By Grace Elizabeth
Set against the stunning backdrop of Suffolk’s Henham Park, the 19th edition of Latitude Festival opened its gates to a weekend of music, art, and woodland magic. The beloved annual event delivered once again with an eclectic mix of performances spread across three main stages and numerous smaller ones hidden among the trees.
Kicking off the Obelisk Arena on Friday was London-based singer-songwriter Matilda Mann, who brought her introspective, folk-tinged pop to a growing crowd. Known for her delicate production and emotionally resonant lyrics, Mann offered a mix of older favourites and a few gems from her recently released debut album Roxwell. Despite the scale of the stage, she remained composed and charismatic, a quietly confident start to the weekend.
Over on the second stage, Midnight Generation delivered a complete sonic shift. The Mexican five-piece lit up the tent with their infectious retro-pop, blending electronic grooves, glittering visuals, and choreographed moves. Their set felt like a shot of pure adrenaline (change). A fantasy world built on synths, funk guitar, and undeniable showmanship.
Returning to the Obelisk Arena mid-afternoon, Scouting for Girls delivered exactly what they’re known for: energetic, lighthearted nostalgia. Their trademark humour and crowd interaction were in full force, especially during a surprise cover of Busted’s Year 3000, dedicated to long-time touring guitarist Nick Tsang. Closing with their biggest hit She’s So Lovely, the band left the crowd beaming, proof that feel-good pop will always hit the spot.
Tucked away in the Sunrise Arena was a powerful double bill of emerging talent. First, Jasmine.4.t captivated the intimate forest stage with an emotionally raw performance. Her song Woman stood out as a vulnerable, poetic account of the transfeminine experience. Heartbreak, joy, and strength woven into one deeply affecting moment.
She was followed by Jacob Alon, who was easily a main standout of the day. As a couple next to me said, this was a “must-see,” and they were right. Before his set began, Jacob carefully draped a Palestinian flag across his gear, one of several subtle political statements made over the weekend. His set, featuring August Moon and Confession, was tender and deliberate. Dressed in sequins, he held one of the most attentive crowds I saw all weekend, delivering each lyric with grace and purpose.
A surprise standout came in the form of The Royston Club, who electrified the second stage as hazy evening light washed over the crowd. Kicking things off with The Patch Where Nothing Grows, the Welsh indie-rockers had fans shouting lyrics back from the first chord. With their sophomore album Songs For The Spine on the horizon, it’s clear they’re gaining serious momentum.
Back at the Obelisk Arena, the night closed with a true icon. Sting headlined with all the polish and elegance of a seasoned legend. Opening with The Police’s Message in a Bottle, he treated the crowd to a string of timeless hits, from Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic to Englishman in New York. Mid-set, he shared a personal story about his house in Wiltshire, or more accurately, a “castle” that inspired Fields of Gold; it was a set full of class, warmth, and timeless songwriting. A true honour to witness such a musical legend truly in their element.
One final sprint to the second stage rewarded me with the tail-end of Sigrid’s vibrant set, just in time for the euphoric Mirror. The Norwegian powerhouse brought her brand of empowering pop, belting her way through the anthem of self-love and acceptance, before ending on fan-favourite Strangers.
As the final notes echoed from the main stages, the festival site was still very much alive. Wandering back through the grounds, there was no end to the evening in sight, with late-night revelry continuing at the Trailer Park and the aptly named Disco Shed. Some festivalgoers danced on under the fairy lights, while others retired to rest before Day Two, which promised more nostalgia, and more musical discoveries.
Photography Copyright 2025 Emeli Meagher/ADRENALINE Magazine
Text Copyright 2025 Grace Elizabeth/ADRENALINE Magazine
Kyle Horne