More than 48,000 people celebrate three days at Mendizabala, cementing Azkena Rock Festival’s status as the mecca of rock ’n’ roll
The 10 Best Moments of the Day
From the Plaza de la Virgen Blanca to the final chords at Mendizabala, the audience enjoyed a third day marked by major comebacks, new discoveries, and the natural harmony between legendary artists and some of today’s most exciting acts.
1. Rock Takes Over the City Center
The Plaza de la Virgen Blanca once again became a natural extension of the festival thanks to the performance by The Backyard Casanovas. The Swedish band brought their blend of hard rock, street-smart attitude, and unforgettable choruses to the heart of Vitoria-Gasteiz, drawing hundreds of people to one of the weekend’s most special stages.
2. Social Distortion: A Glorious Return
One of the most anticipated concerts of the day was Social Distortion’s. Four years after their last visit to the festival, Mike Ness and the band returned to Mendizabala to prove that they remain one of the great institutions of American punk rock. Generational anthems, razor-sharp guitars, and a collection of songs that have stood the test of time.
3. Between Tradition and the Future
The day also provided a space for generational contrast. While Superchunk once again reaffirmed their status as the undisputed benchmark of American indie rock, Starbenders confirmed why they are one of the most promising young bands on the international circuit, combining glam rock, attitude, and a magnetic stage presence.
4. Split Dogs Say Goodbye by Announcing Their Return
The British band Split Dogs delivered one of the most electrifying live sets of the day with a burst of raw punk rock. Their performance also served to announce a new national tour that will bring them back to Barcelona (November 24 at Upload), Madrid (November 26 at Nazca), and Vitoria-Gasteiz (November 28 at Helldorado), among other stops. Tickets are on sale at lasttour.org
5. Eusko Label: Lepora and Rodeo
The local scene also had its moment in the spotlight thanks to Lepora and Rodeo. These two bands represent different generations and approaches to rock music from the Basque Country, demonstrating the excellent health of a local scene that continues to bring personality and character to the festival lineup.
6. Alcalá Norte and the Current State of Spanish Rock
Having become one of the biggest breakthrough acts of recent months, Alcalá Norte headlined one of the day’s most well-attended performances. On stage, the Madrid-based band confirmed the creative peak they’re currently experiencing and the connection they’ve managed to forge with a new generation of fans. Furthermore, the band will present their highly anticipated second album at a major concert at the Movistar Arena in Madrid on February 20, 2027.
7. An Open-Minded Festival: Sleaford Mods and Carpenter Brut
The Azkena Rock Festival’s open-mindedness was once again reflected in a lineup capable of accommodating acts as diverse as Sleaford Mods and Carpenter Brut. The British duo delivered their usual sharp take on contemporary reality, while the French artist transformed Mendizabala into an explosive mix of synthwave, metal, and high-energy electronic music.
8. Jason Isbell, a Master Class in American Songwriting
One of the most moving moments of the day came courtesy of Jason Isbell & The 400 Unit. The Alabama-born musician once again demonstrated why he is considered one of the greatest songwriters of his generation, combining virtuosity, sensitivity, and a collection of songs capable of connecting with the audience from the very first note.
9. Azkena Rock Festival Against Sexual Violence and Hate Crimes
This year, the Azkena Rock Festival has joined the Festival Pact, a campaign launched by the Association of Music Festivals (FMA) in collaboration with Women in the Music Industry (MIM) to reinforce the industry’s commitment to combating sexual violence and hate crimes.
This participation is part of the work the festival has been carrying out in the areas of prevention, awareness-raising, staff training, and the provision of visible support and information spaces within the venue, particularly through the Punto Violeta and the Espacio BALORE.
10. Thank you! See you at the 25th anniversary
Over these three days at the Azkena Rock Festival, rock in all its forms has triumphed once again, showcasing the lineup’s eclecticism. The festival will return next year on June 17, 18, and 19, 2027.
