shoegaze, dream pop, folk, grunge and, in the broadest sense, pop. The group features Ellie Rowsell on vocals, guitar and keyboards, Joff Oddie on guitar, violin and synthesisers, Theo Ellis on bass and synthesisers, and Joel Amey on drums. Sharing the stage that day will be Sweden's Royal Republic, who have spent twenty years carving out a reputation for energetic, dynamic live performances and a distinctive sense of humour. Critics have praised them for their ability to "successfully combine rock, pop and electronic music".
One of the standout moments of last year's rock season in Poznań was the long-awaited return of local heroes Acid Drinkers, who reunited in their original line-up after many years for their appearance at Rockowizna. Their comeback performance was widely regarded as a triumph, so it comes as no surprise that the Acids - featuring Litza, Tytus, Popcorn and Ślimak - will be back at the festival this year. The Polish line-up is further strengthened by Dżem, with Sebastian Riedel, as well as Pull The Wire and Zenek Grabowski.
Among the highlights of the festival's final day is Within Temptation, one of the most recognisable names in symphonic metal worldwide. Founded in the Netherlands thirty years ago by Sharon den Adel and Robert Westerholt, the band has built its reputation on a powerful combination of heavy guitar riffs, melodic vocals and richly orchestrated arrangements, winning a devoted international following. Their live shows are renowned for their striking visual spectacle, and their achievements have been recognised with numerous prestigious awards. As part of the celebrations marking their 30th anniversary, they promise a special performance during their only appearance in Poland of the year.
The second headline act hardly needs an introduction. Kult, led by Kazik Staszewski, has experienced both triumphs and setbacks over the years, releasing albums that have divided opinion and attracting both praise and criticism in the media. Their concerts, however, have consistently stood out for their incredible energy and their ability to stir emotions among audiences. This year's appearance is expected to be no different. The festival's closing day will also feature Ukraine's The Hardkiss, alongside Polish favourites Nocny Kochanek, The Analogs and Romantycy Lekkich Obyczajów.
Tomasz Janas
translation: Krzysztof Kotkowski
Rockowizna Festival
Ławica Airport (entrance on ul. Lotnicza), 20-22.08
for more, see: Rockowizna Festival
© Wydawnictwo Miejskie Posnania 2026
