Image Credit: The Great Estate Festival 2025_Matthew Hawkey

Friday at The Great Estate Festival 2025 features Madchester icons Happy Mondays, dynamic drumming from The Alive, soulful indie-folk by Charlie Boon, and high-energy DJ sets from Jaguar Skills, all set in stunning Cornwall.

The Great Estate Festival 2025, held at the historic Scorrier Estate in Cornwall from May 30th to June 1st, offers an eclectic and vibrant musical lineup, with Friday night setting the tone for a weekend of unforgettable performances. The Friday bill features a mix of iconic and emerging artists, blending genres from Madchester beats to indie rock and electronic sounds, making it a must-see for music lovers.

Madchester legends Happy Mondays kick off the festival

Friday’s headliner is the legendary Happy Mondays, one of the defining bands of the Madchester scene. Fronted by Shaun Ryder with the iconic Bez on percussion and dancing duties, Happy Mondays bring their unique fusion of alternative rock, acid house, and funk to the Scorrier Estate stage. Their set promises to energize the crowd with classic hits like “Step On” and “Kinky Afro,” capturing the hedonistic spirit of early 90s Manchester and setting a high-energy tone for the festival’s opening night.

Percussive power and drum nattles with The Alive

Supporting the headliners, The Alive deliver a dynamic and rhythmic performance featuring a thrilling drum battle that showcases their percussive prowess. Their energetic set combines live drumming with electronic elements, creating an immersive experience that bridges traditional and contemporary sounds. The Alive’s performance is a highlight for those who appreciate innovative live music that pushes boundaries and engages the audience physically and emotionally.

Charlie Boon showing as emerging talent with a fresh sound

Adding to Friday’s diverse lineup is Charlie Boon, an emerging artist known for his soulful voice and introspective songwriting. His music blends indie and folk influences, offering a more intimate and melodic counterpoint to the festival’s high-energy acts. Charlie’s presence on the Friday bill highlights The Great Estate Festival’s commitment to showcasing new talent alongside established names.

Master of mixes and DJ sets at late night with Jaguar Skills

Rounding out the Friday night music is Jaguar Skills, a renowned DJ and producer celebrated for his eclectic mixes and turntablism skills. His set promises to keep the dancefloor alive with a blend of hip-hop, electronic, and club classics, providing a seamless transition from live band performances to late-night party vibes. Jaguar Skills’ reputation for energetic and crowd-pleasing sets ensures that the festival’s opening night will continue well into the evening.

The Great Estate Festival 2025_Matthew Hawkey
Image Credit: The Great Estate Festival 2025_Matthew Hawkey

Friday at The Great Estate Festival 2025 is a carefully curated blend of iconic sounds and fresh talent, designed to appeal to a broad audience. From the Madchester anthems of Happy Mondays to the innovative drumming of The Alive, the heartfelt melodies of Charlie Boon, and the electrifying DJ skills of Jaguar Skills, the lineup promises a dynamic start to a weekend filled with music, culture, and community.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Cornwall’s Scorrier Estate, Friday’s performances exemplify the festival’s ethos of mixing tradition with innovation, creating an atmosphere where music lovers can connect, dance, and celebrate. Whether you’re a fan of classic British alternative rock or cutting-edge electronic beats, Friday night at The Great Estate Festival 2025 offers something unforgettable for everyone.