Melvins will headline Desertfest London 2027, leading the first wave of bands for the UK’s home of all things heavy.
The Camden institution returns from 21 to 23 May 2027, and it has handed the top slot to a band that needs little introduction. Formed in 1983 in Montesano, Washington, the Melvins remain one of heavy music’s most influential and unpredictable live forces, often imitated and never duplicated.
They are joined by Swedish riff masters Monolord, back after a packed Ballroom set in 2024, and German blackened death-punk duo Mantar. Virginia’s dissonant doom crew Inter Arma mark 20 years, sharing that milestone with homegrown British heavy metal heroes Desert Storm, also celebrating two decades.
Montreal power trio Dopethrone bring their self-styled “Canadian Slutch” filth to Camden, while Seattle duo Year Of The Cobra return to the Desertfest stage for the first time in eight years. Completing the first announcement are The Grudge, Modder, Kanaan, Omo and Row Of Ashes.
Desertfest London‘s first-phase confirmations in full: Melvins, Monolord, Mantar, Inter Arma, Dopethrone, Year Of The Cobra, Desert Storm, The Grudge, Modder, Kanaan, Omo and Row Of Ashes, with more to come.
The Melvins booking caps a strong start to the Desertfest year across borders, with the band also topping the first wave at sister event Desertfest Berlin the week before.
Desertfest London 2027 takes place across multiple venues in Camden Town from 21 to 23 May 2027. Phase one tickets are on sale now.
