With the sheer volume of talent coming to Pitchfork Music Festival London this year, narrowing down must-see acts feels a bit like being asked to pick your favourite chocolate from a box of Cadbury’s Heroes – each one’s got something that makes you want to indulge. From hyperpop to introspective folk, here are eight acts you simply can’t afford to miss at the festival this November.
1. Tierra Whack
If there’s one artist who can make your jaw drop and your feet move simultaneously, it’s Tierra Whack. Known for her unique blend of surreal visuals and hyper-eclectic sound, she’s as much a performer as she is a conceptual artist. She’s got this way of making you rethink what you’re hearing – like you’re in on a secret joke but also just vibing with it. Her set at The Roundhouse will be something else.
2. Sega Bodega
Few producers have managed to balance avant-garde sensibility with mainstream appeal quite like Sega Bodega. If you’re into deconstructed club music (which, let’s be honest, is way cooler than it sounds), this guy is a must-see. His performances are intense – he doesn’t just play music, he curates an atmosphere. Expect a mix of art, chaos, and beats that could demolish a small building. He’s closing a show at HERE at Outernet, so prepare yourself for a sonic journey.
★★★★☆ Dennis review | Sega Bodega bares his soul in anti-confessional hit
3. Arooj Aftab
There’s something truly transcendent about seeing Arooj Aftab live. Her Grammy-winning music is a fusion of classical South Asian sounds with modern ambient textures. Her voice feels like it’s weaving its way through your soul (yes, I went there). With support acts like Keeley Forsyth and Sheherazaad, her show at The Roundhouse might just be the most ethereal moment of the whole festival.
4. CASISDEAD
If you’re looking for something a little edgier, CASISDEAD has you covered. A master of anonymity and mystique, his blend of grime, UK rap, and brooding lyricism make him one of the most unique voices in British music today. The fact that he curates his own lineup at Troxy is the cherry on top – it’s the kind of event where you’ll feel cooler just by being there.
Casisdead’s big BRITs win proves hardcore fanbases hold the power
5. COBRAH
Sweden’s COBRAH is everything you’d want from a future club sensation: unapologetic, vibrant, and scandalously fun. Her brand of hyperpop and electro-club beats will shake the walls of EartH Hall. She’s joined by electro-pop maverick BIG WETT and Mexican indie star Girl Ultra, making this one of the festival’s most electric nights. COBRAH isn’t just performing – she’s commanding.
6. Billy Woods
Bringing raw energy and sharp lyricism to Fabric, Billy Woods is one of the most introspective and challenging voices in underground hip hop today. His recent album Maps with Kenny Segal was a critical darling, full of dense, poetic verses that leave you pondering for days. Catch him alongside Moor Mother and E L U C I D – expect a night of existential reflection and deep beats.
7. Elias Rønnenfelt (Iceage)
For those who like their music with a heavy dose of angst, Elias Rønnenfelt is your man. As the frontman of Iceage, he’s built a reputation for being a brooding, enigmatic performer with a penchant for raw emotion. His solo work, however, adds a layer of intimacy to that same intensity. You’ll find him performing at The Lexington – small venue, big emotions.
8. Laraaji
Laraaji is an ambient music legend, and if you’re into meditative soundscapes, this will be your haven at the festival. There’s something deeply soothing about his music, a mixture of zither, laughter meditation, and what feels like ancient wisdom transmitted through sound. Playing at ICA, Laraaji’s show will likely be a welcome respite from the festival’s more chaotic moments. Bring a cup of tea, relax, and let it all wash over you.
Editors’ Picks
- ‘As long as we have that space to come together and talk, we can conquer anything.’ | Hippo Campus interviewed
Hippo Campus’s Nathan Stocker discusses the band’s journey through sobriety, group therapy, and reclaiming their sound with their latest album Flood. - ‘I’m not lip-syncing on TikTok for likes, I’m connecting with my fans through my music.’ | Pixey interviewed
Liverpool’s Pixey talks about reclaiming her voice, overcoming health struggles, and stepping up as a producer on her self-made debut album Million Dollar Baby. - ‘I’ll imagine what fairies would be dancing to and try to put that to song.’ | Liana Flores interviewed
From the Brazilian rhythms of bossa nova to the gentle echoes of British folk, Liana Flores blends genres and explores how change, nature, and wonder shaped her debut album, Flower of the Soul. - ‘Writing an album in a Catholic convent was dark, moody, and isolated – it suited us.’ | Crows interviewed
Reason Enough finds Crows reflecting on existentialism, anxiety, and life in a divided UK. James Cox and Steve Goddard talk creative escape and emotional recovery. - ★★★★☆ In Waves review | Jamie xx boldly returns with dancefloor finesse
In Waves is an immersive experience, fusing house, garage, and experimental sounds in Jamie xx’s most personal work yet. - ‘It’s funny that for the rest of our career, I’ll be singing my ex-boyfriend’s name.’ | The Beaches interviewed
After a decade in the music industry, The Beaches discuss the highs and lows of touring, the challenges of staying relevant, and why London holds a special place in their hearts.
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- Arooj Aftab
- billy woods
- CASISDEAD
- COBRAH
- Elias Rønnenfelt
- Laraaji
- Pitchfork Music Festival London
- Sega Bodega
- Tierra Whack