Photos and Review by Jolene Rheault
MARTINSVILLE, VA — Tucked into the lush, rolling hills of Martinsville, Virginia, Rooster Walk 15 came alive over Memorial Day weekend (May 22–25, 2025) at Pop’s Farm, transforming the peaceful countryside into a vibrant celebration of music, nature, and connection.
With over 45 bands performing across six thoughtfully curated stages, the weekend pulsed with life—but beyond the lineup, it was the feeling in the air that made Rooster Walk 15 unforgettable. It wasn’t just about the music. It was the energy between strangers, the sense of belonging, and the unforgettable moments that unfolded under an open sky.
One of those moments—that perfect set that becomes legend—belonged to Sneezy. The Chicago-based funk-soul fusion powerhouse lit up the woods with a performance that felt less like a show and more like a joyful rebellion against gravity. Led by Brett O’Connor’s magnetic presence and high-octane vocals, the band unleashed a groove-heavy set that had the entire crowd moving as one. It was sweaty, wild, and heartfelt—a sonic celebration wrapped in electric charisma.
In one of the weekend’s most endearing scenes, Jack Holland (Acoustic Guitar, Vocals) was spotted offstage, soaking up the sun from a folding lawn chair in the middle of the crowd, clutching a lone egg shaker like the funkiest Zen master at a jam-fueled picnic.
The moment was pure festival gold—irreverent, hilarious, and totally on brand for Sneezy, who somehow managed to balance precision musicianship with a laid-back, “let’s enjoy this” vibe. Jack’s quick strut back to the stage mid-set felt like performance art in itself, and the crowd ate it up.
Then came the magic that left jaws on the grass. Radka Kasparcova (stepping in for Austin Lutter) absolutely tore the place apart—not just filling in, but owning the stage.
As the band’s energy surged, Radka slipped into the crowd mid-solo, letting her guitar wail as she walked among fans, playing inches away from faces lit up in disbelief. She knelt beside kids, shredded beside wide-eyed parents, and moved through the audience with the ease of someone channeling something bigger than herself.
When she reemerged on the opposite side of the stage and climbed back into position, it felt like a rock & roll resurrection. And when Brett O’Connor lifted her high above the stage as she played a soaring solo, the crowd erupted—it wasn’t just music anymore, it was mythology in the making.
Friday and Saturday delivered a non-stop barrage of unforgettable sets. Andy Frasco & The U.N. turned the Lake Stage into a massive, joy-filled circus on Friday night, blending funk, chaos, and pure celebration. Frasco’s relentless energy transformed the field into a dance floor of uninhibited joy, capturing the spirit of the festival in full throttle.
Saturday brought the iconic Keller Williams to the Lake Stage for a set that floated somewhere between technical brilliance and pure groove. It was loose, exploratory, and completely mesmerizing.
Meanwhile, Little Stranger crafted an epic two-hour sonic journey on the Lake Stage, threading together hip-hop, rock, and straight-up good vibes into a cohesive, body-moving masterpiece.
Guitarist Isaac Hadden left a lasting impression with his numerous sit-ins throughout the weekend, showcasing both versatility and soul. One unforgettable moment rose above the rest—a slow, soul-stirring version of “Vamp in the Middle” that melted into the night like honey, striking deep emotional chords in everyone lucky enough to be there.
Equally memorable was Florencia Rusiñol of Florencia & the Feeling, whose presence on stage radiated warmth and magnetic energy. A Latin American singer-songwriter from East Tennessee, Florencia brought her Argentinian heritage and jazz-singing roots into a seamless blend of pop, funk, and Latin grooves. With “The Feeling” providing a tight, dynamic foundation, the performance turned into a joyful, danceable celebration that lingered long after the final note.
The weekend also unveiled some thrilling discoveries. The Shoaldiggers brought swampy, foot-stomping Americana that crackled with authenticity, blending gritty blues riffs with fiddle-fueled energy that had the crowd hollering and dancing in the grass. Their storytelling lyrics and raw musicianship felt like a backwoods revival, leaving a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to catch their set.
Meanwhile, Mountain Walrus delivered an entrancing, genre-blending soundscape that felt like a lucid dream with a backbeat. Seamlessly fusing elements of psych rock, jazz, and world music, their set unfolded like a sonic journey—equal parts meditative and exhilarating—anchored by tight grooves and unexpected turns that kept the audience spellbound.
Deau Eyes, on the other hand, lit the stage on fire—commanding the crowd with kinetic energy, fierce vocals, and a stage presence that demanded attention from the first note to the last stomp.
Beyond the music, Pop’s Farm proved to be the perfect host. With its shaded groves, open lawns, and scenic trails, the venue created a natural rhythm all its own. The New Belgium Pine Grove Stage offered a cool, pine-sheltered refuge where the music seemed to float on the breeze. Campers lounged under hardwoods, paddle boats dotted the lake, and hammocks swayed beside drum circles. It wasn’t just a festival—it was a full immersion in nature and sound.
Activities off-stage were just as abundant and rewarding. From yoga at sunrise to guided fly-fishing trips and a full disc golf course, there were endless ways to reconnect with nature and oneself. These slower moments provided balance—offering a place to breathe, reset, and savor the calm between sets.
Families found Rooster Walk 15 to be a welcoming oasis. The Kiwanis Kids’ Stage lit up with interactive performances like Mile Andrews’ Raffi Tribute, where little ones danced and sang with abandon. Kids had the chance to join open mics, bang on drums, and even learn choreography, all in an environment that fostered curiosity and joy.
Over in the Kids’ Coop, laughter rang out over arts and crafts, face painting, a giant slip’n’slide, and a kids’ parade that brought color and excitement to every corner of the farm. Rooster Walk wasn’t just kid-friendly—it was kid-celebrated.
As night fell, the magic only deepened. Fire spinners cast glowing trails through the air, while communal bonfires invited late-night conversations and singalongs. Bands like Ghost-Note and Future Joy kept the adrenaline pumping into the early hours, while impromptu jam sessions popped up in every corner. These spontaneous gatherings, sparked by nothing more than shared energy and a love for music, became the heartbeat of the after-hours experience.
One aspect that truly set this festival apart was its exceptional commitment to accessibility. As an ADA photographer who attends a lot of events, I can confidently say the accommodations here were the best I’ve ever experienced—thoughtfully designed, inclusive, and genuinely supportive. All credit goes to the incredible team at 5 Points Music Foundation, whose passion for accessibility created a space where everyone could fully enjoy the magic of live music. Their work didn’t just meet expectations—it raised the bar.
There was also space for healing. From mindfulness workshops to wellness tents offering everything from reiki to massage, Rooster Walk 15 honored the need to unwind. The contrast between these quiet offerings and the high-energy performances gave festivalgoers permission to find their own groove—whether that meant dancing all night, meditating at dawn, or doing a little bit of both.
Food and craft vendors added to the richness of the experience. From farm-to-table bites and smoothie bowls to BBQ and guilty-pleasure treats, the culinary scene matched the festival’s eclectic vibe. Local artisans sold handmade goods, jewelry, and artwork, weaving a sense of culture and creativity into the very fabric of the event.
At the heart of Rooster Walk is its purpose. Born in memory of Martinsville natives Edwin “The Rooster” Penn and Walker Shank, the festival continues to honor their legacy by giving back to the community that raised them.
Proceeds go toward programs like the Penn-Shank Memorial Endowment Scholarship Fund and the Rooster Walk Music Instrument Program, supporting local youth and music education.
What began as a heartfelt tribute among friends has grown into a beloved annual tradition that blends music, arts, and purpose. Since its inception, Rooster Walk has raised over $323,000 for regional charities, enhancing both education and quality of life in the area. The festival has become a symbol of resilience, reminding us to celebrate life, create connection, and make every moment count.
In every note, every smile, every shared sunset, Rooster Walk 15 was more than a music festival—it was a full-body, full-heart experience that left people changed. And for those who danced beneath the stars at Pop’s Farm, it wasn’t just a weekend. It was a memory etched in soul.
Blind Faith pre-sale tickets for Rooster Walk 16 are available until June 4th at a discounted price (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rooster-walk-16-music-arts-festival-tickets-1335792012869).
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