In only a few months time, fans of alternative, rock and metal will gather at Donington Park to enjoy a weekend full of incredible music. 13 - 15 June will see this year's Download festival hit the midlands. The line-up is packed with exciting and varied acts, here's five to look out for that cover a selection of genres and styles.
Kittie
Formed in Canada in 1996, this all-female band has created a name for themselves in the nu-metal and groove metal scenes. Their debut album, 'Spit' was created whilst the group was still teenagers, an album which still holds some of their most popular tracks such as the hard-hitting and powerful 'Brackish'. Their bold lyricism and distinct sound have helped them to maintain a following over the years, after several line-up changes. Currently, the band consists of sisters Morgan and Mercedes Lander, Tara McLeod and Ivy Jenkins. They're currently down to play the Dogtooth stage on Saturday and are sure to provide a set that can't be missed.
Jerry Cantrell
A no-brainer for fans of grunge is making sure to catch the legendary member of Alice in Chains for his solo set. Jerry Cantrell, originally from Washington, America, is an icon in grunge music. Garnering fame for his contributions to one of the biggest names in the Seattle grunge scene, he's demonstrated himself as a guitarist, vocalist and songwriter. Whilst there's no doubt he will honour his Alice in Chains roots with a few of their biggest hits, he also has a back catalogue of his solo work to showcase. His fourth solo record, 'I Want Blood' was released last year and is sure to be appreciated during his set. Cantrell will be playing the Opus stage on Sunday.
Bastardane
Formed in 2019, this group from Georgia, America encompasses sludge, thrash and melodic rock in their sound. Their line-up consists of Jake Dallas on bass and vocals, Ethan Sirotzki on guitar and Castor Hetfield on drums. Hetfield's dad is legendary Metallica frontman James Hetfield. Growing up with such a huge metal presence in the family could mean that this group only has more to prove of themselves. Also performing on the Dogtooth stage on Saturday, this band is sure to provide the classic metal influences infused with a fresh outlook on the scene that many fans crave. Their second album, 'Catatonic Symphony', was released last year and has added sixteen impressive tracks to their ever-growing discography.
Dirty Honey
For fans of a more old-school approach to rock, Dirty Honey is the perfect choice. Hailing from Los Angeles, the group takes their influence from blues and classic rock and roll. Formed in 2017, this group has already managed to provide a thrilling set at Download back in 2022. As well as more recent additions, the group will be sure to play some of their fan favourites from their debut self-titled record including 'Another Last Time' and 'The Wire' Consisting of Marc LaBelle on vocals, John Notto on guitar, Justin Smolian on bass and Jaydon Bean on drums, this interesting group will be showcased on the Opus stage on Friday.
Municipal Waste
Download is known to cater to a variation of musical preferences, this year being no exception. Municipal Waste is described as crossover thrash metal. Since their conception in 2000, they have been able to play on the core values of thrash metal music as well as have a modern outlook on how they perform. With Tony Foresta on vocals and Ryan Waste on guitar currently being the only constant members, the band has effectively managed to be versatile and adaptable musicians whilst ensuring their distinct sound isn't lost. Their hit 'Wave of Death' has become a modern classic for many fans of the genre along with 'The Art of Partying'. This metal powerhouse will be playing the Opus stage on Sunday and is sure to deliver the vibes that many people seek when attending this festival.
Throughout the line-up different styles are recognised and honoured. There really is something for everyone, with this year in particular having a lot of great acts who often go under the radar on the bill. Camping and arena tickets are both still available on the Download website, with day tickets being announced and available within the coming months.
Emily Teague
@easter.everywhere
Image: Download Festival 2025 Official Poster
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