Byker Grave Presents Scott Hepple & The Sun Band, the Newcastle-based garage and psych-rock band channel the best of 60s and 70s rock through fuzz-soaked guitars, big riffs and catchy choruses. Support comes from Scottish psych/occult rockers Lucid Sins. Lineup: Scott Hepple & The Sun Band – Lucid Sins
Zerox hosts an evening spotlighting some of the North East’s most exciting emerging acts. The genre-defying riser Esau, glam-pop powerhouse Cortney Dixon and LJ Adams (The Safest Place, Chintzy Stetson) come together to celebrate the region’s vibrant local scene. Lineup: Esau – Cortney Dixon – LJ Adams
The First Gigs x Mini Mercury Showcase shines a spotlight on the next generation of North East artists. Three selected musicians, aged 12 to 18, will perform at The Grove, gaining hands-on experience of a professional live show, from preparation and technical advancing through to soundcheck and performance, alongside venue staff and sound engineers.
As an Official Partner of the 2026 Mercury Prize, Freight Island hosts a Mercury Prize edition of Playing Out, giving emerging talent the chance to perform alongside more established names and reach new audiences. Expect live sets and artist conversations spotlighting the artists shaping music in the North right now.
EMI North presents some of the best emerging talent from across the North of the UK. Headlined by Glasgow alt-rockers walt disco, hot on the heels of their new self-titled album, with additional special guest performances from artists across EMI North’s partner labels. Proudly promoted with Notion Live Events. Lineup: walt disco
