Mad Cool Festival concluded its 10th anniversary year

MAD COOL FESTIVAL BRINGS ITS 10TH ANNIVERSARY

TO A ROUSING CLOSE

4 DAYS. 200,000+ FANS. ONE UNFORGETTABLE FESTIVAL

Mad Cool Festival concluded its 10th anniversary year with sets from Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, David Byrne, Pulp and The Black Crowes, among many others. Rock and timeless sounds took centre stage on a final day that more than lived up to expectations, bringing four unforgettable days of music and more than 200,000 attendees to a spectacular close.

Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds took the stage as one of the evening’s most anticipated performances and delivered an outstanding show. Darkness, intensity and sonic excellence came together in a concert led by a magnetic Nick Cave, whose commanding presence gave every song remarkable emotional weight. Backed by a flawless band completely in tune with his every move, Cave elevated the performance to something almost spiritual. Classics such as O Children and Red Right Hand resonated throughout the crowd before an emotional closing rendition of Into My Arms, one of the day’s defining moments.

After nearly 30 years, Pulp returned to Madrid with a show as powerful as ever. Jarvis Cocker stepped onto the stage with effortless confidence, showcasing the charisma and experience that have made him such an iconic frontman. The performance unfolded as a journey of contrasts, moving seamlessly from euphoric singalongs to deeply emotional moments through cinematic instrumental passages and bursts of exhilarating energy. Their final song of the set was Common People, made especially rousing as it coincided with the final whistle of England’s World Cup quarter final victory.

David Byrne’s performance was a masterclass in visual storytelling – the concert was precise, inventive and full of personality. Byrne treated longtime fans to several of the most celebrated songs from Talking Heads, the band he famously led. The Orange Stage crowd reached one of the festival’s emotional peaks during Psycho Killer, one of the highlights from the entire day.

The Black Crowes provided the perfect sunset soundtrack with a set of pure rock & roll driven by thunderous guitars and an endless stream of memorable riffs. Chris Robinson’s unmistakable vocals, perfectly complemented by Rich Robinson’s guitar work, carried a performance overflowing with rhythm and energy. Aware of the special bond they share with their audience, the band filled their set with many of their best-loved songs, bringing the Region of Madrid Stage to life.

Returning to Mad Cool for the first time since 2018, Kasabian delivered exactly the performance fans had hoped for. The British band unleashed a relentless run of anthems that turned the festival site into one huge celebration, with Serge Pizzorno acting as master of ceremonies in front of an ecstatic crowd. Songs including Club Foot, Fire, Underdog and L.S.F. sparked some of the most explosive moments of the day.

Jalen Ngonda opened the final day of Mad Cool Festival 2026 with a performance that transported the audience back to the golden age of soul. His remarkable voice, supported by an exceptional band, evoked the timeless sound of the 1960s and 70s. Shortly afterwards, Matt Berninger took over with an atmospheric performance and a magnetic stage presence. Blending songs from his solo career and his band The National, he once again demonstrated the strength and individuality that define him as a performer.

The final day also dedicated a prominent space to electronic music – Nina Kraviz and Richie Hawtin brought true club energy to The Loop by Iberdrola with sets defined by precision, intensity and complete mastery behind the decks. Representing Spain, AEREA delivered a live performance full of personality, while Madrid DJ Luxi Villarcompleted a high-quality electronic programme.

The Mahou Cinco Estrellas and Mahou Reserva stages completed the festival with a line-up worthy of such a special occasion. Portugal’s Bad Tomato and Málaga’s Break The Senses, winners of Mad Cool Talent by Vibra Mahou, kicked off the day with two high-energy rock performances. As throughout the festival, both stages showcased a diverse programme with a strong international outlook, featuring artists such as Persia Holder, TTSSFU, The Reytons, Overpass and Supermodel*. The closing honours went to Yulie and KSAL, representatives of Mad Cool DJ Talent by Vibra Mahou, whose powerful DJ sets brought both the festival and its 10th anniversary celebrations to a fitting close.

Once again, Mad Cool Festival has established itself as one of Madrid’s leading cultural and musical events, attracting audiences from across Spain and around the world. A hub where creativity, art and diversity remain the true headliners.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of the Spanish capital, the festival brings together an eclectic lineup spanning rock, pop, indie and electronic music, alongside emerging artists ready to make their mark. Beyond the music, Mad Cool has become a meeting point for fans, creators and communities who share a passion for live experience and self-expression.

We would also like to recognise the work of Aspacia and Fundación EddyG, who have led the festival’s Support Point, offering information and professional assistance to anyone affected by any form of violence. These spaces remained open throughout the festival, with dedicated programmes and support available until the end of each day for anyone who needed it.

Mad Cool Festival would also like to thank everyone who contributed through the Charity initiative, joining the shared commitment to support Hospital Universitario La Paz. Every contribution collected through the symbolic charity fee attached to invitations and accreditations is donated entirely to paediatric oncology research and the development of advanced therapies for childhood cancer. This initiative reinforces the festival’s social commitment and its determination to create a positive impact beyond music.

The Mad Cool Festival organisation would also like to express its sincere thanks to every institution, organisation and public service whose commitment and dedication helped ensure the festival ran smoothly. In particular, we would like to thank Madrid City Council, the Regional Government of Madrid, the Government Delegation, Madrid Municipal Police, the Guardia Civil and the Spanish National Police. We would also like to acknowledge the outstanding work carried out by the Villaverde district cleaning services, whose contribution is essential to the success of the event. Finally, our thanks go to all of our partners and sponsors, whose support makes the Mad Cool Festival experience possible.