Brighton's new music festival returns for huge weekend

The event will see 500 of the world’s best up-and-coming artists play across 45 venues.

The festival has been described by Steve Lamacq of BBC 6 Music as “the Cannes of the music world”.

It marks the return an in-person format having been cancelled in 2020 and held online in 2021 due to the pandemic.

And as the inner-city festival becomes increasingly popular, so too are those playing this year’s event, which starts on Wednesday.

The Great Escape

Shows will take place at popular venues around the city including The Hope and Ruin, Green Doors Store and Chalk, as well as those lesser-known for hosting live music.

From Brighton rapper Arrdee to synthpop outfit Working Men’s Club, who won Resident Records’ coveted album of the year in 2020, the Great Escape promises four days of sonic diversity.

Other acts not to be missed include Leeds post-punk sensations Yard Act, who will play two shows fresh off their debut tour of America last month, as well as Irish poet Sinead O’Brien and Brighton’s own indie thrashers Lime Garden.

The festival welcomes the very best in today's new music

A particular moment of excitement in The Argus office came when we discovered the fantastically named Let’s Eat Grandma are set to play two shows. Not a band to miss.

As well as an unmatched weekend of tunes, The Great Escape will welcome music professionals for its conference on Wednesday, covering myriad topics, including how to navigate today’s digital musical landscape. Delegate passes are required for these events.

The live music will begin at 12pm on Thursday and run all day, with the last event finishing at 4am on Sunday.

For a full list of artists playing, venues and a gig planner, visit greatescapefestival.com.