Airbourne

Airbourne Live at Rock City, Nottingham

Get ready to crank it up to eleven! Australian rock ‘n’ roll titans Airbourne are set to tear up the legendary Rock City in Nottingham on Friday, 30 January 2026, bringing their signature brand of high-octane, no-nonsense rock to the heart of the UK. This isn’t just a gig; it’s a full-blown sonic assault, a celebration of raw power and unwavering dedication to the spirit of classic rock. Expect sweat, exhilaration, and a night that will leave you breathless and begging for more. Airbourne’s reputation for electrifying live performances precedes them, and Rock City, with its intimate yet unyielding atmosphere, is the perfect battleground for their unbridled energy. Prepare for a night where the riffs are relentless, the drums thunder, and the anthems are sung at the top of your lungs. This is set to be one of the defining rock shows of 2026.

About Airbourne

Hailing from Warrnambool, Victoria, Australia, Airbourne are a testament to the enduring power of pure, unadulterated rock ‘n’ roll. Formed in 2001 by brothers Joel and Ryan O’Keeffe, the band exploded onto the scene with an infectious energy and a sound that proudly channels the spirit of legends like AC/DC and Motörhead. Their debut album, “Runnin’ Wild,” released in 2007, was an instant classic, showcasing their ability to craft catchy, anthemic tracks that are as exhilarating as they are timeless. Tracks like “Runnin’ Wild,” “Too Much, Too Fast,” and “Diamond in the Rough” immediately established them as a force to be reckoned with, earning them a legion of devoted fans worldwide.

Over their illustrious career, Airbourne have consistently delivered electrifying live shows, earning a reputation as one of the most dynamic and energetic bands on the planet. Their music is a potent blend of driving guitar riffs, thunderous drumming, and Joel O’Keeffe’s distinctive gravelly vocals, all designed to ignite a primal urge to move. Subsequent albums such as “No Guts. No Glory.” (2010), “Black Dog Barking” (2013), and “Boneshaker” (2019) have further solidified their status, each release packed with the same infectious spirit and unwavering commitment to rock ‘n’ roll. Notable hits that have become staples of their live sets include the thunderous “Bottom of the Well,” the high-octane “Black Dog Barking,” and the crowd-pleasing “Live It Up.” Airbourne are not just musicians; they are sonic warriors, dedicated to keeping the flame of classic rock burning bright for a new generation. Their live performances are not just concerts; they are communal celebrations of rebellion, freedom, and the sheer joy of loud music.

Venue Information

Rock City is a legendary independent venue situated in the heart of Nottingham. For decades, it has been a cornerstone of the UK’s live music scene, attracting a diverse range of iconic artists and emerging talent across all genres. Known for its electric atmosphere, intimate setting, and unwavering commitment to providing an unforgettable live music experience, Rock City has played host to countless memorable performances. The venue boasts a rich history and a dedicated fanbase, making it the perfect place for a band like Airbourne to unleash their raw energy. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

When Airbourne hit the stage at Rock City, expect nothing less than a full-throttle assault on your senses. Their live shows are legendary for a reason: they are a masterclass in raw, unadulterated rock ‘n’ roll performance. The band’s setlists are a carefully curated blend of their most iconic anthems and high-energy fan favourites, designed to keep the crowd on their feet from the opening chord to the final encore. You can anticipate a blistering run through tracks like the explosive “Runnin’ Wild,” the defiant “No Guts. No Glory.,” the anthemic “Live It Up,” and the pure rock carnage of “Black Dog Barking.” They often weave in crowd-pleasers such as “Too Much, Too Fast” and “Diamond in the Rough,” ensuring that every generation of Airbourne fan is catered for.

The performance style of Airbourne is as crucial to their appeal as their music. Frontman Joel O’Keeffe is a force of nature, known for his boundless energy, his willingness to scale scaffolding, and his genuine connection with the audience. He embodies the spirit of a true rock ‘n’ roll frontman, charismatic and electrifying. His brother, Ryan, provides the thunderous rhythm and searing guitar solos that form the backbone of their sound. The rhythm section, anchored by drummer Rhys “The Rat” Martin and bassist Justin Callan, delivers a relentless pounding that is both powerful and precise. Expect a show that is less about elaborate stage production and more about the visceral impact of expertly played, adrenaline-fuelled rock music. The energy is infectious, the stage presence is magnetic, and the sheer volume is glorious. The set duration typically clocks in at around 90 minutes to two hours, packed with non-stop action and singalong moments. This is a performance designed to leave you exhilarated, hoarse, and utterly satisfied.

FAQs

Q1: Will Airbourne play their classic hits like “Runnin’ Wild”? A1: Absolutely! Airbourne are renowned for their electrifying live shows that celebrate their entire discography. You can be sure that their timeless anthems like “Runnin’ Wild,” “Live It Up,” and “Black Dog Barking” will be part of the setlist, guaranteed to get the Rock City crowd singing along at the top of their lungs.

Q2: How energetic are Airbourne’s live performances? A2: Airbourne’s live shows are legendary for their sheer, unadulterated energy. Frontman Joel O’Keeffe is a whirlwind of activity, known for his crowd interaction, incredible stage presence, and often daring antics. The entire band delivers a high-octane performance that is incredibly engaging and physically demanding, a true spectacle of rock ‘n’ roll spirit.

Q3: What kind of atmosphere can I expect at an Airbourne gig at Rock City? A3: Prepare for a passionate and energetic crowd! Rock City’s intimate setting amplifies the raw power of Airbourne’s performance. Expect a mosh pit that’s as loud as the band, enthusiastic singalongs, and an overwhelming sense of camaraderie among fellow rock music lovers. It’s a place where you can truly lose yourself in the music.

Q4: Will there be any support acts for Airbourne? A4: Support acts for Airbourne’s Nottingham show will be announced closer to the date. Keep an eye on the Rock City website and Airbourne’s official channels for the latest updates on who will be joining them on stage to kick off the night.

Q5: Is Airbourne’s music suitable for younger fans? A5: Airbourne’s music is energetic and loud, embodying the spirit of classic rock. While it’s high-octane, it’s generally considered suitable for fans who appreciate rock music. We recommend parents consider their child’s personal tolerance for loud volumes and intense live music experiences when making decisions about attendance.

Q6: How long does an Airbourne set typically last? A6: Airbourne are known for delivering full-throttle sets that typically run for 90 minutes to two hours. They pack every moment with incredible energy, fan favourites, and plenty of rock ‘n’ roll bravado, ensuring a memorable and satisfying experience from start to finish.