A sun-soaked, joyful send-off with Olly Murs
After a week of standout performances — from Supergrass’ anthemic opener to Texas, Turin Brakes, and Kaiser Chiefs — Bristol Sounds 2025 drew to a close on Sunday with its most sun-drenched, feel-good day yet. With Glastonbury just down the road and dominating headlines, Bristol showed it can hold its own, albeit less controversially, offering a unique kind of magic on the harbourside.
Olly Murs was the perfect headliner to round off the festival — a performer who makes everything look effortless. His set was packed with hits, charm, and the kind of energy that had the entire amphitheatre singing and dancing as the sun dipped behind the cranes. Dance With Me Tonight, Heart Skips a Beat, and Troublemaker kept spirits high, with thousands of voices joining in and the festival’s final night turning into a giant open-air party.
One of the highlights came midway through, when Olly and the band launched into a brilliant 80s “Mixtape” medley. With quick-fire nods to classics like I’m Your Man, Never Gonna Give You Up, and 500 Miles, it was a playful, high-energy section that felt tailor-made for a summer night. The crowd lapped it up, dancing, clapping along, and relishing every familiar hook.
Amid all the fun, there was space for a quieter, more personal moment too. Olly’s dedication of Dear Darlin’ to Caroline Flack was simple and heartfelt, offering a pause for reflection before the final stretch of upbeat anthems took over once again. It was the kind of set that reminded you why Olly has remained such a firm festival favourite — easygoing, engaging, and able to strike just the right balance between fun and feeling.
Earlier in the evening, Lucy Spraggan’s heartfelt songs seemed to summon a bit of Bristol magic of their own. As she played, a cluster of hot air balloons drifted across the sky — a surreal, only-in-Bristol moment that had the crowd looking up and grinning. It was as if the city itself had joined in the celebration. Billy Lockett set the tone beforehand with a warm, soulful set that perfectly matched the laid-back vibe of the evening.
The festival’s closing day was as much about the setting and shared experience as the music. It was the kind of night that reminded you why live music by the water’s edge feels so special — relaxed, easy going, and full of joy. A fitting close to one of the city’s true summer highlights.
