Big Special

Big Special Live at Nottingham Rescue Rooms - Saturday 14th February 2026

Prepare for an electrifying night of raw energy and sonic catharsis as Big Special descends upon Nottingham Rescue Rooms on Saturday, 14th February 2026. This is more than just a gig; it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in the visceral and thought-provoking world of one of the UK’s most compelling new rock acts. Set against the intimate and iconic backdrop of Nottingham’s beloved Rescue Rooms, this promises to be an unforgettable Valentine’s Day celebration for fans seeking something beyond the conventional. Big Special are renowned for their explosive live shows, where anthemic choruses meet searing social commentary, creating a powerful connection with their audience. This is your chance to witness their captivating performance firsthand, experiencing the raw emotion and undeniable talent that has cemented their reputation as a must-see live band. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a truly special evening.

About Big Special

Emerging from the vibrant UK music scene, Big Special have rapidly carved out a distinctive niche with their potent blend of biting social commentary and expansive, anthemic rock music. Formed in Manchester, the quartet – comprising frontman Joe Super, guitarist Rhys, bassist Alex, and drummer Chris – quickly garnered attention for their uncompromising lyrical honesty, tackling themes of modern anxieties, political disillusionment, and the struggles of everyday life with unflinching clarity. Their sound is a dynamic tapestry, weaving together soaring guitar riffs, driving basslines, and a thunderous rhythm section, all anchored by Super’s commanding vocal presence.

Their breakthrough came with the release of their debut single, “Black Dog,” a track that immediately showcased their ability to craft immensely catchy melodies while delivering a potent message. This was followed by a string of critically acclaimed releases, building momentum towards their highly anticipated debut album, Built To Last. The album was a resounding success, lauded for its cohesive thematic exploration and musical diversity. Tracks like “Instant Coffee” resonated deeply with listeners, becoming fan favourites and cementing their status as purveyors of intelligent, emotionally charged rock. Another standout from the album, the title track “Built To Last,” exemplifies their knack for creating stadium-ready anthems that are both introspective and universally relatable. Their music isn’t afraid to get loud, but it always possesses a thoughtful core, making them a refreshing presence in contemporary rock. Big Special are not just musicians; they are a voice for a generation, and their live performances are the ultimate testament to their passion and purpose.

Venue Information

Nottingham Rescue Rooms is a legendary independent live music venue nestled in the heart of the city. Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and consistently excellent line-ups, it has been a cornerstone of Nottingham’s music scene for decades, hosting countless unforgettable performances from both emerging artists and established legends. The venue offers a unique and intimate setting, allowing fans to get up close and personal with their favourite bands. Its carefully curated sound system ensures that every note rings true, while the energetic crowd fosters a sense of shared experience that is second to none. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a high-octane, emotionally charged performance when Big Special take to the Rescue Rooms stage. Their live shows are legendary for their sheer intensity and the raw, unadulterated energy that emanates from the band. Frontman Joe Super is a captivating presence, commanding the stage with his impassioned vocals and magnetic charisma, drawing the audience into the narrative of each song. Expect a setlist that masterfully blends their most impactful hits with potent new material, showcasing the breadth and depth of their evolving sound. Tracks like the ferocious “Black Dog” are guaranteed to ignite the room, with its anthemic chorus and driving rhythm section compelling everyone to move. You can also anticipate the raw power of “Instant Coffee,” a track that perfectly encapsulates their ability to merge infectious melody with hard-hitting lyrical themes.

Beyond the singalong moments, Big Special are known for their ability to create a palpable sense of connection with their audience. Their performance style is dynamic and engaging, with the band members feeding off each other’s energy and the crowd’s enthusiastic response. Expect moments of powerful sonic catharsis, where soaring guitar riffs clash with thunderous drumming, creating an immersive sonic landscape. The set is likely to be around 90 minutes in length, giving ample time for the band to explore their diverse musical palette, from introspective ballads to explosive, full-throttle rock anthems. They are adept at building momentum throughout their set, starting with a bang and ending with an unforgettable crescendo that leaves the audience breathless and wanting more. This is not a band that simply plays songs; they deliver an experience, a testament to their dedication to their craft and their unwavering commitment to engaging their fans on a profound level.

FAQs

Q1: What is Big Special’s typical setlist like for a live performance? Big Special tend to craft setlists that offer a dynamic journey through their acclaimed discography. You can reliably expect to hear their most impactful singles such as the anthemic “Black Dog” and the politically charged “Instant Coffee.” They also frequently feature fan favourites from their debut album, Built To Last, alongside potentially previewing new material that showcases their continued artistic evolution. Their aim is to create a cohesive and energetic show that builds momentum, so expect a mix of powerful singalongs and more introspective moments designed to keep the audience captivated.

Q2: How would you describe Big Special’s performance style? Big Special are renowned for their electrifying and highly energetic live performances. Frontman Joe Super is a magnetic and passionate vocalist who commands the stage with his commanding presence and sincere delivery. The band as a whole exhibits a dynamic stage presence, interacting with each other and the audience, fostering a palpable sense of shared energy. Their performance style is a powerful fusion of raw emotion, tight musicianship, and an unwavering commitment to delivering a memorable experience for every attendee.

Q3: Is Big Special’s music suitable for a Valentine’s Day event? Absolutely. While Big Special’s music often delves into serious and thought-provoking themes, it is also deeply rooted in human emotion and connection, which are central to Valentine’s Day. Their ability to articulate complex feelings, coupled with their anthemic sound, can create a powerful and cathartic shared experience. It’s a perfect opportunity for couples or friends to connect through powerful music that resonates deeply, offering a more meaningful and impactful celebration than many traditional Valentine’s offerings.

Q4: How long is a typical Big Special live set? A typical Big Special live set generally lasts between 90 minutes and 1 hour and 45 minutes. This allows them ample time to showcase a comprehensive range of their material, from their earliest singles to their latest album tracks, and potentially any new material they are eager to share with their fans.

Q5: Are there any specific songs that are known crowd favourites that I should look out for? Yes, certainly. Tracks like “Black Dog” and “Instant Coffee” are consistently huge crowd pleasers, often leading to massive singalongs and high-energy moments throughout the venue. The title track from their debut album, “Built To Last,” also holds a special place in the hearts of their fans and is almost guaranteed to elicit a strong response. Keep an ear out for these – they are pivotal to the Big Special live experience.