For nearly two decades, Slam Dunk has been itself an ultimate cornerstone for pop-punk, emo, and alternative music fans. Through the years, its lineups have struck the perfect balance between nostalgia and new musical discoveries. Whether you were looking to relive your teens or just there to see what other bands had to offer, Slam Dunk brought bands that could pretty much please everyone. From having You Me At Six, Fall Out Boy, Motion City Soundtrack, The Wonder Years, to Reel Big Fish, Architects, Hellogoodbye, Slam Dunk has proved countless times why they deserve to be visited and enjoyed with friends.
And this year makes no expectations. Slam Dunk 2025 has been something I’ve looked forward to since they started dropping announcements last year. This year’s lineup, in my personal opinion, promises to be one of the strongest yet. So whether you’re a longtime attendee or heading to your first ever Slam Dunk, many acts will demand your attention. And for that, I have looked over the line-up and written some words on what I am looking forward to this year.
Karina’s picks
Free Throw – The Key Club Stage
Many of us can agree that over the past decade, Free Throw has made an incredible mark in the emo and pop-punk scenes. With their creative lyrics, soaring melodies, and punchy instrumentation, they have become an unstoppable band that continues to grow and evolve. They have an exceptional talent for capturing the raw chaos of life—whether it’s the messy emotions of growing up or the sheer joy of finding relief, their music feels so relatable. If you haven’t had the chance to see them live yet, now is such a fantastic opportunity for us to catch them and soak in those 30 minutes of magic!
Heart Attack Man – The Key Club Stage
Honestly, Heart Attack Man is one of those bands that brings so much fun and excitement to pop-punk and emo. Their loud and gritty sound has kept their music top-notch over the years, and I can’t help but feel excited about what’s to come!
Hot Mulligan – Main Stage West
I think most people know how much I adore Hot Mulligan, but for those who don’t, this is a band I’ve longed to see live! From what I’ve gathered, their energy on stage perfectly reflects the vibes from their records. There’s something truly special about their rawness, confessional lyrics, and infectious melodies that makes it feel like they’re speaking directly to you, almost as if they understand whatever challenges you might be facing. Their music balances angst and vulnerability beautifully, inviting you to connect deeply. Imagine their live shows being cathartic, with every song feeling like an uplifting moment of release. So, if you’re at Slam Dunk, don’t think twice – make sure to catch them! I have no doubt they’ll leave a lasting, positive impression on you.
Knuckle Puck – Main Stage West
This show is a must-see because it celebrates the tenth anniversary of their album Copacetic. It’s one of the best albums of the 2010s, and I can only imagine what delights await us at their performance.
Movements – Main Stage West
Fun story: Sidsel and I attended a concert together, and I found myself reminiscing about my end-of-the-year list back in 2023. I had only just dipped my toes into Movements, barely catching a single song here and there. On our walk to the metro, Sidsel encouraged me to check out their new album, RUCKUS! From that moment on, everything changed, and now I’m so looking forward to soaking in their energy live, outdoors, surrounded by good company.
Neck Deep – Main Stage West
I can hardly contain my excitement about catching Neck Deep at Slam Dunk this year! Their self-titled album truly blew me away—it takes us back to their early roots while proving they’re still at the top of their game. I’ve already declared “Heartbreak of the Century” a real gem, and if that energy lights up the stage, we’re absolutely in for a treat! Neck Deep has a knack for delivering massive sing-alongs and crowd-moving anthems, so getting to experience them in a vibrant festival atmosphere like Slam Dunk is simply essential.
Scowl – The Key Club Stage
The year they played the Roskilde Festival, I was down with COVID. Now is my chance, and I can’t wait!
Split Chain – The Key Club Stage
I had the fantastic experience of seeing them support Trophy Eyes in October, and they truly blew me away! Their energy is phenomenal—fast, powerful, and the kind of set that makes it impossible not to move. They bring a refreshing twist to heavy music, blending hardcore, metal, and punk in such an authentic way. The riffs hit hard, the breakdowns are relentless, and you can feel the crowd buzzing with excitement. Their stage presence is simply electric, making each performance feel delightfully unpredictable. I’m really looking forward to seeing them again at Slam Dunk and losing myself in the moment!
Nick’s picks
I’m excited to see Hot Mulligan at Slam Dunk Festival because their high-energy mix of emo and pop-punk is everything I love about live music. Their lyrics hit deep, their chaotic yet tight performances are always a blast, and I know the crowd is going to be screaming every word along with me. There’s something special about hearing songs like “Shhh! Golf is On” or “Drink Milk” and “Equip Sunglasses” live, with all the passion and humour that makes them so unique. It’s going to be loud, emotional, and absolutely unhinged in the best way possible—I can’t wait!
Their live shows always feel raw and chaotic in the best way. Their blend of hardcore punk with a fresh, almost grungy edge makes them stand out, and Kat Moss is an incredible frontwoman who brings so much intensity to every performance. I can’t wait to be in the pit, screaming along to tracks like Bloodhound and Psychic Dance Routine, surrounded by a crowd that’s just as hyped as I am. Seeing them tear up the stage at a festival like Slam Dunk is going to be unforgettable.
Stray From The Path live is their raw, explosive energy that turns every show into an intense, high-energy experience. Their politically charged lyrics, heavy riffs, and groovy, chaotic breakdowns hit even harder in a live setting, making the crowd go wild. Their stage presence is relentless, and they have a way of making every person in the room feel fired up and part of something bigger. Whether it’s the mosh pits, the call-and-response moments, or just the sheer aggression and passion in their performance, a Stray From The Path show is always an adrenaline-fueled riot from start to finish. Slam Dunk can’t come fast enough!
South Arcade
I’ve seen the hype online and their songs are catchy as hell, but can they pull it off live? I’m desperate to say they can! One to watch this year at Slam Dunk.
Graphic Nature
The aggression in their music, combined with their unpredictable stage presence, makes for a show that feels visceral and cathartic. Tracks like Killing Floor and Into The Dark are built for moshing, and I know the crowd is going to go absolutely wild. It’s that perfect mix of heaviness and emotion that makes their live performances unforgettable!
Split Chain
Their mix of hardcore, metal, and punk influences creates an atmosphere that’s aggressive, fast-paced, and impossible to stand still in. The riffs are crushing, the breakdowns hit hard, and the crowd always goes off—mosh pits, two-stepping, and pure adrenaline. Plus, their stage presence is electric, making every performance feel unpredictable and wild. If you’re into heavy music with a DIY spirit, Split Chain live is an experience you don’t want to miss.
THE og emos! Enough said!
Mouth Culture
Hot off the back of their shows with You Me at Six. Their blend of alt-pop and indie vibes creates such a dynamic and immersive atmosphere. Their tracks have this infectious energy that just makes you want to move, and their live performances bring an extra level of rawness and emotion that you don’t get from just listening to their recordings. The way they blend dreamy melodies with punchy rhythms makes for a set that feels both euphoric and deeply personal. Plus, their stage presence is always engaging, making the whole experience feel intimate yet electrifying—like you’re part of something special in that moment.
