Closing out summer on August 23–24 at Clifton Downs, Bristol, FORWARDS Festival has unveiled its final phase of lineup additions, spotlighting an eclectic mix of boundary-pushing talent across three unique stages.
The Saturday main stage unveils the inimitable Nilüfer Yanya, whose genre-fluid fusion of indie rock, jazz, psychedelia and electronics has resonated deeply with fans, alongside Berlin‐based up‑and‑comer Anna Erhard. Sunday’s main stage continues the momentum, introducing debut performances by the kinetic rapper Pa Salieu and adventurous post‑punk outfit Squid, firmly signalling FORWARDS’ commitment to fresh, cutting-edge voices.
This year’s marquee addition is The Arches, a brand‑new dance tent primed for immersive sonic voyages. Saturday nights heat up with transformative sets from new addition Jamz Supernova, joined by emerging selectors Helena Star, Feel The Real, and SpicyIvy. On Sunday, Bristol’s own LTJ Bukem unleashes his signature jungle rhythms, while Shy One, REA, and Miss Mash each bring their own stamps of grime, hip‑hop, and house. A particularly special moment arrives with the return of Smith & Mighty Soundsystem, this trip‑hop collective unveils fresh material and special guests for what promises to be a triumphant homecoming.
When night falls, the spotlight shifts to The INFORMATION Stage, where FORWARDS and Bristol’s Team Love fold out a curated late‑night experience. Saturday features sophisti‑pop tones from Ava Zarate, plus smooth R&B glimpses from fellow Next Level graduate Laura Dia, not to mention genre‑benders Mould and Alamay & Omar Cassius. Sunday’s lineup treads an adventurous path with experimental outfit Waldo’s Gift, spoken‑word ensemble Dizraeli & Joy Machine, and the enigmatic Guy and Red, each adding their personal flavours to this intimate musical enclave.
The final lineup cements FORWARDS as a melting pot of Bristolian roots, UK underground energy, and global sensibility. Earlier announced headliners like Orbital, Ezra Collective, Barry Can’t Swim, Confidence Man, Jorja Smith, The Last Dinner Party, and more weave into a weekend bursting with cross‑genre discovery. Whether you’re chasing heavy basslines, soulful reverie, or left‑field live resonance, FORWARDS 2025 stands ready to deliver the last thrilling pulse of summer.
Tickets are now available via forwardsbristol.co.uk.
