As an Official Partner of the 2026 Mercury Prize, Freight Island hosts a Mercury Prize edition of Playing Out, giving emerging talent the chance to perform alongside more established names and reach new audiences. Expect live sets and artist conversations spotlighting the artists shaping music in the North right now.
Northern Roots presents a showcase celebrating artists developing their sound at every stage of their journey. For over 40 years, Northern Roots has supported performers from their first live shows through to established careers, creating opportunities to grow, collaborate and connect. Expect an unforgettable evening of Afrobeats, Rap, R&B and Soul, with live performances and DJ sets delivering high energy, authentic storytelling and exceptional musicianship throughout the night. Hosted By Sushi Sound. Lineup: Te'Kiah – Maniko – Chloe Castro – TMJ – Kay Greyson – Mcxxne – Shakk – Sisi – DJ Miss Bundz – Look Left - Jamal G
Join us in the control room at Polestar Studios for a deep dive into what it takes to make an album. Hector Gannet frontman and songwriter Aaron Duff, producer and engineer Alex Blamire and Grammy Award-winning mix engineer Eduardo De La Paz explore the making of 'The Great Shakedown', from songwriting and tracking through to production, mixing, mastering and commercial release.
Ear to the Ground gives industry the chance to meet Newcastle’s artists first-hand and build lasting relationships with the local music scene. It’s an opportunity for those artists to take the next step in their careers. Each artist will showcase their work to industry guests, playing back previous recordings and performing a couple of new songs live in the studio. They’ll also leave with recordings they can keep and use in the future.
Join Mercury Prize shortlisted Geordie Jazz band Knats for an in-conversation and listening party exploring the tracks, stories and inspirations behind the album, growing up in Newcastle’s West End, and the people, places and experiences that have shaped their sound.
