???? BLUESFEST 2025 OVERVIEW FOR FIRST TWO DAYS ????
There was something different in the air at this year’s Bluesfest Byron Bay 2025—a deep sentimentality, a whisper that this might be the final bow for one of Australia’s most iconic music festivals. But if this was a farewell, it was done with thunder, soul, and a whole lot of unforgettable music.
I spent two full days and nights soaking up the festival’s unmatched energy. From the moment you arrive, you’re swept up in the buzz of it all—the sprawling campsites, the bustling food and market stalls, and of course, the world-class stages where magic happens.
Credit must go to the mastermind behind it all, Peter Noble, whose tireless work as promoter has kept Bluesfest alive and kicking. I had a quick chat with Peter on day two, and he was candid about the festival’s future: it’s now up to the people. Ticket sales and ongoing support are more critical than ever to keep this beloved event alive. Thankfully, the word is strong—people love this festival, and plans for 2026 are already in motion, with early tickets on sale and on first day 26,000 sold and bands being booked.
Now, let’s talk highlights.
From the first set I caught—Velvet Trip, a psychedelic indie rock band from Sydney fronted by the charismatic Zeppelin Hamilton—I knew we were in for something special. The energy rolled on with the captivating Don West, who has a near-mystical presence on stage, and the ever-electrifying Pierce Brothers. Another talent is Badjerah that is also energetic with his sound.
Then came 14-year-old guitar prodigy Taj Farrant, who blew minds with skills well beyond his years, channeling blues legends with ease. The Hawaiian/Polynesian band Maoli brought rhythmic warmth, while Cimafunk and his 9-piece band had us dancing to Afro-Cuban beats, fusing funk, salsa, and reggae in a set that ended with pure audience euphoria.
Tones and I returned to Byron with a dynamic performance backed by gospel singers and dancers—undeniably one of the festival’s standout sets. Tom Morello turned up the volume and shook the crowd, and Here Come the Mummies brought funky fun with a side of ancient Egyptian flair.
Day two was stacked. Two new favourites emerged for me—Fanny Lumsden, whose charming country blues set, hot shorts, and on-stage stories made her utterly magnetic, and the ruggedly fun Brad Cox, who had everyone asking, “Who the f*** is Brad Cox?” You’ll remember his name after hearing that powerhouse voice. Regular at festival and ever brillant Ash Grunward.
Evenings brought legends to the fore. George Thorogood and the Destroyers tore up the stage with hit after hit—“Who Do You Love?”, “One Bourbon, One Scotch and One Beer”, “Bad to the Bone”—closing with a killer version of “Gloria.” Iconic.
Christopher Cross brought back mellow memories with classics like “Sailing” and “Ride Like the Wind,” backed by a stellar band and lush harmonies. But for me, Toto was a dream—opening with “Rosanna” and finishing with the timeless “Africa.” Pure joy.
With perfect weather, no rain in sight, and a mind-blowing lineup that were to come including Chaka Khan, Crowded House, Missy Higgins, Hussy Hicks, Clarence Bekker Band, and countless more, Bluesfest 2025 proved once again why it’s the best blues and roots festival in Australia.
Jump on and get your tickets, support live music, and keep this iconic event alive. Bluesfest isn’t just a festival—it’s a rite of passage, a spiritual recharge, and a damn good time. Long live Bluesfest!B Lets give a big yell out to all who volunteered and behind the scenes workers and all the artists that fill our souls.
????️ Check out our YouTube channel for live clips and exclusive artist moments.
Reveiw Caroine Russo
Photos Ellitto Hunt
