ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESITVAL 2025 - SATURDAY
HOZIER AND CHAPPELL ROAN CO-HEADLINE DAY TWO OF rockstar energy presents…
LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025 IN UNFORGETTABLE STYLE
★★★★★ (5/5)
CHAPPELL ROAN AND HOZIER CO-HEADLINING AND CLOSIING THE MAIN STAGE ON DAY TWO OF ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: CHAPPELL ROAN - JOSEPH OKPAKO (GETTY IMAGES) & HOZIER - JOHN HAYHURST
Day Two of Leeds Festival 2025 began under crisp skies, with Bramham Park buzzing with anticipation after an electric opening day. Festival-goers moved between stages with a sense of purpose, eager to see both emerging talent and established acts. The atmosphere was lively but relaxed, with laughter, chatter, and the distant hum of soundchecks creating an anticipatory backdrop that mirrored the festival’s dynamic energy.
Red Rum Club opened up Day Two on the Main Stage and brought pure festival joy with a set that was as vibrant as it was infectious. Their unique blend of indie rock and brassy flair gave them a sound that immediately stood out, with trumpet lines soaring above jangly guitars and rhythmic bass grooves. The crowd, already buzzing, couldn’t help but move along with the band’s upbeat energy by clapping and singing along to the lyrics of each song. Each track felt like a mini-anthem, carried by charismatic vocals and a playful confidence that made the performance feel larger than life. What made Red Rum Club shine most was their ability to connect with the audience — whether through cheerful banter, encouraging the crowd to shout choruses back at them, or simply exuding the kind of joy that makes live music so irresistible. By the end of their set, the atmosphere in the tent had transformed into a full-blown party, cementing them as one of the day’s most celebratory highlights.
RED RUM CLUB PERFORMING ON THE MAIN STAGE ON DAY TWO OF ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
BBC Introducing Stage opened with Girl Group, whose high-energy performance immediately drew in the crowd. Their harmonies were tight and confident, layered over infectious pop rhythms that had festival-goers clapping and singing along within minutes. Their choreography was playful yet precise, and the group’s chemistry was evident as they interacted seamlessly with each other and the audience. The crowd responded with genuine enthusiasm, cheering and waving along to every chorus, creating a sense of collective joy that set a strong tone for the day. Girl Group’s set was a masterclass in how pop energy can translate to a festival setting, and they left the stage to warm applause and chants for more.
GIRL GROUP PERFORMING ON BBC INTRODUCING STAGE ON DAY TWO OF ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
Alessi Rose may have been billed early in the day, but her main stage performance on Saturday proved she’s ready for much bigger slots in the future. Opening with soaring vocals and a shimmering sound that balanced polished pop with raw emotion, she immediately drew a sizeable crowd into her orbit despite the midday sun. Tracks from her new EP Voyeur felt tailor-made for the festival setting: confessional lyrics cutting through bright, atmospheric instrumentals, carried by hooks that lingered long after each song ended. What could have been an understated warm-up became a statement set, as Rose’s charisma and vulnerability turned the huge stage into something strikingly intimate. By the time she closed with her most anthemic track, the audience was locked in, cheering with the kind of fervour usually reserved for later-day acts. It felt like a breakthrough moment—an artist stepping onto one of the UK’s biggest platforms and making it her own.
ALESSI ROSE PERFORMING ON THE MAIN STAGE ON DAY TWO OF ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
The Royston Club delivered a Main Stage set that showcased exactly why they are one of the UK’s most exciting rising indie bands. Their jangly guitar riffs and heartfelt lyrics tapped into that classic festival feeling of collective nostalgia, while still carrying the freshness of a young band finding their voice. Songs unfolded with an easy confidence, and the band’s chemistry was clear as they bounced effortlessly off each other on stage. The crowd responded in kind, with loyal fans singing along word-for-word to tracks that already feel like modern indie staples. What stood out most was their authenticity — they played with the energy of a band thrilled to be there, yet with the poise of seasoned performers. The Royston Club’s set was a reminder of how festival afternoons can provide those special moments of discovery and affirmation, where a smaller-stage act feels ready for much bigger things.
THE ROYSTON CLIUB PERFORMING ON THE MAIN STAGE ON DAY TWO OF ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
Festival Republic Stage hosted Jasmine 4.T, who brought a vibrant, contemporary pop-rap sound to the festival. Her confident flow and infectious energy had the crowd moving immediately, and her charisma shone through as she interacted with fans between tracks. Jasmine’s set alternated between high-energy bangers and more introspective moments, demonstrating versatility and keeping the audience engaged throughout. The smaller stage allowed for intimacy that made every lyric and gesture feel personal, leaving fans buzzing and eager for her next release.
JASMINE 4.T PERFORMING ON FESTIVAL REPUBLIC STAGE ON DAY TWO OF ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
Charles delivered one of the most soulful and intimate sets of Day Two on BBC Introducing Stage, proving that big festival moments don’t always come from the loudest performances. His smooth, velvety vocals filled the tent with warmth, effortlessly weaving between tender falsettos and rich lower tones. The instrumentation, understated yet carefully arranged, allowed his voice to take centre stage, creating an atmosphere that was both soothing and captivating. Charles carried himself with quiet confidence, drawing the audience in with his authenticity and emotional honesty. Between songs, he spoke with genuine gratitude and humility, further strengthening the connection with those watching. By the time he closed his set, the crowd’s cheers were not just polite appreciation but genuine admiration for an artist whose talent feels destined for far greater recognition. It was one of those moments that reminded everyone why BBC Introducing continues to be such a vital part of the Leeds Festival experience — offering a glimpse into the stars of tomorrow.
CHARLES PERFORMING ON BBC INTRODUCING STAGE ON DAY TWO OF ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
On the Main Stage, Bloc Party delivered a set designated this year as the Icons Set, a new slot at Reading & Leeds Festival celebrating their enduring influence on the indie-rock landscape. Opening with driving guitar riffs and tight percussion, the band immediately commanded attention. Fans sang along to every chorus with fervor, and the energy of the crowd matched the precision and passion of the band’s performance. From classic anthems to deeper cuts, Bloc Party demonstrated why they remain iconic, their stagecraft polished yet infused with the raw energy that defined their early career. The visual production complemented the sound perfectly, with dramatic lighting accentuating climactic moments, creating a performance that was both nostalgic and exhilarating.
BLOC PARTY PERFORMING ON THE MAIN STAGE ON DAY TWO OF ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
Wallows then took the Main Stage, bringing a compelling mixture of alt-rock and nostalgic pop influences that immediately energized the audience. Frontman Dylan Minnette’s vocals were commanding yet approachable, and the band’s tight instrumentation drove each song with precision. The crowd erupted during fan-favourite tracks, singing and dancing in unison, while slower numbers allowed everyone a moment to catch their breath and absorb the nuances of the performance. Wallows’ ability to mix high-energy hooks with introspective moments made them one of the most dynamic acts of the afternoon.
WALLOWS PERFORMING ON THE MAIN STAGE ON DAY TWO OF ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
Festival Republic Stage welcomed Snayx, whose experimental sound captivated the crowd with hypnotic rhythms and layered vocals. Their set emphasized texture and atmosphere, with moments of quiet tension building into dramatic crescendos that kept fans engaged throughout. Snayx’s stage presence was understated but magnetic, allowing the music to speak for itself while creating a sense of immersive intimacy within the bustling festival environment.
SNAYX PERFORMING ON FESTIVAL REPUBLIC STAGE ON DAY TWO OF ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
On the Chevron Stage, Soft Play delivered a punchy, unapologetic punk set that electrified the crowd. Their raw energy, irreverent humor, and relentless riffs created a sense of joyous chaos, with fans moshing and singing along at full volume. The band’s connection with the audience was immediate, and each song landed like a jolt of adrenaline, reaffirming Soft Play’s reputation as one of the festival’s most exhilarating live acts.
SOFTPLAY PERFORMING ON THE CHEVRON STAGE ON DAY TWO OF ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
The Kooks turned the Main Stage into a giant singalong, reminding everyone why they remain one of the most beloved festival acts of the last two decades. From the opening chords of their iconic hits, waves of recognition and joy rippled through the crowd, with entire sections belting out lyrics at full volume. Tracks like “Naïve” and “She Moves in Her Own Way” felt timeless, their breezy, summery energy perfectly matched to the afternoon sunshine. Frontman Luke Pritchard led with charm and ease, his vocals still as sharp and distinctive as ever, while the band’s polished instrumentation gave their songs a renewed vitality. Beyond nostalgia, The Kooks proved their enduring relevance by blending older anthems with newer material that was met with equal enthusiasm. For many in the audience, it was a chance to relive the soundtrack of their teenage years; for younger fans, it was an introduction to a band whose festival appeal clearly hasn’t faded.
THE KOOKS PERFORMING ON THE MAIN STAGE ON DAY TWO OF ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
The Linda Lindas exploded onto the Festival Republic stage with a youthful punk spirit that was impossible to ignore. From the very first song, their raw riffs and thunderous drumming lit a spark, and the tent quickly descended into joyful chaos — moshing, jumping, and chanting along to every hook. Despite their relative youth, the band carried themselves with fearless confidence, balancing furious energy with playful charm. They traded smiles and jokes between songs, making the crowd feel like part of their inner circle, while their music hit with the urgency of classic punk filtered through a modern lens. The Linda Lindas’ chemistry on stage was infectious; each member brought something different, yet together they created a sound that was both chaotic and tight. The set was short, sharp, and exhilarating — the kind of punk blast that left the audience grinning and buzzing long after the final note.
THE LINDA LINDAS PERFORMING ON FESTIVAL REPUBLIC STAGE ON DAY TWO OF ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
Heartworms carved out one of the most atmospheric performances of the day, transforming their stage into a brooding, hypnotic soundscape. Their post-punk edge — angular guitar lines, pulsating bass, and stark rhythms — was paired with commanding, almost theatrical vocals that demanded attention. The performance felt meticulously crafted yet emotionally raw, drawing the audience into a world that was as intense as it was mesmerizing. Unlike the sunlit, high-energy sets elsewhere in the festival, Heartworms thrived in cultivating tension, holding the crowd in suspense before releasing it in powerful bursts of sound. Their stage presence was magnetic, every gesture and movement precise yet natural, amplifying the drama of the music. For many in the crowd, this was a set that felt like discovering a hidden gem — dark, immersive, and unforgettable.
HEARTWORMS PERFORMING ON FESTIVAL REPUBLIC STAGE ON DAY TWO OF ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
Chappell Roan co-headlined the Main Stage in the early evening with a performance that will likely be remembered as historic. Her set drew the largest crowd ever seen at Reading, a record confirmed by stunning drone footage that captured the sea of fans stretching as far as the eye could see. From the opening notes, the atmosphere was electric, with festival-goers singing along to her hits while waving hands and flags in unison. Roan’s performance was a masterclass in connecting with an audience — she moved effortlessly across the stage, engaging fans with playful gestures, heartfelt acknowledgments, and interactive moments that made everyone feel part of the show. Her setlist blended high-energy pop anthems with intimate ballads, allowing her to showcase not only her vocal range but also her ability to craft emotional journeys through song. Each track was met with rapturous applause, and the crowd’s energy never waned, building to a euphoric peak during her final number. By the end, it was clear that Chappell Roan had created a historic festival moment, leaving a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.
CHAPPELL ROAN CO-HEADLINING ON THE MAIN STAGE ON DAY TWO OF ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOSEPH OKPAKO (GETTY IMAGES)
AJ Tracey’s headlining set on the Chevron Stage was a relentless display of energy, charisma, and musical mastery. The UK rap superstar commanded the stage with natural authority, delivering rapid-fire verses and melodic hooks with precision and confidence. Fans were completely moshing around, and singing along to every track, creating a charged, almost tangible atmosphere. Tracey’s stage design — featuring pyrotechnics, bold lighting, and large-scale visuals — amplified the intensity, turning the set into a full sensory experience. Beyond the spectacle, his interaction with the crowd was remarkable: he seamlessly rapped along with fans, encouraged singalongs, and shared moments of humor and spontaneity that made the performance feel personal despite the massive scale. From classic hits to newer tracks, AJ Tracey’s set was a powerful celebration of UK grime and hip-hop culture, leaving fans exhilarated and cementing his reputation as one of the festival’s standout headliners.
AJ TRACEY HEADLINING AND CLOSING THE CHEVRON STAGE ON DAY TWO OF ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
Mannequin Pussy delivered a raw, electric punk performance, combining abrasive guitars, urgent vocals, and relentless energy. The crowd responded with moshing and singalongs, creating an almost frenetic connection that amplified the intensity of each track. The band’s unfiltered approach highlighted both technical skill and emotional ferocity, leaving a lasting impression on festival-goers seeking high-octane performances.
MANNEQUIN PUSSY PERFORMING ON FESTIVAL REPUBLIC STAGE ON DAY TWO OF ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
Hozier co-headlined the Main Stage later in the evening with a performance that felt both monumental and deeply intimate. Opening with the haunting notes of his signature songs, Hozier immediately commanded the crowd’s attention. His rich, soulful voice carried across Bramham Park, drawing the audience into a spellbinding mix of emotion and storytelling. Each song was carefully crafted with layered instrumentation, including intricate guitar riffs and subtle percussive elements, that built tension and released it in dramatic, cathartic moments. The audience responded with fervor — swaying, singing, and at times visibly moved by the sheer power of his performance. Hozier’s stage presence was magnetic; he engaged the crowd with understated charisma, creating moments of intimacy even amidst thousands of festival-goers. The lighting and visuals complemented the music perfectly, accentuating the mood and giving the set a cinematic quality. By the end, Hozier had not only delivered a technically flawless show but also forged an emotional connection with the audience that lingered long after the final note.
HOZIER CO-HEADLINING AND CLOSIING THE MAIN STAGE ON DAY TWO OF ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
Festival Republic headliner The Chats brought pure punk chaos to close the stage’s evening. Their irreverent, high-energy songs ignited the audience instantly, with fans moshing, shouting lyrics, and jumping in unison. The band’s raw authenticity, combined with playful humor and relentless drive, transformed the tent into a riotous celebration of rock’n’roll rebellion. Their performance was a fitting end to a day full of diversity, skill, and unfiltered passion.
THE CHATS HEADLINING AND CLOSING THE FESTIVAL REPUBLIC STAGE ON DAY TWO OF ROCKSTAR ENERGY PRESENTS… LEEDS FESTIVAL 2025
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST
As the sun finally dipped behind Bramham Park, Day Two of Leeds Festival 2025 drew to a close, leaving fans buzzing from an extraordinary lineup of performances. From the record-breaking crowd for Chappell Roan to Hozier’s soul-stirring co-headline set, and AJ Tracey and The Chats delivering unrelenting energy on their respective stages, the day showcased the perfect balance of emerging talent and established icons. Every corner of the festival felt alive, from the intimate BBC Introducing stage to the massive Main Stage, proving once again why Leeds remains a cornerstone of the UK festival scene. With music lingering in the air and fans already anticipating Day Three, it was a celebration of community, artistry, and the sheer, uncontainable thrill of live performance.
REVIEW BY: CALUM BUCHAN AND JOHN HAYHURST
PHOTOS BY: JOHN HAYHURST AND JOSEPH OKPAKO (CHAPPELL ROAN PICS)