Planet Desert Rock Weekend is back to heat up the Las Vegas desert with a potent mix of stoner rock, doom, and heavy psych. This year’s festival promises four nights of non-overlapping performances from 20 bands at two iconic Vegas venues.
Festival creator and curator John Gist describes the event as an “organic” celebration of rock music, with a lineup that spans a variety of styles within the heavy rock and psych scenes. “We cover a pretty good range with these 20 bands,” Gist says, noting the inclusion of legendary desert rock figures like Brant Bjork and John Garcia of Kyuss.
Headlining the 2025 edition is Unida, a revered desert rock act, with performances also from Montreal’s sci-fi inspired Sons of Arrakis, Los Angeles’ Fireball Ministry, Italy’s Mr. Bison, Swedish prog-psych band JIRM, and many more. February 2 will feature a special Last Call night with guitarist Jason Walker, known for his work with Gene Simmons’ band, performing Soundgarden’s Badmotorfinger alongside other classics.
Eight international bands will make their U.S. debut at this year’s festival, including Belgium’s Fire Down Below, the UK’s Sergeant Thunderhoof, and Germany’s Samavayo, expanding the festival’s global reach. Longer set times ensure international acts get ample exposure.
PDRW is set to draw music lovers from 32 states and five countries, cementing its place as a unique and crucial gathering for heavy rock fans. Despite financial risks, Gist is committed to making it a memorable experience for all involved.
