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Description
The New Wave of Classic Rock (NWOCR) is a revivalist musical movement that emerged primarily in the United Kingdom. It is characterized by a return to the sound, aesthetic, and ethos of classic rock, hard rock, and blues rock bands from the 1970s and 1980s.
The genre emphasizes high-energy performances, riff-heavy songwriting, soaring vocals, and a 'meat and potatoes' approach to production that favors organic instrumentation over modern electronic elements. It is both a musical style and a grassroots community, driven by a desire to keep the spirit of traditional rock 'n' roll alive in the modern era.
History
The New Wave of Classic Rock began to coalesce in the early-to-mid 2010s as a reaction against the perceived decline of guitar-driven rock music in the mainstream. While global acts like Rival Sons and Greta Van Fleet set the stage for a classic rock revival, the specific term 'NWOCR' became a rallying cry for a distinct scene in the United Kingdom.
A pivotal moment in the genre's history was the creation of the 'NWOCR' Facebook group in 2017. This online community became the central hub for fans, bands, and promoters to share new music that captured the spirit of the old school. It allowed the movement to grow organically, bypassing traditional industry gatekeepers.
By the late 2010s and early 2020s, the movement had gained significant traction. Bands like Massive Wagons and Those Damn Crows began breaking into the UK Top 40 charts, proving that there was a substantial commercial appetite for the sound. In July 2021, the movement solidified its brand with the release of 'The Official New Wave Of Classic Rock – Volume 1', a compilation album that showcased the scene's leading talent.
How to make a track in this genre
Stick to the core rock configuration: electric guitars (often Les Pauls or Strats) played through tube amplifiers (Marshalls or Oranges) for a warm, crunchy tone. A driving bass guitar and a heavy, groove-oriented drum kit are essential. Avoid heavy synthesizers or digital effects unless they evoke a specific 70s/80s texture (like a Hammond organ).
Build your songs around a central, memorable guitar riff. The rhythm should be a solid 4/4 stomp with a strong backbeat. Use pentatonic scales for riffs and solos, focusing on 'swagger' and groove rather than technical complexity.
Vocals should be powerful, melodic, and often high-pitched or gritty. Choruses must be anthemic and designed for crowd participation. Lyrically, focus on themes of rebellion, freedom, good times, rock 'n' roll lifestyle, or working-class resilience.
