Solstice @ Midsummer Prog Festival 2025 – day 1 (May 23)

Solstice @ Midsummer Progfestival 2025 – A glorious summer revival full of groove and vocal alchemy

At the 2025 Midsummer Prog Festival, Solstice delivered a captivating and dynamic performance that underscored the band's remarkable renaissance. The set focused primarily on material from the Jess Holland era (2020–2025), a period marked by creative renewal and musical momentum. The concert radiated synergy, joy and vibrant summer energy.

They opened with the lively “Firefly,” a swinging opener packed with rhythmic drive, swirling keyboards  and Jess Holland’s soulful vocals. Andy Glass unleashed sharp guitar riffs, while Jenny Newman’s violin gracefully wove melodic lines throughout the piece. The jazzy backing vocals added a polished shimmer to the sound.

The epic “Shout” followed and proved to be one of the evening's highlights. This twelve-minute composition showcased the band’s full dynamic range: bouncy basslines, cinematic violin passages, tranquil interludes with captivating solos and a powerful finale.

“Life” introduced a sultry, jazz-infused atmosphere with Brazilian influences. Glass built the track in rich layers leading to a sweeping climax where his distinctive guitar work shone once again.

Next came the energetic “Wongle No.9,” a feel-good track from the Light Up album, where retro organ lines, catchy vocal hooks, animated violin and smooth grooves shifted rapidly and playfully.

“Mount Ephraim” revealed another powerful facet of the band with robust guitar tones from Glass giving the track an extra backbone.

With the summery sparkle of “A New Day,” the band revisited their Sia era, which has come to define their contemporary sound. They closed with the iconic “Morning Light”  that was originally released on the ‘First Light’ cassette in 1982, a perfect reminder of just how far Solstice has come in 43 years.

What made the performance particularly memorable was the band’s vibrant stage presence. Jess Holland and her backing vocalists Ebony Buckle (also supporting on keys) and Leoni Jane Kennedy ( she was standing in for Dyane Crutcher for this show)  stood still. Their movement, expressions and harmonies were utterly infectious.  Leoni even engaged in a guitar duel with Glass—a thrilling moment. The three voices blended into a magical vocal tapestry that floated effortlessly above the band’s sound.

Alongside guitarist Andy Glass and violinist Jenny Newman, the rock-solid rhythm section featured Robin Phillips (bass), Pete Hemsley (drums) and Steven McDaniel (keyboards). Their experience and mutual understanding created a seamless musical flow. At times, the performance evoked the spirit of Santana: a constant river of music, rich with spontaneous interplay and connection.

With this performance Solstice proved that progressive rock in 2025 is anything but outdated. On the contrary with their fresh sound, tight interplay and undeniable joy in playing they delivered one of the most memorable sets of the entire festival.