On Sunday 29th June 2025, Crystal Palace Park transformed into a haven for music lovers as Festival Republic brought together an eclectic lineup headlined by the legendary Deftones. The Italian Terraces echoed with sounds ranging from soulful jazz to blistering industrial metal, offering a day of sonic exploration that was as unpredictable as it was unforgettable.
🎤 Qendresa: Soulful Start
The day kicked off with a surprising twist—a set from an RnB/Soul/Jazz singer who even covered Sade. While not quite my usual cup of tea, her performance was undeniably polished and heartfelt. A gentle start that set the tone for the diversity to come.
🔊 HEALTH: Industrial Intensity
Next up was HEALTH, and this was where things got heavy. Their brand of industrial metal—raw, aggressive, and unapologetically loud—hit like a freight train. Real instruments, real grit, and very much my thing.
🧨 High Vis: Punk with Punch
Third on the bill were High Vis, bringing Scouse punk energy to the stage. While they didn’t reinvent the genre, they executed it with conviction and flair. A solid performance that had the crowd bouncing.
🎸 Weezer: Crowd-Pleasing Classics
Weezer did what Weezer does best—delivered hit after hit with infectious energy. The crowd was all in, singing along to every chorus. It was as good an experience as I’m ever going to get from them, and they didn’t disappoint.
🌑 Deftones: Sonic Artistry
Then came the headliners. Deftones were nothing short of mesmerizing. Their set was a masterclass in atmospheric heaviness—unique, immersive, and executed with precision. I couldn’t hum a tune or recall a chorus, but that didn’t matter. Their performance was a visceral experience, and I was thoroughly impressed.
🚉 The Exit: A Test of Patience
Leaving the venue was a bit of a slog. Crowd control at the station platform was tight, with movement managed all the way from the arena. It made sense logistically, but after a long day, the hour-long exit was a test of patience.
📸 Festival Moments
Here’s a glimpse into the day through my lens. Click below to view the full album
