Three stars under the beech trees: Smukfest 2025 ended in grand style
On the festival’s final day, Smukfest 2025 presented a spectacular blend of Danish and international acts, each creating unforgettable moments in their unique way. From Saint Clara’s intimate performance to Clean Bandit’s dance floor celebration and Carpark North’s rocking energy bomb – the closing Sunday once again underlined the festival as one of Denmark’s most beloved music events.
Saint Clara – intimate concert at Bøgescenen
Saint Clara took Smukfest by storm with a concert that was both intimate and full of stardust. She is the niece of supermodel Renée Toft Simonsen and music legend Thomas Helmig – and with that combination, she has both glamour and musical genes in her arsenal. On stage, however, she has long since found her unique voice.
Clara appeared in a white, transparent dress that made it look like a wedding between her and the festival. The audience received her with the same devotion, and the atmosphere quickly became warm, present, and almost ceremonial.
Her vocals stood sharp and sensitive, and you could feel how she managed to create contact all the way to the back rows. The songs’ catchy melodies and her honest expression made the concert an experience where people both danced and listened. Saint Clara proved that she is one of Denmark’s most promising pop voices – and Smukfest loved her.
Clean Bandit – Clean Concert
Smukfest got an international breath of fresh air when Clean Bandit took the stage with their unique blend of electronic pop, classical strings, and catchy beats. The British band showed from the first number why they have been among the most distinctive names on the global pop scene for more than a decade.
The concert was a perfect balance between club atmosphere and live experience. The iconic hits like “Rather Be” and “Rockabye” had the audience singing along in chorus, while the more instrumental passages gave room for the band’s trademark: the interplay between strings and electronic productions.
The frontmen radiated confidence and joy of playing, and the audience responded with dancing, smiles, and hands in the air. The atmosphere was electric – like a huge dance floor party under the beech trees.
Clean Bandit delivered a concert that was festive, stylish, and full of musical finesse. A highlight of this year’s festival and proof that pop music can be both intelligent and unforgettable live.
Carpark North – a good classic!
When Carpark North takes the stage, there’s a guarantee of energy – and Smukfest 2025 was no exception. From the first note, the trio set off a wall of electronic rock that had the entire audience vibrating in rhythm.
Lau Højen stood in front with a voice that could still rise above the heavy beats and strong guitar riffs. The band delivered a set packed with hits like “Human” and “Transparency” that had people singing along, while the light show cast the stage into an almost cinematic universe.
It was clear that Carpark North still loves being on stage. They play hard, intensely, and with genuine joy that spreads directly to the audience.
The result was a concert where energy and community melted together – a pure rock fest under the beech trees. Carpark North once again cemented their status as one of Denmark’s strongest live bands.
Fotos (c) Morten Holksted Kristensen
