Desertfest 2026 – Sunday: The Review

Steak

Yet another delay at The Roundhouse as Steak boards the stage ten minutes late. Musically, they fall somewhere between Soundgarden and Karnivool, albeit without the world-class vocals. Their brand of metal is perhaps the most radio-friendly of the weekend but also lacks any real charm or innovation, and it’s a bit too tame. Things do improve towards the end of their set when they explore a little more dynamically, but it is too little too late. A little edge could really elevate their sound and make them more suited to a stage this size. – NC

The Grey 

Emerging onstage to orchestral music before letting their riffs rip through The Underworld, this instrumental three-piece is keeping it simple, and the music does the talking. The crowd are transfixed from the start, head banging in perfect time. The band are lost in the music, moving and headbanging with their whole bodies, like they are possessed by the riff. Midway through their set they overcome a technical issue with the guitar, and the crowd roars in appreciation. 

The Grey dedicates a song to anyone “going through it, the ones who build a wall around themselves. Try to take a brick out so you can feel something.” The audience applauds, and the emotion is felt. – CL

 

Howling Giant

Howling Giant might take the award for surprise package of the weekend. Their technicality is staggering, but it doesn’t get in the way of their spectacular feel. It’s impossible not to smile ear to ear as they blend grooving, doomy riffs with thrashy prog and huge vocals to staggering effect. If ever you needed proof that heavy metal is at its best when it is playful and joyous, look no further than Howling Giant. – NC

Photo Credit:

Tim Bugbee

Earthless 

The perfect venue for a band that has such an immersive sound, Earthless open with psychedelic realness. Their backdrop is simple, just their logo. In a venue where you can project interesting visuals, it’s clear they want to focus on the music. Translating their incredible talent to a live environment is nothing short of impressive. This is a band for musicians, and anyone who has picked up guitar will be blown away by the sheer technical prowess. – CL

Alunah

The category is heavy metal heritage, and Brummie metal outfit Alunah know a thing or two about that. The Black Heart has seen much busier sets this weekend, which is a shame as it’s refreshing to see more queer representation in such a homogenous scene. Their grooving, downtuned metal is clearly not for everyone but resonates with a small crowd, who sing their hearts out and throw their heads about with wild abandon. Alunah employ every trick in the playbook to get this crowd onside, and their enthusiasm is infectious. – NC

The Sword

Metallica’s favourite band, The Sword brings groovy riffs and plenty of reverb on the vocals, making this the perfect prelude to the headliners. Echoing into The Roundhouse, this stoner metal band has some very fancy instruments. Any guitar nerd would go crazy for the fleet of strings and pedals that this band brings on stage. Every member of the audience knows the words and is vibing to every beat. Funky as heck, they gallop through riffs and deliver meaty tunes. Incredible set. – CL

Photo Credit:

Tim Bugbee

Clutch

The bounciest band of the weekend, Clutch promise the party and deliver it. Kicking off their set with X-Ray Visions, they keep the energy high from there, tearing through an impressive back catalogue while constantly engaging with the crowd. The band are known for their incredible vocals, but seeing it live is something else, with Neil Fallon keeping things engaging and confident throughout, making sure everyone in the crowd knows just how much they love being on stage. To say they are dominating is an understatement, as Clutch truly know their craft. Every note and every song is perfectly executed, and the new material tears the house down; they may well be the perfect festival band. – CL

Photo Credit:

Tim Bugbee