The National Bowl in Milton Keynes vibrated with the sounds of a new era yesterday, June 22nd, as the inaugural Forever Now Festival delivered an unforgettable debut. Celebrating the pioneers and vanguards of post-punk, new wave, goth, and alternative rock, the festival showcased a truly singular lineup, culminating in a day charged with creative rebellion and musical brilliance.
Headlining the monumental event were German electronic trailblazers Kraftwerk, who closed the night with a mesmerizing audio-visual masterclass. Their legendary "Gesamtkunstwerk" style seamlessly blended sound, performance art, and digital animation, creating an immersive experience for the thousands in attendance. Earlier in the day, the iconic Billy Idol made his first UK festival appearance in nearly a decade, storming the stage with an explosive set featuring timeless anthems like "Rebel Yell" and "White Wedding."
One of the day's most poignant moments came with The The's return to UK festival stages. Following their highly anticipated 2024 comeback, the band delivered an emotionally resonant performance that was met with critical acclaim. In a thrilling surprise, Johnny Marr joined Matt Johnson on stage for two songs, a powerful reunion that underscored the shared legacy of these two iconic musical voices. Marr's own solo set was a highlight, filled with soaring melodies and guitar brilliance that captivated the crowd.
The festival's two main music stages and the immersive Echo Chamber provided a diverse experience. Death Cult brought The Other Stage to a thunderous close with their raw, tribal energy, reminding fans of their revered early material. Public Image Ltd, fronted by the ever-compelling John Lydon, reaffirmed their enduring cultural relevance, while sets from The Psychedelic Furs, Berlin, Chameleons, and other genre-defining innovators solidified the festival’s unique vision.
Curated and hosted by celebrated journalist and musician John Robb, The Echo Chamber offered packed, intimate Q&A sessions with trailblazing artists like Martha Davis (The Motels) and Terri Nunn (Berlin). These insightful discussions delved into the personal stories and cultural shifts that shaped the alternative movement.
Forever Now Festival's debut was a bold and meaningful statement, bringing together fans from across the UK and beyond to honour the music, fashion, literature, and defiant spirit of alternative culture. As the sister event to Goldenvoice’s renowned Cruel World festival in California, this new addition promises to be a vital home for fans of the unconventional and sonically bold in the UK.