Are you by any chance heading to Liverpool’s Sound City this weekend? One of the world’s most famous cities for music is playing host to a three-day festival. It’s often been spot-on with putting the stars of the future on its line-up. And this year is likely no different. So here’s who to see and why.
Alfie Templeman
Despite just being 19, describing Alfie Templeman as a “rising star” is already a bit of a misnomer due to the significant success he’s had already with tracks such as ‘Everybody’s Gonna Love Somebody’ and ‘Happiness in Liquid Form’. His debut album ‘Mellow Moon’, due out near the end of next month seems an almost inevitable classic, setting the young singer-songwriter on his way to becoming one of the top names in UK music.
Matilda Mann
Yes, we spoke to her before. Yes, we want to continue our support. But can you blame us? Matilda Mann’s husky vocals and introspective lyrics belie her 22 years of age – a combination that is sure to give her longevity as an artist.
Lozeak
Punchy, powerful and ultimately not giving a single fuck, Lozeak epitomises the rise of the ready-made music star, having already built her own profile and clout on TikTok. With over 610,000 followers already, the Norwich-born alt-pop artist (as some appear to deem her music) has only seen her popularity go one way: up.
LEMZI
LEMZI is typically found as a music mentor, helping others achieve their dreams. But the Leytonstone rapper is no doubt worthy of being placed under the spotlight himself. He may have studied law at Manchester, before following the dream in music he just couldn’t shake off, but that’s no reason not to watch him in something of a rival city this weekend.
Priestgate
Driffield’s finest, Priestgate have hopefully put away the imposture syndrome since we last spoke to them; well, it doesn’t ever leave, but they deserve to be confident in their abilities at least. With a sound that has a certain nostalgia to it, mimicking some of the shoegaze energy of bands gone by, the five-piece are certainly ones to keep an eye (and ear) on.
Abby Roberts
Another young act to have garnered attention from her TikTok success, having raked in 1.4 billion – yes, 1.4 billion likes – Abby Roberts went from the world of glamour and beauty to releasing music. There was once an online rumour that Roberts was American but pretending to be British (not sure why such a rumour was fabricated); regardless, you can catch the Leeds-born perform at The Shipping Forecast from 10:20pm onwards.