Hella Rock Festival 2025 – Coventry Roars with Pure Rock Power

Reviewed by: Mark Pitfield
Photos: Matthew Pitfield

Hella Rock Festival stormed back into Coventry for its second year in 2025, transforming the HMV Empire into a haven for riffs, sweat, and unfiltered passion. If the first edition hinted at promise, this year’s event left no doubt—Hella Rock has planted itself firmly on the UK rock calendar. From explosive openers to established headliners, the day was a full-throttle celebration of live music, camaraderie, and the kind of energy you only find when bands and fans collide in perfect harmony.

The Virginmarys – Headliners with Heart and Fire

Closing the night in truly spectacular fashion, Macclesfield’s The Virginmarys showed exactly why they were handed the headline slot. The powerhouse duo of Ally Dickaty (vocals/guitar) and Danny Dolan (drums) didn’t just play a set—they unleashed a storm of sound that felt both raw and triumphant. Pulling material from across their five-album catalogue, the pair balanced fury and fragility with an emotional honesty that hit hard in the chest.

Dolan’s drumming was thunderous yet razor sharp, shaking the venue to its core, while Dickaty’s voice—equal parts grit and soul—cut through with spine-tingling power. The chemistry between them is undeniable, each feeding off the other’s energy to create something much bigger than a two-piece should be able to achieve. Fans sang along word for word, merch flew off the shelves, and by the end, the crowd knew they’d witnessed something special.

Fury – A Preview of Power

The West Midlands warriors Fury wasted no time making their mark. With their sixth album Interceptor on the horizon, the five-piece used the Hella Rock stage as a proving ground—and proved they’re sharper than ever. Their high-octane set was a barrage of fast riffs, soaring vocals, and a stage presence so commanding it could melt steel.

There’s polish in their sound, but never at the expense of power. Every chorus landed like a fist in the air, every solo ripped with precision, and the audience responded in kind—hands raised, voices loud, bodies moving. It was the kind of set that confirms Fury aren’t just keeping up with the scene; they’re pushing it forward.

Tattoo Molly – Coventry’s Own Heroes

Every festival has a band that feels like the heart of the day, and Tattoo Molly played that role to perfection. Representing their hometown with pride, the band hit the stage with a mix of confidence and humility that only deepened the connection with the crowd. With a new vocalist making just his second appearance, and the festival organiser himself stepping in on guitar, there was a genuine sense of community and shared celebration radiating from the stage.

Their set was packed with chunky riffs, heartfelt lyrics, and banter that had the audience laughing as much as headbanging. When a hometown band gets that kind of reaction, it isn’t just about music—it’s about belonging. Tattoo Molly reminded everyone that Coventry rocks, and rocks hard.

Electric Black – Charisma and Class

Few bands fuse styles as effortlessly as Electric Black. Blending elements of classic rock, hard rock, and indie edge, this Hitchin four-piece once again proved why they’re building such a reputation. Confident, charismatic, and musically tight, they owned the stage with the kind of swagger that can’t be faked.

Every track bristled with energy, their chemistry shining through in every note. Whether it was the punchy hooks, the big choruses, or the stylish delivery, Electric Black left no doubt they’re destined for bigger stages in the near future.

Apriori – Emotion in Motion

Sometimes less really is more, and Apriori embodied that truth. Hailing from Blackpool, the trio of guitarist, drummer, and keyboardist delivered an emotionally rich performance that felt intimate yet powerful. Their stripped-down setup didn’t hold them back—it allowed each instrument and every lyric to breathe with purpose.

Their growing fanbase made their presence known, singing and swaying with full support. With songs that connect on a personal level and performances that feel genuine, Apriori are steadily climbing, and festivals like this are their launchpad.

The Outlaw Orchestra – Twang, Swagger, and Rock ‘n’ Roll

Injecting something refreshingly different into the lineup, The Outlaw Orchestra fused southern rock, country twang, and hard rock into a sound as fun as it was fierce. Their musicianship was sharp, their three-piece setup tight, and a custom guitar provided a visual quirk that added to the spectacle.

The crowd embraced their swagger and sense of humour, clapping, stomping, and hollering along. They were a reminder that rock comes in many flavours, and sometimes the unexpected twist is exactly what a festival needs.

Eddie and The Wolves – Blues with Bite

For the early risers, Eddie and The Wolves were a real treat. This five-piece blues-infused rock outfit brought a smoky, gritty flavour that instantly set them apart. Their grooves were infectious, their rhythms deep, and their delivery soulful yet fierce.

It’s never easy opening a festival before the room has filled, but Eddie and The Wolves commanded attention and earned it. By the end of their set, it was clear they’d won over a wave of new fans.

Mystiek – Setting the Tone

Opening duties fell to Mystiek, and they nailed it. The four-piece delivered groove-laden riffs, powerful vocals, and thunderous rhythms that got the crowd moving from the first chord. There’s always a risk that the opener gets lost in the shuffle, but Mystiek were impossible to ignore.

Their hard rock sound carried an urgency that set the tone for the entire day—heavy, heartfelt, and high energy. By the time they left the stage, the festival had well and truly begun.

Pete K Mally – The Glue Between the Gigs

No Hella Rock would be complete without Pete K Mally. Equal parts comedian, storyteller, and rock encyclopedia, Pete kept the crowd entertained between sets with wit, humour, and the occasional bit of questionable football chat. His presence is more than just filler—it’s part of the festival’s soul, keeping spirits high and energy flowing while bands switch over.

Looking Ahead – Hella Fest 3

Hella Rock 2025 was nothing short of a triumph. A celebration of UK rock, community spirit, and the sheer joy of live music, it proved that the festival is here to stay. From the opening riff to the final roar, the day was packed with moments that reminded everyone why we love this scene.

With early bird tickets already on sale for just £15, Hella Fest 3 is set for Saturday, 5th September 2026 back at HMV Empire Coventry. If this year’s anything to go by, you’ll want to secure your spot early—because this festival is only getting bigger, louder, and better.