Isle of Wight Festival 2025 - Review

As the Isle of Wight Festival 2025 wrapped, we left Seaclose Park buzzing with earworm anthems and sun-kissed faces after a great weekend of live music.

There’s something special about crossing the Solent, feeling that sea breeze, and knowing you’re heading for one of the UK’s most iconic music gatherings. It’s a festival that practically invented the modern outdoor music experience back in the day, and for 2025, it was a line-up that beautifully blended legendary status with cutting-edge talent, particularly for those of us who live for a good riff and an anthemic chorus.

On Thursday the festival's Big Top tent set the stage for a night of diverse sounds. Rhythm of the 90s kicked off the evening with a nostalgic throwback set, making us feel simultaneously old and ready to bust out some questionable dance moves. Following them The Smyths paid tribute with their performance and the energy continued to build with The Pigeon Detectives delivering a lively show that had everyone moving.

Closing out the night, Example unleashed a high-energy DJ set that turned the Big Top into a pulsating dancefloor, leaving the audience buzzing for the days to come.

example

Friday saw the festival truly hit its stride, with action on both the Big Top and Main Stage, Lottery Winners kicked things off with their infectious energy and playful banter, setting a high bar for the weekend.

There was a series of exciting indie and rock acts, starting with Crystal Tides, the Portsmouth indie-rock outfit who graduated to the Big Top – always brilliant to see talent rise through the ranks! Scottish rockers Twin Atlantic gave a powerful performance, Amble helped to build anticipation for the Main Stage headliners and The Lathums brought anthemic singalongs with a heartfelt and energetic dose of modern indie, their set proved why they're rapidly becoming one of the UK's most beloved new bands.

Back on the Main Stage Amy Macdonald charmed the crowd with her distinctive voice and heartfelt folk-pop and then it was The Corrs who captivated with their unique blend of Celtic-infused pop-rock, bringing a timeless elegance to their performance.

The highly anticipated performance from Sting offered a masterclass in sophistication. Backed by a tight band, his set journeyed through a meticulously crafted songbook from a catalogue that reads like a musical history lesson. From the angular, sophisticated punk-infused reggae of The Police with hits "Roxanne," "Message in a Bottle," and "Every Breath You Take" to the rich, genre-bending tapestries of his solo career with songs like "Fields of Gold," and "Englishman in New York," Seeing Sting live isn't just about ticking a box; it's about witnessing musical excellence. It's a chance to understand why certain artists endure, continuing to inspire generations with their unique vision. Sting seamlessly weaves through his eras, ensuring every attendee finds their moment of connection.

The night reached a further level with Faithless activating a dance party, bringing their iconic electronica to headline to the Isle of Wight Festival for Friday.

Mae Muller

On Saturday Mae Muller commanded the Main Stage with her vibrant pop presence and then The Saw Doctors brought a unique blend of folk-rock and infectious energy with a passionate delivery and singalong choruses creating an atmosphere of pure joy and celebration.

Over at the Big Top Pale Waves provided shimmering, synth-kissed moments that kept the energy bubbling before 2024 Mercury Prize winners English Teacher took to the stage. Having just been announced as headliners for Rockaway Beach Festival 2026, English Teacher showed us their intricate musicianship with Lily Fontaine's captivating, often sardonic, vocals making a set that's both thought-provoking and surprisingly exhilarating. With an intelligent, intense, and utterly captivating set, they gave a fresh perspective, marking them as exciting new indie voices.

Next up Yard Act brought razor-sharp wit and pulsating angular post-punk brilliance in a theatrical experience, with frontman James Smith's observational lyricism and dynamic delivery at its core pushing the boundaries of modern indie.

Back over on the Main Stage Razorlight injected some swagger into the day, proving they still have the 'golden touch' when it comes to indie bangers. Johnny Borrell's charismatic delivery of "America," and "In The Morning," ensured a sun-drenched singalong.

Busted gave us a non-stop barrage of nostalgic hits like "Year 3000" and "What I Go To School For" which had the crowd jumping along with their infectious pop-punk energy. It really was a joyous blast of nostalgia for those who crave a dash of noughties sentimentality (and who doesn't?). A fun-filled performance that even rock and indie fans secretly (or openly!) enjoyed.

The Script delivered a heartfelt set, with frontman Danny O'Donoghue connecting deeply with the audience before Stereophonics took to the Main Stage with Kelly Jones's gravelly vocals commanding the crowd through classics like "Dakota" and "Bartender and the Thief" igniting a thunderous response.

Supergrass closed out the Big Top for the evening delivering pure, unadulterated joy with a full-throttle sprint through their back catalogue. The crowd became a joyous sea of bouncing bodies, solidifying their indie icon status.

The final day of the festival brought more great music and a highly anticipated headliner. Olly Murs had the audience wrapped around his finger with his charismatic performance and chart-topping hits on the Main Stage.

Texas, led by the ever-charismatic Sharleen Spiteri, delivered a hit-laden set that showcased their enduring appeal and Jess Glynne's soaring vocals and undeniable pop anthems brought a wave of feel-good energy to the Main Stage.

jess gkynne

The Ultravox frontman Midge Ure transported the Big Top audience back to the synth-pop and New Wave era with his iconic sound, showcasing his unique vocals and pioneering electronic soundscapes.

Ian Broudie's melodic genius brought us a set brimming with catchy, feel-good tunes for Lightning Seeds and James rounded off the Big Top for the evening with Tim Booth’s mesmerising presence. The band's rich, evolving sound delivered a truly captivating performance and to tell the truth after that we were all ready for a little "Sit Down".

The excitement was palpable for Justin Timberlake, who closed out the Main Stage for the festival with a show-stopping performance. The Isle of Wight Festival 2025 was an unforgettable weekend filled with incredible music, energy, and atmosphere. Each performer contributed to the vibrant tapestry of the festival, leaving attendees with lasting memories.

The Isle of Wight Festival 2025 delivered more than a lineup; it delivered an experience where you can find an array of stages, unique food vendors, and hidden gems scattered throughout Seaclose Park. Plus, the mere act of travelling to the Isle of Wight feels like the start of a mini-holiday – a perfect escape from the everyday hustle.

So, if your idea of a perfect weekend involves sing-along anthems and discovering your new favourite band under the summer sky, then the Isle of Wight Festival is undoubtedly calling your name. Grab your tickets for next year, rally your crew and get ready for an unforgettable four days of island good times and seriously loud noises. We’ll see you there!

Hyde Park - The Who, Paul Weller, Johnny Marr, Kaiser Chiefs, Gaz Coombes

In the blazing sun this all day event in the prestigious Hyde Park, gracing the Oak stage for this all day event were Gaz Coombes, The Kaiser Chiefs, Johnny Marr, Paul Weller and The Who.

Gaz Coombes, perhaps best known as the frontman of Supergrass, the singer / songwriter embarked on solo shows around 2011. Since then he has released solo albums Here comes The Bombs and most recently Matador in January this year.

Well suited to the line-up his music boasts a 60's psychedelic edge with a modern twist. This summery sentimental and experimental set was a perfect fit to kick off the day.

An exuberant and imaginative Gaz Coombes has expanded sonically since being one of Britpop's integral statesmen is no longer seen as just a fun character but now a quirky side-burned musician who has matured with his music.

Kaiser Chiefs were next up and off the back of their 2014 album Education, Education, Education, And War played a widely tipped return to form.

Singer Ricky Wilson really engaged the crowd, pogo-ing throughout the whole set in his smiley face tee and sunglasses.

First song up Every Day I love You Less And Less was followed by an energetic Ruby and I Predict A Riot was pogotastic, even got the older contingency patiently awaiting The Who moving, with their infectious energy.

Oh My God kicked in and we were reminded of just how many familiar songs they have as they churned out the hits. We Are The Angry Mob with obligatory hand claps galore and the quintessentially British post-punk Never Miss A Beat had singer Ricky Wilson showing no let-up in his enthusiasm, swinging the mic and cheekily playing up to the camera.

Kaiser Chiefs are currently working on their 6th studio album and today demonstrated they are not finished with us yet.

The legendary guitarist and songwriter Johnny Marr has his fingers in many pies, performing at Hyde Park an his solo guise the ex Smiths, Electronic, The The, Modest Mouse and prolific session musician has just released his second solo album Playland. 

Having already won the NME's god-like genius award Johnny Marr continues to push boundaries in his ever evolving music career.

With the jangly guitar playing synonymous with the familiar Smiths sound and so influencial to the whole Manchaster sound of the 80's / 90's Johnny Marr delivered hit after hit. He dedicated songs "to everyone here and no-one ****ing else".

Covering The Clash's I Fought The Law singalongs ensued then with the Electronic classic Getting Away With It and closing with How Soon Is Now? Johnny put on a great showcase of his work.

Paul Weller - The great UK singer, lyricist, guitarist and iconic Modfather's lifelong relationship with The Who continues well into his solo work. Rooted in British culture 70's 80's The Jam's principle Mod figure has matured through his long career towards a more soulful and melodic sound from the suburbs. In turn himself a massive influence on Britpop, Paul Weller wowed the crowd with the classics Wild Wood and especially going down well from 1995's Stanley Road, Changing Man and the beautiful You Do Something To Me.

The Who

Still celebrating over 50 years, despite the bickering they still pull massive crowds of adoring fans. Once pioneers they now seem quite tame, not too surprising when you've been playing for over half a century. With so many classics like My Generation and Baba O'Reilly they put on a craclking show. Roger Daltrey's strained gravelly and screamy vocals accented the large psychadelic and rounded out big sound. This still great live band's dramatically narrative style has cemented them as the legends of rock that they clearly still are. 

Slaves - Live - Review

Kicking off their headline UK tour Slaves have already sold out most shows and added new dates. Hotly tipped by everyone from the BBC and the alternative press to the broadsheets, there is a real buzz around this Kent duo.

 Isaac Holman (Kentish man / drums / vocals) and Laurie Vincent (man from Kent … and there is a difference you know / guitarist) are what the fuss is all about, two blokes who use a guitar and drums as their weapons of choice for their creative aggressive outlets.

Support came from Glasgow’s energetic Baby Strange and the thick sound of Joy Division-esque Crows speaking to the DIY hand-picked nature of the Slaves beast, Laurie previously siting Joy Division as influential.

The interval Ska tunes helped build an eclectic atmosphere and as the backdrop ambiance slowly turned into the dated likes of INXS and Fine Young Cannibals a far more jovial feeling descended over the venue. Within the first few seconds of the opening song drinks were already flying with the impatient rowdy crowd feeding off the pair’s raw primal energy. 

Soon Isaac's full lycanthropic transformation from smartly-dressed lad to the fully invested could give a **** performer was complete. Apparently “it’s nice to share” and the pinned in front row were treated to some much needed alcopop re-hydration. 

Both Laurie and Isaac took great pleasure diving into the crowd multiple times, this really was a show the audience could participate in. With a journalist skulking at the back the pair called him out to crowd surf the whole way through their latest release "Cheer Up London" which to his credit he did a great job of. Mind the gap indeed lads. 

Slaves were quick to spot an imposter mantaray in the crowd and brought the guy up on stage for the epic "Feed The Mantaray"for a mantaray fiiiiiight, much hilarity ensued the official mantaray skulked off stage. Slaves certainly inspire their audience ... the imposter mantaray went to considerable effort which was much appreciated by the lads and their shows are always inclusive and the crowd can really feel a part of the action. 

Constant amusing banter made the night run seemlessly. Slaves really prove how they have cut their teeth with extensively touring - how should a performer react when a crowd member randomly shouts something intelligable?  “That bloke is shouting at us. That’s silly he’s paid to come here, let’s all be silly together and have some fun” YES. And that is how it is done. WellHey, "A bleeding heart welcomes the sharks"

With so many great rousing tracks under their belts like "The Hunter", "Beauty Quest","White Knuckle Ride", "Ceasefire" and so many more the crowd still get a bit over excited prompting Isaac to advise "shut up about Debbie".  So as the show drew to a close out comes the Sasquatch story and "Debbie Where's Your Car" kicks in to a roar from a delighted and even rowdier crowd.

With their intelligent, upbeat and motivational brand of punk Slaves prove that if you are passionate and focused you really can make all your dreams come true, doing whatever they want from how they dress, the banter, the raucous and engaging music and primal delivery the pure entertaining showmanship ensured the crowd left with a smile and a story to tell.

Slaves debut album “Are You Satisfied?” is out June 1st. You should check it out or better yet catch them live and get involved.