Bluesfest 2025 - Day One

Welcome to Country

Jingi Walla to the 36th annual Bluesfest! We were welcomed to Bundjalung Country through dance and music by the “deadly sisters and aunties”, a troupe of local Arakwal women.

Electric Cadillac‍

Indonesian blues-rock band Electric Cadillac certainly knew how to kick off the 36th Bluesfest with none other than the Peter Gunn theme. They brought some serious heat to the Delta Stage with a gritty, high-voltage set that had the crowd grooving from the first riff. Their blues-rock sound hit hard live, blending raw soul with swagger and precision. The guitar work, bouncy kit and crooning vocals all contributed to the kind of set that leaves your ears ringing and your heart full.

Velvet Trip‍

Velvet Trip delivered a kaleidoscopic set at Bluesfest that felt like drifting through a technicolor haze. Their grooves were smooth and hypnotic, locking the crowd into a  trance that built with each song. The band's chemistry was effortless, and their sound washed over the festival grounds like a warm wave. It was a soulful, spaced-out journey that left everyone floating.

Don West‍

Don West brought a raw, heartfelt energy to Bluesfest that cut straight through the noise. His velvety vocals carried grit and soul, giving every lyric a weight that lingered long after the song ended. Backed by a tight band, the Herculean frontman moved effortlessly between bluesy ballads and fiery, foot-stomping anthems. It was an honest, magnetic set that felt both intimate and electrifying.

Budjerah‍

Budjerah lit up the Bluesfest stage with a voice that was equal parts velvet and power. His youthful energy and optimism energised the crowd throughout a well balanced set of covers and originals. His blend of soul, R&B, and heartfelt storytelling had the crowd completely captivated. Every note felt effortless, especially during the stripped-back moments that let his vocals truly shine. It was a standout set that proved he's not just a rising star — he hath risen.

Nahko‍

Nahko brought a powerful mix of spirit, rhythm, and message to the Bluesfest stage, creating a stripped back acoustic reprieve that felt like both a concert and a call to consciousness. His presence was magnetic, weaving storytelling and activism into each song with passion and purpose. The crowd was fully locked in, singing along and swaying to the heartbeat of his sound. It was a soulful, unifying performance that left a lasting impression.

Maoli‍

The atmosphere at the Crossroads tent was electric as first time Bluesfester Maoli took the stage. The crowd was immediately sent into a frenzy through the band’s use of dynamic visuals. Despite some initial technical issues, Stetson-clad frontman Glen Awong fed off the energy of the crowd, delivering a tight, high-impact set. It was one of those nights that reminds you why live music matters.

Kingfish‍

Christone "Kingfish" Ingram once again brought a jaw-dropping performance to the Mojo stage that proved why he's one of the most exciting blues artists of his generation. His guitar solos were both explosive and emotional, showcasing technical brilliance without ever losing heart. Vocally, he was just as compelling — rich, expressive, and full of grit. The crowd was locked in from the first riff, hanging on every bend and wail. The outrageous riff battle between keys and guitar was a set highlight, as well as his signature gallivant into the excited crowd.

Tones and I‍

Tones and I brought undeniable energy to the packed out Crossroads tent, commanding the crowd with her signature voice and bold presence. Her performance was a dynamic mix of originals and beloved covers, showcasing both her vocal range and fearless style. She moved effortlessly between high-energy bangers and stripped-back ballads, keeping the crowd fully engaged. It was a vibrant, unpredictable set complete with dance breaks and solid gospel-pop backing vocals.

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