In a climate where UK music festivals have been disappearing at an alarming rate (almost 200 since 2019) it’s truly heartening to see that Rockaway Beach has not only survived, but has thrived to the point of actually increasing capacity. The secret to its success lies not only in its timing (providing a much needed remedy to the January blues at the first weekend of the year), but in its booking policy which mixes big names with rising stars and excellent, yet relatively unknown acts. 2025’s event at the Butlin’s, Bognor Regis venue marked the festival’s 10th birthday with staggeringly great performances from Choice Music Prize nominees Sprints, fellow Dubliner Meryl Streek, Spiritualized, Ride, Leftfield, Arab Strap, Brooklyn’s finest Bodega, Hamish Hawk, punk pioneers The Ruts DC, former Lush frontwoman Miki Berenyi, Liverpool legend Pete Wylie & the Mighty Wah!, Soapbox, The Pill and CLT DRP. A fine way to kickstart the year with a taste of what’s to come.