The Great Escape music festival is just around the corner, bringing a vibrant array of emerging artists to the coastal city of Brighton. This year, the festival will feature two exciting showcases hosted by Ticketmaster New Music: The Deep End on Thursday, May 15, and Soundwaves on Friday, May 16, 2025. With acts spanning various genres, attendees can expect an exhilarating experience filled with fresh sounds and captivating performances.
The Deep End, set to take place on the beach, will kick off on Thursday afternoon with a lineup of promising artists. At 16:15, the grunge revivalists Florence Road will take the stage. Despite having only released a handful of singles, this Irish quartet has already captured the attention of pop sensation Olivia Rodrigo. Their debut track, "another seventeen," sparked a social media frenzy, leading to their signing with Warner Records. Their latest single, "Heavy," showcases their melodic pop-leaning style, reminiscent of The Cranberries.
Following Florence Road, Laurie Wright will perform at 17:15. Known for his gritty indie rock sound, Wright's music reflects his tumultuous journey through addiction and perseverance in the industry. His authenticity resonates with fans, making him a must-see on the lineup.
At 18:15, Nxdia will bring her bilingual alt-pop to The Deep End. With roots in Cairo and a current base in London, Nxdia's music blends English and Arabic influences, creating a vibrant sound that draws inspiration from bands like Paramore and My Chemical Romance. Her unique style promises to electrify the audience.
As the evening progresses, Sunday (1994) will take the stage at 19:15. This trio, named after the year they embody, has transitioned from TikTok fame to sold-out shows across the globe. Their romantic dream-pop style, led by couple Paige Turner and Lee Newell, has garnered a dedicated following, proving that their gamble on pursuing their own music has paid off.
Next up at 20:15 is Brògeal, a folk-rock band from Falkirk. Known for their energetic performances, Brògeal blends traditional Celtic sounds with a modern twist, creating a lively atmosphere that captivates audiences. Their high-energy shows are reminiscent of a raucous party, making them a standout act at The Deep End.
At 21:15, Chloe Slater will showcase her indie pop sound, drawing inspiration from artists like Declan McKenna and Sam Fender. With her raw, heartfelt lyrics and sultry voice, Slater has gained recognition for her breakout singles "24 Hours" and "Tiny Screens," solidifying her place as a rising star in the music scene.
Finally, The K’s will close out The Deep End at 22:15. The Merseyside band has made waves in the indie rock scene, competing with The Libertines in a recent chart battle. Their energetic follow-up album, "Pretty On The Internet," promises to elevate their status even further.
On Friday evening, the Soundwaves showcase will continue the excitement at the Main Beach. Kicking off at 18:30, Laundromat Chicks will bring their jangle-pop sound from Vienna, Austria. With their latest album, "Sometimes Possessed," the four-piece band has gained traction in their local scene and is ready to charm British audiences with their nostalgic tunes.
Following Laundromat Chicks, alt-rock band Keo will perform at 19:30. Known for their muscular riffs and intense live shows, the band, led by the Keogh brothers, has been making waves in the local music scene. Their sound is a nod to the resurgence of rock music, and they are poised to capture the attention of audiences at Soundwaves.
At 20:30, Cliffords, touted as Ireland’s next great guitar band, will take the stage. With evocative lyricism from lead singer Iona Lynch, the alt-rock band explores themes of introspection and emotion, creating a captivating atmosphere that resonates with listeners.
Armlock will follow at 21:30, showcasing their dreamy indie rock sound. The band, formed by Simon Lam and Hamish Mitchell, has spent years honing their craft, and their music reflects a blend of electronic influences and shoegaze elements, promising a mesmerizing performance.
Finally, Witch Post will close out the Soundwaves showcase at 22:30. This supergroup, featuring Alaska Reid and Dylan Fraser, draws inspiration from 90s alt-rock bands like Sonic Youth. Their ethereal sound and immersive songs promise to leave a lasting impression on the audience.
The Great Escape festival not only highlights emerging talent but also serves as a platform for artists to connect with fans and industry professionals alike. As the festival approaches, excitement builds for what promises to be an unforgettable weekend in Brighton, filled with music, creativity, and community. With such a diverse lineup, there’s something for everyone to enjoy, making it a must-attend event for music lovers.
