Festivals
14th-17th May 2025
The Brighton showcase festival once again offered a weekend brimming with future stars, alongside a few familiar favorites for good measure.
There’s nothing quite like spending a weekend in Brighton at The Great Escape to get us in the Summer mood, soaking in the best of new music (and possibly catching some sun while we’re at it). The 2025 edition of this festival staple was no exception: from pop sensation Chloe Qisha filling Patterns to Welly nearly breaking the ceiling at Horatios, or The Itch fulfilling late-night dance cravings, this year's lineup of TGE performers was truly outstanding. But what were our highlights, you might ask? Let’s dive in…
Florence Road
Performing on the packed Beach Stage Thursday afternoon, Florence Road, still in their teens, already sound like Ireland's next musical sensation. Led by Lily Aron, a captivating presence with a relaxed confidence on stage, this quartet embodies a true rock band vibe, channeling influences that suggest they've had Queens of the Stone Age on repeat. They introduce a newly penned slice of spirited ‘90s pop-grunge that would fit right on the Clueless soundtrack. Their single ‘Heavy’ lives up to its anthem status, with at least three songs in their brief set ready for larger festival stages, sounding completely fitting. They conclude with ‘Goodnight,’ but it’s clear Florence Road is just beginning.
Nectar Woode
Performing on the second day of The Great Escape at the Fabrica church, Nectar Woode creates an atmosphere that feels both grand and intimate. This ambiance suits her joyful performance perfectly, showcasing the British-Ghanaian singer's soulful talents with a supporting band. Her songs, including ‘Only Happen’ and ‘30 Degrees,’ shine with warmth.
Brògeal
Labeling Falkirk's five-member band Brògeal as Scotland's answer to The Pogues, or the Lowlands' fusion of Fontaines DC and The Mary Wallopers, might seem predictable. Yet, their electrifying mix of traditional Celtic folk and punk retains the vivacity that makes their Irish counterparts so engaging. They turn The Deep End’s tent stage into a lively pub atmosphere, where no audience member can resist the enjoyment of indie tracks featuring tin whistles and banjos.
The NONE
Anyone familiar with Youth Man during their intense run knows what an impactful performer Kalia Whyte is, and she maintains that energy in her new endeavor. Taking the stage in the grand Paganini Ballroom, The NONE features a notable lineup with Bloc Party’s Gordon Moakes, Cassels’ Jim Beck, and Frauds’ Chris Francombe. Their sound offers a jagged, adrenaline-infused punk experience that is equally thrilling and intimidating. The intense lighting highlights their silhouettes against the ballroom’s back wall, enhancing the dark aura they effortlessly project.
Westside Cowboy
Claiming a spot as one of the busiest bands of the weekend, the Manchester quartet Westside Cowboy is in high demand following their recent victory at the Glastonbury Emerging Talent Competition. With a rumored five sets over three days, this self-proclaimed ‘Britainicana’ band delivers confidently and wholeheartedly. Their opening track, debut single ‘I’ve Never Met Anyone I Thought I Could Really Love (Until I Met You),’ is a standout, as is their now-iconic closer—a near-accapella group vocal piece that encapsulates their appeal.
Chloe Qisha
As the line for Chloe Qisha’s set at Patterns stretches around the block, it's hard to believe her performance during DIY’s First Fifty show last November marked just her second live appearance. Inside, the packed venue waits eagerly as she showcases her polished preview of the anticipated EP ‘Modern Romance.’ Even though many in the audience struggle to catch a glimpse of her on the snug stage, the allure of her retro-inspired electro-pop, especially 'Sexy Goodbye,' is undeniable.
Finn Mungo
Concluding BIMM Music Institute’s showcase at Dust on Friday afternoon, London student Finn Mungo encapsulates the playful energy of Jamie T, all the while sporting a broad smile. Backed by a full band, his set elevates recent tracks ‘Stand For You’ and ‘Come Thru,’ bringing a vibrant energy that has the audience dancing along with the budding songwriter in a truly uplifting moment.
Paige Kennedy
Earning the title for possibly the funniest set of the weekend, Paige Kennedy injects a steady stream of clever quips into their collection of alt-synth pop tracks, keeping even the most serious industry professionals chuckling. "I don’t care if you work for Sony," they joke, urging the crowd to get moving, "...actually, Sony isn’t here, it’s fine." In all seriousness, it’s impressive how Paige gets a room full of lanyard-wearing attendees crouched on the floor in anticipation of the drop in an unreleased track titled ‘Finga’—clearly,
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The Brighton showcase festival once more provided a weekend filled with emerging talents, alongside a few beloved favorites for good measure.