Ballyhoo, is an old English word meaning ‘extravagant publicity or fuss’. In this case, it’s our compilation of artists that we think are going to have breakout year in 2026
The CLUNK Ballyhoo list is basically our take on Ones To Watch lists, but we wanted to give it a unique edge. Our Ballyhoo is more than a list; it’s a celebration of upcoming talent. A collection of artists we believe should be shouted from the rooftops in 2026. Have a flick through and discover next year’s big thing. In the past, these lists have included Getdown Services, Luvcat, Olivia Dean and more… Guess what… they’re all HUGE now!
Westside Cowboy
By Tobias Furlong
Manchester Indie starlets finally arrived on the scene with their debut EP ‘This Better Be Something Great’ and it certainly was! All it took was a five-song EP for me to fall completely in love with the group. On the opening track ‘I’ve Never Met Anyone I Thought I Could Love’ there is a rebel yell of “WESTSIDEEEE COWBOY” (even better heard live at Latitude Festival) and you never doubt this is a group with such a joint drive and passion to conquer the hearts and minds of the guitar-loving, record-buying public.
This group feel like a genuine revelation and the album isn’t even out yet! Almost like they popped up overnight? ‘Drunk Surfer’ is an absolute favourite. A palpable, emotional release, spearheaded by the vocals of Reuben Haycocks. “You’re scaring me now, every bone in my body looks for the quickest way out” You’d be hard pressed to find more evocative lyrics released throughout the year.
This group are a sensation and my favourites to arrive out of the indie scene for years. I’m looking forward to hearing the eventual full album from the band.
Dove Elis
By Julian Laws
Hailing from Galway, Dove Ellis has joined the plethora of Irish-born artists who are finally getting the recognition they so deserve. Personally, I think his new album, ‘Blizzard”, is a late contender for my AOTY – truly spectacular!
Quirky folk and alternative indie rock are the arbitrary genres I can think of when describing Dove Ellis’ music, but really, this man and his music spans multiple facets of various genres. Everyone is speaking about him and rightly so. Risking repeating what others have said, Dove Ellis, can not be explained without comparing him to some of the greats, Jeff Buckley, Thom Yorke and even Bob Dylan at times.
His songs feel as if they have always been there, the songs of old being presented back to us in a more modern lens. Like Buckley’s ‘Grace’, Yorke’s ‘Anima’ and Dylan’s ‘Blood on the tracks‘, the songs have become furniture in our minds and will always have a place there. I truly believe Dove Ellis and his new album ‘Blizzard‘ will do the same.
His vocals, at once punchy, loud and distorted, transform and switch so effortlessly to a breathy falsetto that seems to pierce straight through the skin and directly to the heart. ‘When You Tie Your Hair Up’, ‘Love is’ and ‘Pale Song’ are a few of my favourites from this 10-track masterpiece. Expertly produced (by Dove himself), the songs careen, never clash, and blend so wonderfully together. It is clear this is a man laying bare his thoughts for his fans to see, to relate to and to comfort a generation so unmoored by what is around them.
I came across Dove Ellis through his impassioned Windmill (Brixton) sets where you cannot help but watch and become mesmerised by the man on stage, so enthralled and entangled in the music he has created. The crowd is deathly silent, hanging upon every word, movement, and chord struck. A true artist changes the form, challenges tropes and entertains effortlessly. Dove Ellis does all three and more!
After supporting Geese on the UK section of their world tour, Dove Ellis is finally getting written about and compared to the greats I have mentioned. He has even been described as “…the Cameron Winter of 2026“, it’s easy to see why. Both tour de forces, they are two young artists who are inspiring, not only the young, but the old. They are reminding us all that in a world of repetition, AI and the perpetual need to be moving forwards to stand sentinel, breathe, take in what is around and to immerse yourself in the music, the lyrics, to be taken on a journey you won’t soon forget.
For fans of MJ Lenderman, Sun Kil Moon, Hudson Freeman and obviously the greats this man echoes, Dove Ellis and his debut album ‘Blizzard‘, will not disappoint. Definitely one to watch in 2026.
Glom
By Charlie Pinhey
Glom is the project of New York-based guitarist Sean Dunnevant, who knows he’s onto something. Whether posting reels showing fit checks or sharing off-beat interactions he once witnessed, one thing has remained the same: the riff from his track ‘Glass’, which he has posted every single day online. ‘Glass’ is a shoegaze track that combines snappy drums with sticky hammer-ons and pull-offs. Recently, he posted footage of ‘Glass’ being played live, captioned “I may only have one riff, but at least it’s this one,” nailing how self-deprecating Glom’s music can be, whilst also recognising this track’s power, backed up by over one million streams on Spotify and Apple Music.
Glom’s songs ooze introspection and bridge gaps I didn’t know were needed between bus ride indie, shoegaze and slowcore. ‘I Wanted The Real Thing’ transports listeners back to early works from the likes of Bombay Bicycle Club, whilst Glom’s latest track ‘Steel’ aesthetically builds a 90s retro future, while still feeling fresh.
The thing that keeps making me come back to Glom time and time again, bar the infectious riffs, is how each song starts from a simple jumping off point, such as ‘Late to a party‘ and how each song slowly cranks up a subtle emotive dial, so by the time the final chorus comes around, you’re in Glom’s world.
Glom’s third album, ‘Below’ drops on January 9th 2026, where a North American tour will undoubtedly follow. Backed by the likes of Hudson Freeman, next year promises to be a big year for Glom.
Keo
By Erin Terlier
Keo have been on a fast rise since the release of their debut EP ‘Siren’ and it looks like 2026 is going to be a similar story.
During 2025, they sold out their first UK & Ireland headline tour and played major festivals, such as Boardmasters, Reading & Leeds (a stage they return to in 2026). As we drift into 2026, we’ll see the band return on a headline tour across the UK & Ireland and this time, across Europe as well.
They’re a band known for the raw energy that is somewhat retropsective to the grunge era of the 90’s, clashing in sound with artists such as Wunderhorse. Arguably, these two bands are at the forefront of driving this sound into the modern era.
Keo seems to be unstoppable and you’re going to want to be first in line to see them in 2026.
Ninush
By George Ward
Ninush is the musical project of London’s Nina Lim. Even if you may not recognise the name, you may well have heard her work, as Lim has performed violin with Black Country, New Road, Jockstrap, Geordie Greep and more over the last few years, all the while developing her own solo sound and material.
The result is a lovingly warm folk hug. Ninush’s music is incredibly sweet, with a refreshing gentleness and sincerity, yet never blends in or becomes dull. There are just enough creative production decisions, adding a slight weirdness into the mix, to keep her sound hypnotic and wholly original.
With her debut EP ‘The Flowers I See You In’ out on 6th February via new label The Bird, founded by BC, NR’s own Charlie Wayne, now is the perfect time to get to know Ninush.
Mandy, Indiana
By George Ward
For those into noise rock, techno, or anything a little experimental, you need to get on board with Mandy, Indiana.
The Manchester band have been around for a little while but, in our opinion, deserves a lot more love. Their 2021 EP ‘…’ and 2023 album ‘i’ve seen a way’ were firm favourites from their respective years and we can’t wait to hear their second album ‘URGH’ on 6th February.
The lead single ‘Magazine’ is an absolute beast of a track. Though only 3 minutes long, the track feels huge, powered by a crunchy, bassy kick and dashed with frenetic clattering percussion. On top, Valentine Caulfield’s vocals jump from deranged to disconcertingly calm, her French lyrics confidently bouncing along the track’s violent instrumental. Live, Caulfield is one of the most fascinating front people around, performing with a ferocity both playful and terrifying and somehow matching the intensity of the noise rock backing.
For fans of Gilla Band, Model/Actriz and all things noisy, check out Mandy, Indiana.
Jo Hill
By Charlie Pinhey
If there’s one way to bring people into your world as a musician, it’s to be as excited as the crowd are when you’re up on stage playing your songs and Jo Hill has excitement in abundance.
Jo Hill is a singer/ songwriter from Somerset and at the heart of her songs is a constant sense of belonging brought about by her own distinctive take on indie-pop and folk.
2025 saw Jo release the deluxe version of her debut album titled ‘girlhood.(u got this babe)’ featuring a live performance of the opening track ‘POW GIRL’ from Moth Club. ‘girlhood.’ isn’t just a simple, nostalgic look back. It’s a deep dive into the chaos of growing up and dealing with life at a young age, emotionally, socially and mentally. Viewing that time as a version of yourself, rather than your whole self.
Following a debut set at Glastonbury, hitting the road with folk band Tors and her 2022 single surpassing four million streams on spotify, Jo Hill is one to keep an eye on.
Adult DVD
By Charlie Pinhey
Adult DVD are a six piece from Leeds who lean heavily into dance punk, indie disco and are building significant momentum. Go to an Adult DVD show and expect to see an exciting emerging live act who move about the stage as if they’ve been there for decades… and plenty of synths.
Yes, they’re a dance punk band, but they have a unifying quality about them wherever they go and the crowd get behind them instantly. When we caught up with lead singer Harry Hanson at Simple Things festival, he pointed to playing Green Man as a particular highlight this year and how their journey has escalated following the release of their 2024 EP ‘Next Day Shipping’.
Adult DVD have new music on the way with a new single coming in January, followed by a new album coming in the summer. They will also hit the road on tour across the UK and Europe.
Ugly Ozo
By Kieran Webber
The Isle Of Wight is yet again producing an incredibly exciting new artist in the form of Ugly Ozo.
First forming back in 2019, the rising artist has gone from strength to strength, building to the point of a UK headline tour and the release of the debut EP ‘Stargirl’, which features her most popular song ‘cherry’.
It’s a crunching sound that Ugly Ozo harnesses and she does so masterfully. There’s a retrospective vibe throughout that is not dissimilar to Hole, or early No Doubt. It’s fun, bouncy, and daringly catchy.
We have no doubt that the foundations she’s laid down in 2025 are going to pave the way for some big opportunities in 2026. Get to know Ugly Ozo now, as we promise you she’s about to blow up.
No Fun
By Kieran Webber
Unfortunately, Saloon Dion are no more, which is greatly sad. However, it’s not all bad news, as out of the smouldering embers, a new project has emerged.
Introducing No Fun, the solo project from David Sturgess, the former frontman of Saloon Dion. It’s still early days for the artist, but there’s already an EP is out in the wild, which acts as a tasting of what’s to come.
Expect the same angst-driven attitude found in former projects with a more Weezer, Blink 182 sound coming through.
In 2026, we reckon you’re going to see more and more from No Fun, get to know them now and you can boast to all of your mates how you were an early fan.
Honest Work
By Kieran Webber
Honest Work (which also features a member of Saloon Dion) have spent the last few years building a strong reputation around London for being a no-nonsense rock band. No bullshit, no gimmicks, just that good ol’ rock n roll.
Fast forward a year and the band has just released their debut single ‘Horses For Meat’, alongside signing with iconic label Nice Swan.
This is just the start for Honest Work and 2026 is going to see them really start to climb the music industry ladder. Watch out Yungblud, the real sheriffs of rock just rolled into town.
kisses
By Matt Wellham
I first discovered kisses when asking Floodlight’s lead singer Louis Parsons for some Australian recommendations. What followed was a rabbit-hole deep dive of their first album, which struck me as a lo-fi, intimate listen. Instantly addictive and memorable, with a sound that felt unique to the Australian scene.
Their self-titled debut is a collection of meandering 6+ minute songs, ‘cool’, ‘volvo’ and ‘massage house‘ are standout tracks with a nostalgic tone and lyrics that reflect the nostalgia of youth. It’s a record that I find myself putting on repeat, the slow-paced tracks blending into each other, meandering while I think of the past.
At the end of 2025, kisses released two singles, ‘Butterfly Eyes’ and ‘Queen of the Suburbs’, with the promise of more to come in 2026. Both singles build on the sonic foundation kisses created with their debut record, but the production and delivery have been elevated to new heights. The depth and quality of these recordings now match the level that these songs deserve. ‘Queen of the Suburbs’ in particular is a beautiful, slow-burning track, with a sense of tension and calculated restraint. It’s found its place at the top of my 2026 playlist and I’ll be sure to have it and kisses’ upcoming work on repeat all year.
Madra Salach
By Caspar Motley
Emerging folk rock 6-piece Madra Salach only have two singles under their belt, but are already making a name for themselves. The Dublin-based group blend traditional Irish folk music with rock and electronic elements to form a sound that isn’t too dissimilar to Lankum’s woeful throes and Mogwai’s epic soundscapes, but with an energy and passion far greater that leans into the feeling of the current Irish indie rock scene.
The Irish scene is currently very prolific, having produced bands such as Fontaines D.C., The Murder Capital and Gurriers in recent years. It’s not entirely inconceivable that Madra Salach could be the next big thing we see emerging out of the country due to their unique yet traditional sound and their ability to captivate crowds through both their musical talent and intense fervour.
The band’s first single ‘Blue & Gold’ is an eerie folk song, with their second single, ‘I Was Just A Boy’, encapsulating a more upbeat, yet melancholic feeling. Fear not though, there is more music on the way very soon. The group’s debut EP ‘It’s a Hell of an Age’ releases on 23rd January.
With a tour of the UK this year, including a sold-out headline performance at Tufnell Park’s Dome, this band is well worth lending your attention to. Madra Salach are also on the bill for Kneecap’s Crystal Palace Park day festival next summer.
VLURE
By Caspar Motley
Glasgow’s VLURE are reinventing dance music. Last year the group released their debut album ‘Escalate’ which blended techno with post-punk in a unique and intense way, which draws parallels to The Prodigy.
Synths and a mixture of electronic and live drums underpin powerful Glaswegian vocals courtesy of Hamish Hutcheson, which translated incredibly well to the stage.
VLURE were one of the best bands I saw live in 2025. In a small, sweaty club the room bounced and surged with ardour. The group reflected this in their energy in their rave-cum-punk gig. Hutcheson won the crowd over with ease with his vehemence and emotion as he yelled lyrics into the mosh which ensued in front of him.
It’s conceivable that we end up seeing VLURE on bigger stages in the future, but nothing quite beats the atmosphere of the small clubs. I’d recommend catching them at the next possible opportunity. If you are a fan of raving, moshing or just bopping your head along at the back, this is for you all.
Whilst the band don’t currently have any tour dates or new music announced, they have been teasing new material on socials. If last year is anything to go off, VLURE have a year of dance, sweat and success ahead of them.
Congratulations
By Kieran Webber
Brightons genre bending five piece congratulations thoroughly blew our ear sockets and captured out hearts when we saw them at The Great Escape. Since then, we’ve had the pleasure of taking them surfing in Cornwall and having them play our first day festival FOOTFEST, back in May 2025.
Their music is an amalgamation of genres all clashing and colliding to make one of the largest, entertaining, and ferocious sounds that has ever been heard in these fair isles. Each band member bringing a large personality to the foreground, in particular Jamie Chellar, guitarist supreme who is the possible reincarnation of Prince, in fact, maybe even a snazzier dresser than the late legend.
As we drift through 2026 the band are gearing to release their debut album ‘Join Hands’, a belting first full length offering that boasts the bands ability to transcend sounds in masterful fashion. Latest singles ‘This Life’, ‘Fought 4 Love’, and ‘Dr. Doctor’ prove this to the listener.
Live, the band are one of the best to do it right now and off the back of the debut album and UK tour, we truly beleive that they are going to take 2026 by storm. It will be a complete failure on our part as music fans if this doesn’t happen.
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