The Great Escape Festival has announced the full line up and conference schedule, meaning its very much the time to get excited for this huge musical extravaganza by the seaside in Brighton, UK, on 14th to 17th May 2025. With over 450 artists in 35 walkable-venues on offer, here’s our pick of five rising stars to make room for in your schedule.
#1 Welly
The very British storytelling from these pop indie disco youngsters is charming indeed. Combined with entertaining stage presence and a sense of never taking themselves too seriously, Welly are our first pick of ones to watch at the festival. Their recent album release, Big in the Suburbs, a glorious celebration of gentrified pop. Catch them at three shows across the event, including Friday afternoon on the TGE Beach Jetty or Friday evening in Horatios.
#2 Currls
Brighton-based Currls bring “scuzzy riot grrrl” energy. Their latest single “Throwback” optimises their DIY garage rock sound, with a little punk and pop thrown in for good measure. The hometown show for Holly, Sal and Hannie is certain to go off and not to be missed. Catch them Wednesday evening in the Paganini Ballroom.
#3 Hot Wax
After performing over 180 captivating shows in the last two years, Hot Wax released their debut album Hot Shock earlier this year. Their live show is not to be missed; effortless, loud, natural, sultry rock stars. Catch Tallulah, Lola and Alfie on Friday evening in Chalk.
#4 ARXX
ARXX are Hanni and Clara, a queer power pop duo, describing their sound as “imagine Taylor Swift if she only ever listened to Nirvana”. The Brighton-based band are guaranteed huge support for their festival appearance. Catch their show on Saturday evening in Horatios.
#5 English Teacher
Mercury Prize-winning English Teacher released their superb debut album at the end of last year, This Could be Texas. The Leeds-based indie four-piece band will be making waves in Brighton as they continue their assent to pop stardom… Get there early to catch Lily, Douglas, Nicholas and Lewis on Friday evening at TGE Beach The Deep End stage.
This year’s The Great Escape Festival is shaping up to be one of the biggest yet, and perfect for a musical holiday by the beach. Tickets are on sale now here, and check out the TGE app for the full line up. See you by the beach!
Follow all things The Great Escape: Website // Facebook // Instagram // X // TikTok
