Get Ready for SUMMERSTOCK Festival 2025

In conversation with Sam Martin

How SUMMERSTOCK Came to Be

The story behind SUMMERSTOCK is as humble as it is inspiring. The organiser, a 17-year-old musician, Sam Martin is passionate about making live music accessible to all ages, initially reached out to Oska, the owner of Livid Skate, to book a show for his band, RetroMode. "I mentioned the lack of opportunities for under-18s to be involved in Perth's music scene—whether it’s watching shows or playing them—and pitched the idea of an all-ages music festival featuring my band and some local acts," he says. To his surprise, Oska didn't block him or dismiss the idea. Instead, he supported it, and just a few months later, SUMMERSTOCK Festival was born.

"It’s a really cool moment for me, both as a music fan and a musician," the organiser reflects. "I can’t believe I’m actually doing this, and it's even better to see it all come together."

Sam Martin - Retro Mode

What to Expect

So, what can you expect from the very first SUMMERSTOCK Festival? According to the organiser, it’s going to be an epic day of music, good vibes, and a great atmosphere. "You can expect blistering heat, since it’s summer in Perth, but it’s close to the beach, so there’ll be a refreshing breeze," he says. "There’s a bar for those over 18, but also plenty of soft drinks and refreshments for everyone."

With eight amazing bands set to perform, you’ll be treated to an incredible variety of sounds and styles, all for just $22. "The next time you spend $22, you’ll question why you didn’t see eight bands in the height of summer for that price," the organiser stated. Whether you're there for the music or the community vibe, SUMMERSTOCK promises to be a day you'll remember.

The Bands

The SUMMERSTOCK lineup is stacked with some seriously talented local acts, many of whom have been part of the Perth music scene for a while.

"It’s a bit mad, really," says the Martin. "Half of these bands are mates of mine, but they’re also bands I really look up to."

For Sam, this lineup is particularly special. "Heysohungry was my first local gig at Y-HQ, the only all-ages venue in Australia. Having them on the lineup feels like a full-circle moment for me," Sam explains. "These bands are too talented to be hanging out with us, but I’m grateful they’re part of the festival."

If you're a fan of live music and you're in Perth this January, there's one event you absolutely can't miss—the inaugural SUMMERSTOCK Festival! This all-ages, independent festival is bringing together some of Perth's freshest and most exciting local talent for a one-day, high-energy music event. Whether you're into indie, rock, or alternative sounds, SUMMERSTOCK has something for everyone. It's happening on January 25th at Livid Skate Laneway in Scarborough, from 3 PM until 10:30 PM, and best of all, tickets are only $22!

And to add even more excitement, SUMMERSTOCK happens to fall on the same day as Triple J’s Hottest 100—though, according to the organiser, that definitely wasn’t planned!

Here's a peek at the lineup:

- RetroMode

- Vacate Palace

- Dune Cartel

- St. Tragedy

- Eleven AM.

- The Strangers

- Nood Harbour

- Heysohungry

The Venue: Livid Skate Laneway

A big shoutout to Livid Skate for hosting this event. Oska, the owner of Livid, is a key figure in making SUMMERSTOCK happen. "Literally and figuratively, I couldn’t do it without him," the organizer says. "He’s been supportive of the whole idea and has been an amazing help." Livid Skate is not only a venue for events like SUMMERSTOCK, but also a cool shop and café, where people can hang out, grab coffee, and soak up the local skate and music scene.

How to Get Your Tickets

Getting your tickets is simple! Just head over to the @summerstockfestival Instagram page and find the link in the bio. Alternatively, you can search for ‘Livid Skate SUMMERSTOCK’ in your browser to grab your tickets.

The organiser encourages anyone with questions to reach out directly via DM. "We check the inbox regularly and I’ll get back to you straight away," he says.

Why SUMMERSTOCK Matters

For the organiser, this festival is more than just a day of great music—it's a passion project. "It’s about making music accessible, especially for people my age," he says. "As a 17-year-old, I can’t even legally watch my own set in some places until July, so being able to put on a show like this is huge for me." It's a powerful reminder that anyone, no matter their age, can make a real impact on their local music scene.

Don’t Miss Out!

With the SUMMERSTOCK Festival just around the corner, this is one event you won’t want to miss. Eight incredible bands, all for just $22, plus good vibes, a great atmosphere, and a chance to support Perth’s up-and-coming musicians—what’s not to love?

Grab your tickets today, and get ready for an unforgettable day of music and memories at SUMMERSTOCK Festival. See you there!

For more details and to purchase tickets, head to the @summerstockfestival Instagram page or search ‘Livid Skate SUMMERSTOCK’ online.