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

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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!

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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

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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

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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

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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 

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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

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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. 

AMØK Mallorca Announces Epic Festival Showcases For 2026 with D&B All Stars, Drumcode, MADE FOR MORE Festival & Frequency Festival 

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AMØK Mallorca has confirmed a series of major festival collaborations for summer 2026 that expand its programme with world renowned brands, DJs and large-scale takeovers.

Following a strong start to the season including a sold-out Jackie’s showcase with Claptone in April, the award-winning venue is continuing its run of partnerships with some of electronic music’s most established event concepts. These collaborations build on the club’s previously announced spring programme and continue to mark it out as the leading venue in Mallorca and an essential alternative to Ibiza. 

May sees the legendary D&B Allstars arrive on the 3rd, bringing its high-energy drum & bass sound to the island, before Drumcode takes over from May 8th to 10th. The multi-day showcase features a heavyweight techno lineup including Adam Beyer, Joris Voorn, Eli Brown, Pan-Pot b2b Alan Fitzpatrick, Kasia and more.

The festival offerings continue into June with trance icon Paul van Dyk bringing his MADE FOR MORE concept to the venue on June 25th, followed by Frequency Festival across June 27th and 28th. That event features names such as taste making tech house favourites and disrupters, Jamie Jones, Prospa and Max & Luke Dean.

These collaborations reflect AMØK’s ongoing strategy to position itself as a key hub for international electronic music brands on the island. As well as this, AMØK will host Shimza for a 3-date residency on Thursdays from late July, bringing his signature “Afro-tech” sound to the club. 

Since opening, the venue has combined high-spec production with a dual indoor-outdoor setup that has placed it firmly on the map for both top tier artists and serious electronic music lovers from the wider European club circuit.

AMØK’s 2026 season is set to be its best yet with this unrivalled mix of festival-level experiences in an immersive club environment.

Festival Showcases:

May 3rd D&B All Stars

May 8,9,10th Drumcode featuring: Eli Brown, Joel Mull, Mark Reeve, Pan Pot B2B Alan Fitzpatrick, Wehbba, Charles D, Joris Voorn, Tini Gessler, Adam Beyer B2B Bart Skils, Genesi and Kasia.

June 25th Paul Van Dyk’s MADE FOR MORE Festival

27th & 28th of June Frequency Festival featuring Jamie Jones, Max & Luke Dean, Prospa and more

For all upcoming AMØK shows head to https://amokmallorca.com/en/buy-tickets/

Address – Carretera de S´Aranjassa, Km 10, Levante, 07199, Islas Baleares

amokmallorca.com | @amokmallorca

Sammy Hagar & The Best Of All Worlds Band Announce UK Tour Update

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Rock icon Sammy Hagar today announced a revised itinerary for his forthcoming UK tour, bringing his top-grossing Best Of All Worlds Tour to a series of more intimate, tech-forward performing arts venues. Inspired by the breakthrough success of his recent Las Vegas residency at Dolby Live, where advanced sound and immersive technology redefined the live experience, the July 2026 dates have been reconfigured to prioritise similar venues across the UK. The updated routing also allows for a special multi-night run in London, where Hagar and the band will be among the first artists to headline the soon-to-open British Airways ARC.

Featuring Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame inductees Sammy Hagar and Michael Anthony, 15-time GRAMMY nominee and guitar virtuoso Joe Satriani and powerhouse drummer Kenny Aronoff, The Best Of All Worlds Band will perform at Wolverhampton’s Civic Hall (6 July), Manchester’s O2 Apollo (7 July) and London’s British Airways ARC (9-12 July). Tickets go on general sale on Friday 24 April at 10am via https://www.aegpresents.co.uk/event/sammy-hagar/.

Sammy Hagar said: “After waiting 30 years to come back, we really wanted to get this right. Several factors pushed us toward revising this tour but after wrapping our Las Vegas residency last month at Dolby Live where the sound, the technology, and the more intimate size really lets us connect with the audiences, it was clear that we wanted to deliver an experience like that for our fans in England. When I heard our promoter was opening a similar tech-forward venue in London that really sealed the deal for me. Three nights, a fresh set every night, and I get to stay in London, one of my favorite cities in the world, for a week. That’s the Best of All Worlds!” 

Sammy returns to the UK for his first tour since 1996, with a setlist celebrating his legendary 50+ year catalogue of hits, including the deepest dive yet into his tenure with Van Halen. The UK tour represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see this band of brothers deliver one of the most legendary hits-packed live shows of their careers. Fans can expect a setlist featuring hits like “Why Can’t This Be Love”, “5150”, “Best Of Both Worlds”, “I Can’t Drive 55” and more. This will be the first time Sammy Hagar has performed Van Halen classics in the UK since the band’s iconic Wembley Stadium shows 30 years ago. The supergroup will take to the stage at three venues in the UK: University of Wolverhampton at the Civic Hall, Manchester O2 Apollo, and finally the London British Airways ARC for a three night residency.

Fans who purchased tickets for the original UK dates will be contacted directly and offered priority presale access for the new shows, along with a 10% merchandise offer on show nights. The band thanks fans for their continued support and looks forward to delivering this newly enhanced live experience across the UK. Tickets go on sale on Friday 24 April at 10am via https://www.aegpresents.co.uk/event/sammy-hagar/.

SAMMY HAGAR & THE BEST OF ALL WORLDS UK TOUR 2026
JULY 2026


MON 6                    WOLVERHAMPTON      UNIVERSITY OF WOLVERHAMPTON AT THE CIVIC HALL
TUES 7                    MANCHESTER                   O2 APOLLO MANCHESTER
THURS 9               LONDON                               BRITISH AIRWAYS ARC
SAT 11                    LONDON                               BRITISH AIRWAYS ARC
SUN 12                  LONDON                               BRITISH AIRWAYS ARC

Joan Jett And The Blackhearts Announce UK Headline Tour

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The iconic Joan Jett And The Blackhearts today announced that they will be coming to the UK for their first UK headline tour in 16 years this July with support from special guests The Meffs. The July 2026 tour will start in Glasgow, hitting Manchester, Leeds, Wolverhampton and then London for its grand finale at the British Airways ARC. Tickets go on general sale this Friday 24 April at 10am via https://www.aegpresents.co.uk/event/joan-jett-the-blackhearts/.

The July 2026 tour will see Joan Jett And The Blackhearts playing legendary hits like ‘I Love Rock N’ Roll’, ‘Bad Reputation’, ‘I Hate Myself For Loving You’ and many more on their first UK headline tour in 16 years. They will take to the stage at O2 Academy Glasgow (2 July), Manchester Academy (4 July), O2 Academy Leeds (5 July), University of Wolverhampton at the Civic Hall (7 July) and finally the London British Airways ARC (8 July).

Joan Jett says: “We can’t wait to be back on stage in the UK this Summer! I wrote and recorded “Bad Reputation”, my first solo LP in London. It’s been too long since we’ve been in the UK and we’re excited to see everyone!”

Joining Joan Jett And The Blackhearts on the tour will be UK Britpunk duo The Meffs, hailing from Colchester and fronted by vocalist and guitarist Lily Hopkins. The band are known for their politically charged lyrics and DIY ethics and will be the perfect fit for Joan Jett And The Blackhearts, who have been blowing the door to the boys’ club off its hinges since they formed in 1979.

For more than four decades, Joan Jett has been recognised as the Godmother of Punk and one of the most iconic names in rock ‘n’ roll. With a career that has spanned music, film, television, Broadway and humanitarianism, Joan Jett has remained a potent force and inspiration to generations of fans worldwide. She is a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee and has eight platinum and gold albums, and she shows no signs of slowing down.

Tickets for the July 2026 tour go on sale this Friday 24 April at 10am via https://www.aegpresents.co.uk/event/joan-jett-the-blackhearts/.

JOAN JETT & THE BLACKHEARTS UK TOUR DATES
JULY 2026


THURS 2               GLASGOW                       O2 ACADEMY GLASGOW
SAT 4                     MANCHESTER                MANCHESTER ACADEMY
SUN 5                     LEEDS                            O2 ACADEMY LEEDS
TUES 7                  WOLVERHAMPTON     UNIVERSITY OF WOLVERHAMPTON AT THE CIVIC HALL
WEDS 8                 LONDON                       BRITISH AIRWAYS ARC