The 2025 Golden Plains lineup has been revealed and also features Thelma Plum, Wet Kiss, Grace Cummings, the Sun Ra Arkestra and many more.
The 2025 Golden Plains lineup is finally here! It’s the beloved festival’s 17th iteration and it’s set to be a stunning return to the amphitheatre. It will take place over March 8, 9 and 10. Golden Plains Festival is held on the family property of one of the festival’s organisers, a farm complete with a ferris wheel, an ecoplex cinema and the extremely popular Pink Flamingo Bar. With only one stage and no timetable clashes, Golden Plains Festival is known primarily for its great music and great culture – the reason that we love the Melbourne music scene so much in the first place.
“There really isn’t anything else on the Victorian festival landscape to compare Meredith and Golden Plains to, such is the transient nature of the local festival scene,” we said about last year’s iteration.
Golden Plains 2025
- Golden Plains is set to take place over March 8, 9 and 10, 2025
- The first round of the Golden Plains ballot has now been drawn
- You can see all the info here
Golden Plains 2025 lineup
- PJ Harvey
- Fontaines D.C.
- 2manydjs
- Wet Kiss
- Durand Jones & The Indications
- Magdalena Bay
- Osees
- Kneecap
- Thelma Plum
- Grace Cummings
- Bahamadia
- Hermanos Gutiérrez
- Ela Minus
- Adriana
- Bonny Light Horseman
- Mulga Bore Hard Rock
- CC
- Teether & Kuya Neil
- Skeleten
- Zjoso
- Jada Weazel
- Elliot & Vincent
- Storytelling with Uncle Barry
- Sun Ra Arkestra
- Sofia Kourtesis
- Acopia
- Reptant
- RMFC
- More TBA
Keep up with the latest music news, features, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Sofia Kourtesis
- Saturday night
From Peru, via Berlin, Sofia Kourtesis has become one of the most magnetic producers in dance music today. A name frequently mentioned in Aunty’s suggestion box in recent years, her star continues to rise.
Golden’s lustre grows with Sofia Kourtesis, whose debut album Madres showcases a shimmery collection of emotive house, protest chants, club rhythms, and sunlit synths. Dedicated not only to her mother but also to the neurosurgeon who performed life-saving cancer surgery on her, the album reflects the spiritual nourishment that dance music offers. As a token of gratitude, Kourtesis named the track Vajkoczy for the surgeon and even took him to the legendary Berghain.
Kourtesis has remixed Caroline Polachek and has a new song in the works with Caribou. She takes the stage in DJ mode on Saturday night, performing right after fellow South American savant Ela Minus.
This set promises to be nothing short of a Perla.
RMFC
- Sunday
Rock Music Fan Club. Rock Music Fantastic Convulsions. Rock Music Final Comment. Rock Music Freak Club. Rock Music Football Club.
Whatever RMFC stands for, it is the brainchild of Buz Clatworthy from the coastal town of Ulladulla, NSW. Clatworthy started the project in 2018, releasing the first cassette, Hive, Vol. 1, recorded entirely by him playing all the instruments in his bedroom. Soon after, RMFC evolved into a full band, and following several EPs and singles, they unleashed a ripping LP, Club Hits.
The album has been hailed as one of the finest examples of Rock Music in recent times, and RMFC’s live show only amplifies the buzz surrounding them.
Catch them in full force on Sunday.
Acopia
- Sunday morning
Acopia invite listeners into a hazy dreamworld shaped by sultry vocals, pensive synthesis, and smouldering basslines. Their sound blends trip-hop, shoegaze, dream pop, and downtempo, carried by breathy whispers and atmospheric textures.
The Naarm-based trio—composed of Kate Durman, Lachlan McGeehan, and Morgan Wright—have released two albums that embody their intimate charm and slow-burn anthems. With support from the local label Companion and recognition from international names like Palms Trax’s CWPT, Acopia’s music has also been remixed by notable artists such as JD Twitch and Daniel Avery.
Prepare to sink into their world on Sunday morning.
Reptant
- Saturday night
The Lizard of Oz is here.
Reptant, also known as Lucas J. Hatzisavas, is a local producer whose mastery of acidic beats and electro grooves has earned him a unique place in the music world. Hailing from Planet X’trapolis, Reptant crafts intricate layers of sound using drum machines and synthesisers, combining complex drum grooves, future-funk basslines, and sci-fi squelches. His music weaves vivid worlds of Lizard lore and has found homes on labels such as Kalahari Oyster Cult and his own LKR Records.
Reptant will deliver a live set to close out Saturday night, bringing the March of the Repazoids to life in electrifying style.
PJ Harvey
- Sunday night
Lurid and petulant on Rid of Me, sleek and melodic on Stories From The City, haunting and histrionic on Let England Shake. Every new record forms its own sonic world, each layered with the ever-evolving mystique of Polly Jean Harvey. Her tracks like Down By The Water and 50ft Queenie cement her legacy in alternative rock. Over decades, she’s explored various instruments—guitar, saxophone, piano—and won two Mercury Prizes. In 2023, PJ Harvey expands her hallucinatory dreamscape with I Inside The Old Year Dying.
Fontaines D.C.
- Sunday night
Fontaines D.C. have been on fire since day one. Their songs shake with romantic lyrical eviscerations, delivered in a poetic cadence that channels the likes of Joyce and McGowan. Dublin in the rain is theirs, as they build gritty soundscapes across albums like Dogrel and A Hero’s Death. Their recent leap into Romance pushes the post-punk sound into rave-y, stadium-sized depths. Shiny, frayed, and intoxicating, Fontaines D.C. continues to lead the charge for a new generation of rock poets.
2manydjs
- Saturday night
The mashup kings. 2manydjs, aka the Dewaele brothers, have been blending genres and blowing minds since 2002. They’ve created a sound that fuses rock, electronic, and pop in mashups that are nothing short of iconic. From Peaches to Dolly Parton, The Stooges to MGMT, their sets are a whirlwind journey through time and sound. Their electrifying live performances turn every venue into a euphoric dance party. At Golden XVII, they’re bringing their legendary touch for a late-night session that’s sure to leave everyone wanting more.
Wet Kiss
- Saturday night
Naarm’s most beloved humanoid deadbeat punks. Led by the enigmatic Brenna O, a fusion of Siouxsie-meets-Liza, Wet Kiss are a scene unto themselves. Their art-punk (or punk-art?) chaos fills late-night suburban warehouses and sweaty venues, where their wild performances leave a lasting impression. With their gritty manager, Pig, by their side, this band is unpredictable and electric. Prepare for a rock show that will wipe the floor with anyone who dares to share the stage with them. This is gonna get wild.
Durand Jones & The Indications
- Friday night
Get ready to groove with Durand Jones & The Indications, bringing retro soul, R&B, and funk with a modern twist. Their charisma is undeniable, led by Durand’s powerful, emotive vocals and Aaron Frazer’s delicate falsetto. From basement beginnings in Indiana to international stages, their volcanic live shows have earned them a reputation for getting crowds moving. Expect a blend of old-school soul with contemporary flair.
Magdalena Bay
- Saturday night
The cosmic pop duo Magdalena Bay arrives with their signature blend of Y2K-influenced synth-pop and futuristic vibes. Mica Tenenbaum and Matthew Lewin create a sound that’s both nostalgic and cutting-edge, blending hyper-real concept pop with dreamy melodies and infectious beats. Their latest vision, Imaginal Disk, is a candy-colored musical journey that’s redefining modern pop.
Osees
- Saturday night
Osees are a shape-shifting, mutant force in the world of garage rock, led by John Dwyer, who has transformed the band 28 times over. Formerly known as Thee Oh Sees, they blend robo-punk, motorik rhythms, cosmic psychedelia, and freak folk into an unhinged live show that’s a head-spinning experience. Their music is a chaotic fusion of experimental sounds, driven by relentless double drumming and face-melting riffs. Osees return to Golden after 15 years—brace yourself for an unforgettable pit.
Kneecap
- Late night Saturday
The Golden Plains lineup knows its trend-setters, alright. Welcome to Kneecap’s world, where West Belfast beats meet Irish-language rap. Móglaí Bap, Mo Chara, and DJ Provaí are a trio of troublemakers pushing boundaries with head-rattling tracks that flip between Gaeilge and English. Their unapologetic, politically charged anthems mix humor and activism in a way that’s earned them cult status, despite being banned by radio. Expect a night of chaos as Kneecap brings their rebellious energy to the stage, with a style that’s raw, loud, and unpredictable.
Thelma Plum
- Saturday night
Thelma Plum, a Galmilaraay woman and pop sensation, continues her rise as one of Australia’s most powerful singer-songwriters. Her debut album, Better in Blak, was an instant classic, telling stories of love, identity, and resilience with hooks big enough to climb mountains. Recent releases see Thelma channeling influences from Shania Twain to Stevie Nicks, crafting a sound that’s entirely her own. Her live shows are emotionally charged and captivating—don’t miss her homecoming set at Golden XVII.
Grace Cummings
- Sunday afternoon
That goddamn voice. Grace Cummings sings like she’s turning the tide, propelling her from local venues to the canyons of California. With her latest album Ramona, she’s fully embracing her artistic evolution, showcasing a full-bodied commitment few can match. Each new record finds her delving deeper into the wild, and her horizon is limitless. Known for her haunting, raw vocal style, Grace blends folk, blues, and rock, creating music that explores profound emotional depth.
Bahamadia
- Sunday afternoon
Bahamadia is a legendary figure in the 1990s underground hip-hop scene, recognised for her smooth flow and intricate wordplay. With her debut album Kollage, she created a masterpiece that connected the dots between Philly’s underground and the broader hip-hop landscape. Despite not receiving widespread recognition, those in the know appreciate her iconic impact on the genre, influencing artists like The Roots, Lauryn Hill, and Erykah Badu. Her presence at Golden will remind us of her enduring influence in hip-hop.
Hermanos Gutiérrez
- Afternoon showdown
Saddle up for an immersive experience with Hermanos Gutiérrez, the Ecuadorian-Swiss duo crafting atmospheric soundscapes with guitar-driven compositions. Estevan and Alejandro Gutiérrez create music that feels like a Latin Spaghetti Western set on Mars, blending their heritage into a unique sound that transports listeners. Their latest work, produced with Dan Auerbach, continues to showcase their ability to weave cinematic sound with ambient qualities, making their live show an unforgettable journey.
Ela Minus
- Saturday night
If your instinct is to dance to soaring techno pop, then Ela Minus is the artist for you. This Bogotá-born musician, who began her journey as a jazz drummer, creates textured dance-floor anthems from her bedroom. With bilingual songs addressing themes of rebellion and instinct, she’s released a dreamy reggaeton-house record with DJ Python and is known for supporting acts like Underworld and Four Tet. Her new album promises an acoustic warmth and arena-sized uplift, inviting listeners to get lost in her layered sound.
Adriana
- Sunday afternoon sweet spot
If you’ve been lucky enough to experience an Adriana rave for the likes of Finding Figaro, you’ll know what to expect on the Golden Plains lineup this year. Get ready for a big boogie with Adriana, a local DJ bringing infectious energy to the dance floor. Known for her eclectic mixes that bridge traditional and contemporary sounds, she has been a vital force in Melbourne’s music scene. Since her PBS show, Opalakia, she has launched the SPASTA party, known for its lively Greek cultural elements, making it an instant classic. Adriana’s unique blend of genres and enthusiasm promises an unstoppable vibe at Golden Plains.
Bonny Light Horseman
- Saturday evening
Bonny Light Horseman, an American folk supergroup, invites listeners into a musical storm with their bright strummed guitars and aching melodies. Comprising Anaïs Mitchell, Eric D. Johnson, and Josh Kaufman, the group reworks old standards and creates new songs about love and loss. Their sound combines traditional folk with modern sensibilities, perfect for a golden evening in the countryside. Their harmonies and heartfelt lyrics breathe new life into folk music, creating a nostalgic yet contemporary experience.
Mulga Bore Hard Rock
- Golden Plains party
One of the all-rockin’ highlights of this year’s Golden Plains lineup. Get ready to rock with Mulga Bore Hard Rock, the young crew from outback NT who deliver classic rock riffs hotter than the Central Desert. Their energetic performances blend hard rock with traditional sounds, making them a unique presence on stage. Known for their wild antics, including opening for KISS, they bring a raw energy to Golden Plains that is not to be missed. Prepare for head-banging anthems and a party atmosphere as they crank up the volume.
Teether & Kuya Neil
- Saturday session
Teether & Kuya Neil are an iconic duo pushing the boundaries of rap with their future-focused sound. Their collaboration mixes experimental sound art with modern club styles, creating a unique listening experience. With releases like GLYPH and STRESSOR, they have quickly established themselves in the Naarm underground scene. Their performances are described as a “powder keg of bangers,” making their Saturday session a must-see for fans of innovative hip-hop.
Skeleten
- Deep Scene, Saturday
Skeleten, the project of Sydney’s Russell Fitzgibbon, offers steamy, emotive electronica that blends trip-hop, new-age, and shoegaze elements. With his debut album Under Utopia, he captures themes of affirmation and uncertainty. Known for his ambient soundscapes, Skeleten’s music creates an otherworldly listening experience that invites introspection. His new material promises to deliver even more depth and assurance, making his performance a highlight of the festival.
Zjoso
- Late night treat, Sunday
Zjoso is a rising electronic artist known for his diverse sound that spans street soul, dub reggae, and techno – a really unique artist on the Golden Plains lineup this year. As the founder of Tribqu, he’s established himself as an essential figure in Naarm’s music scene, sharing stages with renowned artists. His late-night set at Golden Plains promises a treat for deep groovers and dancers alike, blending atmospheric beats with an experimental edge.
Jada Weazel
- Sunday groove
Catch Jada Weazel on the Golden Plains lineup amidst her ascent to outer space with her lush R’n’B and pop-infused sound. Hailing from Woorabinda, she blends modern hip-hop with Indigenous Australian storytelling. Jada’s journey began at home, recording song snippets with family, leading to her debut EP and hits like “Send My Love.” Her music is hypnotic and supersonic, reflecting her cultural roots while exploring new sonic territories.
Elliot & Vincent
- TBA
Elliot & Vincent, a young duo originally from New Zealand, combine primal rhythms and sculptural guitar lines to create a unique sound. Formerly known as Vincent & Elliot, they began their musical journey at a friends’ party, and their chemistry is undeniable. Their single Doberman marks their first cross-ditch venture, reminiscent of early indie rock bands, blending acoustic folk with indie rock elements for a harmonious experience.
Storytelling with Uncle Barry
- Late morning, Sunday
A beloved fixture on every Golden Plains lineup, Uncle Barry brings traditional Indigenous Australian storytelling to life, sharing rich narratives through engaging spoken word performances. His work connects audiences to ancient stories and explores their relevance today. With a focus on the hidden aspects of ourselves and the land, his storytelling delves into the past’s ongoing influence on the present, making it a heartfelt experience.
Sun Ra Arkestra
Last but not least on a fucking formidable Golden Plains lineup are Sun Ra Arkestra, a legendary avant-garde jazz ensemble, continues the radical legacy of their founder, Sun Ra, who believed he was transported to Saturn in the 1930s. Known for their cosmic themes and experimental sound, the Arkestra acts as a “communication device,” channeling peace-loving energy from the cosmos through their performances. Their eclectic mix of free jazz, improv, and Afrofuturism makes each show a unique experience, connecting the audience to Sun Ra’s vision.
Find out everything about Golden Plains here.
