Talking about a festival’s weather is about as cliché as it gets—something we’ve read a thousand times and probably could do without. But when a city goes nine months without significant rain, and then a storm rolls in during a festival weekend, maybe that’s worth mentioning.
Such was the case at the M3F Festival in downtown Phoenix at Indian Steele Park on March 7-8, 2025. Known for donating 100% of its proceeds to charity—totaling $6 million since its inception in 2004—M3F has become a philanthropic staple in Phoenix. What started as a team-building exercise for the family-run Wespac Construction has evolved into a festival that supports community, education, arts, and environmental initiatives. And while the rain may have dampened Friday’s festivities, Saturday brought sunshine, a killer lineup, and the kind of good vibes that define M3F’s enduring appeal.
At its core, M3F isn’t just about music—it’s about making an impact. Fans come not only to enjoy live performances but to contribute to something bigger. Blending music, art, and social engagement, the festival stands out as a purpose-driven event that gives back to its city.
The 2025 lineup was led by LCD Soundsystem—making their first-ever Arizona appearance—and French electronic duo Justice. Other standout acts included Sylvan Esso, Alvvays, BADBADNOTGOOD, BAYNK, Slow Pulp, Confidence Man, Dev Lemons, Hippie Sabotage, Luna Luna, Mindchatter, Summer Salt, Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs, and UPSAHL.
M3F shifted its musical direction about a decade ago, moving from jam bands to an electronic-heavy lineup. But it’s settled into a more balanced mix in recent years, where rock bands have a rightful place alongside DJ-driven sets. Sure, Girl Talk and LP Giobbi still lit up the late-night crowd, but there was plenty for those not looking to party until dawn.
Friday’s cold front had festival-goers bundled up in jackets usually reserved for Snowbowl trips, giving the scene a Seattle-in-the-desert aesthetic. By Saturday, the sun was back, drying out the mud and setting the stage for a more electronic-heavy day led by Justice and Sylvan Esso.
Now in its second year at Indian Steele Park—after a decade at Margaret Hance Park—M3F seems to have found its ideal home. With a lake, rolling hills, hidden nooks, and enough space for four stages without sound interference, the layout felt near perfect. Here are some of the artist highlights from the 2005 Edition of M3f
UPSAHL
Hometown favorite UPSAHL dominated the stage Saturday with her signature blend of alt-rock and pop, proving why she’s a rising star. Having collaborated with Mike Shinoda and others, she’s on the brink of breaking through on a major level—think early Halsey or Charli XCX before their big moments.
Dressed in pink panties and an “I (heart) Phoenix” shirt, UPSAHL ripped through tracks like “Monica Lewinsky” and vibrant covers of The Ting Tings’ “That’s Not My Name” and Yeah Yeah Yeahs’ “Heads Will Roll.” She also paid tribute to her roots with “Arizona” while mixing in a bit of political commentary.
Alvvays
Underrated yet consistently brilliant, Canadian rockers Alvvays, led by Molly Rankin, brought their signature dreamy sound to the stage. Their colorful synths, jangly guitars, and expressive basslines delivered a shimmering performance even under gray skies.
Songs like “Tom Verlaine,” “Belinda Says,” and “Marry Me Archie” flowed seamlessly, creating a set that stood in contrast to the heavy beats of the DJ stages and offered a perfect indie-rock escape.
BADBADNOTGOOD
If you haven’t experienced the magic of BADBADNOTGOOD live, you’re missing out. These Canadian jazz adventurers blur the lines between jazz, hip-hop, and experimental grooves, delivering unpredictable yet captivating performances.
On this night, they honored the late Roy Ayers with a tease of “Everybody Loves the Sunshine” while channeling the improvisational energy that made The Roots’ legendary 2013 M3F set so unforgettable.
LCD Soundsystem
In what might have been their first-ever outdoor rain show, LCD Soundsystem’s long-awaited Phoenix debut was worth every second of the wait. Frontman James Murphy, in his usual disheveled charm—bedhead, five o’clock shadow, and deadpan vocals—led the charge, proving once again why LCD is the gold standard of dance-rock.
With their massive disco ball spinning overhead, the band launched into “You Wanted a Hit,” its sleek keyboard intro cutting through the misty air. Drummer Pat Mahoney was a relentless force, driving an hour-and-fifteen-minute set packed with fan favorites.
Other highlights included “I Can Change,” “Daft Punk Is Playing at My House,” “Dance Yrself Clean,” and the perfect closer, “All My Friends.” If ever there was a way to wrap up a chilly, rain-soaked festival day, LCD Soundsystem was the band to do it.
photos by Lisa Jacobs Handler
