The best bands to see at Reading and Leeds 2025

Reading & Leeds has always been a haven for the bold, the loud, and the left-of-centre. While main stage headliners tend to dominate the spotlight, it’s often the alternative acts tucked into late-afternoon sets or hiding out in smaller tents that end up stealing the show. The 2025 lineup captures a wide-ranging definition of “alternative” — spanning punk, emo, hardcore, indie rock, experimental pop, and everything in between. Whether you’re chasing high-gloss emo revivalism, snarling post-punk, or genre-defying internet weirdos, this year’s bill is packed with artists ready to leave a lasting mark.

Some are returning festival veterans with reputations for ferocious live shows. Others are new names poised to blow up — the ones you’ll be bragging about seeing first. That’s the thrill of Reading & Leeds: a mix of the tried-and-true and the next big thing, all sharing a lineup built for discovery.

If you’re plotting your weekend and want to catch the most exciting alternative acts on the lineup; from cult favourites with massive followings to rising stars making serious noise, start with these ten. Whether you're drawn to chaotic punk energy, soaring emo hooks, or experimental twists on pop and rock, these sets are guaranteed to leave an impression.

Wallows

With their breezy, guitar-driven alt-rock, Wallows have carved out a distinct space in the modern indie landscape. Led by Dylan Minnette, the trio blends nostalgic ‘90s tones with contemporary pop clarity, resulting in tracks that are as emotionally resonant as they are catchy. Known for fan favorites like “Are You Bored Yet?” and “Remember When,” their live performances strike a balance between infectious energy and heartfelt lyricism. At Reading & Leeds 2025, Wallows are set to bring the kind of emotionally rich set that will have you dancing one moment and swaying pensively the next.

Lambrini Girls

Crude, cathartic, and completely irresistible, Lambrini Girls are one of the most vital punk acts in the UK right now. Their feral live shows feel like a protest and a party all at once, and their razor-sharp lyricism tackles everything from queer rage to political hypocrisy with humour and fury. If you’re looking for sweat, speed, and an unfiltered punch to the gut, don’t miss their set — it’ll be one of the rowdiest, most important moments of the weekend.

Mannequin Pussy

Philadelphia’s Mannequin Pussy balance abrasive punk with disarming vulnerability like few others. On stage, they’re all-in: fiery, explosive, and emotionally raw. Vocalist Marisa Dabice shifts effortlessly between tender melodies and full-throated screams, backed by a band that understands tension and release in all the right ways. Their latest material expands their sonic palette without losing the bite that made them such a force to begin with. Expect chaos, catharsis, and one of the most emotionally gripping sets of the weekend.

High Vis

Blending post-punk, hardcore, and Britpop melancholy, High Vis make music that feels like both a war cry and a warm embrace. Their songs are working-class anthems, buzzing with grief, resilience, and a uniquely British swagger. Live, they’re relentless, channelling rage into solidarity with every shout-along chorus. If you’re into the gritty heart of alternative music, the kind that’s as real as it is loud, High Vis are essential viewing.

Soft Play

Formerly known as Slaves, Soft Play have re-emerged with a sharper focus and the same ferocious energy. Their brash blend of punk and garage rock has always translated well on festival stages, but their newer material shows a band that’s grown without losing their confrontational edge. Whether they’re shouting about social decay or simply causing a ruckus, Soft Play guarantees chaos — and a very good time.

Pale Waves

Pale Waves have evolved from indie-pop darlings to full-blown alt-rock contenders. Their blend of arena-ready hooks and goth-tinged aesthetics makes for a compelling festival presence. Frontwoman Heather Baron-Gracie delivers each lyric with intensity and flair, while the band’s polished production ensures the live experience hits as hard as the recordings. From moody bangers to heart-on-sleeve ballads, they’ll give you a little drama and a lot of emotion.

Bilmuri

Equal parts chaotic and cathartic, Bilmuri (the solo project of former Attack Attack! guitarist Johnny Franck) is a genre-hopping whirlwind of post-hardcore, pop-punk, and internet-era absurdity. His music is as likely to make you laugh as it is to move you, often in the same track. Live, Bilmuri brings a raw, DIY energy that cuts through any over-polished festival set. If you like your alt-rock with a heavy side of weird, this one’s for you.

South Arcade

One of the most exciting new bands in the UK scene, South Arcade are pop-rock firecrackers with a Gen Z twist. Their sharp hooks and unapologetically modern aesthetic make them a thrilling addition to this year’s bill. Don’t let their youth fool you — this band has polish, presence, and serious potential. Catch them now before they blow up completely. This is the kind of set you’ll brag about seeing early.

Enter Shikari

No strangers to Reading & Leeds, Enter Shikari remain one of the most innovative and politically charged live acts in UK rock. Their blend of electronic chaos, hardcore intensity, and massive choruses ensures that no two sets are the same — and every single one is unforgettable. With a discography full of anthems and a fanbase that goes all in, this is guaranteed to be a highlight of the weekend.

Bring Me The Horizon

Bring Me The Horizon are arguably the defining alternative band of their generation, and their headline set at Reading & Leeds is a full-circle moment. From deathcore outsiders to arena rock visionaries, they’ve evolved with style and intention. Expect a set that blends cinematic production with heavy-hitting fan favourites across their diverse discography. Whether you’re a diehard or a casual listener, BMTH are going to put on a masterclass in how to own a festival stage.

Words: Jason De Medonca