The festival season is well and truly upon us, and after our Live at Leeds coverage we’re pleased to be bringing you coverage of this weekend’s (26th-28th May) Slam Dunk Festival. Alice Cronshaw will be heading to Leeds for URY Music, and she has prepared this guide if you’re going too.
Slam Dunk is a day-long festival with a twist. Taking place in three different locations across the UK, there are three opportunities to catch the lineup over the course of the weekend. Showcasing an array of talent from the pop punk and alternative scenes, it’s no wonder that Slam Dunk has established itself as an unmissable event for many fans.
This year, the festival returns with full force, offering headliners such as Good Charlotte and Jimmy Eat World. These two seasoned acts have been around long enough to know how to put on a great set, so the day is sure to pack plenty of punch. As well as these veterans of the alternative scene, the festival boasts a wide range of fresh, up-and-coming talent, such as Asteroid Boys, Woes, and The Faim, who released their debut single in February.
With such a promising lineup, choosing who to see on the day can be dizzying, especially when confronted with clashes between set times. So, here are our five recommendations for sets you need to see if you hope to make the most of Slam Dunk.
King Prawn
A band as quirky and interesting as the name implies, we recommend you make some time to catch King Prawn (no pun intended). They were a big name in the 90s and early 2000s ska punk scene, and, after reforming in 2012, are still going strong.
If you’re looking for a memorable set with a rowdy crowd to go along with it, then you won’t regret making the time to see these guys.
Time: 2:50pm — 3:25pm
Stage: Fireball Stage
If you’re not going to Slam Dunk in Leeds, follow this link to find out additional set times for the other festival locations.
PVRIS
An unbeatable concoction of big hits and heartfelt songs, all driven by the unstoppable energy of frontwoman Lynn Gunn, PVRIS are guaranteed to be putting on a big show.
What’s more, even if the name of the band isn’t ringing any bells, some of their hits are likely to. Keep an ear out for ‘You and I’ and ‘My House’ and you’ll be hard pressed not to enjoy this set. It will almost certainly leave you abuzz for the rest of the day.
Time: 8:15pm — 9:05pm
Stage: Jägermeister Main Stage
If you’re not going to Slam Dunk in Leeds, follow this link to find out additional set times for the other festival locations.
Moose Blood
Offering a softer sound than some of the other bands on the lineup, Moose Blood still pack powerful vocals and forceful guitars. In fact, you’ll probably find it difficult to fault these guys, and they’re definitely worth a watch if you’ve not heard of them before. With some catchy tunes you’ll know by heart by the time you leave, you’re sure to be coming back for more.
Time: 5:35pm — 6:20pm
Stage: Monster Energy Main Stage
If you’re not going to Slam Dunk in Leeds, follow this link to find out additional set times for the other festival locations.
The Faim
The Faim released their debut single earlier this year, following a rebranding, and it was co-written by none other than the legendary Pete Wentz. If that isn’t enough for you, they have also worked with Josh Dun of Twenty One Pilots. Needless to say, it’s no surprise that this band have been attracting a lot of attention.
You can expect a sound that manages to feel both nostalgic and fresh, as new and exciting ideas invigorate their songs with an uncanny feel. This set will be a great opportunity to see The Faim before the crowds grow some more.
Time: 1:40pm — 2:10pm
Stage: Rock Sound Breakout Stage
If you’re not going to Slam Dunk in Leeds, follow this link to find out additional set times for the other festival locations.
Jimmy Eat World
With such terrific headliners, it’d be an absolute crime not to see at least one of them! Our recommendation is Jimmy Eat World. Known for a putting on an excellent live show with their undeniable stage presence, end your day with a bang that’ll leave your legs aching and ears ringing (that’s what you’re there for after all, isn't it?). That is, of course, unless you’re saving yourself and heading to the infamous Slam Dunk after party, which brings us on to the bonus recommendation…
Time: 9:30pm — 10:45pm
Venue: Monster Energy Main Stage
If you’re not going to Slam Dunk in Leeds, follow this link to find out additional set times for the other festival locations.
After Party
Strictly 18+ only, and already sold out for Hatfield and Leeds, the Slam Dunk after party is known for being one of the best nights around, and for good reason! With multiple rooms and guest DJ sets that go on until 3am, if you’re still standing (and are old enough) this is the place to be to top off the day.
Time: 11:00pm — 3:00am
Venue: Leeds University Union
If you’re not going to Slam Dunk in Leeds, follow this link to find out where the after party will be taking place for the other festival locations.
If you’re on your way to Slam Dunk this weekend, we hope you have an excellent time and take full advantage of all that’s on offer. Usual festival practice is encouraged: fill your ears with the sounds of as many bands as possible ,and soak up plenty of sun and beer. Oh, and don’t forget to bear these recommendations in mind, too.
All roads point to Leeds! … and Hatfield! … and Birmingham!
Article: Alice Cronshaw
URY Music Editor: Alex Sheriff
Slam Dunk Festival dates are as follows:
North: Leeds, Saturday 26th May
South: Hatfield, Sunday 27th May
Midlands: Birmingham, Monday 28th May
Tickets start form £49 and are available, along with more information, from the following link:
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