Ones to Watch: The Great Escape 2026

THE festival for new music returns to Brighton later this month. Here's who we'll be checking out:

By Caitlin Taylor

KEYAH/BLU

KEYAH/BLU has provided multiple hits over the years but after going on a break, she’s now returned with a more mature and complex sound.

For fans of – Saya Gray, Sade Olutola

Playing – 3:30pm Saturday @ Daltons

LAUREN DUFFUS

As both an incredibly talented singer and producer, Lauren Duffus is a must-see this year. She knows how to use her voice as an instrument, regularly using reverb to create haunting soundscapes.

For fans of – james K, Sudan Archives

Playing – 8:15pm Thursday @ Quarters

POLLYFROMTHEDIRT

Masked singer Pollyfromthedirt tells his version of the British experience through confessional lyrics and naive noise-making. 

For fans of – Worldpeace DMT, Truthpaste

Playing – 8:15 Wednesday @ Green Door Store & 10:15pm Friday @ Prince Albert

SILVERWINGKILLER

Full of infectious energy and playful beats, this Manchester based duo deserve all the attention they’ve been getting. 

For fans of – Machine Girl, Max Winter

Playing – 1:30am Thursday @ Patterns Downstairs & 8:15pm Friday @ Concorde 2

BIG LONG SUN

We love big long sun over here at TNAM, and you can read about one crazy night we had with them here. But they genuinely are a very special band full of creative instrumentation who definitely know how to put on a show. 

For fans of – Ivy Knight, Blood Wizard

Playing – 7:15pm Thursday @ Concorde 2

Also, come to our stage on Saturday at Horatios!

Find our review of the previous TGE here