Reading Festival 2025: Friday Live Music Schedule
Friday at Reading Festival 2025 is brimming with potential energy, ready to burst into action. As the sun shines down on the freshly set up tents, a mix of excitement and slight panic fills the air as people discover they’ve forgotten tent pegs once again. The BBC iPlayer stage hums with activity in the early afternoon, setting the tone for the weekend ahead. It’s time to immerse yourself in the experience.
Kicking off the musical journey is Sofia Isella, captivating the audience with her gothic indie-pop tunes like a breath of fresh air on a warm afternoon. Her raw and honest performance during songs like ‘Cacao and Cocaine’ and ‘Josephine’ draws in a growing crowd, making it clear that this is not just background music but a truly engaging experience. Even when faced with a technical glitch during ‘Sex Concept,’ Isella’s unplugged interaction with the audience adds an intimate touch that no stadium show could replicate.
The energy takes a sharp turn with SNAYX, infusing the atmosphere with electronic beats that prompt enthusiastic head nodding and impromptu dance moves. Tracks like ‘Violence,’ ‘Strut,’ and a surprise cover of The Prodigy’s ‘Breathe’ elevate the excitement to new heights. Their set culminates with ‘Sink or Swim,’ leaving the crowd buzzing with electric energy.
Formerly known as Slaves, Soft Play blasts onto the stage with a new identity, delivering high-octane performances of songs like ‘Isaac Is Typing…’ and ‘Act Violently.’ A surprise appearance by Kate Nash adds an extra level of nostalgia to the set, leading to a memorable moment as she crowdsurfs during ‘Punk’s Dead.’ The energy never wanes as Soft Play closes the show with ‘The Hunter,’ leaving the audience in a state of euphoric delirium.
Transitioning into the evening, Heartworms takes the stage with a set perfectly suited for the golden hour. Songs like ‘Just to Ask a Dance’ and ‘Retributions of an Awful Life’ resonate with the crowd, creating a sing-along atmosphere that bridges the gap between daytime exuberance and nighttime revelry. Closing with ‘Jacked,’ Heartworms sets the stage for the true beginning of Friday night festivities.
Mannequin Pussy storms onto the scene with raw punk energy, delivering intense performances of tracks like ‘Sometimes’ and ‘I Got Heaven.’ Despite technical difficulties, the band’s unwavering passion shines through, culminating in a powerful closing with ‘Pigs Is Pigs’ and ‘Romantic,’ leaving the audience simultaneously drained and invigorated.
High Vis follows with a post-punk revival that electrifies the crowd, setting the tone for a night of high-energy performances. Tracks like ‘Talk for Hours’ and ‘Walking Wires’ turn the pit into a pulsating mass of movement, culminating in a communal release of pent-up energy and emotions during ‘Fever.’
Closing out the night, The Chats bring a no-frills punk rock vibe that ignites the crowd with infectious energy. Their set, culminating in the raucous ‘Pub Feed,’ showcases the band’s knack for crafting songs that resonate with the audience on a primal level, leaving everyone buzzing with the pure joy of live music.
As the dust settles on Friday night, the festival atmosphere lingers, with throats sore, ears ringing, and feet tired, yet already anticipating the excitement of the next day’s performances. Reading Festival continues to prove its enduring appeal, offering a diverse lineup that caters to a wide range of musical tastes, ensuring that attendees are in for a weekend of unforgettable performances and shared experiences.