NVRF 2025 - 4th-7th September ~ Grimsthorpe Castle, Lincs



The UK's boutique Classic Rock, Prog and Blues Festival
Saturday
Swan & Heron stages
These stages will operate alternately so you will be able to see all of every band if you wish.
Both stages, and the bar, are housed within one marquee to protect you from the weather.
Crazy World of Arthur Brown

The Crazy World of Arthur Brown will be bringing their psychedelic showcase of theatrical rock to Grimsthorpe Castle to headline Saturday night, having previously stolen the show as the finale to the inaugural festival. The acknowledged master and pioneer will again includes classic from his extensive catalogue to weave a tapestry of music, sonics, lights, theatre and costume. A journey into creativity, sound and colour…. A timeless adventure into the heart of psychedelia from the God of Hellfire and his company of crazy creators!
Quo Connection

In answer to overwhelming support, former members of John Coghlan’s Quo Mick Hughes, Rick Chase, Pete Mace and Russ Chadd reformed under the name of Quo Connection in order to begin the next chapter carrying on the legacy of Status Quo and John Coghlan. As we've said before, we're very selective when it comes to tribute bands - they have to be something special or different. Quo Connection are just that and the first tribute band to play NVRF twice, bringing you the sound of the Frantic Four with a genuine Quo connection!
Chris Bevington Organisation

When Chris Bevington realised an ambition to record a Blues based album, his first, "Chris Bevington & Friends" was released to critical acclaim globally. The follow-up "Better Start Cookin'" included the track "61 & 49" which was voted as third best International Blues track by Blues & Roots in the USA in 2020. 2018 saw the release of “Cut and Run” which saw 5 months at the top of the IBBA chart. The band were next nominated for 2 IBBA Blues Awards: Best Live UK Band & Best Blues Album with the release of the 4th Album Sand & Stone. They've been through a few line-up changes and the latest revitalised incarnation certainly gives a sensational vibe!
Galahad

Formed in 1985, Galahad have played hundreds of shows all over the UK, Europe and America releasing twelve studio albums, several rarity albums and numerous live albums/DVD’s along the way.
The band have been constantly evolving soaking up many different influences, always looking forwards but maintaining nods to their ‘Progressive’ past.
Their latest studio album ’The Long Goodbye’ was released in October 2023.
Square Wild

Winners of Prog magazine's 2023 award for best unsigned band, followed by a battle of the bands for a slot at Bloodstock, Square Wild are confusing audiences around the land by playing thoughtful, original music that keeps going to places you don't expect! You'll find inspirational lyrics mixed with tales of fantasy, hook-laden rock anthems that might veer into ska or samba, inventive drumming reminiscent of some of the greats, mesmerising guitar, the odd bass solo and then there's Lucy's vocals and stage presence. Most likely thing you'll hear from the crowd? "Wow, wasn't expecting that!"
Landmarq

Landmarq, a prominent name in progressive rock, has been creating music since 1990. Known for their intricate melodies, powerful vocals, and dynamic instrumentals, the band has established a unique sound in the genre. Their extensive catalogue includes both studio and live albums, plus DVDs, each showcasing their evolution and dedication to complex but accessible compositions. Landmarq's music is a journey, filled with depth and emotion, making them a respected and loved act in the progressive rock community.
Simone Galassi

We invited Simone over from Italy last year and to be honest were not sure what our audience would think.... We loved his music, but he's not the best known name in the UK. After last year's NVRF appearance we're pretty sure that's going to change! His blend of original songs and some rock & blues covers in classic 60s power trio style went down a storm! The sounds are raw and dirty, pure rock with fuzz distortions.His style is very reminiscent of the giants of best rock, such as Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton and Cream, Rory Gallagher and Taste Grandfunk Railroad, Blue Cheer etc... all this mixed with funk rhythms and lots of groove!
The Blue Lena

The Blue Lena are a UK rock band influenced by southern rock, blues rock and country rock.The band’s debut album, Darkwood, released in November 2024 just ahead of their performances at WinterStorm and Planet Rockstock, received rave reviews in all the rock magazines, with Classic Rock magazine featuring The Blue Lena in their ‘Hotlist’ section, as a band to look out for in 2024. “Drenched in soul, with a nod to the likes of Free and The Black Crowes”- Fireworks magazine.
Band Competition Winner

We plan to hold a competition to allow another local band the chance to play at the festival. More details will be released in due course.



Kingfisher stage
This stage will usually offer a clear contrast to the bands in our other marquee.
John Hackett Band

John Hackett has been a much-loved figure in the progressive rock scene since the mid-70’s; best-known for his flute work with his brother, former Genesis guitarist, Steve Hackett on albums such as Voyage of The Acolyte and Please Don’t Touch. ‘Progressive’ music in our sense of the word is based on rock-solid song-writing coupled with hot jazz drumming, melodic, funky bass, outstanding guitar in the form of Nick Fletcher, and John himself – whose flute playing travels with such ease between classical and rock.
Spriggan Mist

Appearances at events up and down the country, together with both previous Nene Valley Rock Festivals has ensured The Spriggs audience has grown and grown. Their version of Prog is diverse , blending overdriven guitars with instruments such as saxophone, recorders and whistles - a perfect backdrop for charismatic vocalist Fay Brotherhood to tell stories in that unique singing voice, together with Jadoo Tribal Dance and Sword wielding tribal belly dance troupe. Another band you told us you loved, so expect something even more special this time around!
Hammerhead

Formed in the late 70s playing original heavy melodic rock, they became known as part of the NWOBHM scene, mainly due to their single in 1981 "Time Will Tell/Lonely Man" which featured regularly on Tommy Vance's Friday Rock Show and also several NWOBHM compilations. Hammerhead also released a track called "Lochinvar" which featured on a rare NWOBHM compilation called "It's Unheard Of". Over the years they have released five albums and supported many top bands such as Budgie, Ken Hensley, Michael Schenker, Uriah Heep, Diamond Head, and more.
The Whisky Flowers

The Whisky Flowers bring together a diverse blend of musical styles, with a powerful mix of Blues, Rock and Americana, with a splash of Indie-Punk attitude. Strong vocal harmonies, blistering guitar riffs, and a rhythm section that’s impossible to resist.
Their debut EP dropped in January 2025 and with an irresistible sound that defies strict genre labels—think Blues Rock Americana meets Alternative Pop with a Folksy twist—The Whisky Flowers are a must-watch for any live music lover.
Soulweaver

One of the best independent UK rock bands of the early 2010's are back! International award winning songwriters Soulweaver have received high critical acclaim and worldwide radio play. Sharing live bills with top international acts. Soulweaver bring dynamics, quality and intensity, containing the essence of classic British rock bands but with a contemporary edge that has seen them described as the British Foo Fighters; Total Rock Radio said “Very Impressive, Cracking Band” whilst ARFM Soundscapes claimed "An Awesome Live Band".
Jeanice Lee

Discover the distinctive sound of Jeanicelee - a unique blend of modern melodic, guitar-fuelled heavy rock/metal with progressive elements. Fronted by Jeanice’s deep emotive vocals and supported by Marco’s neoclassical style guitar, Jamie’s driving bass and Tony’s impactful drumming, we tell stories with powerful melodies. Fireworks Magazine, in reviewing the album Urban Legends, concluded "frontwoman Jeanice Lee's incisive vocals - it's the sound you'd hear if blades could cry". Rockfiend called it "a beautifully written and intriguing album and presents something just a bit different".
Long Earth

Hailing from Glasgow, Long Earth deliver melodic prog rock with classic keys, fluid guitar solos, and pristine vocals, all driven by a powerful rhythm section. Since forming in 2016, they’ve released three critically acclaimed albums. Their latest, An Ordinary Life (2024), was named Album of the Year by Béla Alabástrom (DPRP.net). A standout performance at Summer’s End Progressive Rock Festival saw Prog magazine declare them “a far from ordinary band.”