Neighbourhood Weekender made its big return for a sixth year at Victoria Park in Warrington over the late May bank holiday weekend, and it did not disappoint. Leading the charge were Manchester legends James and the ever-electric Stereophonics. I’ll dive into their sets in a bit, but let’s just say: they brought the goods. Warrington isn’t just the host – it’s a town with genuine, and unknown to some, musical and cultural heritage. It’s the birthplace of icons like Ian Brown and, more recently, the much-loved Viola Beach. The town is in a bit of a sweet spot too, slap bang between Liverpool and Manchester, just under 20 miles from each. Ideal for pulling in music lovers from all directions. And judging by the crowds, it is clear that NBHD has cemented itself in the UK’s festival calendar. I might be a little biased as a Warringtonian, but I absolutely love that Neighbourhood Weekender takes place right here in my hometown each year. It’s something special to see the local scene celebrated on such a big stage. Victoria Park, the home of Neighbourhood Weekender, has its own bit of history too. It wasn’t just made for NBHD; it actually hosted the very first V Festival back in 1996. That year’s lineup featured none other than 2023 NBHD headliners Pulp, alongside bands like Supergrass and Cast, all still going strong in their own right today. Onto this year’s lineup, wow. SJM Concerts really outdid themselves, pulling together an amazing mix of artists for the weekend. It’s great to see that Warringtonian Simon Moran has created something to remember for the town year on year. From headliners to up-and-coming stars, and even artists making their return after a hiatus, there was something for everyone, with indie, pop, and rock all on the menu. With weekend tickets priced at £149.50 (£135) and day tickets £80.75 (£72.50), this festival is incredibly reasonable for the calibre of artists on offer. When the stage splits were announced a week before the festival, it was clear fans would have some tough decisions to make, with a number of big clashes on the horizon. Now onto the festival weekend itself!
Day 1 – Saturday As I made my way through Warrington’s Bridge Street and walked down Bridgefoot towards the park, you could already feel the buzz. The forecast was not looking too promising, with rain, showers, and a sprinkling of sun predicted across both days. It didn’t seem to put anybody off, and revellers were out in force, decked out in bucket hats, fancy dress, and loud tropical shirts, ready to kick off the bank holiday weekend in style. No rain was going to stop this party; drinks were already flowing, and the indie party atmosphere was well underway before the gates even opened. After a year’s break, it was great to see the crowds return in their thousands – approximately 25,000 across the weekend! The excitement and energy were clear to see, with festival goers fully embracing the music, atmosphere, and everything NBHD had to offer, both inside and outside of Victoria Park. As the gates opened, I made my way into the festival site, excited to see what the next two days had in store. Having attended in previous years, I had a good idea of what to expect. The festival site isn’t huge, which means you’re never far from any of the three stages. Even during the busiest times, it never takes more than 10 minutes to get to any one of them. Stages:
● The Main Stage – The heart of NBHD Weekender, hosting the biggest names and drawing the largest crowds across the weekend.
● The Big Top – The official second stage, known for its electric atmosphere. This year’s headliners included The Reytons and Dizzee Rascal.
● The Viola Beach Stage – A more intimate setting, shining a spotlight on the next generation of rising stars and breakthrough acts.
Food & Drink: NBHD offers a range of food options from vendors across the country, catering to all dietary needs and requirements. My pick of the bunch was the Chicken Gyros and Korean BBQ chicken bao buns that hit the spot after two long and wet afternoons carrying my camera equipment around on Saturday and Sunday. In terms of drinks, there was a range of lager (Amstel, Birra Moretti, Heineken 0%), Brothers cider, and bottled wine available from the bars located either side of the main stage and just outside the Big Top, conveniently placed and well stocked throughout the weekend. Other Site Activities & Experiences: NBHD boasts its own exclusive on-site pub for the weekend – the aptly named NBHD Inn. Serving up a wide range of craft beers and draught lagers, it’s a clear step up from the more basic offerings at the stage-side bars. With live Rockaoke sessions, pub quizzes, and sing-along bingo running throughout the weekend, it’s the perfect place to recharge, grab a pint, and soak up the atmosphere between sets. It even played host to a surprise engagement this year – a testament to its feel-good charm. Just outside The NBHD Inn, the NBHD Area offers a village green-style space with fun activities like air guitar workshops and darts competitions – a great place to relax and get involved between sets. As you’d expect at any festival, the carnival atmosphere was in full swing, with traditional funfair rides adding to the buzz. From waltzers, a ferris wheel, and other attractions, there was plenty of fun to be had for all ages, bringing an extra layer of energy and nostalgia to the weekend experience. The Cornershop is another standout spot at NBHD, a nostalgic nod to the traditional corner shop, reimagined to host intimate raves powered by local DJs from across the North West. Notably, Liverpool-based Sh*t Indie Disco went down a treat with the crowd on Saturday and Sunday, bringing nostalgic hits and a packed-out atmosphere. It can get pretty cramped in there at times, but that only adds to the charm. It’s a unique addition to the festival and something I’ve not seen anywhere else before – definitely worth a visit. NBHD also offers its very own exclusive VIP section, available as an upgrade to general admission tickets. The area features luxury toilets, a covered bar, ample seating, and gourmet food and drink vendors, along with a private viewing balcony for an elevated festival experience.
Time for the music
Seb Lowe Saturday kicked off for me with Oldham’s own Seb Lowe opening the Main Stage, an artist clearly on the rise and showing no signs of slowing down. From playing the third stage at NBHD in 2022 to stepping onto the Main Stage in 2025, it’s a pretty impressive trajectory. With his politically charged, lyrically sharp anthems, Seb had the crowd hooked from the first note. His 30-minute set flew by, the audience steadily growing as more festival goers streamed through the gates. Violinist and supporting vocalist Kate Couriel added a striking new dimension to Seb’s live sound. Her harmonies softened the raw edge of his gritty vocals, while her string work wove beautifully through the band’s arrangements. Backed by a tight and confident live outfit, the dynamic interplay between Couriel’s instrumentation and Seb’s sharp lyricism brought real depth and texture to the performance. A standout moment came with breakout track “Terms and Conditions,” which surged across the park, lifting the energy and perfectly setting the tone for the rest of the day.
The Bemonts A short walk over to the Viola Beach Stage – named in memory of Warrington’s own Viola Beach and their manager Craig Tarry, brought me to local band The Bemonts, who earned their slot after launching a successful social media campaign. Their set was bursting with energy and excitement, and you could feel how much it meant to them, with plenty of family and friends cheering from the crowd. I was genuinely impressed; their Americana rock-inspired sound hit all the right notes. Something tells me this won’t be the last time we see them lighting up stages across the North West.
Kingfishr Just around the corner from the Viola Beach Stage, I found myself at The Big Top to catch Limerick three-piece Kingfishr, fresh off their tour with James Bay. Playing a 35-minute set, I was genuinely surprised at how packed the tent was so early in the day. The band delivered their folk-infused anthems with ease, and the crowd was fully on board, bobbing along, smiling, and soaking up the good vibes.
A standout moment came with “I Cried, I Wept” – lead singer Eddie Keogh’s vocals sounded superb. It’s a proper bop and a personal highlight of their set for me. One of several rising Irish acts to grace NBHD over the bank holiday weekend, Kingfishr delivered a performance that underscored their growing reputation. Drawing comparisons to Mumford & Sons and Dermot Kennedy, the band captivated a packed Big Top crowd with a heartfelt, soulful set that firmly marked them as ones to watch. In a testament to their rising demand, they even managed to jet off for a second appearance later that day at Live at Leeds, further proving their momentum. With a headline show at Manchester’s Albert Hall and two massive dates at Dublin’s 3Arena on the horizon, it’s clear that Kingfishr are on a fast track to something big. The Royston Club Back at the main stage, Wrexham’s The Royston Club delivered a lively, confident set that had their Welsh fans, and plenty more, singing along from the first chord. With jangly guitars, infectious hooks, and a clear sense of momentum, the band showed exactly why they’re one of the UK’s most exciting emerging indie acts. With their second album Songs for the Spine set for release in August, and a string of UK headline dates on the horizon, including a standout show at Manchester Academy – their upward trajectory shows no signs of slowing down. A big shoutout goes to their track “Mrs Narcissistic,” which sounded incredible as it echoed across Victoria Park. Amy Macdonald Scottish singer Amy Macdonald marked her return after a few years away from the live circuit, coinciding with a new headline tour across the UK this November and December. Her set served as a timely reminder of just how many hits she has in her catalogue, blending crowd favourites with fresh material, including the title track from her upcoming album, “Is This What You’ve Been Waiting For”. It’s safe to say that classics like “This Is the Life” and “Mr Rock and Roll” went down a storm, sparking a wave of nostalgia and taking the crowd right back to 2007. Her 45-minute set flew by, and before long, it was time to gear up for fellow Scots The Snuts to take their place on the main stage.
The Snuts
No strangers to NBHD Weekender, having already made appearances at the Warrington festival in previous years, The Snuts returned with a set that firmly cemented their growing reputation. They’re a band I personally love, and judging by the crowd, just as packed as Amy Macdonald’s set 30 minutes earlier – I’m clearly not alone. The rowdiness and anthemic nature of their songs carried effortlessly through the performance, with younger members of the crowd lighting pyros and waving flags in the air, creating a real sense of unity and energy. Since their formation in 2015, the band’s rise has been nothing short of impressive, and it feels like only a matter of time before the Scottish four-piece are regularly headlining main stages across the country. Jack Cochrane’s vocals were sharp and unwavering throughout the 45-minute set. Standout moments for me were “Glasgow” and “Always,” two tracks that never fail to ignite a crowd at any Snuts gig. Dylan John Thomas Fresh from headlining Liverpool’s Sound City at the start of May, I headed back over to the Big Top to catch another Scottish act, Dylan John Thomas. Having never seen him live before, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect, but he absolutely delivered. His performance was fantastic – reminiscent in some ways of Gerry Cinnamon, but with a softer, more subtle edge that gave his sound a distinct identity. Backed by a tight, rhythmically sharp live band, Dylan held the crowd with ease. The Big Top was packed, and you could feel the anticipation turn into genuine excitement as his set progressed. Standout moments for me were “Jenna” and “Fever,” which really got the crowd buzzing and proved he’s more than ready for bigger stages. A brilliant introduction to an artist I’ll definitely be keeping an eye on.
The Lottery Winners
Leigh’s own The Lottery Winners made the short trip to Warrington or “Wazza,” as frontman Thom Rylance gleefully shouted to take over The Big Top stage, returning once again to NBHD Weekender, a festival they know well. Walking on to Robbie Williams’ “Let Me Entertain You” (a nod to their upcoming tour with the pop icon), the band made an entrance as bold as their signature maroon embroidered blazers, which Thom joked were “from Shein.”
Riding high on the success of their second UK Number One album KOKO, the four-piece showed all the confidence and charisma of a band finally getting their due. Thom Rylance commanded the stage with his unique blend of sarcasm, humour, and serious vocal chops, proving once again he’s one of the most distinctive frontmen around. Kate Lloyd brought groove and harmony, her basslines tight and her backing vocals beautifully in sync. Joe Singleton kept a solid pulse behind the drums, while Robert Lalley’s guitar work added both energy and emotion. It was a set packed with fun, heart, and undeniable talent, a true celebration of how far this band has come, and a reminder that they’re still on the rise. With a crowd packed full of fellow Leythers, it’s clear this band has a deep connection to their hometown and the North West as a whole. Standout moments for me were “The Meaning of Life” and “Much Better” – two tracks that really hit home in a live setting. DJ’s Special shout-out to DJ Katie Owen, who kept the energy high between sets with a steady stream of indie anthems across the Big Top – setting the perfect vibe throughout the weekend.
The Wombats
A quick walk back to the main stage and you could feel the buzz in the air as anticipation built for the evening’s headliners. But first, it was time for The Wombats, fresh from their set at Radio 1’s Big Weekend the day before, and clearly in their element. Even as the rain came down in earnest, spirits weren’t dampened. This was no damp squib, quite the opposite. The Liverpool trio proved once again that they’re made for moments like this. With a set stacked full of indie anthems and a multigenerational crowd singing every word, The Wombats delivered a high-octane performance that could easily have headlined the night. Matt, Tord, and Dan were all on top form, joined by their now-iconic wombat mascots, a playful touch carried over from their recent UK & EU tour that added even more charm and chaos. The set was pure festival gold, pyros, pogoing crowds, and an endless stream of hits. “Greek Tragedy,” “Moving to New York,” and “Let’s Dance to Joy Division” sent the crowd into a frenzy, uniting fans old and new. A pitch-perfect reminder of why The Wombats remain one of the UK’s most beloved live acts.
The K’s
A quick dash back across the festival site and I managed to catch a bit of local heroes The K’s, hailing from nearby Earlestown, as they lit up a packed-out Big Top ahead of the night’s headliners, The Reytons. No strangers to the NBHD stage, the four-piece delivered a rip-roaring, hour-long set that felt like a rallying cry to festival organisers everywhere: The K’s are ready for the main stage spotlight. Renowned for their relentless energy and fiercely loyal fanbase, the atmosphere inside the tent was electric, soaked festivalgoers, flares burning bright, and a crowd that sang every lyric. Despite the rain hammering down outside, nothing could dampen the spirit inside. It was a raw, euphoric set that proved exactly why The K’s are fast becoming one of the UK’s most exciting live bands. Frontman Jamie Boyle’s indie melodies and raucous energy had the crowd firmly in the palm of his hand, backed brilliantly by Ryan Breslin, Dexter Baker, and Nathan Peers. Together, they delivered a polished, high-octane performance that showcased just how far they’ve come since their first performance at NBHD a few years back. When the band launched into “Glass Towns” and “Hometown”, the atmosphere inside the tent reached fever pitch, it genuinely felt like the roof might lift off. One thing’s for sure: keep an eye on The K’s. They’re on a steep upward trajectory, and they’re only getting started.
James
Arguably one of the best live festival bands around, James closed out Saturday night on the Main Stage in spectacular style. With a packed summer of major festivals and outdoor shows ahead, the band are clearly enjoying a well-deserved resurgence, and their NBHD set was a powerful reminder of their timeless appeal. The Mancunian nine-piece have a rare ability to transport an audience, their chemistry on stage seamless, years of experience combining with a genuine sense of spontaneity. Every member played their part, feeding off one another and delivering a set that was both polished and profoundly moving. Frontman Tim Booth remains a magnetic, almost shamanic presence. At 65, his energy is astonishing, dancing with abandon, radiating joy and connection. He moved with the freedom and flair of the Haçienda era, his vocals still soaring, emotive, and utterly distinctive. His connection with the crowd was electric, a frontman that many of today’s acts could only hope to emulate. But James is no one-man show. Saul Davies added richness on guitar and violin, while Mark Hunter’s keys brought cinematic atmosphere and depth. Drummer David Baynton-Power provided rock-solid rhythm, and bassist Jim Glennie – the band’s founding member and heartbeat, anchored everything with understated strength. Andy Diagram’s soaring trumpet lines lifted several tracks into something euphoric, while newer members Debbie Knox-Hewson (percussion) and Chloe Alper (guitar/vocals) brought fresh dynamics and harmonies that showed the band’s evolution without compromising their core identity. Their 1 hour and 45-minute set was a masterclass, weaving old favourites with newer material that held its own. Personal standouts included “She’s a Star” and “Getting Away With It (All Messed Up)”, delivered with emotional intensity and clarity. Unifying moments came, as expected, with “Laid” and “Sit Down”, the entire Warrington crowd joining together in a cathartic, rain-soaked singalong that echoed long after the final note. Not breaking for an encore, the band powered through without pause – a bold, confident decision that only added to the impact. A truly unforgettable festival set, and a glowing reminder that James are still one of the UK’s most vital and beloved live acts. If you get a chance to catch them this summer – don’t miss it.
The Reytons
Rotherham’s own The Reytons closed out the Big Top on Saturday night, and from the moment they stepped on stage, it was clear this one was going to be a hot, sweaty, and electric affair. The tent was bursting at the seams, packed with fans who came ready for chaos – and they got it. I only managed to catch the first three songs before dashing back to the Main Stage for James, but those opening tracks hit like a freight train.
“Low Life,” “Red Smoke,” and “Antibiotics” exploded from the stage, accompanied by fire, flares, and a wash of crimson smoke that turned the tent into a warzone of sound and energy. Johnny, Joe, Lee, and Jamie had the crowd in the palm of their hands, their raw energy matching the fever-pitch atmosphere. Sodden but buzzing, I left the tent smiling – already thinking about day two. Day 2 – Sunday The atmosphere showed no signs of letting up as I made the now-familiar journey through Warrington town centre on Sunday morning. Entering the Victoria Park site for the second day of festival fun, it was clear the organisers had worked tirelessly overnight, the remnants of Saturday’s revelry, from empty beer cans to discarded food packaging, had vanished without a trace. The site was spotless, reset and ready to welcome thousands of eager festival goers through its gates. Conditions underfoot were surprisingly solid too, considering the rain and heavy foot traffic from the day before. The ground held up well, making it easy for festival goers to enjoy the day without worry. The buzz was already building, and it was clear: Sunday was shaping up to be just as electric as the day before. With a line-up that, in my opinion, edged Saturday’s offering, Sunday brought greater variety and genre-bending energy to the table.
From indie to pop to rock, there was something for everyone. The main stage was set to be closed by Welsh indie giants Stereophonics, while over at the Big Top, Dizzee Rascal promised a headline set with enough fire to shake the tent to its core. Sunday wasn’t here to wind things down – it was here to raise the bar.
Alex Spencer
Sunday kicked off in the Big Top with a set from rising Droylsden talent, Alex Spencer. I first caught him live supporting The Lathums at Robin Park in Wigan last year, and it’s clear his momentum hasn’t slowed since. At just 18, he’s already sold out hometown shows at venues like Gorilla and continues to gain serious traction on the UK indie scene. Despite Alex expressing doubts about how many would turn up for his early slot, a healthy and enthusiastic crowd gathered – proof that word is spreading fast about this young artist’s potential.
Signed to Modern Sky Records at the age of 16, Alex’s journey from busking the streets at 12 to playing major festivals in just six years is nothing short of impressive. His sharp lyricism and natural stage presence made him the perfect act to spark Sunday into life. Despite the early slot, he led the crowd with confidence, delivering a vibrant, high-energy set that set the tone for the day ahead. Tracks like “Love and let go” and “One Way Ticket” went down a treat with the growing audience, many of whom looked pleasantly surprised by just how polished and assured this young artist already is. If you get the chance, catch Alex Spencer on his next tour, he’s definitely one to watch, and I get the feeling this is just the beginning.
The Clause
Birmingham’s The Clause kicked off Sunday’s main stage with a dynamic, high-energy set that showcased their gritty, alternative rock sound. Their powerful riffs and passionate vocals resonated with the crowd, building momentum and winning over plenty of new fans ahead of the release of their debut album, Victim of a Casual Thing. Corella Blending seamlessly with the lively NBHD crowd, I found my spot at the Main Stage just in time for Corella’s 2pm slot. The Manchester-based four-piece, having graduated from the Viola Beach Stage in 2023, drew a strong and eager crowd, their rise clearly well-earned. Fresh from headlining Liverpool’s Sound City, Corella’s infectious indie-pop and anthemic energy hit the perfect note. Standout tracks like “Bloom”, “Come Around”, and “Barcelona Girl” set an upbeat tone, sparking mosh pits and energizing the Sunday crowd. Frontman Joel Smith’s refreshing vocals, paired with the band’s tight and confident musicianship, made for a memorable debut live experience for me – definitely not the last. With an EU tour this month and a UK tour in September, I’d highly recommend catching them, especially their headline show at New Century Hall on September 26th.
James Marriott
A quick dash from the main stage to the Big Top for James Marriott’s set was well worth it. His loyal fanbase filled the tent, buzzing with energy as he took the stage – though he amusingly kept mixing up Warrington with Manchester, clearly needing a geography lesson! The YouTube star turned musician delivered a confident, punchy 35-minute set, drawing clear inspiration from Foals and The Strokes while maintaining a fresh, distinct sound. Backed by a tight live band, James brought his alternative-indie blend to life, with standout tracks like “Grapes” and “Sleeping on Trains” resonating strongly with the crowd. New material from his upcoming album Don’t Tell the Dog, especially “Toothache,” sounded sharp and full of promise ahead of its June 13th release, definitely one I’ll be spinning on release day.
Mary Wallopers
Back at the main stage, I dashed across the festival site to catch Irish band The Mary Wallopers, where a steadily growing crowd gathered eagerly for their set. With a minimalist stage setup – highlighted by a single Palestinian flag draped over their instruments in solidarity with Gaza, the band delivered an energetic, comedic, and lively performance that quickly had the Victoria Park field dancing. Unafraid to express their political views through powerful lyrics, The Mary Wallopers proved that traditional Irish music can still carry raw beauty and meaningful impact. Chloe Slater Next up on the Viola Beach Stage was 22-year-old Chloe Slater and her live band. Fresh from a slot at Live at Leeds the day before, Chloe delivered a short but impactful 25-minute set that left a lasting impression on the NBHD crowd. If she was unknown to some before, that definitely changed. The Manchester-based artist, who headlined a hometown show at YES back in February, feels poised for the next step – Academy venues surely await. Performing tracks from her February EP Love Me Please, including standouts “Sucker” and “Fig Tree,” her sound drew comparisons to the likes of Wolf Alice, The Big Moon, and Wet Leg. Confident, dynamic, and full of promise, Chloe Slater is definitely one to watch.
Nieve Ella
A quick run to the Big Top let me catch the first couple of songs from Nieve Ella’s 35-minute set, drawing a big crowd for this rising 22-year-old musician already supporting the likes of The Courteeners, Girl in Red, and Inhaler. The two songs I caught – “Anything” and “The Things We Say” – sounded fantastic, leaving me wishing I could have stayed for the whole set. Her sound is clearly captivating, and she’s definitely an artist to watch.
Sigrid
Back at the main stage, the weather took a turn as the rain returned just in time for Norwegian pop star Sigrid’s NBHD debut, though she’s certainly no stranger to UK audiences. With a packed summer of festival dates ahead, it’s clear she’s a beloved fixture for younger crowds. Taking the stage at 4:15pm, Sigrid lifted the energy just when the crowd needed it most – no rain could stop this party. Her 45-minute set was packed with hits, including fan favorites like “Strangers” and “Don’t Kill My Vibe” from her debut Sucker Punch, alongside bold, confident tracks like “Bad Life” and “Mirror” from 2022’s How To Let Go. Her songs, which explore themes of young adulthood, relationships, and self-discovery, blend melancholy and vulnerability with infectious pop hooks, creating a sound uniquely her own. Backed by a tight live band, her performance was both polished and heartfelt. This set felt like the perfect Sunday afternoon reset, reigniting the crowd and welcoming a mix of ages, setting the tone for the evening’s big names yet to come.
Inhaler
Fresh off a headline UK and Europe tour, Dublin’s Inhaler took the main stage to deliver an hour of driving indie anthems that kept the energy high. After a no-photography policy on their recent tour, I was thrilled to be able to capture their NBHD set, which showcased a band now fully confident in their own right. From supporting Blossoms just a few years ago to headlining major stages, Inhaler’s rise has been remarkable. Returning to NBHD with a refined sound and an expanded back catalogue spanning It Won’t Always Be Like This, Cuts & Bruises, and 2025’s Open Wide, they packed the set with fan favourites and new material, all delivered with precision and style. Frontman Elijah Hewson – son of U2’s Bono, commands the stage with powerful vocals and magnetic presence, carving out his own identity beyond the famous surname. Guitarist Josh Jenkinson added texture and punch with slick riffs, Rob Keating’s smooth bass lines grounded the sound, and Ryan McMahon’s drums drove every track with intensity. Despite the heaviest rain of the weekend, a crowd packed with drenched teens, shoulders lifted fans, and flares lighting up the drizzle made for a summer-spirit set. Hits like “My Honest Face,” “It Won’t Always Be Like This,” and “Love will get you there” sent the crowd wild, while newer track “Billy (Yeah Yeah Yeah)” landed perfectly.
Wunderhorse
Arguably the biggest clash of the day saw Wunderhorse take the Big Top stage at 18:10, right in the middle of Inhaler’s set – a quick dash to catch their opening trio of songs was well worth it. The Cornwall-based band, now finally getting the recognition they deserve after supporting giants like Fontaines D.C., Foals, and Pixies, delivered a raw, grungy alt-rock sound that felt both nostalgic and fresh. The packed tent was the biggest crowd over the weekend, a mix of die-hard fans and those sheltering from the rain, creating an electric atmosphere that made this my standout performance. Originally Jacob Slater’s solo project, Wunderhorse grew into a full band in 2021 and haven’t looked back since. Slater commanded the stage with brooding charisma, embodying the gritty spirit that defines their sound. He was joined by Harry Fowler on guitar, Seb Byford, who recently replaced long-time bassist and backing vocalist Peter Woodin – on bass, and Jamie Staples on drums. Their tight, driving rhythm section propelled a set that was both urgent and confident. Fan favourites like “Teal,” “Purple,” and “Leader of the Pack” from their 2022 debut Cub had the crowd roaring, while newer tracks “Rain” and “Arizona” from 2024’s Midas showed the band’s evolving edge. Flags waved, flares lit up the space, and the sweaty, intense energy made for a fiery 45-minute set. With a headline show at Manchester’s Victoria Warehouse just days after NBHD, Wunderhorse have moved from rising act to major players in the UK indie and alternative scene.
The Lathums
The sun finally trying to appear again and the crowd drying out, Wiganers The Lathums delivered a powerful pre-headline set on the main stage, drawing from their two UK Number One albums – How Beautiful Life Can Be and From Nothing to a Little Bit More – alongside fresh material from 2025’s Matter Does Not Define. From the first chord, the crowd was fully engaged. Led by frontman Alex Moore, whose emotive vocals blend vulnerability with unmistakable northern grit, The Lathums performed with a new level of confidence and maturity. Moore commanded the stage with a quiet assurance that’s clearly grown since earlier shows. Scott Concepcion’s soaring guitar work – he’s arguably one of the best guitarists on the scene right now – paired with Matty Murphy’s steady basslines and Ryan Durrans’ punchy drums, gave the set both power and depth, underlining just how far the band has come. Standout moments like “Fight On” and “The Great Escape” ignited mass singalongs, with flags flying and flares cutting through the golden-hour haze. The band’s chemistry was undeniable, a tight, focused unit clearly enjoying every moment. With headline slots at Leeds’ Sounds of the City and an international set at the Singapore Grand Prix still to come this year, The Lathums are fast cementing themselves as one of the UK’s most exciting live acts. A future NBHD headline set feels not just likely, but inevitable.
CMAT
Ciara Mary-Alice Thompson, better known as CMAT, was the perfect warm-up act in the Big Top ahead of the evening’s headliner, Dizzee Rascal. No stranger to this stage, having performed here in 2023 – the hugely talented singer-songwriter is enjoying a well-earned moment in the spotlight, with recent nominations for the 2024 BRIT Award for International Artist of the Year, the Mercury Prize, and Best Album at the Ivor Novello Awards. The Irish singer’s set was nothing short of captivating: equal parts theatrical, witty, and heartfelt. Dressed in her trademark flair and armed with razor-sharp one-liners, she had the crowd laughing, singing, and swaying along in no time. Her genre-blending mix of country-pop, indie, and tongue-in-cheek storytelling made for one of the most distinctive performances of the weekend. Rolling around the stage during her first song, “Have Fun,” she revealed the unexpected side of her performance. With a headline tour and new album Euro Country on the way later this year, it’s an exciting time to be one of the self-proclaimed “CMATbabies.” Fan favourites like “I Wanna Be a Cowboy, Baby!” and “Stay for Something” were instant crowd-pleasers, while new releases “Take a Sexy Picture of Me” and “Running/Planning” showcased an evolving sound that, in my view, reflects even more depth and musical maturity. A personal highlight was Have Fun from her 2023 album Crazymad, for Me, a full-bodied, lyrically powerful track performed with real heart and vocal precision. CMAT knows how to hold a room. Her NBHD set was a reminder of the magic of seeing a rising star just before they break through in a massive way. If you weren’t familiar with her before, chances are you walked away a fan.
Stereophonics
With a ninth Number One album under their belt, a summer packed with headline stadium shows, top billing at major festivals, and a full-scale U.S. tour ahead, Stereophonics need no introduction. Closing out this year’s NBHD Weekender, they delivered a career-spanning masterclass in owning a festival headline slot – a perfect finale to an unforgettable, rain-soaked weekend. Taking to the main stage just as the rain eased, frontman Kelly Jones was in commanding form. His gravelly, instantly recognisable vocals cut through the cool evening air with ease, reaffirming why he remains one of the UK’s most consistent and respected live performers. Backed by longtime bandmates Richard Jones on bass, Adam Zindani on guitar and backing vocals, and Jamie Morrison on drums, the band played like a well-oiled machine, their decades of chemistry evident in every note. The set was packed with hits that kept the crowd captivated from start to finish. Timeless anthems like “Maybe Tomorrow,” “Just Looking,” and “A Thousand Trees” sparked massive singalongs, while raucous tracks such as “The Bartender and the Thief” and “Vegas Two Times” cranked up the energy. Newer material from their 2022 album Oochya! landed just as strongly, showcasing the band’s ability to evolve while staying true to their roots. “Have a Nice Day” united the entire park in euphoric harmony, arms raised, flares and pyros glowing, voices soaring – creating an atmosphere only a band of this calibre can command. Kelly’s effortless connection with the audience, peppered with nods of gratitude and warm anecdotes, brought an intimate feel to the massive occasion. As confetti cannons fired and pink balloons floated into the Warrington night during “Dakota,” it was clear Stereophonics hadn’t just met expectations – they’d raised the bar. A fitting, triumphant close to NBHD Weekender 2025.
Dizee Rascal
Dizzee Rascal brought Neighbourhood Weekender 2025 to a thunderous close with an electrifying set in The Big Top, delivering a high-octane performance that had the crowd bouncing from start to finish. Opening with the explosive “Jus’ a Rascal,” he immediately set the tone for a night of relentless energy. Fan favourites like “Fix Up, Look Sharp,” “Dance wiv Me,” and “Holiday” sparked massive singalongs, while deeper cuts such as “Bassline Junkie” and “Sirens” showcased his versatility and total command of the stage. The tent was packed and the atmosphere electric, and as he launched into his final track, “Bonkers”, so good he played it twice, the entire crowd erupted, with flares lighting up the night and fans dancing with unbridled joy. It was a masterclass in festival headlining, leaving no doubt that Dizzee Rascal still knows exactly how to work a crowd. To conclude – what a weekend! I’m absolutely shattered, but still buzzing. It’s brilliant to see NBHD Weekender back in full swing, and it certainly didn’t disappoint. I’m gutted I couldn’t catch more of the acts on this year’s lineup, but with a festival of this size, you have to make some tough choices from the start. From the stellar line-up and vibrant crowd to the slick organisation and unbeatable atmosphere, everything came together to remind us why this festival is such a standout on the UK calendar. Not even the weather could dampen the mood, a proper celebration of live music at its best. Huge credit to everyone involved behind the scenes, pulling off an event of this scale is no small feat, and the effort clearly paid off. If you’re looking for something to do over the May bank holiday next year, look no further than NBHD Weekender, you won’t regret it. And finally, a big shout out to Phil Goddard for sorting me out with a pass for this year’s event. Until next time!
Words and Photos by Ben Whitehurst
