Slam Dunk Festival has had a couple of rocky years of late (if you'll pardon the pun), but one thing you can always count on is those in the North making the most of whatever hand they're dealt - and 2025 was no different.
It just so happens that this year's edition of the festival managed to avoid the increasingly typical rain and boggy conditions and, instead, gig-goers were finally treated to some pretty consistent sunshine, warmth and, most importantly, dry land.
We kicked the day off by trying to sprint through the gates to catch Movements, but even the early crowds had already started picking up so quickly that making it to the main stage proved a challenge.
However, we did manage to get a great lay of the land, with this year's festival site marking a noticeable improvement upon recent years in terms of layout extras besides the stages, with more food and drink vendors than ever.
After catching a few Rain City Drive tunes, we paid a visit to local Leeds legends Crash Records, who were slinging out signed LPs, bargain bin band tees for just a fiver and plenty more, before making a beeline for Hot Mulligan's set.
The Midwest emo archetypes didn't disappoint, both in terms of those instantly recognisable screeching vocals and being their usual silly selves on stage - we just wish they were given a longer slot.
It was also fun to just stop and look upon the sea of black that had descended upon the fields for the iconic festival every now and again, which only got better as the sun continued to drop.
Thank you Slam Dunk North 🖤
And thank you everyone for an amazing Slam Dunk Festival 2025 weekend.
— Slam Dunk Festival (@SlamDunkMusic) May 25, 2025
That being said, we did get a truly terrific, technicolour set from fellow Northerners Neck Deep, a.k.a. the pop-punk princes of Wales, who booked one of the main slots on the Main Stage West just a few short years on from playing the smallest one.
Now that's a narrative we can get behind.
For context, one member of our party (naming no names) had been a big fan for a long time but had never been to a solo show as he'd heard 'they're not that good live'; meanwhile, his Hoot tour guide for the day was on her ninth Neck Deep gig.
Unsurprisingly, the latter knew way better, and the former was proven a fool who was given some of the worst and most unreliable information on Earth. Let's just say I—sorry, THEY* will never make the same mistake ever again...
Not only were they on top form but frontman Ben Barlow made sure to use his platform to touch on important issues and "get just a little bit political", sending the crowds away with one key message:
There were so many bands we wanted to make more time before the first-world problem of having to choose between so many people's favourite bands all in one place will never be lost on us.
Last but not least, we got to see American rock giants A Day To Remember headline the night and, obviously, they drew the biggest crowds of the whole day.
Once again, it's our ultimate privilege to be invited along to festivals like this, and we always see Slam Dunk North as a very special celebration of all things alternative.
Here's hoping the rare Slam Dunk sun is a good omen for the rest of festival season; we can't wait to be 'Right Back at It Again' next year.
Korn have announced a major Manchester gig as part of a new UK tour – their first in more than a decade.
The nu metal legends will be heading to the First Direct Bank Arena later this year, making a monumental return to British shores.
And they’ve announced very special guests will be joining them on the tour too – support will come from Architects, as well as Youth Code.
Korn burst onto the scene back in 1991 with their seminal self-titled debut album, and have gone on to release a whopping 14 studio albums.
The Californian group have sold more than 40 million albums worldwide, collected two Grammy Awards, and headed out on countless world tours.
They’re often cited by newer bands as a major influence and have pushed the limits of the rock, alternative and metal genres.
The Ringer has described Korn as ‘a genuine movement in a way bands cannot be now’.
As well as performing in Leeds, Korn will play at venues across the UK including in Manchester, Birmingham, Newcastle, and London.
They’ll be joined by Architects, a British metalcore band who have continued to top the charts even after the tragic death of founding member, guitarist, and principal songwriter Tom Searle.
Korn will be at our very own First Direct Bank Arena on Monday 26 October, with pre-sale tickets available from Tuesday 17 March at 8am, before a general on-sale from Friday 20 March at 8am.
Run, don't walk - as we reckon these tickets will fly off the shelves.
Audio North’s Artist of the Month: Cole LC | March 2026
Thomas Melia
The North is full of amazing artists, and we’re spotlighting one every single month – it's time to go 'Rollin' with Cole LC
Leeds' own Cole LC has got very far doing his "little music thing" and has seen him reach all new heights as his upcoming project suggests with its title West Yorkshire to Westend Show
This musician has built a pretty distinctive artistic style that fuses rap, all while making sure his West Yorkshire identity was kept in the forefront.
That's because, all of Cole's visuals have been filmed across the city at some pretty recognisable spots like Kirkgate Market, City Varieties and Belgrave Music Hall.
So far, this local lad has captured the attention of music lovers with songs like 'Westbrook' and 'Your Tings My Ting' both having over one million streams.
Now, Cole LC sits down to talk all about being Audio North's ‘Artist of the Month’ and shares more teasers about his highly-anticipated EP.
An interview with Cole LC - Audio North's Artist of the Month
Audio North's Artist of the Month: Cole LC | March 2026 / Credit: Supplied via Press shots
What can we expect from your upcoming EP?
This is my first big release in quite a while after the release of Favourite Version in 2023 and I've done a lot of growing. I started writing last Summer when I was going through a tough period but it's gone onto create some of my best songwriting stories. It's a one big note to self that I hope helps other people out.
What is it like being a Northern independent artist?
I grew up in Roundhay with my family and Leeds as a city has had a monumental impact on what I do as an artist. By being close to the city centre, it has allowed me to be exposed to different types of music, soaking up all these genres has helped influence what I do now.
How do you think Leeds is shaping the UK music scene?
This city is a big credit to music and it's a testament to the musicians of Leeds having that talent but also being hardworking. It's also about authenticity and that's what we've got. The climate of music in general is very intense and there's lots of competition but the sheer talent here in Leeds makes it impossible for us to go unnoticed.
Cole LC has played a key part in Leeds' music scene / Credit: Supplied via Press shots
Who are some up and coming artists you're checking out?
Ellur and you spell it "Ell-uh" because she's from Bradford. She's an Alt-pop artist who I've been listening to a lot. I've also loved Charlotte Plank, especially her latest single 'crybby blue'. There's even Aaron Rowe who supported Lewis Capaldi.
What does a performance day look like for you?
I don't have a specific routine before a show. Practicing my lyrics is a big one and having a mint tea too.
What is your ultimate dream musically?
I'd love to perform whenever I like and just know people would be there and support me. I'd love the financial freedom to be able not worry and creative new tracks whenever whereever I want. Music is so powerful and speaks to everyone, I want to keep improving my quality and progress.
If you could collaborate with anyone who would it be?
Probably Justin Bieber because of how much I love him, he's the greatest of all time, he just is. When I was 14 I was so fuming watching him and seeing how good he is, I thought he'd put be out of a job forever. He has some unreal albums.
What's next for Cole LC?
I can guarantee you new music every single month for 2026. I know a lot of people have been getting in touch regarding a headline show so I'm hoping to organise a gig. I'm also going to make sure I keep the connection with people who enjoy my music whether that's in person or online.
Danny Jones -
26th May 2025 
