HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS YEAR'S LOWLANDS FESTIVAL
images REBECCA KAPENGA
words DAAN SANDERS
Looking back at the best performances and moments of this year’s Lowlands, where a strong line-up and sunny weather set the stage for a perfect festival weekend.
FRIDAY
ARCA
One of the first acts on Friday was Arca’s alien-like performance in the Bravo. The Venezuelan artist, known for her experimental electronic sound infused with reggaeton and avant-garde pop, delivered a show that reflected her unique artistic identity. Surrounded by lights, smoke, and even a hanging ring she swung from, the performance felt both futuristic and theatrical. At times, the set was a bit chaotic due to technical issues but there were also moments of brilliance during Prada, Mequetrefe, and Tiro.
BAMBIE THUG
From the Bravo it was a short walk to the India, where Bambie Thug took over the stage with a protest-driven set that rejected Eurovision ties and voiced strong support for Gaza. Blending pop, rock, metal, and hyper-punk with raw energy, Bambie set oM both a mosh pit and a wave of love from the queer community. A highlight was the live debut of their new song REDRUM.
SATURDAY
RAYE
One of the most anticipated acts at Lowlands was RAYE, and she did not disappoint. She took the Alpha stage barefoot, wearing oversized sunglasses, joking about channeling Charli XCX. Her powerful voice shone on tracks from My 21st Century Blues, with emotional highlights like Ice Cream Man and a cover of It’s a Man’s World. Between songs her storytelling added depth and she closed with crowd favorites Escapism and You Don’t Know Me, sending the audience into a euphoric finale.
FKA TWIGS
FKA twigs closed out her Eusexua tour with a bang. The show was highly conceptual, blending choreography with the feel of performance art. It was a captivating mix of sensuality, personal growth, and ecstasy. On top of the production, she showcased her pole dance skills adding yet another layer to the experience. Towards the end, one of her dancers playfully announced she was “pregnant… with new music.” She ended her performance with the emotional song Cellophane.
CHAPPEL ROAN (EXTRA)
Chappel Roan closed Saturday like a literal fairytale in a castle, complete with fire, dancers, and a playful, campy outfit. Her pure, captivating voice showcased her emotional range in every song. She admitted to feeling a bit nervous, like it was the first day of school but after her hit Hot to Go, she had the entire crowd in her hand and her nerves seemed to disappear. Alongside fan favorites like Pink Pony Club and Casual, she performed her new track The Subway.
SUNDAY
FONTAINES D.C.
On Sunday, the final full day of Lowlands, the Alpha stage welcomed Fontaines D.C., returning to the festival after six years. This time as co-headliners, their setlist balanced raw post-punk energy with moments of melancholic introspection. Explosive highlights included Jackie Down the Line and Boys in the Better Land, while the band closed on a gentler note with Favourite and Modern World.
OUR FAVOURITE LOOKS OF THIS YEAR’S LOWLANDS
This year’s Lowlands fashion was all about boots, casual sexiness, and a touch of punk. We have collected some of our favourite outfits!
