When Nazareth emerged under the warm glow of the stage lights, the roar from the audience was immediate and heartfelt. For over five decades, the band has carried the torch of hard rock, and their presence at the Burton Cummings Theatre proved that their fire still burns bright.

Lead singer Carl Sentance, who joined the band in 2015, delivered a powerhouse performance that honored Nazareth’s legacy while bringing his own flair to the mix. His vocals, gritty and soulful, captured the emotion and power that fans have always associated with the group. Backed by original bassist Pete Agnew, whose deep grooves continue to anchor the band’s sound, Nazareth sounded as fierce as ever.

The rhythm section was as tight as it was thunderous, with Lee Agnew on drums driving each beat with precision and passion. Guitarist Jimmy Murrison rounded out the lineup with searing solos and melodic flourishes that filled the theatre with electricity. Together, the band showed why they’ve stood the test of time — not by chasing trends, but by staying true to the sound that made them legends in the first place. There’s something special about watching a group that has spent decades on the road and still plays with the intensity of musicians half their age. Nazareth didn’t just perform; they connected. Every note, every grin, every nod to the crowd felt genuine.

Despite the band’s hard-edged sound, there was a sense of warmth in the room — a shared appreciation between artist and audience. The energy never dipped, even in the quieter moments. Instead, the concert moved seamlessly from heavy-hitting rock anthems to soulful, reflective passages that showed Nazareth’s musical depth.

Nazareth’s impact on rock music is undeniable. From their early days in Dunfermline, Scotland, to their enduring popularity across the globe, they’ve influenced generations of musicians. Yet what stood out most in Winnipeg wasn’t nostalgia alone — it was the vitality of a band that still loves what they do.

Even after all these years, their performance felt fresh. The interplay between band members revealed an easy camaraderie built over countless miles and shared stages. And the crowd, feeding off that energy, gave it right back. It was a reminder that rock music, when performed with authenticity and heart, never loses its power to move people.

Throughout the night, fans sang along, cheered, and even shouted words of thanks to the band between songs. It was a genuine display of appreciation for music that has stood the test of time. Many in the audience likely first heard Nazareth’s hits on vinyl or classic rock radio, and seeing the band live brought those memories rushing back — but with the added thrill of the here and now.

As the evening came to a close, the crowd erupted into one final standing ovation, the applause echoing long after the last note faded. Nazareth took their bows with humility and gratitude, waving to the audience before exiting the stage. The fans, reluctant to leave, lingered in the aisles, chatting about their favorite moments and snapping photos under the theatre’s glowing marquee outside.