Book Review: Scarborough Punk Festival (2024) by Phil Thorns

Book Review: Scarborough Punk Festival by Phil Thorns

Phil Thorns’ latest release, a 72-page photo book capturing the raw energy of the Scarborough Punk Festival, is an essential addition to any punk lover’s collection. With over 100 striking photos, Phil documents the chaos, passion, and unfiltered spirit of the festival, bringing the event to life through his lens.

A seasoned freelance gig photographer and music reviewer, Phil has built a reputation for capturing the true essence of live music. His work regularly appears in publications like Punktuation, In Spite, Louder Than War, Safety Pin, and All Music Magazine UK, and this book continues his tradition of preserving punk’s unrelenting intensity.

DAY ONE IMAGES FROM 2025

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Scarborough Spa, the festival takes place in a venue like no other. Overlooking the sweeping North Bay, the historic Spa provides a dramatic contrast to the raw, rebellious energy of punk. Phil’s photography masterfully highlights this juxtaposition—the grandeur of the seaside setting against the sweat-soaked intensity of the performances.

The book features an iconic lineup of punk legends, including UK Subs, Sham 69, 999, The Buzzcocks, The Rezillos, and Japan’s high-energy Electric Eel Shock, alongside many more. With over 100 images, Phil’s lens captures every moment of the action—from the ferocious performances on stage to the relentless energy of the crowd, proving that punk is as alive and kicking as ever. Electric Eel Shock, with their wild antics and explosive sound, brought an extra layer of international chaos to the mix with their semi naked drummer, further cementing the festival as a true celebration of punk in all its forms.

What makes this collection stand out is Phil’s ability to tell a story through imagery. Each shot encapsulates the sweat-drenched energy of the performers, the raucous enthusiasm of the crowd, and the vibrant punk scene that thrives at grassroots festivals like this. From intimate close-ups of legendary punk acts to the wild abandon of the mosh pits, the book paints an immersive picture of a festival that refuses to be tamed. Every image feels personal, like a moment frozen in time—celebrating not just the music, but the people, the movement, and the rebellious spirit that fuels it all. Whether you were there or not, Scarborough Punk Festival captures what it feels like to be in the thick of it.

For those who live and breathe live music, this book is more than a keepsake—it’s a testament to the power of punk. A must-have for fans, musicians, and anyone who understands that punk is more than just a genre—it’s a way of life.

BUY THE BOOK HERE

DAY 2 IMAGES FROM 2025