Prepare for an explosion of rock, punk and alternative music as Slam Dunk Festival returns in 2024, promising an electrifying experience for music lovers across the UK. Get ready to dive into a whirlwind of high-energy performances and a vibrant atmosphere that celebrates the very best of the alternative music scene.
With the final line-up now confirmed and the all important clashfinder released, fans will now have the unenviable task of planning their perfect day with fingers crossed that the stacked schedule doesn’t pose too many issues.
This year there’s a change in stages as the left and right splits appear to have been removed, opting for a more traditional stage operation with the addition of new stage sponsors GoPro and Monster.
Following their recent announcement that they will disband in 2025, British rockers and Slam Dunk favourites You Me At Six headline the Slam Dunk Mainstage on their UK festival exclusive appearance. American rockers I Prevail close out the GoPro Stage with Texan pop rockers Waterparks closing the Kerrang Stage. American ska-punk band The Interrupters and Pennsylvanian pop-punkers The Wonder Years are the chosen headline acts for the Monster and Key Club stages.
Slam Dunk Mainstage WeShootMusic Picks:
As December Falls: British pop-punkers known for their energetic performances and catchy tunes. Their music often combines elements of punk rock with pop sensibilities, creating a sound that’s both accessible and high-energy.
Boys Like Girls: Gaining widespread popularity in the mid-2000s with hits like “The Great Escape” and “Love Drunk,” American pop-rockers Boys Like Girls are known for their infectious hooks and anthemic choruses and are sure to get the crowd singing along.
All-American Rejects: Another American rock band that rose to fame in the early 2000s. Hits like “Swing, Swing” and “Gives You Hell” have solidified their place in pop-punk history. This will mark their first appearance in the UK for over 10 years, adding extra excitement for fans.
You Me At Six: A British rock band with a loyal following both in the UK and abroad. After their recent announcement to retire, there are now only a handful of opportunities to catch the band live. With a sound that’s evolved over the years from pop-punk to a more alternative rock vibe, You Me At Six are known for their dynamic live shows and passionate fanbase.
GoPro Stage WeShootMusic Picks:
Set It Off: An American rock band known for their unique blend of pop-punk, rock, and electronic elements. With lively shows and melodies, Set It Off promise to deliver an electrifying atmosphere on stage.
The Blackout: Following a come back UK headline tour earlier this year, Welsh natives The Blackout are a post-hardcore band with a reputation for their intense live shows. Their music often features heavy riffs and dual vocals, making them a favourite among fans of the genre.
Funeral for a Friend: A legendary Welsh post-hardcore band with a rich history in the UK rock scene. Known for their passionate performances and emotionally charged lyrics, Funeral for a Friend has left a lasting impact on the genre. Lucas from Holding Absence joining them on lead vocals will add another layer of dynamism to their performance.
Kerrang Stage WeShootMusic Picks:
Honey Revenge: A rising band that will embark on their own headline tour in the UK just prior to the festival, indicating their growing popularity within the rock scene. Honey Revenge is poised to deliver a memorable performance at Slam Dunk with their music blending elements of rock with sing along tracks and energetic instrumentals, promising an engaging set for fans.
Bob Vylan: Known for their bold and confrontational approach to punk music, Bob Vylan brings a raw energy to the stage. Their music often addresses social and political issues, making them a standout act for those who appreciate punk’s rebellious spirit and outspoken nature.
Pale Waves: Originally starting their career with a dreamy synth-pop sound, Pale Waves have now segued into a more alternative pop rock sound. Fronted by the charismatic Heather Baron-Gracie, the band has gained a dedicated following for their blend of ’80s-inspired pop and modern alternative rock.
Monster Stage WeShootMusic Picks:
The Skints: A British band known for their eclectic mix of reggae, ska, punk, and dub. Their vibrant sound and socially conscious lyrics have earned them a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. With their rhythm and melodies, The Skints are sure to get the crowd moving at the Monster Stage.
Pennywise: A legendary punk band hailing from California, Pennywise is known for their anthemic songs and energetic live shows. With a career spanning several decades, they’ve become icons of the punk rock scene, inspiring countless fans with their raw energy and passionate performances.
The Interrupters: Fronted by Aimee Interrupter, The Interrupters bring a fresh energy to ska and punk music. Their upbeat tunes make them a perfect fit for the Monster Stage. Known for their choruses and punk attitude, The Interrupters are guaranteed to ignite the crowd and keep the energy levels high throughout their set.
The Key Club Stage WeShootMusic Picks:
Beauty School / Arms Length: Leeds natives Beauty School are considered a Slam Dunk favourite, and they now link up with Arms Length with both bands set to bring their energetic and captivating performance to the Key Club Stage. Having recently co-headlined a tour, their popularity and reputation as a compelling live act are sure to draw in fans. Expect powerful vocals, driving rhythms, and a raw energy that’s characteristic of the punk scene.
Stick To Your Guns: Known for their passionate lyrics and intense live shows, Stick To Your Guns delivers a hard-hitting blend of hardcore and melodic punk. They have earned a dedicated following within the punk community and their performance is likely to be a highlight, featuring blistering riffs and unrelenting energy.
The Wonder Years: With their introspective and emotive lyrics, The Wonder Years have become synonymous with the pop-punk revival of the 2010s. Their ability to blend hooks with heartfelt storytelling has endeared them to fans around the world. Expect a powerful performance filled with sing-along moments and emotional highs.
Given pretty much all of the headlines acts have something to offer, it’s going to be a tough ask to pick between the stages for the final acts of each stage. Tickets are available to purchase at www.slamdunkfestival.com
