Photo: Emma Swann
As the Spanish weekend approaches, we take a moment to highlight some local, emerging artists who are ready to take the stage.
7th July 2025
Mad Cool Festival is known for bringing together some of the biggest names in music for four days of unforgettable entertainment—just take a look at the impressive lineup featuring Olivia Rodrigo, Nine Inch Nails, Iggy Pop, and more. However, the festival and its organizers also recognize the essential role of supporting the next generation of artists. That's precisely why they have partnered with Vibra Mahou for the Mad Cool Talent contest, providing six artists the opportunity to perform at this year’s festival. Notably, several of these artists hail from Madrid itself (like Ashleys or Lavin), making it a great chance to explore the local music scene during your visit to the Spanish capital. To celebrate this, we asked the festival to share details about the selected acts. So, without further delay, let's meet this year’s Mad Cool Talent winners...
LAVIN
"Lavin is an emerging band from Madrid, making their mark in the music scene. They combine the energy of powerful rock guitars with elements of hyperpop and breakcore to create a lively and catchy sound, allowing them to rise as one of the winning acts of Mad Cool Talent 2025. Their lyrics explore the complexities of human relationships, the rhythm of modern city life, and technology. With their initial tracks and several live performances already accomplished, Lavin is poised for an exciting, rhythm-filled journey ahead." Lavin will perform at the Mahou Reserva on Thursday, 10th July at 6pm.
WILL KOLAK
"From Tbilisi to Mad Cool, with a detour to win Mad Cool Talent 2025, Will Kolak has emerged as one of the most captivating and mysterious acts in the Caucasus alternative scene. His sound flows between atmospheric post-rock, minimalist psychedelia, and an electronic sensibility that captivates with its tenderness. His debut album, 'All My Friends and Enemies Are Fine', captures a post-Soviet, lo-fi essence, and his performance at Mad Cool 2025 is expected to be a sensory experience that leaves a lasting impression." Will Kolak will perform at the Mahou Reserva on Friday, 11th July at 6pm.
JØL
"Born in the heart of the capital, JØL is a synth-punk and industrial rock project that merges infectious melodies with sonic aggression. With a passionate and dedicated fan base, JØL has emerged as one of the winning acts of Mad Cool Talent 2025, having filled venues in Madrid and performed in cities such as Barcelona, Granada, and Valencia. Their dynamic live shows—teeming with theatricality, sensuality, and intensity—have allowed them to dominate the alternative scene, evident in their latest single, 'ROCKNROLL'." JØL will take the stage at the Mahou Cinco Estrellas on Friday, 11th July at 6.40pm.
ASHLEYS
"Originating from Salamanca and Madrid, Ashleys have surfaced as one of the most exciting acts with their alternative pop-rock sound. The group, composed of members Bea, Marta, Roi, and Mónica, is recognized for its fresh and genuine approach, creating a sound that balances introspection and high energy. Their music defies categorization, presenting a distinctive statement within today’s scene. With releases like their double single 'Cómplices para matar', the quartet is paving their way toward a promising future." Ashleys will perform at the Mahou Reserva on Saturday, 12th July at 6pm.
MISS BLANCHE
"Drawing inspiration from musical icons like Lauryn Hill, Silk Sonic, and Jill Scott, Spanish-Swiss artist Miss Blanche, now based in London, is rising as a notable talent in the R&B genre. Her sound merges soulful vocals with hip-hop beats, pop-jazz chords, and appealing R&B melodies, infused with evident funk influences, while her lyrics delve into themes of female empowerment and love. Her 2024 debut single, 'Destined to be Alone', introduced her to the music scene, reminiscent of the sound of '90s R&B. After several performances in cities like London, Madrid, and Liverpool, Miss Blanche is carving her path to success, following her victory at the recent Mad Cool Talent by Vibra Mahou." Miss Blanche will play at the Mahou Cinco Estrellas on Saturday, 12th July at 6.45pm.
RODRIGO RAMÍREZ
"Based in Madrid, Rodrigo Ramírez brings a fresh voice to the music scene at Mad Cool. His sound features melodic vocals paired with contemporary rhythms and thoughtfully crafted chords, showcasing clear influences from singer-songwriter traditions. His lyrics tackle everyday life themes, personal introspection, and love, and his debut single presented a fresh sonic perspective to
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As the Spanish weekend approaches this week, we look at a few local, up-and-coming artists who are ready to perform on stage.