The Maccabees, the beloved UK indie-rock band, have officially announced their reunion after a seven-year hiatus. This news coincides with their scheduled headline performance at the All Points East Festival in August 2025, sparking excitement among fans. However, speculation about a surprise performance at the Glastonbury Festival is gaining momentum.
Fans noticed a gap in the band’s summer schedule around the Glastonbury dates (June 25-29, 2025), leading to rumours of a potential secret set. Glastonbury is known for its unannounced performances by iconic acts, making this theory plausible. The reunion also celebrates the 20th anniversary of their debut single, ‘X-Ray’.
GRASSMONSTER SAYS: Indie darlings The Maccabees, long thought lost to time, have risen from the ashes for a headlining gig at All Points East this summer.
Fans, still aglow with reunion fever, are speculating wildly about a secret Glastonbury set.
If true, it would be the…
— ®©Grassmonster (@grassmonster) January 9, 2025
The Maccabees were a prominent indie-rock band from London, formed in 2004. Known for their energetic sound, emotionally charged lyrics, and compelling live performances, the band played a key role in the UK indie scene throughout the 2000s and 2010s. The band released four critically acclaimed albums before disbanding in 2017. Their recent reunion has reignited nostalgia among fans and curiosity about what’s next for the band.
‘X-Ray’ was the debut single by The Maccabees, released in 2005. The track introduced the band’s energetic indie-rock sound and its playful and raw edge set the tone for their early work. Although ‘X-Ray’ did not make a significant impact on the UK Singles Chart, it garnered critical acclaim and underground popularity. It helped the band build momentum, leading to a dedicated fanbase and their subsequent breakthrough. The Maccabees achieved more notable chart success with later singles, particularly after the release of their second and third albums, ‘Wall Of Arms‘ (2009) and ‘Given To The Wild‘ (2012)
The Maccabees are set to headline All Points East in Victoria Park, London, on Sunday, August 24, 2025. This performance marks their first show in eight years and coincides with the 10th anniversary of their final album, ‘Marks To Prove It’. The band has handpicked a stellar lineup of supporting acts for the festival, which includes Bombay Bicycle Club, Dry Cleaning, The Cribs, and more. These acts are known for their unique sounds and connections to the indie-rock scene, adding to the excitement surrounding The Maccabees’ comeback.
Whether the band will take to one of Glastonbury’s famous stages remains unconfirmed, but anticipation is high for a possible surprise return to the festival where they’ve performed memorable sets in the past. The band seems to be the most active on their X account, where you can follow them for more updates.