By Peggy Phillips
Redondo Beach, CA (The Hollywood Times) May 2, 2025
Day One, May 2nd of BeachLife Festival 2025 kicked off with sunny vibes and a friendly crowd. THE STRUTS took the “Hightide” stage, and as a longtime fan, I was thrilled to see them live; they did not disappoint. This British rock band, formed in Derby in 2012, delivered a high-octane set brimming with charisma, swagger, and pure rock ‘n’ roll energy. Frontman Luke Spiller is a magnetic performer, owning the stage with his flamboyant style and genuine connection to the audience. His charm and confident stage presence had the crowd singing along from the first chorus. Guitarist Adam Slack brought explosive energy to every riff, while bassist Jed Elliott moved dynamically across the stage, locking in tight with drummer Gethin Davies to create a solid, driving rhythm section. Gethin’s powerful, energetic playing added muscle to every track and kept the band driving forward. Their setlist was a crowd-pleasing mix of hits and fan favorites. The Struts delivered exactly what fans came for—catchy hooks, electrifying showmanship, and a truly unforgettable rock experience. Their set was the undeniable highlight of the day.
O.A.R. and ALOE BLACC kept the feel-good vibe alive and thriving. O.A.R. (Of A Revolution) delivered a high-energy set blending their signature jam-band style with heartfelt lyrics and rich instrumentation. ALOE BLACC brought soulful charisma to the stage, infusing the afternoon with smooth vocals, socially conscious lyrics, and infectious grooves.
TRAIN, fronted by the ever-charismatic Pat Monahan, delivered a sing-along set packed with fan favorites that sounded as true as their original recordings. Backed by a tight, polished band, their performance was the perfect warm-up act, setting an energetic and nostalgic tone ahead of Lenny Kravitz’s headlining.
LENNY KRAVITZ closed the festival to a packed crowd. Lenny was in peak form, radiating the magnetic energy that defines a true rockstar. From the moment he stepped on stage, it was impossible to look away—his presence is equal parts sensual, spiritual, and commanding. With his signature blend of soul, funk, and rock, Kravitz delivered a powerful set that seamlessly wove new material with the timeless hits fans came to hear. His message of love, unity, and kindness pulsed through every beat. Backed by an exceptional band, each member brought their unique talent to the forefront, elevating the performance to something truly special. When Kravitz paused to introduce his band, the crowd responded with roaring enthusiasm, especially for the phenomenal drummer Cindy Blackman Santana, whose explosive energy and precision lit up the stage. It was more than a show; it was a celebration of this iconic legend, his music, spirit, and connection to us.
Enjoy our video:
Day One of BeachLife Festival 2025 came to a triumphant close. The lineup—ranging from the electrifying rock theatrics of The Struts to the soulful grooves of Aloe Blacc and the timeless power of Lenny Kravitz—offered something for every kind of music lover. Each performance built on the last, creating a wave of energy, nostalgia, and unity that swept through the crowd. BeachLife once again proved why it’s one of Southern California’s most beloved festivals. If this was just the beginning, the rest of the weekend promises to be unforgettable.
Read more at The Hollywood Times https://www.beachlifefestival.com/
