John Lydon, former Sex Pistols frontman, criticized the band’s new performances with Frank Carter in a recent interview with Nigel Carr.
“It’s a tough job to be taking on imitating somebody like that,” Lydon said when asked about Frank Carter singing with the Sex Pistols. “It’s a ridiculous position that he’s going to find himself in if not already. What value system is he working on under there?”
“I have [seen their new shows],” he continued. “I’ve been shocked how awful it is. It just seems like they’ve rented a puppet and there it is. It is truly karaoke.”
“I think really mediocre results,” Lydon added. “He doesn’t understand any of those lyrics. He couldn’t possibly, because if he did he wouldn’t be doing it. He’d feel ashamed about the imitating someone else and pretending that original songwriter and Personality of the Year award person didn’t exist.”
The Sex Pistols continue to perform with their new singer Frank Carter. Lydon, the band’s original vocalist, remains separate from the current lineup.
The reception to the new lineup presents a different narrative from Lydon’s assessment.
Moshville Times reported enthusiastic audience responses to Carter’s energetic performances with the band.
The current lineup features original members Steve Jones, Glen Matlock, and Paul Cook on instruments. Mojo Magazine noted that their performances include the complete ‘Never Mind the Bollocks’ album. The band also performs B-sides and a tribute cover of ‘My Way,’ originally performed by Sid Vicious.
The Razor’s Edge highlighted Carter’s fresh approach to the material. His performance style allows the original members to focus on their instrumentation while bringing new energy to the stage.
The stark contrast between Lydon’s criticism and positive audience feedback underscores the ongoing tensions about the band’s current direction. The lineup changes remain a point of controversy.
