For us at The Front Row, the UK festival season truly begins when Slam Dunk Festival rolls into town. Year after year, it delivers the biggest names in pop-punk, rock, metal, and alternative music, and 2025 is shaping up to be no different. With A Day to Remember making their long-awaited return to the UK, Electric Callboy, Neck Deep, The Used, and New Found Glory securing huge slots, and a host of new rising stars on the bill, this year’s line-up is nothing short of electric.
Taking place on Saturday, May 24th at Hatfield Park and Sunday, May 25th at Leeds’ Temple Newsam, Slam Dunk 2025 promises another weekend of high-energy, nostalgia-fuelled anthems, chaotic pits, and plenty of surprises along the way. Plus, with after-parties lined up across Camden and Leeds, the festival is going all out to make this the biggest edition yet.
But while Slam Dunk is known for its heavyweight headliners, we at The Front Row want to shine a light on some of the most exciting acts featuring female musicians who’ll be taking the stage this year. There’s still a long way to go when it comes to breaking down the “boys club” culture of festivals, but these five artists are proving that alternative music is at its best when it’s diverse, dynamic, and fearless.
5 Must-Watch Acts at Slam Dunk Festival 2025
1) Delilah Bon – Punk-Rap Royalty Ready to Dominate
If you like your music with a bite, Delilah Bon is a must-see at Slam Dunk 2025. The alter ego of Hands Off Gretel’s Lauren Tate, Delilah Bon blends punk, hip-hop, and riot grrrl energy into something entirely her own. Her tracks tackle misogyny, empowerment, and rebellion with blistering bars and thrashing beats, expect her set to be a rallying cry for the underrepresented voices in the scene.
For fans of: Nova Twins, Rage Against The Machine, Hands Off Gretel
2) Sophie Powers – The Future of Alternative Pop-Punk
A breakout artist blending pop-punk, hyperpop, and alternative energy, Sophie Powers has quickly become one of the most talked-about new voices in the scene. Her tracks are packed with emotionally charged anthems, that showcases a fresh take on punk that speaks directly to Gen Z. With a fearless attitude and infectiously catchy hooks, her Slam Dunk set will undoubtedly turn heads.
For fans of: WILLOW, Poppy, Scene Queen
3) Winona Fighter – High-Energy Punk with a Raw Edge
The name might sound fun, but make no mistake, Winona Fighter brings serious energy to the stage. With gritty punk vibes, raw vocals, and a DIY spirit, this band is all about shaking things up. Their music is fast, furious, and full of attitude, and they’re exactly the kind of act that will ignite the Slam Dunk crowd into a frenzy.
For fans of: The Distillers, Paramore, Destroy Boys
4) Hot Milk – Genre-Bending Chaos and Unmatched Energy
Manchester’s Hot Milk have been setting stages ablaze with their genre-blending mix of emo, punk, and alt-rock, and Slam Dunk 2025 is set to be no exception. The duo, fronted by Han Mee and Jim Shaw, have carved out a reputation for raw, emotional anthems that pack a serious punch. At a time when alternative music still struggles with gender balance, Han Mee is a force of nature, proving that women in rock deserve every bit of the spotlight. Their Slam Dunk set promises to be a standout moment for the festival, expect big riffs, bigger choruses, and a crowd screaming every word back at them.
For fans of: Slipknot, Fever 333, Ho99o9
5) Dream State – A New Chapter for a Post-Hardcore Favourite
Dream State has had a turbulent few years, but their latest incarnation is proving stronger than ever. With Jessie Powell now fronting the band, they’re bringing a new lease of life to their melodic post-hardcore sound. Emotional, cathartic, and packed with singalong moments, Dream State’s set will be a standout for those looking for intensity and heart in equal measure.
For fans of: Holding Absence, Spiritbox, Architects
Why Slam Dunk 2025 is Unmissable
Slam Dunk has always been a festival that celebrates both nostalgia and the future of alternative music, and 2025 is no exception. With A Day to Remember’s surprise album setting the scene for their UK return, Electric Callboy’s unique brand of chaos, and Neck Deep flying the flag for UK pop-punk, it’s going to be a weekend of pure energy from start to finish.
Tickets are already flying, so if you haven’t secured yours yet, don’t sleep on it. Head to http://www.slamdunkfestival.com and get ready for one of the most exciting weekends of the year!
THE FRONT ROW 
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