In a press release, the band spoke about the release of their remix album: “So grateful that some of our favourite contemporary artists and friends were up for doing this with us x,”

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The release, aptly named ‘This Could Be A Remix Album’, features different bands covering tracks from English Teacher’s acclaimed debut studio album. ‘This Could Be Texas’ was released in April 2024 through Island Records and was met with critical acclaim.

 The Line of Best Fit said that the ‘This Could Be Texas’ “could be one of the finest debuts of the decade, with every band member shining in their ability and craftsmanship”. Similarly, DIY called it an album that unfurls itself with each listen; it is neither easily categorised nor, you suspect, written with quickly-digestible earworms in mind.”

The full tracklisting for ‘This Could Be A Remix Album’ is:

1. ‘Albatross’ (Bug Teeth Remix)
   2. ‘The World’s Biggest Paving Slab’ (Daniel Avery Remix)
   3. ‘Broken Biscuits’ (Lewis Whiting Remix)
   4. ‘I’m Not Crying, You’re Crying’ (Water From Your Eyes Remix)
   5. ‘Mastermind Specialism’ (Sherelle’s 160 Steps To Enlightenment Mix)
   6. ‘This Could Be Texas’ (Baxter Dury Remix)
   7. ‘Not Everybody Gets To Go To Space’ (Working Men’s Club Remix)
   8. ‘R&B’ (Max Cooper Remix)
   9. ‘Nearly Daffodils’ (Matt Maltese Rework)
   10. ‘Best Tears Of Your Life’ (FDC DJs Remix)
   11. ‘You Blister My Paint’ (Silver Gore Remix)
   12. ‘Sideboob’ (TAAHLIAHRemix)
   13. ‘Albert Road’ (Blossom Calderone Rework)

This news comes ahead of the band’s UK tour which starts next month. A full list of tour dates can be accessed here and the tickets can be accessed here.

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This year’s lineup was announced at the start of February, revealing a small but heavy-hitting lineup. The headline acts had two Mercury Prize winners among them in Ezra Collective and English Teacher. Discussing their appearance, Ezra Collective called it a “deep honour” to be headlining, recalling the importance of first being aired on Radio 6 in 2013.   

Another act that caused a stir online is Kae Tempest. They took to their Instagram page last week to announce some warmup shows before their set at the festival. Fans attending their show will be hopeful to hear some new material, with Tempest saying ​​“What you doing end of March? I’m putting a new live set together, and we’re playing a couple of small venues to kick things off… can’t wait to get back to it – get your tickets while you can – will be very special”.

 

 

 

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The full schedule includes BBC Introducing at YES on Wednesday, featuring Adult DVD, Renee Stormz, and jasmine.4.t. Thursday sees Ezra Collective, Fat Dog, and Jamz Supernova at Victoria Warehouse, plus a New Music Fix Live at YES later that evening.

Mogwai and English Teacher will headline Friday night at Victoria Warehouse, with a DJ set from Tom Ravenscroft going late into the night. Amber’s Club will see a playful twist as a ‘phone-free’ night will be enforced for sets from Ayy Den, nora, Anish Kumar, and SBTRKT. Elsewhere, Band on the Wall will host the Radio 6 programme Indie Live Forever.

Saturday concludes the festival, starting with a ‘Morning After Mix’ at YES, hosted by Jamz Supernova and Emma-Jean Thackray. Kae Tempest, Perfume Genius, and DJ SHERELLE will close the event out at Victoria Warehouse.

BBC Radio 6 has shown their commitment to aiding grassroots venues, with their choices bringing more awareness to the glaring issues facing many spaces up and down the country. Indie Forever host, Nathan Shepard, said: “Venues like YES and Band on the Wall are integral to Manchester’s music scene for emerging and established artists and using them for the 6 Music Festival ensures they can continue to support the scene in the future by bringing in new artists and audiences.”

Reaction to the announced lineup was mixed. On the Radio 6 subreddit, one user compared it to feeling more like a “6 Music nights out”, criticising the scale of the event in light of apparent budget cuts. At its peak, the festival hosted 72 different events at the 2016 iteration. This year has just 27 acts. 

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The festival still has tickets available for anybody wanting to go, available through both the BBC’s website, and Ticketmaster, though Ticketmaster does indicate that ticket availability is limited. The events will also be available to everybody through iPlayer and BBC Sounds, as well as traditional broadcast mediums.

 Despite the disappointment around the size of the lineup, BBC Radio 6 Music Festival continues to celebrate and provide a platform to music from beyond the ordinary, and the variety on offer means there is an act for everybody.

The tour is scheduled to commence throughout November 2025, with performances spanning various cities across the UK. Fans can anticipate energetic live shows in venues located in major cities such as London, Manchester, Glasgow, and Newcastle. The band’s mailing list will be first to gain access to tickets. Presale starts 10am Wednesday 26, February whilst general sale starts from 10 am Friday 28, February. 

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A link to sign up for their mailing list can be found here, where ticket information can be found here. 

Formed in 2020, English Teacher comprises vocalist and guitarist Lily Fontaine, lead guitarist Lewis Whiting, bassist Nicholas Eden, and drummer Douglas Frost. The band originated at Leeds Conservatoire, initially performing under the name “Frank” before rebranding as English Teacher in 2020. Their early work, characterised by a blend of indie rock and post-punk influences, quickly gained attention within the UK music scene. 

Their debut studio album, ‘This Could Be Texas’, was released on April 12, 2024, via Island Records. The album showcases an eclectic mix of dreamy, atmospheric instrumentals, jagged post-punk rhythms, with political and social impressionistic lyricism. Blending elements of art-rock and shoegaze, it creates a sound that is both emotionally raw and sonically expansive. Tracks shift seamlessly between delicate, poetic musings like ‘Albatross’ with explosive, guitar-driven moments such as ‘Nearly Daffodils’, solidifying the band’s reputation for crafting unpredictable yet immersive music. 

Before embarking on their headline tour, English Teacher have a busy summer ahead. They are set to perform at the renowned Fuji Rock Festival in Japan, sharing the lineup with some of the biggest names in alternative music including Vampire Weekend, Haim and The Hives. Along with this, the band are also excitingly supporting Franz Ferdinand at their highly anticipated Glasgow gig on August 13, 2025. These high-profile performances further cement English Teacher’s reputation as one of the most exciting and dynamic live acts to emerge from the UK in recent years while also allowing them to gain even more access to fans across the globe.  

The upcoming 2025 tour signifies a standout moment for English Teacher, as they bring their critically acclaimed music to a wider audience. Fans can expect a series of dynamic performances that encapsulate the band’s unique sound and lyrical depth. There is no doubt the band are going to climb even higher on the popularity ladder this year.  

The Sound of 2025 is an annual poll that highlights the most promising emerging artists with the potential to make a significant impact in the music industry over the coming year. The 2025 longlist, unveiled last year, featured 11 acts, including Chappell Roan, KNEECAP, Pozer, and Ezra Collective. 

Curated by 180 music industry experts, the poll has a reputation for predicting future stars with “the best chance of mainstream success”. Past winners include Adele, Sam Smith, and Michael Kiwanuka, who have all become internationally renowned artists. 

The countdown is being revealed throughout the week, with the announcement of the winner on Friday (January 10). 

Chappell Roan and Ezra Collective on BBC Sound of 2025 list https://t.co/cCUFmwZZvg

— BBC News (UK) (@BBCNews) November 21, 2024

Landing at number five is Leeds-based quartet English Teacher. Known for their bold post-punk sound, the band captivated audiences and critics alike with their Mercury Prize-winning debut album ‘This Could Be Texas’. The record is a vivid exploration of life in northern England and the universality of these experiences, contrasting enduring friendships with the challenges of social issues.

Since their debut single ‘R&B’ in 2021, the group has continued to delve into societal issues through their music and was praised by the Mercury Prize judges for their “winning lyrical mix of surrealism and social observation”, applauding their “fresh approach to the traditional guitar band format.”

Speaking to the BBC, guitarist Lewis Whiting described their creative process as exploratory: “We never really set out with an aim to create something specific. But, that’s the fun part, right? Trying to make something new and interesting.”

Formed at the Leeds Conservatoire, the group’s sound continues to evolve characterised by shifting time signatures and distinct guitar riffs that showcase their unique artistry. Despite delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the band found their footing in 2023.

Lead vocalist Lily Fontaine reflected to the BBC, “I feel like it was only late into 2023 that we really found our confidence.” By which point they were already deep into recording their critically acclaimed debut album. 

As English Teacher prepare to kick off their 2025 Tour, fans are eagerly anticipating what this year has in store for the band.

 

 

 

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In fourth place is singer-songwriter Myles Smith. His breakout hit ‘Stargazing’, became one of the best-selling singles of 2024 and even featured on Barack Obama’s favourite music of 2024. The single describes a moment of human connection, a theme which runs throughout Smith’s discography notably through songs like ‘River’ and ‘Wait For You’. 

Set to receive the BRIT Rising Star Award in March, Smith follows in the footsteps of its past recipients like Sam Fender and Adele. Though his rise to stardom has been rapid, Smith has been a fan of music since he first heard Coldplay’s ‘Yellow’ and was inspired to write his own music at age 11.

Reflecting on his early influences, he said to the BBC: “I went through a lot of stages. I was a huge Green Day fan at one point. I even went through a bit of a Screamo phase.” He began to find his own style while playing open mic nights in Luton, performing covers of Ed Sheeran and Marcus Mumford, which have contributed to his unique Folk-Pop style. 

After earning a sociology degree in 2019 and becoming an entrepreneur, Smith began creating music in his spare time. To the BBC, he noted: “I understood quite early on that just because I’m good at something, it doesn’t necessarily mean I’m passionate about it.” But it wasn’t until his viral cover of ‘Sweater Weather’ by The Neighbourhood in 2022 that he pursued music full time. 

Turning to TikTok, he began to release more covers, but it was his original song ‘Solo’ that gained massive traction and landed him a deal with RCA Records. Speaking about the power of social media in the music industry, Smith said: “If your objective is to go viral, then you’re always going to be fighting a losing battle. But if your objective is to establish a community and a place where your music belongs, it becomes a lot more rewarding.”

With his EP ‘A Minute’ now out and preparations for his debut album and upcoming tour underway, Smith is poised for a big year ahead. 

@mylessmithuk You promised a lifetime, but left in a moment… #newmusic #acoustic #singersongwriter ♬ SOLO by Myles Smith – Myles Smith

The Sound of 2025 countdown celebrates the depth and variety of today’s emerging talent. English Teacher’s bold Post-Punk approach and Myles Smith’s heartfelt Folk-Pop set the stage for the remaining three acts, highlighting the diverse creativity of this year’s nominees. With the countdown ongoing, the top three are certain to feature artists destined for groundbreaking success.

The Song of the Year Award: Chase & Status, Stormzy ‘Backbone’

The song ‘Backbone’ is a collaboration between British rapper Stormzy and the acclaimed drum and bass duo Chase & Status. Released on August 8, 2024, it quickly became a massive hit, reaching the No. 1 spot on the UK charts. Stormzy is known for his influential role in UK grime, while Chase & Status, are celebrated for their contributions to drum and bass and UK dance music. Last year’s award went to PinkPantheress with ‘Boy’s a Liar Pt. 2’.

The Play Next Award: Brooke Combe

This category highlights groups and artists who have achieved success in 2024 and are expected to become bigger in the upcoming years, last year won by The Last Dinner Party. The nominees included Elmiene, Master Peace and Nia Smith. The winner, Brooke Combe, is a rising Scottish singer-songwriter  influenced by Motown, soul, and R&B who gained recognition through viral covers on social media, including ‘Yes Sir, I Can Boogie’, which became an anthem for Scotland’s football team in 2021. Her soulful voice and retro influences have drawn comparisons to artists like Marvin Gaye and Baby Huey.

The Live Act Award: Confidence Man

This award recognises performers (and their performances) who have left their mark in 2024. The nominees included Dua Lipa and Sugababes.

The Group Award: Ezra Collective

Ezra Collective is a London-based jazz quintet known for blending traditional jazz with Afrobeat, reggae, hip-hop, and funk, creating a dynamic and genre-defying sound. Ezra Collective has received widespread acclaim for revitalising and broadening jazz’s appeal, particularly in the UK. Their debut album, ‘You Can’t Steal My Joy’ (2019), introduced their vibrant style and featured collaborations with artists like Jorja Smith and Loyle Carner. Their 2022 album, ‘Where I’m Meant To Be’, won the 2023 Mercury Prize, making them the first jazz act to achieve this milestone. The nominees also included Fontaines D.C and English Teacher.

The Album Award: Fontaines D.C. – ‘Romance’

The album ‘Romance’ by Fontaines D.C., released on August 23, 2024, marks the band’s fourth studio album and a significant departure from their earlier, post-punk-dominated sound.  The nominees included Charli XCX with the album ‘Brat’ and The Last Dinner Party’s ‘Prelude to Ecstasy’.

The Trailblazer Award: JADE

The Rolling Stone Trailblazer recognises individuals or groups who have significantly influenced their field by pushing boundaries and pioneering new paths. This award highlights not only artistic excellence but also the ability to inspire others and bring about meaningful change.

JADE is a British singer and songwriter best known for her tenure with the girl group Little Mix, which rose to fame after winning The X Factor in 2011. Following Little Mix’s success and hiatus, JADE launched her solo career with her debut single, ‘Angel of My Dreams’, released in July 2024. Her follow-up single, ‘Fantasy’, took a disco turn, influenced by artists like Donna Summer and Diana Ross.

The Breakthrough Award: English Teacher

The Breakthrough Award recognizes achievements such as standout performances at major festivals, achieving chart-topping releases, or gaining widespread acclaim within a relatively short time.

English Teacher is a British indie rock band that blends elements of punk, post-punk, and art rock. The band gained recognition with their debut single ‘R&B’ in 2021 and has been lauded for their creative and experimental approach to music​. Their debut album, ‘This Could Be Texas‘ won the 2024 Mercury Prize. English Teacher continues to gain attention as one of the UK’s most exciting emerging acts, celebrated for their ability to craft music that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.

The Icon Award: New Order

New Order is a renowned British band formed in 1980 by the remaining members of Joy Division after the tragic death of their lead singer, Ian Curtis. They emerged from the post-punk scene and evolved into pioneers of alternative dance music by blending rock with electronic styles, heavily influencing genres like synth-pop and dance-rock.

.@neworder are presented with this year’s Icon Award, supported by @westhollywood, for a fantastic 40-year career in which they have consistently broken new ground.#RSUKawards pic.twitter.com/jknuZ1J7uW

— Rolling Stone UK (@RollingStoneUK) November 28, 2024

The Record Label of the Year: Island Records

Island Records is a legendary music label founded in 1959 by Chris Blackwell in Jamaica. After relocating to London in the early 1960s, Island Records played a pivotal role in the rise of reggae through artists like Bob Marley. The label also diversified, supporting rock, pop, and alternative artists, including U2, Grace Jones, and Amy Winehouse.

Festival of the Year: Brixton’s Wide Awake

The festival held annually in Brixton, London, is a relatively new addition to the festival scene. The event focuses on alternative, electronic, and underground artists, celebrating innovation and inclusivity in music. Wide Awake emphasizes sustainability, featuring eco-friendly practices and supporting local community initiatives. Its diverse programming spans music, talks, and arts, making it a standout cultural event in the UK.

Chappell Roan and Ezra Collective on BBC Sound of 2025 list https://t.co/cCUFmwZZvg

— BBC News (UK) (@BBCNews) November 21, 2024

BBC’s “Sound of” first begun in 2003 and since has awarded the likes of Lewis Capaldi, Lady Gaga, Adele, PinkPantheress, RAYE, The Weeknd and HAIM. Last year, the title was won by The Last Dinner Party. This year, some eligibility rules were changed in order to fit more artists: previously, artists couldn’t be nominated if they had an album charting at number two or one in the UK, however now artist are eligible unless they have had more than one album charting in the UK top ten.

Here is the full list of nominees:

• Barry Can’t Swim
• Chappell Roan
• Confidence Man
• Doechii
• English Teacher
• Ezra Collective
• Good Neighbours
• KNEECAP
• gee
• Myles Smith
• Pozer

Perhaps the most known on a worldwide level out of the eleven contestants is Chappell Roan. The American singer has in fact taken over the world with a very swift rise to fame after releasing her debut album “The Rise and Fall of a Midwestern Princess” in 2023. Her songs have gone viral on social media platforms, and she achieved two top 10 songs in UK charts (“Good Luck Babe” and “Hot To Go”) and her album peaked at number one.

While Chappell Roan has become a pop icon in less than a year, another strong contestant is English Teacher, the 2025 Mercury Prize winner. The Mercury Prize is awarded to the best British or Irish album of the year, and English Teacher was surely deserving of this title: their debut album “This Could Be Texas” peaked at number eight in the UK, and their tour around the country was sold out.

With English Teacher, another contestant for the Mercury Prize this year was Barry Can’t Swim. Originally from Scotland, Barry Can’t Swim is a DJ and electronic music producer. His debut album “Where Will We Land?” peaked at 12 on UK charts; furthermore, he will be headlining All Points East 2025 in London. But 2023’s Mercury Prize Winner has also been longlisted for the BBC award: Ezra Collective has recently headlined Wembley Arena and their latest album “Dance Like No One’s Watching” peaked at number seven in the UK.

Overall, this year’s competition for “Sound of 2025” is strong and eclectic, with the only well-known artist around the world being Chappell Roan. The winner will be announced on January 10^th after a top five countdown which will take place in the weeks prior to the announcement of the winner.

In a surprise victory, Leeds-based indie band English Teacher took home the 2024 Mercury Prize for their debut album, This Could Be Texas. The four-piece, who formed at Leeds Conservatoire in 2020, became the first act from outside of London to win the prestigious award since Young Fathers in 2014, and the group used the occasion to highlight concerns about London-centrism in the industry.

The band’s album was praised by judges for its “originality and character,” with a unique blend of surrealist lyrics and social commentary layered over a fresh interpretation of the traditional guitar band sound. The prize, which seeks to recognize artistic achievement in album form, awarded the band £25,000 along with widespread industry recognition.

Frontwoman Lily Fontaine took the stage at Abbey Road Studios to accept the award, thanking her mother, who designed the album’s artwork. The rest of the band, including guitarist Lewis Whiting, drummer Douglas Frost, and bassist Nicholas Eden, seemed stunned by the win, with Fontaine admitting: “We didn’t really plan this far. What do we do now?”

Other artists to feature on the list for the prestigious award are Scottish electronic DJ and Producer Barry Can’t Swim, Jungle artist Nia Archives, Portishead’s Beth Gibbons, Corinne Bailey Rae, and grime artist Ghetts. The remaining nominees are Berwyn, Cat Burns, CMAT, Corto.alto, and English Teacher.

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The full list of Albums nominated for this year’s Mercury Prize are:

Barry Can’t Swim – When Will We Land?

Berwyn – Who Am I

Beth Gibbons – Lives Outgrown

Cat Burns – Early Twenties

Charli XCX – Brat

CMAT – Crazymad, For Me

Corinne Bailey Rae – Black Rainbows

Corto.alto – Bad With Names

English Teacher – This Could Be Texas

Ghetts – On Purpose, With Purpose

Nia Archives – Silence Is Loud

The Last Dinner Party – Prelude To Ecstasy

The mercury Prize is undoubtedly a great opportunity for up-and-coming artists. So, it therefore makes sense that the list of nominees this year has been dominated by debuts with 8 of the 12 albums nominated being debuts which is double what it was last year.

One of the debut albums on the list being The Last Dinner Party’s ‘Prelude To Ecstasy’ and this is the biggest selling album so far on the list, however, Charli XCX’ ‘Brat’ has momentum at the moment and is likely to overtake ‘Prelude To Ecstasy’ this week.

Among the eight debut albums that made the list this year is Beth Gibbon’s ‘Lives Outgrown. Although Gibbons has released numerous albums as a member of Portishead this record is her debut as a solo artist. According to Music Week Gibbons said: “Really great surprise to be part of the 12 Mercury albums of the year, something I never expected. Big thanks to all who have supported the album, it means so much.”

Nominees Charli XCX, Corinne Bailey Rae and Ghetts have all been nominated for the Mercury Prize before but none of them have won the award.

The list of nominees, as well as the winner, has been chosen by an independent Judging panel and has been taken from a wide range of genres. Albums released by British and Irish artists between July 15, 2023, and July 12, 2024, were eligible for the award.

Earlier in the week it was revealed that the traditional award ceremony with live performances has been dropped this year. More details of what this entails are set to be revealed closer to when the winner is announced but Dr Jo Twist OBE, CEO of the BPI, home to the Mercury Prize, said: “For the 2024 Mercury Prize we will work imaginatively with the BBC to deliver a premium programme of music content and digital engagement that will, as ever, benefit all 12 artists in reaching a wider audience, providing an important platform for their evolving career and musical journey.”

Your star-studded music lineup!

Tell us which artists you can’t wait to watch! #TheHundred @bbcintroducing pic.twitter.com/WOdCtQ4mGP

— The Hundred (@thehundred) June 30, 2022

A statement on The Hundred’s website provides a description of the collaboration, “For the second year running, the live music at all 34 games of The Hundred has been curated in collaboration with BBC Music Introducing. The partnership connects sports fans with both new and established artists who began their career on the BBC platform. The artists will perform in front of large audiences at each of The Hundred’s grounds across the UK.”

The band have also released a statement expressing their excitement to perform at the final, “We are really looking forward to being part of The Hundred Final this year. Woody in particular is a big cricket fan and loves what The Hundred has brought to the summer sporting schedule. Needless to say, we can’t wait to be there!” The British indie rockers will be joined by a long list of already confirmed acts set to appear at various matches and locations.

Also billed to perform are Tamera, Panic Shack, Celina Sharma, Priya Ragu, Leadley, CIEL, Lottery Winners, Leeds indie rockers English Teacher, LLEO, Birmingham artist Kofi Stone, Phoebe Green, BEKA, Wild Front, Big Image, Casey Lowry, Leeds formed band L’objectif, Katy J Pearson, emerging artist Bambi Bains, Caity Baser, Mace The Great, rising star Jordan Mackampa, Queen Millzx, SOFY, Dolores Forever, and Samm Henshaw plus many more acts to be announced.

@bbcintroducing x @thehundred pic.twitter.com/RjkQmXmL3H

— JORDAN MACKAMPA (@JordanMackampa) June 30, 2022

Last year marked The Hundred’s debut event and featured an equally impressive lineup including artists such as Becky Hill, Everything Everything, Sports Team and LAuranHibberd. Star player of the Manchester Originals Sophie Ecclestone has given the following statement concerning The Hundred, “The music last year was amazing, Lizelle j and myself even had time for abig image little dance to Becky Hill during the opening game! It added so much to the competition and showed The Hundred is all about unmissable action on and off the pitch. I can’t wait to get a front row seat this summer and hopefully we can be dancing to Bastille after winning the competition.”

Further information concerning The Hundred can be found here, music and sports fans can receive updates on the additional artists yet to be announced. Tickets sales opened earlier this year and are available in four different options, including a season ticket pass which provides access to all stage matches at the buyer’s chosen venues. For those unable to attend in person, highlights and footage will be shown on the summer event’s Official Broadcast Partners Sky Sports and BBC Sport.

The Hundred datesc

03/08/2022 – TBA – Ageas Bowl Southampton
04/08 – Tamera – The Kia Oval London
05/08 – TBA – Emirates Old Trafford Manchester
06/08 – TBA – Trent Bridge Nottingham
07/08 – Panic Shack – Sophia Gardens Cardiff
08/08 – Celina Sharma – Lord’s London
09/08 – Priya Ragu – Headingley Leeds
10/08 – Leadley – Edgbaston Birmingham
11/08 – TBA – The Kia Oval London
12/08 – CIEL – Ageas Bowl Southampton
13/08 – Lottery Winners – Emirates Old Trafford Manchester
13/08 – TBA – Sophia Gardens Cardiff
14/08 – English Teacher – Headingley Leeds
15/08 – Kofi Stone – Edgbaston Birmingham
16/08 – Phoebe Green – Emirates Old Trafford Manchester
17/08 – BEKA – Trent Bride Nottingham
18/08 – Wild Front – Ageas Bowl Southampton
19/08 – Big Image – Edgbaston Birmingham
20/08 – Casey Cowry – Trent Bridge Nottingham
21/08 – L’objectif – Headingley Leeds
22/08 – Katy J Pearson – Sophia Gardens Cardiff
23/08 – Bambi Bains – The Kia Oval London
24/08 – TBA – Lord’s London
25/08 – Caity Baser – Ageas Bowl Southampton
26/08 – Mace The Great – Sophia Gardens Cardiff
27/08 – TBA – Lord’s London
28/08 – Jordan Mackampa – Edgbaston Birmingham
29/08 – Queen Millz – Trent Bridge Nottingham
30/08 – SOFY – Lord’s London
31/08 – Delores Forever – Headingley Leeds
31/08 – TBA – Emirates Old Trafford Manchester
02/09 – Samm Henshaw – Ageas Bowl Southampton
03/09 – Bastille – Lord’s London

Sports Team’s annual Margate trips are infamous in the indie scene; they hire a bus from London and take a rabble rousing bunch on a trip to the sunny Kent coast. This year, Sports Team are doing it in style – they’ve recruited a fantastic line up and the event is now an all-dayer across two venues.

Alex Rice and co have curated quite the lineup for 2021’s seaside holiday. Post-punk upstarts TV Priest are hot off their debut, ‘Uppers’, an in-your-face, raucous album jam-packed with songs to get the pit going. Courting are on the bill, who’s superb EP ‘Grand National’ dropped a matter of weeks ago. Both of these bands have a cult following of dedicated fans – Margate ’21 tickets are going to sell fast!

English Teacher are one of the most exciting additions to the bill: their band of melodic, spoken word indie will strike a chord with Dry Cleaning fans. A further addition is instrumental groove aficionados Los Bitchos, who dropped two superb singles in 2019. There are some DJ sets included, from Golf Ahias, Billie Martin and indie legend and cheif Maccabee, Orlando Weeks.

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Sports Team themselves are fresh from the release of new track, ‘Happy (God’s Own Country’), which is a brilliant, frantic, two minute snapshot of English life and a satire on Tory Britain. The Margate bus trip is bound to be an exciting post-lockdown party for any indie fan. Each of the bands on this bill bring their own niche and the day will surely be full of fun, cans and indie bangers.

Sports Team are also due to play a lengthy UK tour, kicking off in Manchester this winter. They’re stopping off at cities country wide to tour debut album ‘Deep Down Happy’.