Live Coverage: TRNSMT 2025

      Scotland's most prominent festival is back for its seventh year and this time it arrives in Glasgow with even more swagger. Given its reputation in Scotland, it’s easy to forget that this festival is still relatively new. Established in 2017 following the unfortunate end of T in the Park, TRNSMT presents a city-centered festival experience that some might find more appealing (depending on your age, naturally) than the fields of Balado.

      Now a staple of Glasgow’s cultural calendar, the second weekend in July gathers 150,000 festival-goers at Glasgow Green to enjoy top-tier rock and pop performances. However, TRNSMT has faced criticism over the years, particularly for its male-centric, nostalgic lineup. This year’s selection of ‘00s acts including 50 Cent, Biffy Clyro, and Snow Patrol does little to challenge those stereotypes.

      Yet, a worthwhile festival encompasses more than just a few headliners, and this is where TRNSMT shines. The diverse lineup ranges from the emerging Irish folk band Amble to the buzzworthy indie act Wet Leg, ensuring an enticing weekend ahead.

      So, let's dive right in…

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      Friday

      Are we expecting a mini heatwave in Glasgow for TRNSMT weekend? Indeed! In the past eight years, at least one day of TRNSMT has seen rain (let’s not forget, this is Scotland), so it’s a pleasant surprise to forecast a weekend of beautiful sunshine.

      Glasgow city center is sweltering – “taps aff” weather, as the locals say. Unfortunately, the heat only seems to amplify the excitement of TRNSMT's younger attendees, who become increasingly vocal and rambunctious on the way to Glasgow Green. Arriving at Argyle Street Station presents a troublesome first impression, with teens aimlessly wandering about. Boys in Nike gear swigging Buckfast tonic wine contribute to the chaos in a bid to impress the girls nearby. Is this really the TRNSMT experience we signed up for? Fortunately, this raucous behavior subsides as we near Glasgow Green.

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      Inside the venue, the temperature feels even hotter. With a refreshing £6.90 Booklyn Pilsner in hand, we make our way to the King Tuts stage for a performance by the London-based indie pop duo Good Neighbours. Oli Fox and Scott Verril deliver a fantastic show packed with summery anthems, fitting for the sunny weather. “Here’s a slow one to cool down,” announces Fox before slowing it down with the singalong new single ‘Starry Eyed’. The highlight, of course, is ‘Home’ – last year’s viral TikTok hit, which sounds triumphant and concludes an enjoyable, albeit sweaty, performance.

      Next, we head over for our first experience at the Main Stage and right to the front for Los Angeles rapper Schoolboy Q. As expected at rap shows, a strong scent of weed fills the air. Soon enough, the 38-year-old artist takes the stage, delivering a dynamic performance of hip-hop tracks from his 14-year career. He quips, “It’s as hot as a motherf**er, it’s like being back in California,” seemingly puzzled by Scotland’s mild weather. Schoolboy Q doesn’t let the heat hinder him, performing signature tracks like ‘Collard Greens’, ‘Man of the Year’, and ‘The Studio’ from his 2014 album Oxymoron with effortless skill.

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      Our next stop is in the shade at the King Tuts stage to catch the indie quartet The Royston Club. The buzzworthy Wrexham band is still polishing their craft – some songs are forgettable and would benefit from bolder choices. However, they finish strong with ‘Mariana’ and ‘I’m a Liar’ from their 2023 debut ‘Shaking Hips’ and ‘Crashing Cars’, showcasing the energy that has led many to anticipate great things from them.

      This perfectly sets the stage for Wet Leg’s main stage performance. The Isle of Wight indie band appears through a cloud of smoke and dives straight into their set. ‘Catch These Fists’ – with its electrifying garage rock riffs – makes a strong start. Singer Rhian Teasdale, sporting a white sports bikini, looks revitalized as she showcases her confidence – clearly enjoying the moment. It’s remarkable to see her evolution as a frontwoman since their last TRNSMT appearance in 2022. Her enthusiasm resonates with the audience as they sing along word for word to debut album hits ‘Wet Dream’, ‘Angelika’, and ‘Chaise Longue’.

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      We then wander toward the Radio 1’s Dance Stage at the far end of Glasgow Green for DJ LA LA. The further we move from the King Tuts Stage, the younger the crowd appears. Although all domestic football kits are prohibited this year (which really only targets Rangers and Celtic tops; amusingly, there’s a

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