Empire of the Sun turned a heatwave into a fever dream at Cardiff Castle on Tuesday, June 23, 2025, with a show-stopping performance that left the audience spellbound. The Australian band, known for their electronic dance and glam rock fusion, delivered a wacky and wonderful start to the summer gig season in Cardiff.
A Surprising Evening Begins
Attending the concert, I had no idea what to expect. From catchy songs and dancing jellyfish to a classic rockstar finish, the evening was a surreal experience. Despite an extreme weather warning and scorching temperatures, the passion for good music triumphed over the desire to stay cool at home.
The supporting act, New Zealand rock band Balu Brigada, kicked off the night. I had never heard of them before, but their catchy songs and engaging crowd work won me over. They had everyone dancing despite the heat, and even added a local touch by singing "I think it's Welsh" during their song Moon Man. They expressed fascination with the castle and pride in performing at such an iconic venue.
Empire of the Sun's Dazzling Main Set
Empire of the Sun took the stage next, providing a visually stunning performance. The band is best known for classics like Alive, We Are The People, and Walking on a Dream. Their set featured fabulous costumes, glitzy dancers, gigantic white head statues, quirky jellyfish characters, and interesting background graphics. Lead singer Luke Steele engaged the crowd, saying, "Cardiff for the win...is there anything this crowd can’t do. You guys are beautiful."
The band joked about watching Game of Thrones before the gig to get ready for the castle vibe. Steele's family was in attendance, and he remarked that there is no better place to be as they went on a "journey" together. The audience spanned all ages, from young babies to pensioners, united by the band's timeless music.
Highlights and Heatwave Precautions
Personal highlights included Walking on a Dream, which united the crowd regardless of age, proving the song's relevance nearly 20 years after its release. Alive had everyone singing at the top of their lungs and dancing without a care, making the crowd feel truly alive. The gig ended in classic rockstar fashion with a smashed guitar and smiles all around.
Depot Live, the event organizer, deserves praise for handling the extreme heat. Additional precautions included shelters in accessibility and VIP areas, and free water refill stations with cold water—a lifesaver on a very warm day. The relaxed atmosphere and extra facilities made for one of the most comfortable gigs I have ever attended.
A Summer Highlight
Over the years, Depot has hosted countless gigs at Cardiff Castle, and every summer it is a highlight for many. This year's organization went above and beyond, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. I highly recommend booking one of their summer gigs; you can almost guarantee an enjoyable evening with the beautiful castle backdrop behind your favorite artists.
