Sankeys Manchester Announces Seasonal Closing Party and September Reopening

by

After a standout run to start the year, iconic Manchester club Sankeys has confirmed details of its seasonal closing party alongside plans to reopen later this year following a short summer break.

The Sidney Street venue will host its seasonal closing party on Saturday 27 June to mark the end of a successful first run since reopening. The night will serve as a final send-off before the club temporarily closes its doors for the summer period.

Reflecting on the season, Wilf Gregory, Club Partner of Sankeys, says, “We have truly been blown away by the love and support in our first season of reopening and it’s been an honour to bring back such a well loved brand as Sankeys to Manchester. That being said, we will be taking a break this summer to fine tune the venue and sound ready for our winter season.”

Sankeys will return with a reopening party on Saturday 26 September, kicking off a carefully curated programme and a renewed focus on its signature underground club experience. The pause will allow the team to further refine the venue and enhance its sound system ahead of the next chapter, with more bookings that reflect Sankeys’s original ethos but through a contemporary lens, and always with the music front and centre. 

Since relaunching, Sankey’s has re-established itself as a key fixture in Manchester nightlife, bolstered by a 6am licence and the return of its iconic in-house brand, The Redlight. The club has welcomed a mix of established and emerging artists such as Felix Da Housecat, Maya Jane Coles, Solardo, Stacey Pullen, Steve Lawler, Nick Curly, Josh Butler, Heidi, Lauren Lo Sung, Priku, Reboot, Seb Zito, Tania Vulcano and more with regulars like Pirate Copy, Idris Dee, Kellie Allen, Luca 606 and Krysko anchoring the true Sankeys sound.

For further information and tickets head to https://sankeysofficial.com/

Address: Sidney Street, Manchester – M1 7HB

Teenage Cancer Trust at the Royal Albert Hall – Shirley Manson announced as guest curator for 2027

by
Following the monumental success of the 2026 concert series curated by Robert Smith, Teenage Cancer Trust is proud to announce that Shirley Manson will take the helm as guest curator for the shows at the Royal Albert Hall from 15-21 March 2027.

To mark the announcement, a video has been released of Garbage’s extraordinary performance of The Cure’s ‘Lovesong’ at their 2026 Teenage Cancer Trust show.

Shirley Manson is the second guest curator of the legendary week-long Royal Albert Hall fundraising concert series, which was launched and curated by Teenage Cancer Trust Honorary Patron Sir Roger Daltrey from 2000 to 2025. 
For the 2026 events, as well as lining up an unbeatable Night Of Comedy, Robert Smith called up headliners Wolf Alice, Elbow, Manic Street Preachers, My Bloody Valentine, Mogwai and Garbage themselves, raising £1.4 million so far for the charity, providing vital support for young people with cancer across the UK.

Shirley Manson, who delivered a standout performance including classics such as ‘I’m Only Happy When It Rains’ and ‘Stupid Girl’, said: “To follow in the footsteps of the great Sir Roger Daltrey and most beloved Robert Smith by being invited to curate next year’s run of shows is one of the greatest honours that has ever been bestowed upon me. I consider it an immense privilege to continue helping raise funds and awareness for our all too often forgotten teenagers in the UK who are living with cancer and the struggle that this entails. I hope to curate a fine week of entertainment, calling upon some of my favourite artists to join the cause. I am so looking forward to seeing it all come together at the Royal Albert Hall next year and I hope to see you there.”

Robert Smith said: “Having played a few Teenage Cancer Trust at the Royal Albert Hall shows with The Cure, it was a real honour to curate the series in 2026, bringing together so many of my favourite artists to perform for such a great cause. The response and support from the audience, in the hall itself and all around the world, was really incredible. Garbage were one of the highlights of a stellar week, and I am very sure Shirley, with her great energy, commitment and values, will do a fantastic job in 2027.” 

Roger Daltrey said: “To have a female musician with a great reputation for quality work is something that’s been at the top of my wishlist going forward. I will always be there for her if she needs any help with anything.”

Rob Ballantine, Promoter, SJM Concerts, said:
“We owe a huge debt of gratitude to Robert Smith for working so hard and making our job as promoters so much easier this year. His vision resulted in one of the most memorable weeks in the history of these shows. We are equally grateful to Shirley for agreeing to curate 2027; we are already bowled over by her energy and enthusiasm, and the planning is already well underway for another landmark year.”

Jane Ashton, Head of Music & Entertainment at Teenage Cancer Trust said: “We are delighted to welcome Shirley as our curator for 2027.“Cancer kills more teenagers and young adults in the UK than any other disease, yet cancer care wasn’t made for young people. Shirley’s passion for our cause was electrifying to see during this year’s shows and we can’t wait to see who she invites to play next year.”

Jules Worrall, Interim Chief Executive of Teenage Cancer Trust, said: “I want to say a huge thank you to Robert Smith for the 2026 shows – together we have raised a phenomenal amount which will be truly life-changing for young people with cancer. And Garbage’s performance was a stand-out moment of the shows this year, so it’s incredibly exciting that Shirley Manson is taking up the baton of curating for 2027. Shirley spoke so emotionally at this year’s shows about how important teenagers are for the future of the country and the importance of supporting them – and we couldn’t agree more. We’re delighted to have her energy and passion on board.”

Teenage Cancer Trust at the Royal Albert Hall was funded in 2000 by the charity’s Honorary Patron, Sir Roger Daltrey, and has raised over £36 million to date.


About Teenage Cancer Trust at The Royal Albert Hall

2026 marks the 24th year of Teenage Cancer Trust’s phenomenally successful flagship events at the Royal Albert Hall, which were started by the charity’s Honorary Patron and lead-singer of The Who, Sir Roger Daltrey. Some of the biggest names in entertainment have now raised more than £36 million for Teenage Cancer Trust which helps to fund specialist nurses, hospital units and support services right across the UK that help get young people through some unimaginably hard times.

Since 2000 audiences at Teenage Cancer Trust’s annual gigs have witnessed some extraordinary, once in a lifetime shows, from Noel Gallagher and Damon Albarn performing together for the first time ever in 2013, Sir Paul McCartney in 2012, plus the likes of Oasis, Muse, Nile Rodgers & CHIC, Ed Sheeran, Florence + The Machine, Rudimental and many more.

There have been many legendary moments. Sir Paul McCartney was joined on stage in 2012 for the Beatles’ ‘Get Back’ by Sir Roger Daltrey, Ronnie Wood and Paul Weller – marking a Beatle, Rolling Stone and The Who joining forces.
Muse played in 2008, their only show in the UK that year apart from two sold out Wembley Stadiums. They called it, “one of the best gigs of our lives.” The Cure played a three-hour set on two consecutive nights in 2014, bringing the house down with 45 songs.

Some of the brightest lights in comedy have lit up the stage too, with an annual evening featuring the likes of Mo Gilligan, Kevin Bridges, Miranda Hart, Kerry Godliman, John Bishop, Frankie Boyle, Noel Fielding, Jon Richardson, Russell Howard, James Corden, Joel Dommett and many more. In 2026, the lineup featured Maisie Adam, Bridget Christie, Jack Dee, Andy Hamilton, Dom Joly, Miles Jupp, Athena Kugblenu, Stewart Lee and Dara Ó Briain.

In 2024 a special show was staged as an ovation for Sir Roger Daltrey’s years of service, with turns by the likes of Paul Weller, Kelly Jones, Eddie Vedder and Robert Plant. About Teenage Cancer Trust Teenage Cancer Trust is the only UK charity providing specialised nursing care and support for young people with cancer. The charity funds specialist nurses, youth workers and hospital units within the NHS, and is there for anyone diagnosed with cancer aged 13-24, and their loved ones too.  

Teenage Cancer Trust is a registered charity: 1062559 (England & Wales), SC039757 (Scotland).

The Damned – announce Final Damnation 50 UK Tour

by

Half a century after igniting the fuse of the British punk explosion, The Damned announce a celebratory UK tour. 

Following a triumphant 50th Anniversary show at the OVO Arena Wembley in April and a forthcoming global run that will include the Sydney Opera House and a massive North American return, they step back on British soil in November and December 2026 for ‘Final Damnation 50’. 

The first UK punk band to ever release a single, an album and tour the US, it is also a chance to catch the legendary line-up of Dave Vanian, Captain Sensible, Rat Scabies, Paul Gray, and Monty Oxymoron. 

Rat Scabies – “Half a century on and who’d have thought we would still be upright and breathing? We never thought we’d make it this far and neither did you! But here we are, a finely tuned engine. The Damned still has the power and finesse to excite, entertain and accelerate into our 50th year.”

Captain Sensible – “With 50 years of catalogue to choose from, only the best songs from our chequered history will be performed, and with the passion and commitment all good music lovers deserve. You know we won’t disappoint.”

The Damned have been revelling in their own and punk’s 50th anniversary, marking half a century since the great explosion of 1976 and the return of Rat Scabies on drums. At the OVO Arena Wembley gig on April 11th, they treated their faithful to 25 songs over 3 sets, reflecting their definitive influence on punk, goth and psychedelia. 

Earlier this year, they released an acclaimed covers album, Not Like Everybody Else, featuring tracks that the late, great founding member Brian James loved and that helped shape the band.

And to ensure maximum fun, The Damned are bringing Australian punk pioneers, The Saints ’73-’78 along as special guests. Led by founding members – guitarist Ed Kuepper and drummer Ivor Hay – the line-up features an all-star cast including Mick Harvey (The Birthday Party/The Bad Seeds) and Jim White (Dirty Three), alongside Mark Arm (Mudhoney) on vocals. Together, they will be performing the raw, groundbreaking material from The Saints‘ first three fabled albums ((I’m) Stranded, Eternally Yours, and Prehistoric Sounds), marking 50 years since their own explosive debut.

  • Who: The Damned (Dave Vanian, Captain Sensible, Rat Scabies, Paul Gray, Monty Oxymoron).
  • Special Guests: The Saints ’73-’78 (Ed Kuepper, Mick Harvey, Jim White, Mark Arm).
  • What: ‘Final Damnation 50’ UK Tour (50th Anniversary Celebration).
  • When: 25 November – 05 December 2026.
  • Where: Brighton, London, Bristol, Manchester, Newcastle, Derby, Birmingham.
  • Ticket Link: aegp.uk/the-damned 
  • General Sale: Friday 1 May 2026 @ 10:00am BST
  • Link: https://www.officialdamned.com/

UK TOUR DATES 2026

  • Wed 25 Nov, Brighton, Dome
  • Fri 27 Nov, London, British Airways ARC
  • Sat 28 Nov, Bristol, Beacon
  • Mon 30 Nov, Manchester, Academy
  • Tue 01 Dec, Newcastle, O2 City Hall
  • Wed 02 Dec, Derby, Vaillant Live
  • Sat 05 Dec, Birmingham, O2 Academy

UNLOCKED Sicily celebrates 15 years with a landmark summer season at the island’s most extraordinary locations

by

After 15 years of shaping Sicily’s electronic music scene, UNLOCKED enters its next chapter with an expanded summer programme. Since its inception, the promoter has paired underground music with the island’s most distinctive locations, from ancient archaeological sites to coastal settings. The 15th season builds on that vision, bringing events to six breathtaking locations across Sicily.

Reflecting on the milestone, the UNLOCKED founders say: “We’ve spent 15 years building this community, sharing emotions through music in extraordinary places, opening this land to the world. Now we evolve. Not just to grow, but to honour what we’ve built and take it further than ever before.”

The 15th anniversary events take place across Sicily’s most storied locations, from the ancient ruins of Segesta and the hilltop city of Palermo – including the historic Palazzina Cinese – to the coastal town of Castellammare del Golfo, the Baroque streets of Modica, and the historic centres of Castelvetrano and Alcamo. The programme spans festival-scale and intimate events, bringing world-class electronic music into spaces of rare cultural and architectural significance.

The UNLOCKED season includes five events across five locations, with a combined capacity of 30,000 and introduces three distinct event formats that will shape how the season unfolds. Aura is the flagship format with large-scale, immersive events rooted in culturally significant spaces. Solo presents single-artist performances in intimate historic settings, offering a more focused encounter between artist and audience. Meanwhile, Unlocked Music Festival continues as the brand’s established multi-day format, with broader lineups and wider audiences.

Full event announcements, lineups and ticketing information will follow.

UNLOCKED 15TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON ACROSS THESE LOCATIONS

Segesta Archaeological Park // Porto Nuovo, Castellammare del Golfo // Castelló dei Conti di Modica // Sistema Delle Piazze // Gibellina // Alcamo // Trapani // Palermo

Wychwood Fest – full programme revealed, one month to go for 20th celebrations at Cheltenham Racecourse!

by
Wychwood Festival

With one month to go before Wychwood Festival opens up for its biggest weekend yet between 29th May and 31st May, the final lineup of events and the full running order across the weekend have been revealed. With so much to explore beyond the incredible live music lineup, this year boasts impressive names in the Comedy and Children’s Literature tents, plus a mouth-watering array of food, and activities for all ages to enjoy.

This year Wychwood celebrates a momentous milestone, with the beloved independent festival turning 20. Marking the occasion, loyal festival goers from the surrounding community have been sharing their favourite memories from the racecourse over the past two decades, reminiscing about cherished moments shared with their families and loved ones – and even a flashback to a wedding ceremony that took place on-site in 2012. Enjoy these moments via the website here to see what makes Wychwood so special to so many: https://wychwoodfestival.com/memories

Joining a star-studded main stage lineup – headlined by Craig David Presents TS5 on Friday night, Kaiser Chiefs on Saturday, and Levellers on Sunday evening an exciting selection of the best up-and-coming acts from the surrounding areas has been handpicked for Wychwood this year. The ‘Apply to Play’ winners for this year include popular local bands Drinking with Lucy, Freya Delgarno, Lo Hi Lo, Loophole, Luc Franklyn, Pavey Arc, Pebble Daisy, Tan Sholto, The Burway, The Callbirds and Underscore who will all showcase their talents across the festival stages. For the first time, the previous years winners Truck have played a part in selecting this year’s winners, seeing local Cheltenham favourites pass the baton to more emerging talent for 2026. Always championing local talent, this year Wychwood also welcomes Cheltenham-based modern alternative rock band, Nuns of the Tundra. Plus, for the first time in the festival’s history a Thursday night at the racecourse will be headlined by Dutty Moonshine Big Band and signals the start of an extended anniversary celebration.

Wychwood Comedy Club returns, kicking off six hours of daytime stand-up over the festival weekend with a jam-packed lineup on the Garden Stage. Friday headliners include: Jonny Awsum, Mabel Read, Howard Read, Darryl Carrington, Dani Johns. Saturday headliners include: Card Ninja, Edi Johnston, Andrew White, Joe Wells and Sunjai Arif. Sunday headliners include: Angie Mack, Patrick Monahan, Bella Humphries, Amelia Hamilton and Duncan Oakley.

Leading the charge for the Saturday Late Night Comedy at Howlin Pete’s is the unofficial German Comedy Ambassador to the UK Henning Wehn, as seen regularly on Have I Got News For You, Would I Lie To You?, 8 Out of 10 Cats, and QI. This Saturday night line up will be joined by the likes of renowned comics Louise Leigh, Andrew White, Javier Jarquin and Kate Martin.

Wychwood Festival’s much-loved Children’s Literature tent returns for 2026. Barbara’s Story Box – in loving memory of Barbara Pendrigh, who masterminded the Story Box events for so many years – will be filled with brilliant authors, captivating illustrators, and unforgettable tales on the Village Green. Festival goers are invited to meet the heroes behind some of their favourite children’s stories all weekend long. Barabara’s Story Box Line Up Includes: 

Poetry pizza with Simon Mole, Magpie And The Sparkling Words with Lucy Rowland, Starlight Stables with Jo Cotterill, Best Dog Ever with Smriti Halls, A Holiday For Bear with Duncan Beedie, Bunnies In A Rocket with Philip Ardagh, Astrosaurs with Steve Cole, The Butterfly House with Harry Woodgate, Football G.O.A.T with Matt Oldfield and Seth Burkett, Happy Hills with Sophy Henn, Clippa And Clawzo with Tim Ewins and Beth Bridger, Squirrel And Duck with Tom Percival, The Turtle Who Turned The Tide with Rachel Bright, Pia’s Pet Club with Serena Patel, Chicken vs Egg with Gareth P Jones

Whilst Wychwood is renowned for its well-curated music and workshop lineups, that’s not all – there’s also an irresistible array of sensational street food on offer. Exciting food offerings this year include: hand-stretched pizzas from Slice One, sweet and savoury crumbles from Crumble Pots, signature raclette from Gloucester’s Melted Cheese Company, authentic chinese cuisine from Happy Dumpling, The UK’s beloved classic-crispy battered fish and golden chips from the Fish and Chip Bus and many more! With a wide range of veggie, vegan and gluten-free options available.

Shaping up for the biggest year yet in Wychwood Festival’s history, fans look forward to a live music lineup stacked with the likes of Kaiser Chiefs, Craig David Presents TS5, Levellers, Everything Everything, Maximo Park, Feeder, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Boney M, The Pigeon Detectives, Newton Faulkner, Chesney Hawkes, and many more.

Adding to the celebratory edition of the UK’s fast-growing family-friendly weekender will be a selection of festival favourite moments. The UK’s #1 Shrek musical tribute The Ogretones, Shaun Williamson’s Barrioke, and Taskmaster creator Alex Horne’s The Horne Section are all confirmed for Wychwood 2026, alongside Hip Hop Karaoke, 3 Daft Monkeys, Mr B Gentleman Rhymer, The X & Y, Witney Soul Club and of course local Wychwood stalwarts Thrill Collins, keeping festival spirits suitably high from start to finish.

Fresh from being crowned Family Festival of the Year at the UK Festival Awards 2025, Wychwood continues to set the standard for inclusive festival experiences. Thousands flock from around the UK in growing numbers each year, and it’s no wonder with the hundreds of family-friendly activities, arts, comedy, children’s literature and workshops laid out across the weekend at The Village Green and beyond – plus it’s free for under 10’s!

Taking place beneath the beautiful Prestbury Hills at Cheltenham Racecourse, Wychwood marks the very first weekend of the summer festival season and has become a treasured tradition for families and music lovers alike. With a minor anniversary to celebrate together this edition is certainly not to be missed!

The 20th edition of Wychwood Festival takes place 29th – 31st May 2026, Cheltenham Racecourse, Gloucestershire. Remaining tickets are available via Wychwoodfestival.com

About Wychwood

Wychwood is a fast-growing, family-friendly, three-day festival held at Cheltenham Racecourse, featuring iconic names, new music discovery, comedy, workshops, and wholesome fun for all ages. Known for its community spirit and welcoming atmosphere, the festival will celebrate its 20th edition in 2026.

“an adored fixture on the UK festival calendar” – Rolling Stone UK

“The best festival for families” – The Independent

“Wychwood has something for everyone” – Metro

“It’s easy to see why Wychwood has notched up consecutive nominations for the best family music festival around” – The i

“Perfect family-friendly festival” – Daily Mirror

“Wychwood Festival is one of those places where the sun always shines” – National World

The latest Bloodstock News

by
How about a whole host of excellent BLOODSTOCK news that doesn’t announce a single band?
BLOODSTOCKers, we know you’ve been asking, and HQ wants you to have pleeeenty of time to plan the most splendid FANCY DRESS outfits, so without further delay, here are the themes for 2026! 

On Thursday, we know it’s been done before, but with HEAVYSAURUS on the bill and it being SO MUCH FUN, it has to be DINOSAURS again. That costume you bought a couple years back is now excellent value for money, huh?
On Friday, we embrace the dark, the macabre, and the creative… we want to see how you interpret TWISTED FAIRYTALES as a theme! Black widow bitten Miss Muffet? Malice in Wonderland? Goth fairies welcome! 
Saturday rolls back the clock to the 1980’s! Bring out your best ‘80’s fashion (mullets encouraged, neon leg warmers optional), or be a character from your fave ‘80s movie, TV show, or band! There is no such thing as too much leopard print. 

On Sunday, there’s a special treat in the RAM Gallery, as festival founder and renowned fantasy artist Paul Gregory will be exhibiting his original, oil on canvas, Lord Of The Rings-inspired painting ‘Morannon’! An impressive 1.8m x 3m in size, it was last exhibited over 20 years ago at the indoor BLOODSTOCK. In honour, Sunday’s fancy dress theme will be LORD OF THE RINGS / FANTASY! Come as a dragon, a wizard, an orc, or even as Gollum, my precious.

We’re looking forward to seeing your GRWM reels already. Be sure to tag Bloodstock on your socials and we might re-share our favourites.
Drumroll please, BLOODSTOCK can confirm the return of the unmissable BLACK ICE CREAM, with a new and improved recipe. If you want to get some, make sure you head to the ice cream truck located closest to the Ronnie James Dio main stage!

With such a wide range of food available, BLOODSTOCK recommends you eat more than just ice cream all festival. There’s everything from vegan fried chik’n/sushi and salad boxes, to pies, Bunnychow, paella, smoked meats, gyoza, wraps, Spudman, mac ‘n’ cheese, and more. Head to https://bloodstock.uk.com/events/boa-2026/traders for full details of all food that will be on site, including gluten-free, halal, veggie, and vegan options. While this graphic doesn’t cover every single food vendor on site, it’s a handy quick guide.

There’s free drinking water at designated water points in the campsites and main arena, so remember to bring a refillable non-glass bottle with you and please stay hydrated.

There’s more info at the same link about some of the market traders you can find in the main arena if you’re keen to do some heavy metal shopping in between bands, from clothes both new and vintage, accessories, housewares, face painting, music, sculptures, and more! There’s also a big selection of silver and stainless steel jewellery, not least from Nox of York’s Black Feather – perhaps treat yourself to their twin axe pendant, a cool collab with headliner alumni Jesse Leach of Killswitch Engage!

From tent pegs to tampons, and any other essentials you’ve forgotten, there’s a supermarket in the Midgard campsite (and a small shop in the main arena) plus Fat Frank’s Camping Store, where they’ll also inflate your air bed for a better night’s sleep!


OH, YOU’RE DOING VIP? Did you manage to snap up a now-sold-out VIP ticket for this year? You’ll want to click over to https://www.facebook.com/BloodstockVIP, for details of this year’s exclusive Serpents Lair entertainment – Deadliners have been revealed and a Never Mind The Bloodstocks quiz compered by Raised By Owls is already confirmed, with more announcements to come! 

You can also learn how to book for the ultra luxe The Spa @ facility in the VIP campsite (which is in addition to the free VIP campsite Get Ready station with DIY hair-dryers, straighteners, and mirrors). There’s also a new VIP Spa Pass that includes non-alcoholic welcome bubbly, experience shower with bespoke aromatherapy, wood-fired hot tub & sauna (with a birch whisk), cold plunge bath, mineral salt bath, fire pit, relaxation area, and unlimited herbal teas & fruit-infused water! The Spa @ is bookable (limited spaces) Thurs – Mon.

But that’s not all… the VIP Pamper Parlour offers:The Hair Chair – Mohawks, braids, blowouts, and battle-ready stylesThe Beard Bar – Viking plaits, cooling mists, facials & SPF finish Hell Bound & Highlighted – Warpaint, blackout eyes, blood red lips, make-up glitter & gemsWeary Warriors – Massage, facials, reflexology, & reiki to reset mind and body .

Keep an eye on the VIP page, because in the coming weeks you can also find out what classic movies will be showing this year (mornings Fri – Sun), plus all the interesting ales and ciders you can find at the Serpents Lair bar (some are also gluten free). If you missed out on VIP tickets, check Tixel as the official ticket resale partner.



When the bands stop, the fun doesn’t – late night shenanigans kick off for all BLOODSTOCKers at the Stowford Press New Blood and Sophie Lancaster stages!

Thursday: the legendary silent disco levels up at the New Blood Stage from 11pm-2am with more channels and headsets than ever! Rich Harris holds down rock/metal, Little M takes dance, while Jamie Haines and Lloyd split ’50s-’90s pop vs hardstyle/techno before switching to noughties pop vs jungle/drum ‘n’ bass. Then over at the Sophie Stage from 12-2am, DJ Pressplay kicks off his Welcome Party with prime cuts from the weekend’s bands plus rock and alternative bangers to set the tone.

Friday: Rich Harris returns to New Blood from 11pm-2am to host Rage Against the ’90s – a full volume night of nu-metal, grunge and stoner vibes featuring Deftones, Korn, Alice in Chains, Static-X, Pantera, RATM, Slipknot and more. And that’ll include a special guest DJ set from none other than BIOHAZARD‘s Evan Seinfeld! Over at the Sophie Stage from 12-2am, Lloyd and Little M return for year four with the Blood Rave – electronic, industrial and heavy dance inspired by the opening scene in Blade.

Saturday: The silent disco returns to New Blood from 11pm-2am with four channels – Rich Harris on rock/metal, Little M on club classics, Lloyd on cheese/pop, and DJ Pressplay delivering a full set of modern & classic country for your very own hoedown. At the Sophie Stage from 12-2am, DJ Arockalypse’s Gary Newey is joined by trap metal sensation N0trixx for guilty pleasures and classic alternative tunes with a twist.

Sunday: Round off the weekend at the Sophie Stage from 12-2am with Rich Harris’s closing party – classic singalongs, a taste of next year’s bands, and songs to carry you through summer.





Every year, BLOODSTOCK likes to highlight and support a couple of charities. BLOODSTOCK is pleased to confirm that charity partners for 2026 will be the Sophie Lancaster Foundation and Heavy Metal Truants.

The ever important work of the SOPHIE LANCASTER FOUNDATION to stamp out prejudice, hatred, and intolerance everywhere is something BLOODSTOCK have been glad to support ever since 2009 when the second stage was renamed the Sophie Lancaster Stage. Their educational work in primary and secondary schools is second to none, but they also work with university/college students and adult learners, as well as offering outreach activities, training, workshops, and presentations. Learn more at: https://www.sophielancasterfoundation.com/. 



After 13 annual cycle rides from London to Download Festival, this year the HEAVY METAL TRUANTS are charting a new path to glory — destination: BLOODSTOCK.

Co-founded in 2013 by Iron Maiden manager Rod Smallwood and then Metal Hammer Editor In Chief Alexander Milas, the Heavy Metal Truants have so far raised over £1.6 million for four children’s charities: Teenage Cancer Trust, Nordoff & Robbins Music Therapy, Childline, and Save The Children. Since its beginning, this unique initiative has been spearheaded by a three day, 30-person, 175-mile cycle from London to the gates of a major metal festival, and now that destination is BLOODSTOCK. 

Sign-ups for Heavy Metal Truants HMTXIV are open NOW! You don’t even need to use your own bike, a hire one can be provided. The 2026 ride will invite cyclists (inc rockstars who aren’t too posh to pedal) of all backgrounds and abilities to take up the gruelling but camaraderie-packed challenge of cycling 175 miles with a single goal: raising vital funds for kids in need. Previous years have seen members of Amon Amarth, Trivium, Judas Priest, Enter Shikari, Orange Goblin, and more take part… you never know who you might end up peddling next to! And when you arrive at BLOODSTOCK triumphant, expect a hero’s welcome, before enjoying all the festival has to offer with an included guest weekend ticket.

As in previous years, the Heavy Metal Truants will also include a series of virtual challenges so walkers, swimmers, runners, cyclists, and more from all over the world can also support and take part!
See the itinerary. For more info and registration: www.heavymetaltruants.com. Follow on social: @hmtruants
Big Green COACH, not Crocodile.

Planning your route to BLOODSTOCK yet? For the closest drop-off on site and also eco points, why not come via a carbon-neutral BIG GREEN COACH? There are pick-up points all across the U.K.! And for the first time ever, you can now book your official coach travel to arrive on Wednesday as well as Thursday, helping you to take advantage of the add-on Wednesday Early Bird ticket option for an extra night of metal shenanigans! For those coming by train into Tamworth station, BLOODSTOCK can also confirm that the shuttle bus to site will also run on Wednesday! Get full info & book your seat with Big Green Coach HERE.

BLOODSTOCK’s 25th anniversary is going to be truly unforgettable. BLOODSTOCK 2026 is delighted to present RJD headliners LAMB OF GOD, SLAUGHTER TO PREVAIL, JUDAS PRIEST, and SAXON. Sophie Lancaster stage headliners will be CRYPTOPSY (None So Vile 30-year anniversary set), WEDNESDAY 13, LEPROUS, and CARPENTER BRUT. You’ll also be able to see BODY COUNT, SEPULTURA, MUNICIPAL WASTE, DEATH ANGEL, TESTAMENT, NORTHLANE, BLEED FROM WITHIN, VENDED, ORBIT CULTURE, THE SCRATCH, IMPERIAL AGE, LIFE OF AGONY, OF MICE & MEN, BIOHAZARD, 200 STAB WOUNDS, THE HELL, BLACK SPIDERS, SHINING, NEVERMORE, EVIL SCARECROW, HEAVYSAURUS, SKYND, PARTY CANNON, BATTLESNAKE, INHUMAN NATURE, KITTIE, CASTLE RAT, GRAPHIC NATURE, BOOTYARD BANDITS, EXCREMENTORY GRINDFUCKERS, HIDDEN INTENT, SELLSWORD, NECKBREAKKER, SEETHING AKIRA, HAMMER, STAMPIN GROUND, URNE, CELESTIAL SANCTUARY, THROWN INTO EXILE, VIKING SKULL, BOUND IN FEAR, IMPERIUM, FROGLORD, MUSHROOMHEAD, DREAM STATE, TRIVAX, MANTIS DEFEATS JAGUAR, BLOOD COUNTESS, GURT, OUTERGODS, FLAYED DISCIPLE, NOISEPICKER, ACID THRONE, ALUNAH, VOID BELOW, TEMPLES ON MARS, NEGATIVE FRAME, CONCRETE AGE, THRASHERWOLF, IMPERIAL DEMONIC, CHAINED SAINT, IMBRIUM, OVERPOWER, UNTAMED SILENCE, CHANGE PERSONA, AFTER SMOKE CLEARS, SOULRIDE, VANITAS, GOAT MAJOR, CANCEL THE TRANSMISSION, TEMPEST SAINT, TROLLMOTHER, DOSED, STITCHED, WREX, FOLLOWING THE SIGNS, THE CARTOON CARTEL, and AETHORIA. And there’s still more bands to be announced. 

All weekend tickets (including Kyrr) are now sold out, but you can still snap up day tickets for £99 (+fees) to be part of the fun! Not been to the festival before? A day ticket is a perfect taster to see what you think! Child tickets are also available and under 4’s attend for free. Head over to the ticket store to see all options and if you’re coming by car, pre-book to save on car parking! 

For the most up to date festival information, visit the official website at bloodstock.uk.com.
BLOODSTOCK 2026 will take place at Catton Park, Derbyshire on 6th – 9th August, 2026.

Angine de Poitrine announced to headline the opening beach party at The Great Escape 2026 presented by NME

by

Today, The Great Escape announces Angine de Poitrine will headline the Opening Beach Party at The Deep End, TGE Beach site on Wednesday 13 May 2026, presented in partnership with NME, with Ribbon Skirt joining the bill as support. 

Polka-dot clad Québec duo Angine de Poitrine step into the spotlight for one of the festival’s most iconic moments, bringing their idiosyncratic brand of microtonal jam-rock to Brighton’s seafront for an unmissable opening night celebration. They will be joined by Montreal post-punk band Ribbon Skirt as support, adding an extra edge to the evening. Earning a reputation for their boundary-pushing sound and immersive live shows, both acts promise high-energy sets to kick off The Great Escape 2026 in unforgettable fashion. 
 
This announcement follows the news that The Kooks, who were originally scheduled to perform a Spotlight Show that evening, have had to cancel due to injury. In an exciting update to the programme, Angine de Poitrine will now take the reins to headline the beach party, marking a major moment for the festival’s opening night. 

 The Opening Beach Party is part of the core festival programme, with access available via a festival wristband, subject to capacity. Festivalgoers are encouraged to plan ahead via the official app and arrive early to secure their spot. 
 
Synonymous with new music discovery and acting as a springboard for rising artists, The Great Escape is the festival for new music. Playing host to over 450 up-and-coming artists and hotly tipped talent across 35+ walkable venues, alongside the music industry-led TGE conference, the festival will kick off the 2026 season from 13 – 16th May in Brighton, England. 

Tickets for The Great Escape festival are on sale here 

Sam Divine Announces Full Lineups for 555 Residency at Cova Santa, Ibiza

by

Sam Divine has confirmed the full lineups for her upcoming Ibiza residency with the 555 concept coming to Cova Santa for four dates this summer.

The residency will run on 13 June, 22 August, 16 September and 23 September, marking her first headline residency on the island as well as the Ibiza debut of her 555 label and event series.

The programme features a range of artists from across house, tech house and garage. Confirmed names include Paul Woolford, Dusky, Arielle Free, Cassimm, Melé and Nick Curly, alongside additional artists including Cash Only, DJ Beth, Easttown, Holly Hutch, Ilyus Barrientos, James Poole, Joëlla Jackson, Lauren Lo Sung, Makez, Marco Lys, Mark Knight, Molly D, Murphy’s Law, Nesi, Piem, Reelow, Ruze and Smokey Bubblin’ B.

Launched in 2026, 555 focuses on a stripped-back club format built around extended DJ sets and curated lineups that combine established and emerging artists. 

At Cova Santa, the concept will be presented across both indoor and outdoor spaces to keep its core format while adapting to a larger-scale setting.

SAM DIVINE PRESENTS 555

A↔Z

ARIELLE FREE • CASSIMM

 CASH ONLY • BETH • DUSKY

 EASTTOWN • HOLLY HUTCH

 ILLYUS BARRIENTOS • JAMES POOLE

 JOËLLA JACKSON • LAUREN LO SUNG

 MAKEZ • MARCO LYS

 MARK KNIGHT • MELÉ • MOLLY D

 MURPHY’S LAW • NESI • NICK CURLY

 PAUL WOOLFORD • PIEM • REELOW

 RUZE • SMOKEY BUBBLIN’ B

555 IBIZA

 At Cova Santa, San Jose

13.06, 22.08, 16.09, 23.09

19:00-04:00

Ctra. San José, km 7 (desvío Sa Caleta), 07817 Ibiza icono

POPOF & Giorgia Angiuli link up for ‘Echoes In Motion’ on Filth On Acid 

by

BUY / STREAM

Techno mainstay Popof and Italian Giorgia Angiuli combine for epic new single Echoes in Motion on the mighty Filth on Acid.

Giorgia is a classically trained musician, composer and multi-instrumentalist who moves between pop, techno and house. She uses her voice to create a dreamy dimension intensified by the use of unique toy instruments and plays all over the world, while Popof is regular chart topper, in demand remixer and driving electronic force who has released on some of the best labels in the scene.

Echoes in Motion rides on slamming drums with synths that suggest constant take off, hard edge bass and distorted textures. The vocals bring extra tension and emotion while the epic breakdown builds to another explosive drop that is destined for big things this summer.

This is another sure fire weapon from this dynamic duo.

Artist(s): Popof, Giorgia Angiuli

Title: Echoes In Motion

Record Label: Filth on Acid

Cat.Number: FOA221

Release Date: 24th April 2026

Tracklist:

1) Echoes In Motion (Extended Mix)

2) Echoes In Motion (Radio Edit)

First UK festival goes employee-owned

by

Kambe Events – the company behind pioneering independent festival Shambala – has today announced a landmark transition to employee ownership, becoming the first festival in the UK to adopt this model.

The move sees the festival’s original co-founders step away from ownership, ceding the business to the team members who have helped build it over more than two decades. 

The transition will see Shambala owned by an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT), helping to ensure that the festival will remain independent, and that its team will share in future successes. 

“All of us at Shambala have an emotional stake in what we have built over 25 years; now everyone has an ownership stake too,” explains Co-Founder and MD, Chris Johnson. “We would be nothing without our people, and they deserve to carry on the Shambala legacy as beneficiaries.“

This bold step comes at a time when many independent festivals are being acquired by major live entertainment conglomerates, marking a significant alternative path for the sector. By choosing employee ownership, Shambala is reinforcing its commitment to independence, sustainability and ethical stewardship.

“Shambala stands for independence and, in an increasingly commercialised festival scene, we simply could not sell to venture capitalists or the big promotion companies,” adds Johnson. “While exploring alternative paths, we fell in love with the Employee Ownership model.” 

While recent years have seen a rise in community ownership of independent venues and a growing number of employee-owned retailers, this transition represents a first for the UK festival industry – setting a new precedent for how live events businesses can evolve, while keeping their core values very much intact.

“It is patently clear that the current capitalist model is fundamentally broken,” adds Dan Raffety, Head of Music and another of the festival’s Co-Founders, who has led Kambe’s transition to EO. “As a society we must explore alternative models of ownership as a way through which the massive power and potential of capitalism can be focused on serving humanity and the planet at large.”

“Employee Ownership is just the next, natural step in Kambe’s adventures towards a utopia – the next phase in our constant evolution towards justice and a better world.”

The move continues a long-standing tradition of thought-leadership and innovation for Shambala. Over its 26-year history, the festival has been at the forefront of industry change, particularly in areas like sustainability and ethical operations. This latest development adds to a legacy defined by forward-thinking decisions and a willingness to challenge the status quo.

By placing ownership in the hands of its employees, the festival is ensuring that its founding ethos – creativity, sustainability, independence and community – remains protected for years to come.