Europe’s largest new music festival returns to the city today with more than 450 acts.

The Great Escape, once described as one of indie’s best kept secrets, has become an international beacon for those in search of the latest bands, drawing thousands to Brighton and Hove each year.

Kicking off at 10am today was the conference side of the event which draws in 3,500 industry professionals each year for a series of keynote speeches at Leonardo Royal Waterfront Hotel, Brighton.

As for the gigs, Wednesday is the less hectic first day but will be no less exciting.

Afrobeats and funky house DJ A-Tee opens the festival at the Jubilee Square stage at 5pm before handing over to Brighton’s own Rubii, who is smashing it on the UK Alt RnB scene and has just released the brilliant EP Olive Green.

Elsewhere, Fatboy Slim will be joining fans at Duke of York’s Picturehouse to watch the documentary on his legendary Brighton beach party held 20 years ago, before a question-and-answer session.

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Later in the day the TGE Beach Stage is the place to be as pop duo Cowz open for indie up-and-comers Welly before punk teens Noah and the Loners blow our head off.

So as thousands pour into the city and the sun shines down on music fans filled with anticipation, this year’s Great Escape is already shaping up to be one of the best yet.

Stay with us throughout the week for all the action.