Brookside at The Rose Bowl in Pasadena, CA— May 10, 2025

A Day of Indie Rock Reverie in Pasadena—under the blazing California sun at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, the Just Like Heaven festival lived up to its name with a full day of indie rock bliss. Despite the sweltering heat, the crowd never faltered—dancing, singing, and swaying in rhythm from early afternoon well into the night.

Kicking things off, Beach Fossils brought their dreamy, lo-fi textures to life, setting a breezy tone for the day. The Sounds followed with a jolt of Scandinavian new wave energy, amping up the tempo and getting everyone moving. Then came Grouplove, whose euphoric anthems and infectious spirit sent waves of joy through the crowd. The Drums turned the atmosphere nostalgic and emotionally rich, their blend of surf rock melancholy and irresistible hooks striking a chord with longtime fans. Bloc Party stormed the stage next, delivering an explosive set that reignited memories of indie rock’s early 2000s heyday with their unmistakable intensity.

As the sun descended and dusk settled, Empire of the Sun transformed the festival grounds into a kaleidoscopic dreamscape. Their theatrical set and synth-laden sound were nothing short of mesmerizing—an audiovisual feast that captivated from start to finish. But it was Vampire Weekend who brought the night to a triumphant close. Taking the stage as headliners, they radiated charisma and confidence, proving their place as icons of the genre. Their set was a masterclass in indie rock storytelling, blending vibrant instrumentation with sing-along classics that had the entire audience moving as one. It was a fitting finale to a day filled with beloved cult classics and unforgettable moments.

From start to finish, Just Like Heaven Fest 2025 was a celebration of community, nostalgia, and the enduring power of indie music. A sea of friends, couples, and kindred spirits danced like ocean swells, united by rhythm, heat, and heart.

BEACH FOSSILS

THE SOUNDS

GROUPLOVE

THE DRUMS

BLOC PARTY

EMPIRE OF THE SUN

VAMPIRE WEEKEND

Words & Photography: Victoria Alexis