Review & photo gallery: Hinterland, Day 3 feat. Lana Del Rey, Bleachers, Sierra Ferrell, Evan Honer, & more | 08.03.25, St. Charles, IA

Photo of Lana Del Rey by Michael O’Connor

The final day of Hinterland 2025 arrived like the last chapter of a book you never want to end. The first two days were about exploration and emotional depth, and day three was a celebration of artistry, connection, and the kind of moments that stay etched in your soul forever.

After Sam Austins’ high energy opening performance, Ireland native Orla Gartland followed with a set that felt like amusical campfire. She got the crowd’s initial attention with a cover of Chappell Roan’s “Red Wine Supernova” and then split the crowd down the middle for her track “Backseat Driver” – one side singing one verse, the other responding – turning the field into a living, breathing chorus. It was spectacular to see live, and a powerful representation of the deep connection she was able to foster with the audience.

Evan Honer made an unforgettable entrance – literally backflipping onto the stage. His sound was pure indie gold, and when he brought out Wyatt Flores for their track “Take Me As I Come,” the crowd melted into the moment. Later, Wyatt returned the favor, inviting Evan back for his set during a cover of The Fray’s “How to Save a Life.” It was one of the most emotional moments of the weekend – goosebumps rippled through the crowd as voices sang along. Wyatt Flores’ performance was a love letter to old country, and his voice carried the weight of dusty roads and honest storytelling, grounding the day in heartfelt tradition.

Sierra Ferrell brought a beautiful Southern tone as well. Her Dolly Parton cover of “Here I Am” was stunning, but it was the tease of Black Sabbath’s “Iron Man” riff during her track “Fox Hunt” that the audience really went wild for. She blurred genre lines with grace, proving that country can be both tender and untamed.

Then came Bleachers, with a performance that felt like a heart cracked wide open. Lead singer Jack Antonoff’s stage presence was magnetic, and endlessly charismatic. I spoke with a fellow photographer who’s shot for Bleachers before, and they mentioned how genuinely happy Jack looked throughout his set. That joy radiated outward, wrapping the crowd in something real and rare, hands down one of the most talented performers all weekend.

And finally – bow down before the queen herself, Lana Del Rey. Her set consisted of an entire house that – rumor among photographers – took workers the entire night to build, as well as trees and other items to really set the scene. She came onto the stage and fans instantly burst into tears. I was talking about how Clairo operates on a higher frequency during her performance on day one, and this was another one of those moments with Lana. Her voice was so pure and transcendent. When she played “Chemtrails Over the Country Club,” I definitely got emotional – and I wasn’t alone. “Young and Beautiful” was another standout, with the entire crowd singing, tears glistening and hearts wide open. Lana conjures thousands. She is so deeply loved, and it showed in every note, gaze, and breath.

And just like that, it was over. Hinterland 2025 came to a close, leaving behind a trail of memories, melodies, and moments that felt like magic. The entire festival was genuinely a life-altering experience not only for me, but for audience members that I had the opportunity to talk with on my way out. My final message is directed towards Hinterland 2025 as a whole: You were truly unforgettable, and the memories made will never be forgotten. Thank you. | Michael O’Connor