Reading and Leeds will return once again over the bank holiday weekend on the same day as GCSE results day and just a week after A-level results day, a fitting time for the age group that the festival attracts every year.
This year's lineup is an exciting one - from the return of legendary acts such as Catfish and the Bottlemen and to Blink-182 to Indie giants like Liam Gallagher and Gerry Cinnamon and some of the world's biggest commercial stars including Lana Del Rey and Fred Again. With this year's event kicking off in just over one week's time, we thought we would dig into our top 5 acts who are not to be missed at this year's festival!
RAYE
RAYE’s undying vivacity makes her a must-see. As a Brit Award winner, including 2024’s British Album of the Year, Rachel Agatha Keen, officially known as RAYE, has solidified her place as one of the leading talents in contemporary music. Her phenomenal performance, extraordinary vocal prowess, and mesmerising stage presence transform each concert into an unforgettable event. Affirming that "The Blues Ain’t Dead", she captivates audiences, leaving them yearning for more. Do not miss the opportunity to witness a show that is sure to be nothing less than extraordinary.
Barry Can't Swim
Barry Can't Swim, also known as Joshua Mainnie, is a Scottish electronic producer and DJ who released his debut album, ‘When Will We Land?’ in October 2023. Recently shortlisted for Best Dance Act at the Brit Awards, Barry Can't Swim has experienced a remarkable rise over the past 18 months. His Jazz-infused electronic music promises to cure any festival hangovers and immediately uplift the crowd. Anticipate vibrant energy, percussion-rich beats, and stunning animations that will delight all your senses.
Crawlers
Hailing from Merseyside, this relatively new but undeniably brilliant Rock band has swiftly captured the hearts of many. Their viral track ‘Come Over Again’ currently amassing 57.6 million Spotify streams, has rightfully brought them into the spotlight. However, Crawlers are far from a one-hit wonder, as shown by compelling anthems such as 'Kiss Me', 'Messiah' and ‘Would You Come To My Funeral’. They take pride in offering a supportive space for individuals from lesser-represented minority communities within the industry and make all their performances both welcoming and unforgettable.
Fontaines D.C.
If you have not yet been introduced to Fontaines D.C., it is high time you became acquainted. The five-piece Post-Punk Dubliners have been making significant strides on the global scene. Their forthcoming album, ‘Romance’ is eagerly awaited, with three singles already released and their most prominent headline show scheduled for 2025 at London’s Finsbury Park. With a charismatic frontman who captivates audiences instantly, powerful and emotive songs, dynamic guitar riffs, and stylish attire, their main stage performance is not one to miss.
Catfish and the Bottlemen
With a much-anticipated return, the Welsh band that captivated the Indie-Rock genre in 2016 are making a comeback. Led by Van McCann and guitarist Benji Blakeway, the band is reemerging with new members but the same beloved energy and tunes. Fresh from a series of comeback gigs, Catfish and the Bottlemen are poised to reclaim their place in the music scene. Look forward to a grand Indie reunion on the main stage. With hits like ‘Cocoon’ and ‘Kathleen’ the evening promises to be filled with nostalgia and unforgettable sing-alongs. Get your Doc Martens and bucket hat at the ready.
If you are not already gearing up for the last major event of the summer, grab yourself a last-minute ticket, get a tent (or borrow your mums), and head down to Bramham Park or its sibling site, Richfield Avenue in Reading. You will not want to miss it!
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