Stokes Festival Lineup Announced for 2025
The music festival scene in Bristol has seen a surge in popularity over the past few years, with events like Down Stokes capturing the attention of music lovers who appreciate psychedelic rock. Organized by local promoters Velvet Echoes and Extra Terrestrial, Down Stokes has managed to carve out its own niche in the saturated festival market. Now in its third year, the festival has grown into a well-crafted space that caters to fans of this specific genre.
Walking into the Attic Bar on Stokes Croft, attendees are greeted by neon lights and the electrifying sounds of Pocket Sun as they grace the stage. The festival kicks off with a three-act preview on Thursday, showcasing bands like Magic Shoppe and Mild Orange. Magic Shoppe, hailing from Boston, MA, impress the crowd with their shoegaze style that combines crushing guitars and psychedelia, while Mild Orange from New Zealand bring a sense of hope and joy with their indie tunes. Lead singer Josh Mehrtens shares a new song inspired by his wife’s love for horses, adding a personal touch to their performance.
As the weekend progresses, music enthusiasts in Bristol are faced with an array of choices, from Maidavale’s heavy psych rock at The Croft to Heavy Lungs’ intense post-punk set. Opus Kink takes the stage with their fusion of punk and brass, captivating the audience with their energetic performance. The festival buzzes with excitement as each band delivers a unique sound that resonates with the eclectic tastes of the attendees.
On the final night at Trinity Church, The Bug Club and Wine Lips close out the festival with a bang. The Bug Club’s infectious energy and playful lyricism keep the audience on their feet, while Wine Lips bring a punky vibe to their psych garage sound. Despite the rainy evening, the crowd shows up in full force to dance and enjoy the music, highlighting the strong sense of community and passion that festivals like Down Stokes foster.
Overall, Down Stokes has established itself as a must-attend event for fans of psychedelic rock, offering a diverse lineup of artists and bands that cater to a wide range of musical preferences. With its unique atmosphere and carefully curated selection of acts, the festival continues to grow and evolve, solidifying its place as a staple in the Bristol music scene.