LIVE REVIEW: Bearded Theory @ Catton Park, Derbyshire
Word by Nigel Jones
May 21st to 25th 2025
This May bank holiday weekend marked the return of the annual Bearded Theory festival at Catton Park, Derbyshire. I’ve waxed lyrical about this marvellous festival since I first attended in 2023—its lineup is always diverse, the layout is near perfect, and the same can be said about its size and location.
Ujahm opened the weekend proceedings. I say "weekend," but really, it was a warm Wednesday evening in Derbyshire. Their smooth dub reggae filled the Woodland Stage quite pleasantly.
I wandered around the site ahead of Wednesday night headliners Deadletter, who, sadly, were too much saxophone and not enough substance. That said, they DO have massive potential and very interesting song structures. A good set, but something was lacking, despite the singer's amazing energy. He loves a knees-up dance, reminding me of early Madness-era Suggs.
Thursday started with Welsh three-piece Adwaith on the picturesque Woodland Stage. Infectious Welsh-language songs with great hooks, and the singer was all smiles throughout the short but very sweet 30-minute set.
Next up, on the main stage, were Fat Dog. I remember seeing them support Sports Team at a tiny venue a couple of years ago, but they’re a different animal now (no pun intended, they’re still Dogs!). They brought energy in abundance and kicked off the first mosh pit of the weekend. Unfortunately, their set was cut short due to a medical emergency, so they ended up playing only two ten-minute sets.
English Teacher headlined Thursday night with a subdued but professional performance from the Leeds band. Lily has the most stunning voice. Their debut album really is a beautiful thing, and I’ve a feeling they’ll be in these kinds of slots for years to come.
Friday: Dream State took to the Meadow Stage at 1 in the afternoon. I was very excited for this set after seeing them at Takedown Festival earlier this year. They didn’t disappoint. Jessie is an incredible frontwoman—her voice is sweet, operatic, and a force in equal measure. The band were enthusiastic during their faultless set, full of dynamics.
It was great to finally catch Du Blonde live. She is a great artist; her songs are well-written and infectious. The band is solid, and her backing singer, Robin, complements Beth (Du Blonde) so well. A massive crowd filled the tent, and there was a positive energy throughout the set.
Ezra Furman was among the festival highlights for me. At a glance, she appears an awkward individual, but her stage presence is undeniably fantastic. Her songs are beautiful yet have a bite and anger about them as she ferociously scowls and then sings with soft vulnerability. A superb set.
Saturday: First up was Man/Woman/Chainsaw, whose set was moved back slightly to the second stage (Meadow) due to a breakdown. Their songs have a warming familiarity about them, and it’s always lovely to see an alternative band with an electric violinist. Folky yet heavy at times, great mix of vocals. I’m certain M/W/C won some new fans today—myself included!
'90s stalwarts Terrorvision took to the stage with predictable confidence, and they have every right to be this way. I’ve always admired Tony Wright as a frontman—funny, animated, and energetic. They played the hits with aplomb, Tony donning a suit as always, looking and sounding fantastic.
Nova Twins—this superbly unique duo—are a great booking for any festival. Their vocals are soulful yet powerful, their songs catchy and haunting. I saw a few older people holding or covering their ears—perhaps waiting for Iggy (he’s loud too!). Either way, they’re a powerful combo, very, very good. If you get the chance to see them, don’t miss out. They suck you in, and you can’t walk away.
When you can start a set with a song as good as "A Life Less Ordinary," it shows the strength of a band’s back catalogue. Ash powered through their hour-long set, tight as ever. They make so much noise for a three-piece—a triumphant Saturday night headline slot in the Meadow.
Sunday: Japanese band Shonen Knife were an absolute delight. Catchy pop-punk about fun and silly subjects—like their favourite candy—they made everyone smile as the sun shone in the early Sunday afternoon, and I felt honoured to be in their presence.
Next up, Divorce, who had been recommended to me by many people—so I had to catch them live. I was impressed! They have a country vibe but in an interesting way, much like Rilo Kiley or Big Thief. If you’re attending a festival where they’re playing, do check them out—I’ve a feeling they’ll be filling bigger slots in the near future.
Throwing Muses are a band that have popped up on my Spotify a few times in recent months. The American three-piece have been going for over 40 years now, and although I have enjoyed their music, their set at Bearded Theory was very underwhelming, sadly. I even spoke to a few massive fans afterward, and they said the same. Maybe an off day? As Throwing Muses undeniably have some great tracks in their back catalogue.
Taking to the Meadow Stage next were Asian Dub Foundation, and as a big fan, I was very excited to finally catch them. Although the set was full of energy, I feel the backing track and drum and bass elements drowned out the live band slightly (who are superb). I’d love to hear some material from their 2000 classic album Community Music, which doesn’t seem to feature in their sets these days for some reason.
It was now Sunday night, and I was wondering—where have five days gone? The quality and diversity of Bearded Theory’s lineup is testament to the organisers and how highly people speak of this festival, and it’s one I’d recommend to anyone.
It was headline time for the Pallet Stage: Manic Street Preachers. The much-loved Welsh band opened with "Decline and Fall" from their latest album, Critical Thinking. Nicky Wire was as imposing as ever, James effortlessly playing his guitar as always. But unfortunately, as the set progressed, I found it a bit flat, and the setlist was predictable. Yes, they may play the hits, but some of those hits have become very dated—especially in comparison to the quality of the lineup this weekend. So many great acts, old and new.
As the fireworks filled the Derbyshire sky, I found myself reflecting on the weekend. The sheer quality and diversity of Bearded Theory’s lineup is testament to the organisers and the festival’s glowing reputation. It’s well organised, the atmosphere is friendly, and the food and drink selection is spot on. All I could think was, I wonder who will be on the lineup next year—because I will undoubtedly be back. So, for another year, it’s a fond farewell to Bearded Theory.
