BST Hyde Park unveils full line-ups for Lewis Capaldi’s two headline shows

by

American Express presents BST Hyde Park has announced a host of incredible special guests for Lewis Capaldi’s two huge headline shows this summer. The Scottish superstar will be joined by some of the hottest names in music right now, alongside exciting emerging acts, across his sold-out performance on Saturday 11 July and a second show on Sunday 12 July 2026, added due to phenomenal demand.

Today, BST Hyde Park is proud to unveil the full line up for both headlining shows; on Saturday 11 July, The Vaccines, Absolutely, Nieve Ella, Tyler Ballgame, Kerr Mercer, NECKBREAKERS, Benjamin Steer, Luz, Sebastian Croft and Luke La Volpe and joining Lewis on Sunday 12 July will be Alessi Rose, Absolutely, Alexandra Savior, Folk Bitch Trio, Sadie Jean, Ber, Murdo Mitchell, Beattie, Luke Hart, Mark Sharp & The Bicycle Thieves, with both line-ups also featuring the previously announced acts Conan Gray and Jacob Alon. Visit www.bst-hydepark.com for final remaining tickets and information.

Saturday 11 July

Combining infectious melodies with stadium-ready hooks, The Vaccines have been fixtures of London’s indie rock scene since 2011, following the release of their platinum-selling debut album, What Did You Expect from the Vaccines?. Festival favourites from the outset, they’ve continued to enjoy success both at home and abroad with subsequent releases including Come of Age, English Graffiti, Combat Sports, Back in Love City and Pick-Up Full of Pink Carnations.

Formed in 2010, the band brought together Justin Young (vocals, guitar), Árni Arnason (bass), Freddie Cowan (guitar) and Pete Robertson (drums). Their breakout single, “Post Break-Up Sex”, arrived in early 2011, paving the way for their debut album later that year. The record went platinum in the UK and cemented their status as one of the country’s most exciting modern rock bands.

Their 2012 follow-up, Come of Age, saw the group reach new heights, becoming their first UK number one album. For their third record, English Graffiti (2015), the band embraced a more experimental approach, recording in the US and broadening their sonic palette. They returned with the high-energy Combat Sports in 2018, before continuing to evolve their sound on 2021’s Back in Love City. Following line-up changes, including the departure of Freddie Cowan, the band released Pick-Up Full of Pink Carnations in 2024. Recorded in Los Angeles, the album delivers a confident yet reflective collection of songs exploring themes of loss and heartbreak, reaffirming The Vaccines’ place as one of Britain’s most enduring indie acts.

Absolutely (AKA Abby-Lynn Keen) is emerging as one of the most compelling new voices in the UK today, carving out a distinct lane with her ethereal blend of R&B, pop and EDM. Her sound – dreamy, immersive and subtly experimental – first took shape with her 2023 debut Cerebrum, and now evolves further with her highly anticipated sophomore album Paracosm, set for release in 2026. Beyond her solo work, Absolutely and her sister Amma, feature on their elder sister RAYE’s second album This Music May Contain Hope, contributing not only as vocalists but as songwriters shaping the project’s emotional core. As they step into their own spotlights, they continue to build their artistry while supporting RAYE on her 2026 Global Tour This Tour May Contain New Music.

Nieve Ella continues her unstoppable ascent, evolving from bedroom-pop beginnings into a confident, guitar-led indie force. With her standout 2024 EP Watch It Ache And Bleed and a run of acclaimed singles, she has cemented herself as a fiercely relatable voice in modern indie music. Kicking off her new era with the single “Drive,” she explores a moodier, more nocturnal sound-expanding the sonic world first introduced on her 2024 EP. The track marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Shropshire-born songwriter, one defined by growing confidence, maturity and creative ambition. Having already impressed on major UK tours and supported artists such as DYLAN and Girl in Red, Nieve Ella continues to translate her emotionally charged songwriting into powerful, high-impact live performances.

Renowned for his live shows, Tyler Ballgame’s music is built on strong melodic hooks and draws subtle inspiration from the 60s and 70s, blending nostalgia and undeniable songcraft. Tyler’s stunning debut album For the First Time, Again was released at the start of 2026. A bracing reminder of how great songs delivered by a gifted vocalist can move, captivate and inspire, it boasts 12 finely crafted tunes rooted in classic rock, indie and Americana. 

Scottish rising star Kerr Mercer is bringing his powerhouse soulful-pop to Sunday’s lineup with the full approval of Lewis Capaldi, who has helped support his nascent career and written a song with him. Mercer cites soul greats like Sam Cooke, Ray Charles and Etta James as influences and has also supported Myles Smith and Teddy Swims. His raw, emotive vocals and masterful piano work have quickly built him a fervent grassroots following and his singles “Alcohol” and “0:01” have been breaking through nationwide. Armed with a voice that demands to be heard, Mercer is poised to deliver a genuine, heart-on-his-sleeve set to grab Hyde Park.

London-based sibling trio NECKBREAKERS (Maxx, Georgie, and Ebony-Rose Palmer) have attracted comparisons to the likes of Fleetwood Mac and are forging a reputation from  shimmering, hook laden 80s guitar pop. Recent tracks like 2025’s “Elephant” and “IN LOVE” have continued their momentum and are ready-made, summer festival anthems.

Benjamin Steer is a British-American artist and songwriter known for his catchy, introspective and emotionally resonant songs about modern love and life. Drawing inspiration from artists such as early Ed Sheeran, Myles Smith and Mackenzy Mackay, alongside peers like Michael Sanzone and Thomas Day, he blends acoustic and indie-pop into a fresh, relatable sound. With support slots for Kingfishr, Calum Bowie, and Myles Smith already under his belt, his live shows deepen the emotional connection of his songwriting, turning performances into shared, engaging experiences.

Irish singer Luz Corrigan, known as Luz, rose to prominence in 2020 after a viral cover of Dean Lewis’ “Lose My Mind,” which led to recognition from the artist himself and a support slot in Dublin. Originally from Ferbane, County Offaly, she began sharing stripped-back covers online at 16 before releasing music under her own name. Her debut single “I’m Lonely” was followed by “We’ll Be Fine,” “The Author,” “Counting Houses” and “Permanent +1,” and later releases such as “The Minute You’re Gone” established her as a promising songwriter in her own right.

Sebastian Croft is a British actor and musician, known for playing young Ned Stark in Game of Thrones and for his leading role in Heartstopper, as well as starring in the How to Date Billy Walsh. His debut EP showcasing his own music and songwriting is set for release in November 2026 via Manifest Music, and BST Hyde Park is excited to get an early listen!

Luke La Volpe is a Scottish Music Awards ‘Breakthrough’ winner who’s emerged from West Lothian’s thriving music scene, alongside his contemporaries The Snuts and Lewis Capaldi. During lockdown, he released his Terribly Beautiful EP and organised the Sofathon Singalong to support the Music Venue Trust, later becoming a patron alongside icons such as Paul McCartney and Billy Bragg. Known for his distinctive voice and emotive songwriting, Luke has performed at major festivals including Latitude Festival and now makes his Hyde Park debut.  

Sunday 12 July 

Rising Derby-born alt-pop artist Alessi Rose has quickly become one of the UK’s most talked-about new names. The 23-year-old singer-songwriter moved from Littleover to London at 19 to study English Literature while relentlessly pursuing music, eventually leaving university as touring opportunities exploded. After breaking through with dreamy early singles like “Say Ur Mine” and “Hate This Part”, she built a devoted fanbase through candid, emotionally messy alt-pop releases including her debut EP “rumination as ritual” and 2025 projects “for your validation” and “Voyeur”, which pushed her further toward glossy, sharp-edged pop. Over the past year she has supported Dua Lipa across Europe and Tate McRae in North America while also completing her own sold-out headline tour, cementing a reputation for confessional songwriting, ambitious pop instincts and relentless work ethic. Known for balancing introspective lyricism with bigger production, Alessi Rose has positioned herself as one of Britain’s fastest-rising new pop acts as she edges toward a mainstream breakthrough.

Alexandra Savior is a Los Angeles–based singer-songwriter known for her smoky, cinematic blend of psych-pop, desert rock and neo-torch. She broke through with 2017’s Belladonna of Sadness, produced by Alex Turner, following early industry buzz and a move from Portland to L.A. as a teenager. She resurfaced on 30th Century Records with the more self-defined The Archer in 2020. Her sound expanded further with her third studio album, Beneath the Lilypad, in 2025, via RCA Records, marking a significant return after a five-year hiatus from major releases. The acclaimed album was produced by Drew Erickson – known for work with Lana Del Rey and Father John Misty – and was characterised as a more personal, vulnerable, and stripped-back project compared to her previous work, focusing on themes of mental health, confidence and taking creative control.

Folk music is often treated with a kind of solemn reverence but Folk Bitch Trio refuse to play it straight. Former school friends Heide Peverelle, Jeanie Pilkington and Gracie Sinclair bring a sharp, shared humour that cuts through the genre’s self-seriousness and sets their songs alight. Their debut released last year, Now Would Be A Good Time, pairs familiar folk textures with vividly modern storytelling, capturing breakups, daydreams, desire and disillusionment with wit and bite. The result feels like a loose guide to surviving your twenties: knowing when to spiral, when to laugh, and how to find meaning somewhere in between.

California native Sadie Jean has quickly risen to prominence thanks to her viral breakthrough on TikTok and a knack for crafting beautifully confessional heartbreak ballads. The indie-pop singer-songwriter first captured global attention with her 2021 debut single WYD Now?. Following its success, she made the bold decision to leave NYU and pursue music full-time, an instinct that’s paid off with a growing international fanbase and critical buzz. Her debut album, Early Twenties Torture (2025), cemented her as one of indie-pop’s most compelling new voices. Now, she’s bringing those evocative, late-night LA vibes to this side of the pond.

Hailing from Minnesota, Ber (AKA Berit Dybing) celebrates finding true love and her “best life” on her debut alt-pop/country album, Good, Like It Should Be. The 12-track project, which came out earlier this year, was mostly written on a small Korg recorder in Wisconsin and Minnesota, as a “time capsule” also focused on self-acceptance and inward reflection. Featuring co-writes and production from Rob Milton (Holly Humberstone) and Bradley Hale (Bon Iver), the album includes the Chicks-esque single “Give It All Away” about realising self-power, the upbeat opener “Good, Real,” and the tongue-in-cheek country-pop “Who’s This.” 

Murdo Mitchell is a Scottish singer-songwriter whose work is rooted in the tradition of the travelling troubadour, shaped as much by the road as by the studio. He began busking on the streets of Glasgow at just 10 years old, developing an instinct for performance that continues to define him: direct, unfiltered and deeply human. His relentless touring across the UK and Europe has built an organically grown audience. He has shared stages with Glen Hansard, KT Tunstall and Donovan, who praised his “hunger to communicate.” Mitchell has also toured the US supporting John Vincent III and performed alongside artists like Kelly Jones and Starsailor. Known for raw lyrical immediacy and restraint, he is currently recording his debut album in Los Angeles, and Hyde Park is lucky enough to hear the first hint of new music. 

Rising singer-songwriter and producer Beattie channels the eclectic sound of the ’90s into a forward-looking style, demonstrating how each generation builds upon the past. Her captivating voice shifts seamlessly from delicate vulnerability to gothic power. Her sound is a haunting blend reminiscent of Mazzy Star’s Hope Sandoval and Lana Del Rey, with undertones of PJ Harvey and Elliott Smith. Influenced by enduring, authentic acts like Radiohead, she crafts contemporary alt-rock that echoes the style of Wolf Alice.

Luke Hart is one of the newest faces on the UK folk scene. Following on from TikTok success with his song “Biding”, Luke is embarking on his first UK and Ireland tour. Compared to the likes of Bob Dylan, George Harrison and Jim Croce, you won’t want to miss this opportunity to see him at the very start of his career.

Another excellent act from West Lothian, Mark Sharp & The Bicycle Thieves have built a reputation for their full-throttle live shows. After tearing through major festival stages and completing a European arena tour with Lewis Capaldi, the five-piece hit a huge milestone as their album Unmask The Circus soared to Number 1 on the Scottish Albums Chart. BST Hyde Park is more than ready for them… and you’ll want to be there when they bring that energy to the stage.

Lewis Capaldi’s two nights at BST Hyde Park are a fitting centrepiece for one of Britain’s most popular artists.

Earlier this month, Capaldi unveiled “Stay Love,” a special addition to his critically acclaimed 2025 Survive EP. The Scottish hitmaker debuted the emotional ballad in a free pop-up performance at Penn Station before bringing it to his biggest ever US headliner at Madison Square Garden last week – an early highlight from his most ambitious North American tour yet. Listen to the Survive Deluxe EP HERE and “Stay Love” HERE.

A joyous appearance at Noah Kahan’s BST Hyde Park set last year sparked a rapturous welcome from fans. In November, Capaldi released his new EP, Survive and the title track became the fastest-selling UK single of 2025, marking his sixth UK Number 1. Capaldi joined Beyoncé, Britney Spears, Drake, Lady Gaga & Queen in achieving six UK number 1 singles. The beloved Scottish singer played a sold-out 17-date UK arena tour recently too. The response was electric, with critics unanimous in their praise, delivering four and five-star reviews across the board.

Now, Capaldi is making his ultimate comeback performing two dates at BST Hyde Park (Saturday 11 July and Sunday 12 July 2026), joining the illustrious line-up of world-renowned artists who have graced the stage, from Stevie Wonder and The Rolling Stones to Bruce Springsteen, Taylor Swift and many more.

Headliners for BST Hyde Park 2026 also include: Garth Brooks (Saturday 27 June), Maroon 5 (Friday 3 July), Mumford & Sons (Saturday 4 July), Duran Duran (Sunday 5 July), Pitbull (Friday 10 July), with final headliners to be announced.

Capaldi will also headline the inaugural Roundhay Festival on Saturday 4 July 2026. Visit roundhayfestival.com for more information. Capaldi’s full tour dates can be found at www.lewiscapaldi.com/tour. 

Tickets: On sale now via www.bst-hydepark.com | @bsthydepark

VAN MORRISON ANNOUNCES FIVE-NIGHT LONDON RESIDENCY AT NEW BRITISH AIRWAYS ARC VENUE

by

Legendary singer-songwriter Van Morrison will return this September for a special five-night residency at the new British Airways ARC venue at Olympia, London.

The shows will take place on 23, 24, 27, 28 and 29 September 2026, and will mark the first residency at the venue, following its opening on June 16th, 2026, for live music and events. The Van Morrison concerts will be fully seated.

Tickets go on sale at 9.00am on Friday, May 15th, 2026                         

Available from ticketline.co.uk or the venue direct.

 

Lucy Noble, SVP UK venues AEG Presents said “We are thrilled to welcome Van Morrison as the very first artist to have a residency at our brand-new venue. The shows are set to be incredible.”

 

The announcement follows Morrison receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Jazz FM Awards 2026 last month, another milestone in his long and influential career.

He has also recently released a new album ‘Somebody Tried To Sell Me A Bridge’, a return to the blues with fresh takes on songs by B.B.King, Buddy Guy, Lead Belly and more.

Alongside the London dates, Morrison is due to appear at several European Festivals in 2026, including the renowned Montreux Jazz Festival.

This residency offers a rare chance to see Van Morrison perform across multiple nights in a more intimate London setting.

One Month To Go – Hampton Court Palace Festival – June 2026

by
With just one month to go until Hampton Court Palace Festival returns, the iconic Summer concert series is set to welcome another extraordinary line-up of world-renowned artists. Taking place between 10 – 20 June, this year’s exceptional programme will see David Gray, OMD, Pete Tong’s Ibiza Classics, The Stranglers, Nile Rodgers & Chic, Elvis Costello & The Imposters with Charlie Sexton, and Sophie Ellis-Bextor take to the stage in the grounds of the stunning Tudor palace. 80’s Classical will bring the festival to a spectacular close on 20 June, bringing together some of the decade’s most iconic artists, performing their smash-hit songs backed by the world-renowned Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra. Last remaining tickets for all shows are on-sale now via hamptoncourtpalacefestival.com.

David Gray will open the festival with two shows on Wednesday 10 and Thursday 11 of June. One of the most influential singer songwriters of his generation, he released his breakthrough album “White Ladder” in 1998 which went on to become the tenth best-selling album of the 21st century. Over the course of 13 albums, Gray has consistently delivered emotionally charged performances and profound songwriting. He has sold over 11 million records worldwide and had multiple hit singles including “Babylon”, “This Year’s Love”, “Sail Away” and “The One I Love”. His latest album “Dear Life” was released last year to critical acclaim. 

One of the most influential synth-pop acts in history, OMD will make their Hampton Court Palace debut on Friday 12 June. Formed in 1978 by Andy McClusky and Paul Humphreys, they rose to fame in the early ‘80s with huge hits such as “Enola Gay”, “Souvenir” and “Joan of Arc”. With 18 Top 40 UK hits to their name, audiences can expect a set packed with their biggest tracks, promising an unforgettable night of synth-pop celebration. 

DJ, broadcaster, and dance music legend Pete Tong brings his acclaimed Ibiza Classics with The Essential Orchestrato Hampton Court Palace Festival on Saturday 13 June. The unmissable one-off show is a breathtaking audio-visual celebration of Ibiza’s iconic dance anthems, blending the pulse of club culture with the power and precision of a live orchestra. Expect euphoric reimagining’s of everyone’s favourite tracks in a truly unforgettable setting. 

On Tuesday 16 June, punk-rock trailblazers The Stranglers will take to the stage. One of the most enduring and distinctive bands to emerge from the UK punk era, they are renowned for blending raw aggression with melodic hooks and an unmistakable edge. Having celebrated their 50thanniversary in 2024, The Stranglers have continued to evolve while retaining their confrontational spirit and sharp songwriting, securing their place as true originals in British music history. 

Following a sensational sell-out concert in 2024, Nile Rodgers & CHIC return for a dance party like no other on Wednesday 17 June. Celebrated worldwide, Rodgers is credited with pioneering a musical language that produced hits such as ‘Le Freak’ and ‘Good Times’. As a multiple award-winning songwriter, composer, producer, arranger and guitarist, his legacy is unmatched; and having collaborated with some of the biggest names in music he has sold more than 750 million albums globally. 

On Thursday 18 June, Elvis Costello will perform with his long-term band The Imposters, joined by acclaimed guitarist Charlie Sexton. Spanning a career that has shaped modern songwriting, Costello’s live shows are renowned for their energy and dynamic musicianship. Backed by The Imposters’ driving rhythm section and Sexton’s masterful guitar work, audiences can expect an electrifying set drawing on classic hits and fan favourites from across an extraordinary catalogue. 

For the ultimate pop celebration, Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s Palace Disco will light up the courtyard on Friday 19 June. With a remarkable music career spanning over 25 years, Sophie has achieved five Top 10 albums and eight Top 10 singles. Her iconic hits include “Take Me Home,” “Get Over You,” “Heartbreak (Make Me a Dancer),” and “Murder on the Dancefloor”—which enjoyed a massive resurgence after featuring in the film Saltburn, now boasting over 11 billion global streams. Her latest album, Perimenopop, entered straight into the UK Top 5. 

80’s Classical will bring the festival to a spectacular close on Saturday 20 June, delivering the ultimate feel-good celebration, bursting with joy and nostalgia. The evening will feature some of the decade’s most iconic voices – including Kim Wilde, Go West, Nik Kershaw and Roland Gift – performing stunning orchestral versions of their smash hits, backed by the world-renowned Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra. 

Throughout the festival, the iconic Tudor Palace will open its gates ‘after-hours’, for audiences to enjoy the beautiful East Front Gardens before the nightly concerts begin in the atmospheric, intimate setting of the historic Base Court. To elevate the experience festival goers can pre-order a luxury picnic hamper to be shared ahead of the performance.

Now in its 31st year, Hampton Court Palace Festival is a highlight of the summer calendar, showcasing a series of phenomenal performances in a truly one-of-a-kind location. Produced in partnership with Historic Royal Palaces, the independent charity that cares for Hampton Court Palace, the concert series unfolds against the backdrop of Henry VIII’s grand palace within a vast Tudor Courtyard. With capacity capped at just 3,000, the festival offers an unmissable opportunity to see legendary artists in an intimate setting like no other. 
www.hamptoncourtpalacefestival.com

LDN East Announce 4th Anniversary Summer Programme

by

Promoters HOME, Labyrinth, Forward Motion, Origins, Don’t F**k With Disco and Louder lead LDN East’s biggest season to date, with Raresh, Major League DJz, Mahmut Orhan, Gabriel Rai and more all play.

East London’s defining open-air venue LDN East marks its 4th anniversary this summer with its biggest programme to date – a season-long run of parties running from May to July that reflects the venue’s inclusive approach to club culture. Entirely constructed from repurposed shipping containers, the venue has carved out a reputation as one of the capital’s most distinctive club spaces, pairing raw industrial aesthetics with a diverse, forward-thinking live and electronic programme that attracts London locals, UK-wide ravers and international music heads alike.

The new season also marks a major evolution of the venue itself. Alongside a fully heated dancefloor, expanded rooftop-style terrace, dedicated food court and a new 900-capacity second room Upper East with a 6AM licence, LDN East is now home to one of London’s most powerful Funktion-One setups, centred around a flagship Evolution X system in the Main Arena, complemented by a Void Airmotion system in Upper East.

A new retractable roof structure allows events to shift seamlessly between open-air summer sessions and full indoor production, further cementing LDN East as one of East London’s most ambitious and sonically focused venues.

The new season opens on 16 May with Arthi & FS Green, followed by RnB Lovers on 23 May. The last weekend of May brings three consecutive nights: HOME on 24th May featuring minimal hero Raresh, plus Gabriel Rai and Timoti; Bashment Bank Holiday on 25th May; and Don’t F**k with Disco on 30 May, with Slow Jams Nation closing out the month on 31th May.

June is packed with some of the season’s biggest moments. Louder returns on 6th June with a heavyweight lineup featuring Chris Luno, Monkey Safari, ABEL, Liv Ravden and Karellos, before Uncle Wray’s Nephews lands on 7th June with its signature blend of high-energy Dancehall, Soca, Reggae, Hip-Hop & R&B.

The month’s centrepiece arrives as Labyrinth takes over LDN East for two consecutive open-air street parties on 13th and 14th June, headlined by Mahmut Orhan and Major League DJz respectively. Transforming both the venue and the surrounding streets into a sprawling 2500-capacity industrial rave space, the events blur the line between club show and mini-festival, with multiple interconnected areas, open-air dancing and the raw East London backdrop that has become synonymous with LDN East’s biggest moments. Country Club rounds out the month on 20th June before Forward Motion closes June on 27th June.

July sees the venue hosting the infamous Origins series, with Sam Alfred and The Trip on 4 July followed by P-Rallel’s NEVERMIND party on 25th July. 

For tickets and more information head to; ldneast.co.uk

Press pack – https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1UdlTqItI0IKqqed-nZVFEeU6sKNE47gi?usp=sharing

LDN EAST

30 Bidder St, London E16 4SH

ldneast.co.uk | instagram.com/ldn.east16

LDN East — Upcoming Dates

16 May — Arthi & FS Green

23 May — RnB Lovers

24 May — HOME: Raresh, Gabriel Rai, Timoti

25 May — Bashment Bank Holiday

30 May — Don’t F**k with Disco

31 May — Slow Jams Nation

6 June — Louder: Chris Luno, Monkey Safari, ABEL, Liv Ravden, Karellos

7 June — Uncle Wray’s Nephews

13 June — Labyrinth Open-Air Street Party presents Mahmut Orhan

14 June — Labyrinth Open-Air Street Party presents Major League DJz

20 June — Country Club

27 June — Forward Motion

4 July — Origins: Sam Alfred, The Trip

25 July — P-Rallel presents NEVERMIND

Aura announces Richie Hawtin headline show at an 18th-century royal palace in Palermo following sold-out Segesta debut

by

Following the debut edition, the Director of the Archaeological Park of Segesta said “The time has come to trust young people” as the series moves to a historic Palermo royal residence on 1st June

Aura’s debut edition sold out beside the ancient Doric temple at Segesta, and now the series moves to Palermo. On 1st June, Richie Hawtin headlines at Palazzina Cinese, an 18th-century royal residence built as a retreat for King Ferdinand III, as Aura continues its programme of electronic music events at Sicily’s most culturally significant locations.

The debut edition of Aura drew a sold-out crowd to the Parco Archeologico di Segesta in western Sicily, one of the island’s most significant ancient sites, home to a remarkably preserved Doric temple overlooking the surrounding countryside. The response from both audience and site confirmed what the Aura team had set out to demonstrate; electronic music and heritage locations can coexist in a meaningful way.

Luigi Biondo, Director of the Archaeological Park of Segesta, said: “A connection between nature and architecture – this is exactly the path we shared with Aura, an event that brings the world together through music and beauty. The time has come to place our trust in young people, because they are the ones who will help us find new paths, and care for the extraordinary places that surround us.”

Few artists have shaped contemporary techno as decisively as Richie Hawtin. Founder of the M-nus label and a defining figure of the Windsor-Detroit scene, he reached international recognition through his Plastikman releases and DJ sets that have continually pushed the technical limits of live performance. From early ’90s warehouse sets to headline slots at Time Warp, DC10 and his long-running Ibiza residency ENTER., Hawtin has remained one of the genre’s most consistent innovators.

Aura works in close partnership with local authorities and site custodians to stage events at heritage locations across Sicily, with each edition contributing to regional tourism and raising the international profile of the sites involved. The Palermo show is the second in a broader 2026 programme, with further events and locations to be announced.

Further information and tickets are available at www.aurafestival.it

LINEUP

Richie Hawtin
Horacio Cruz

Amelie Lens Headlines 2000-Year-Old Cave Romane as BSH Returns to Croatia’s Historic Landscapes

by

Amelie Lens will headline an open-air show at Cave Romane on July 3, 2026, performing in one of Europe’s most distinctive natural settings for electronic music.

Located in Vinkuran, just outside Pula, Cave Romane is a 2,000-year-old limestone quarry that once supplied stone for the Pula Arena. Today, it is defined by rock faces rising up to 50 metres, forming a vast natural amphitheatre with strong acoustic properties and a raw, exposed environment. Its scale and geology have made it an established location for large-format electronic music events in Croatia.

It is within this context that Amelie Lens arrives, bringing one of techno’s most recognisable contemporary figures to the quarry. Known for high-intensity, precision-led sets and a global touring presence, she has remained at the forefront of modern techno, with recent releases including ‘Whatever You Do’ and ‘Falling Into Acid Dreams’ reflecting her club-driven focus. 

The event is presented by BSH Events, which will debut a new visual concept featuring laser projection mapping designed to interact with the quarry’s vertical stone surfaces. The production will enhance the scale and texture of the space and transform the ancient site into a fully integrated audiovisual environment unlike anything seen before.

Together, at the striking historical site of an ancient Roman Quarry, Amelie Lens unites with BSH Events to produce a defining show for the summer. 

Tickets are available via entrio.hr, starting from 24.00 EUR

BSH Events Presents, Amelie Lens at Cave Romane, Croatia

July 3rd, 2026 

22:00 start

Vinkuranska cesta 2, 52100, Vinkuran, Croatia

808 STATE (DJ SET), CHICANE, DJ SPOONY, DJ LUCK & MC NEAT AND MORE JOIN FAITHLESS AND CRAIG DAVID AT BARTON LIVE OPEN-AIR SERIES, MANCHESTER 

by

Barton Live has announced a wave of high-profile lineup additions to its debut four-day open-air music series at Barton Aerodrome, Manchester, which runs from Thursday 2 to Sunday 5 July 2026. The new names strengthen an already standout programme that brings together some of the most influential figures in UK dance and electronic music alongside globally renowned headliners.

Saturday 4 July sees Craig David Presents TS5 elevated with a heavyweight garage and club lineup, featuring UK garage pioneers DJ Luck & MC Neat and Kiss FM mainstay DJ Spoony plus multi-genre master Patrick Nazemi. The additions underline this as a definitive celebration of UK garage and r&b past and present and complements the much loved Craig David’s signature blend of live vocals and DJing.

On Friday 3 July, iconic electronic act Faithless (Live) will now be joined by acid house pioneers 808 State who will deliver a showcase of their raw sounds with an exclusive DJ set alongside trance and progressive legend Chicane. 

Thursday 2 July is headlined by David Gray, whose Past & Present Tour is already nearing sell-out while Sunday 5 July’s Electric Heart festival features indie favourites including The Fratellis, Scouting For Girls, The Feeling, The Hoosiers, Toploader and Dodgy.

Located on Liverpool Road in Eccles, Barton Aerodrome will host four consecutive 5,000-capacity open-air shows that combine large-scale production with a welcoming and accessible outdoor setting. The site will feature bespoke staging, immersive sound and lighting and practical amenities including on-site parking and strong public transport links with early evening finishes designed to appeal to a broad audience.

Barton Live is conceived as a cohesive summer series rather than standalone events so offers audiences the opportunity to experience multiple genres and world-class performances across a single long weekend. 

Ticket prices vary by event. For more information, visit bartonlive.co.uk

Thursday 2 July
David Gray – Past & Present Tour (14+)

Support Acts TBA

Gates open: 18:00 |  Last entry: 20:00 | Event ends: 23:00

Friday 3 July
Faithless – Live (14+)

Chicane
808 State
Gates open: 17:00 | Last entry: 20:00 | Event ends: 23:00

Saturday 4 July
Craig David – Presents TS5 (14+)

DJ Luck & MC Neat 

DJ Spoony
Patrick Nazemi
Gates open: 16:00 | Last entry: 18:00 | Event ends: 22:30

Sunday 5 July
Electric Heart – Manchester Indie Festival (14+)
The Fratellis

Scouting For Girls

The Feeling

The Hoosiers

Toploader 

Dodgy

Gates open: 14:00 | Last entry: 17:00 | Event ends: 22:30

Ministry of Sound Marks 35th Anniversary with First Ibiza Show In A Decade

by

Ministry of Sound returns to Ibiza for the first time in a decade this September with a one-off event at 528 Ibiza, marking the next chapter in its global 35th anniversary celebrations.

Taking place on 3rd September across both the venue’s open-air garden and indoor club space, the multi-room programme reflects the breadth of Ministry’s sound; from house pioneers and underground selectors to contemporary club talent.

The garden stage will feature legendary New Yorker Louie Vega, as well as new school house star Dan Shake, Radio 1 selector Benji B and Paisley Jensen. Inside, URGE Presents will host a deeper late-night programme from Robbie Doherty, Reelow, DiOSA and Basso. 

Set in the pine-covered Benimussa Hills above San Antonio, 528 Ibiza has become known for its intimate setting, immersive production and connection to Ibiza’s more natural, Balearic spirit. Combining outdoor spaces with an indoor club room, the venue offers a more close-knit alternative to the island’s larger-scale destinations.

Ministry of Sound Club Director, Matt Long notes ”Ibiza has always been an important part of Ministry of Sound’s history, so returning after ten years away to mark our 35th anniversary had to feel special. 528 represents a side of the island that has real character and authenticity; a unique open-air venue built. With our history at Pacha and Space, this is a show we’re approaching with real intent – the venue, the production and the lineup all reflect that.”

528 Brand & Marketing Director Michael Fensom says: “We are truly excited to welcome such an iconic brand as Ministry of Sound to 528 and to be part of their global 35th anniversary celebrations.  To have the brand come back to Ibiza after 10 years and to see it come alive throughout all the different spaces of 528 is going to be very special.  This is all set to be one of the highlights of the whole season and we look forward to celebrating together.”

Originally founded in London in 1991, Ministry of Sound has played a significant role in the development of global dance music culture through its club, record label and international events. This welcome White Isle return comes in the midst of ongoing 35-year celebrations, which include events around the world and follow on from a new KV2 sound system, multi-dimensional light installation and a fully redesigned dancefloor and DJ booth that was installed in The Box earlier in the year. 

LINE UP:

Garden (17:00 – 23:00)

Louis Vega

Dan Shake

Benji B

Paisley Jensen

Club – URGE Presents (23:00 – 04:00)

Robbie Doherty 

Reelow

DiOSA

Basso

Date: 3rd September

Address: 528 Ibiza, Carrer del Romaní, 18, 07820 Sant Antoni de Portmany, Illes Balears, Spain

Sign up for access to early bird tickets at www.ministryofsoundibiza.com

Pre Sale: Weds 13th May – 10:00 BST

General Sale: Thurs 14th May – 10:00 BST

Top 10 Download Festival Side Quests – 2026

by

With Download Festival creeping up on us, the group chat is probably full of set clashes and rabid weather-watch to see if you need to pack wellies or suncream. Let’s face it, it’s probably both. Now I love that we have access to great festival apps these days, live set-times and easy maps… great stuff, excellent use of technology outside of cat videos to be honest.

The problem is: modern festivals are too connected for shenanigans. In the early noughties you could lose your mates for six glorious hours and call it character development. Some of my best stories are about the things we did when we lost everyone to the crowd, like that time our mate Jimmy was so stoned he just joined a queue for a bit so he could chat to people – and ended up being one of the lucky VIP area wristband holders that year… bastard.

Now, with everyone trackable on snap and pin-drops, you have to choose adventure. Reject life-long friendships and go be a silly hobbit for a while, for a treat. Here’s my list of stuff you could stumble into, if you choose…

  • 1. Find Five (the band) and commit to the bit: Somewhere at Download, the spirit of late-90s pop refuses to die. You’re lying if you say you don’t know the lyrics to at least one Five song, that shit is etched into your brain from the school disco and at a month out, you’ve still got time to relearn the choreography. Bonus points if you bring the shockwaves gel and hedgehog your hair in a classic Scott style.
  • 2. Get a tattoo from Old Sarum: The truly committed return home with merch that can’t be lost in a tent collapse. Fan faves: Download totem, the iconic Dog, classic barbed wire around the bicep, bees on your knees, or a beautifully questionable tramp stamp. They usually drop a flash sheet closer to the event, so keep your eyes peeled and your impulse control lower than usual. But like, keep it clean and out of the sun babes, we do not want Sepsis as a going home present.
  • 3. Learn rock sign language from the interpreters: Stage-side interpreters are doing elite-level multitasking: translating lyrics, capturing attitude, and somehow keeping time while the crowd turns into a washing machine. Watch them for five minutes and you’ll realise you’ve been underperforming with your hands your entire life. Bonus points if you learn a few signs and can still headbang without poking yourself in the eyeballs.

  • 4. Sky catapult:  There’s something very nostalgic about the screaming, and I always wonder what possesses people to want to do this. Some sort of ancestral longing to feel the force of the trebuchet? Oh well, a classic DL experience, but I caution you to pick whatever meal you eat beforehand wisely. There’s ‘festival memory’ and then there’s “someone filmed it and it’s on TikTok forever.”
  • 5. Join Swappie Fest and become a tiny-gift goblin: Swappie Fest has a famously wholesome Facebook group (500+ members and growing) and the vibe is pure crafty magic: I’ve seen bracelets, keyrings, crochet punky duck charms, sweets, stickers, handmade mini dreamcatchers… you name it. You’ve got enough time to join the fun if you want to be a trinket gifter, get on it!
  • 6. Investigate the mysterious Fourth Wing thing: Apparently there’s some kind of Fourth Wing activation (yes, that Fourth Wing—Rebecca Yarros). At the time of writing there’s only the promo post, meaning nobody knows what’s actually happening. If we can’t get real dragons, I don’t know if I’m emotionally prepared to care… but I know the BookTok girlies are not going to want to miss whatever this is.
  • 7. Do RockFit (or, if you’re unhinged, join the campsite runners): RockFit is a great way to feel like a functioning person before the day turns into pints and pit dust. There’s also the running-partner crowd—people who, for reasons beyond science, want to jog around the campsites in the morning. Meanwhile, the rest of us will be doing what nature intended: slithering out of the tent like a slug at sunrise and drinking whatever hideously warm liquid we find by the door, just to choke down an oat bar.
  • 8. Play Red Hat Round Up: Take a drink every time you see a Fred Durst red cap in the wild. Yes, it’s still everywhere. No, he doesn’t even wear a red cap himself anymore. Yes, I still wish he would. (Pace yourself. You’ve got a weekend to survive.)
  • 9. Dogstar Cosplay: Show up dressed as the Wyld Stallyns. Or better: go as Rufus. Or better still: get a whole group together and turn the mosh pit into the Bill & Ted history montage—Socrates, Freud, Joan of Arc, Genghis Khan, the lot. It’s educational.
  • 10. Hit K‑pop Emo Hunters at the silent disco: Over in the Ace of Spades, K‑pop Emo Hunters runs as a silent disco with two channels playing simultaneously: Emo and K‑pop. That means you’ll watch two completely different dance-floor narratives happening in the same physical space, enjoy the chaos and the musical whiplash and most importantly SEAL THE HONMOON.

That should be more than enough official stuff to get you going, but remember – the best adventures are the ones you never prepare for, so keep your eyes and ears open for anything that sounds like it might be worth retelling over the next few decades of your life…

Bonus side quest: Don’t watch the World Cup—apparently Download wants nothing to do with it…

Eden Festival news!

by

Not content with having 250+ artists across 10 stages at this year’s Eden Festival, including Julian Marley, Chali 2na (live band), Vieux Farka Touré, She Drew The Gun and Kai Reesu, a few wee extra surprises have just been added.

On Sunday afternoon, Scottish songwriting icon Dougie MacLean, as well as playing what will no doubt be a fantastic set later on Sunday, will also be performing as a guest with one of the festival’s regular and very much an Eden-goer favourite: Dumfries Community Choir!

Also, as our wee nation’s obviously expecting a win because it’s less a sport and more of a lifestyle, Eden are very happy to announce that they’ll be bringing the World Cup to Raehills valley by showing the Scotland vs Haiti match on 14 June at 02.00. It’s Scotland’s first World Cup fixture since 1998 and Eden will naturally be showing it in the finest festival-pub ever, Rabbies Tavern. Saltire’s and singing shall be in be in full flow. And hopefully a few goals.

Hannah Gould (festival director):

‘We are very excited to welcome everyone back to the Garden . This year we are super proud of our line up of Julian Marley, Chali 2na, plus Vieux Farka Touré, and super excited to be showing Scotland ‘s World cup game in the best pub in the world! If that’s not enough we even have a bank holiday on the Monday!

Eden is a festival for all ages and everyone is welcome.

We are a Community run event powered by volunteers and a lot of love. Please support you small independent festivals this summer.

See you all soon!’

‘Eden might not be the biggest festival, but it’s certainly the happiest. 5/5’ – Daily Record

‘Not many festivals can throw the party of the year, every year.

All that’s missing is a Disco ball for a moon’ – Sunday Mail