The big Bulletproof Festival review 2026

June 2026 marks the first Bulletproof Festival, a three-day event placing grassroots music culture at the centre of its mission. As part of the Music For The Many campaign, Bulletproof has spotlighted the importance of grassroots venues. Recognising their role in showcasing emerging talent and providing accessible, affordable live music within local communities. Across four grassroots venues in Hackney, presenting over thirty bands, festival-goers were invited to explore some of the lesser-known music spaces whilst discovering their new favourite artists. 

Founded by Peace and Justice, the festival brings together organisers, artists and activists with a distinctly political perspective. An appearance from Jeremy Corbyn establishes the foundations of their beliefs. Every child deserves the opportunity to explore music, to dream and be expressive. Everyone, despite class, race and gender, deserves the opportunity to make music. Corbyn also established that the festival was raising funds for medical aid in Palestine, a cause that resonated strongly with attendees throughout the weekend. With advocacy woven throughout the sets, fans buzzed with excitement all weekend, and anticipation grew for more.

DEAD AIR

A catchy opening riff immediately turned heads as South London’s DEAD AIR opened the stage for the Bulletproof festival. Blending alternative rock with post-hardcore influences, the band delivered a chaotic yet controlled atmosphere throughout their set. The band’s strong chemistry translated into their stage presence, making full use of the stage and higher platforms.  Without disrupting the flow, each member had showcased their individual instrumental talents, hypnotising the crowd to headbang along. DEAD AIR ensured that momentum was built throughout their set. By the end, their energy was contagious. It was evident that the opening performance had left a lasting impression on those curious about the first Bulletproof festival. 

SOAPBOX

Describing themselves as "a band in their 20s who are angry at the political climate", SOAPBOX's passion is evident. From bouncing between raised platforms and singing amongst fans, there is an effortless wave of movement amongst the crowd. Calling out the uncomfortable reality through their speeches and lyrics, SOAPBOX embody the spirit of punk. From the struggles of the working class to the rise of fascism within the country, the Glaswegian four-piece band are adamant on having its voice heard. Tracks such as Fascist Bob and Yer Da were crowd favourites. If you're not already familiar with SOAPBOX, these tracks encapsulate their punk rage. 

CQ WRESTLING 

A deceptive mellow introduction lures the audience before unleashing a storm of energy. CQ WRESTLING wasted no time showing off their magnetic band chemistry. Blending their atmospheric synthetics offers a unique flair to their indie rock sound. The band’s audience participation was evident throughout the show, even during slower moments. Waves of clapping hands created a sense of connection that elevated their performance. The lighting, the staging placement and group presence made their performance impossible to ignore. As the set gradually slowed down, CQ WRESTLING’s strength as musicians persevered through their synths and melodic hooks. For fans of indie rock, this is a band to seek out as they tour across the country. 

MARUJA

MARUJA ended the first day of Bulletproof festival as headliners. Anticipation was rising through the crowd as they waited for the noisy jazz punk band. A cinematic atmosphere was created with violins seeping through the speakers. There was a brief moment of tension before the band’s crushing heaviness. As the first note dropped, a sense of urgency forced the crowd to form a pit. Their flair: the saxophone. At times, the saxophone offered an unsettling intensity that seemed in with the political chants between songs. Watching a push pit occur around the sound of the saxophone remains a highlight of night one. Engagement from the crowd had been maintained during the gradual shift to mellower tracks. The instrumental transitions between songs had connected with fans, some shedding tears. An incredible way to finish off day one. 

CLT DRP

From the moment CLT DRP stepped on stage, this three-piece delivered a performance overflowing with energy and confidence. With Annie Dorrett utilising every inch of the stage, the band wasted no time luring the audience into their universe. Flashing lights feed into the energetic atmosphere cultivated by the band and their connection to the audience. Blending electronic textures with a punk flair, dancing and movement were invited. Closing the set with a fiery scream, the final release of raw emotion, the venue was left wanting more. CLT DRIP proved that they are electro punk at its finest: bold, energetic and impossible to ignore. 

WESTSIDE COWBOY

A surprise act, blurred out on the set times, has been stirring up speculation amongst festival goers. The four-piece band WESTSIDE COWBOY were announced 12 hours before and brought their folky indie rock tracks to the stage. Aoife leans into their folky vocals as the band takes on a unique britainicana sound. Their set shifted seamlessly from slower tracks to playful rock. Waving arms and swaying flood the venues as the crowd observes with awe. The band’s chemistry is enchanting as they close their set with the quartet gathering around a singular microphone. It was evident that they were a group of friends who loved performing music together. 

SPRINTS

Rounding up night two of Bulletproof festival,  SPRINTS had managed to fill up the venue. A countdown fuels excitement within the crowd, ready for the second headliner of this festival. The energy for the first song was undeniable, with a sea of bodies moving along to the sound of the drums. SPRINTS infectious enthusiasm was contagious fans engaged in their electric world. Audience participation was a defining characteristic of this closing performance. The band invited fans to sing along and participate in call-and-response. Each response was louder than the last; momentum was never lost. A buzz followed each person who left the venue. A feeling of excitement and satisfaction accumulated from SPRINTS’ set. 

JOOLS

Any concerns that a knee brace would limit Mitch Gordon’s performance were quickly put to rest. The staging arrangement had moved slightly with the drums living on the front right. JOOLS had utilised every inch of the stage from the very beginning, forcing the crowd to observe every movement. With their voices blending effortlessly, both lead singers delivered a phenomenal performance. The most powerful moment occurred during 97%, a politically charged track about the mistreatment of women in everyday life. A track that deeply resonated with every woman in the crowd. Crutches were raised into the air in a show of solidarity and celebration, a fitting image for a performance that refused to be defined by limitations.

RORY CITY

Hidden on the bill was the side project of trans artist, RORY CITY. Known as the lead singer of GENDER CRISIS, there was a growing excitement towards this set. His DIY approach felt perfectly suited to the venue, Jago, creating an intimate atmosphere that emphasised the authenticity and passion behind the performance. While the set leaned towards the mellower side, every song was delivered with a clear sense of purpose. His enthusiasm was contagious, forcing bodies to feel free and dance. Crowd engagement was a memorable experience as RORY CITY wove through the crowd, dancing along with others. A mission to connect with every single person in the room had left them feeling connected to their music. Even a side quest can be as enjoyable, accomplishing and rewarding. 

CODY FROST

Closing Bulletproof festival on Saturday, CODY FROST was on a mission to create a memorable night. It was clear they knew exactly how to interact with audiences: giving a mesmerising performance whilst balancing their infectious energy. There was a series of powerful screams that elevated throughout the set, which drew an enthusiastic response. Crowd interaction remained constant throughout the set as the audience crouched low before erupting into synchronised jumps. Blending electro punk with hyper pop ensured the crowd were kept on their feet. Whether this was dancing, opening a push pit or two-stepping, there was a strong sense of community within the room. With the tease of the unreleased track “Violet,” the excitement lingered long after the audience had left.

Words: Theviya R Karunaharan 

Photos: Amy Lynch