November brings colder days and shorter nights, making the sun-soaked festival scenes from just a few months ago feel distant. Fortunately, The Great Escape is here to brighten the winter with an exciting eight-part takeover of East London’s top venues to launch the fest's 2026 lineup, featuring artists from its esteemed First Fifty bill. An essential event for any serious gig enthusiast, these First Fifty concerts provide an opportunity to discover some of next year’s most promising musical talent before they perform at Brighton's TGE 2026 next May. As always, it promises to be a diverse experience: through the First Fifty program, attendees can enjoy dance-punk band The Itch at Sebright Arms, see indie-pop siblings SISTRA headline at Oslo, or visit The Jago for the captivating alt-folk sounds of Tommy WÁ. Tonight, however, DIY is taking over what is arguably Hackney's most iconic venue, the MOTH Club, bringing an array of pop brilliance to its glamorous main room.
Kicking off the night is Irish producer Annie-Dog, who, despite being the only performer on stage, makes a bold impression with her one-woman-band setup, reflecting a childlike enthusiasm for creativity. Using her laptop and guitar, she crafts layered soundscapes that blend the playful electro-pop vibes of PinkPantheress with the evocative indie sound of the Smashing Pumpkins, creating an ambiance that is both intoxicating and mesmerizing. Picture The Japanese House featured on Charli's ‘Apple’ remix, and you’re getting close.
Next up on MOTH’s renowned gold-studded stage is an artist who, with his Cameron Winter-esque hairstyle and skater boy look, exudes an undeniable confidence. Max Baby hails from Paris, which might explain his charm. Merging angsty alt-rock energy with catchy pop hooks, he delivers a dynamic performance that captivates the crowd as he energetically traverses the venue, even jumping off surfaces (including the kick drum). Establishing himself as a potential spiritual successor to early 2000s favorites MGMT, Baby—believed to be his real name—is as magnetic a performer as any five performers combined.
Finally, completing tonight’s lineup of emerging pop talents is the five-piece Girl Group from Liverpool and Norway, who truly embody their name: with synchronized dance routines, rich harmonies, and catchy, attitude-filled anthems. While fun is central to their act, it’s evident from the start that the band is highly rehearsed, effortlessly transitioning between pop-punk, sassy call-and-response segments, vibrant electro-pop moments, and instrumental parts. In classic girl group style, there’s no designated frontwoman; instead, they take turns in the spotlight, showcasing both synchronized choreography and playful dancing reminiscent of solo performances in front of a mirror with a hairbrush, deliberately leaning into tropes to reclaim their narrative (“this next song is about boys… it’s called ‘Shut Your Mouth,’ they grin; another track is titled ‘Man-Made Girl Bands’). With a blend of confidence, teamwork, and just the right amount of sass, The Great Escape 2026 is in for a treat.
North London artist Gianna has released a new single titled 'Hei Lover.' The Camden-based figure explores the interplay between club themes and pop language.
CMAT, Pulp, and Mac De Marco will be the main acts for End Of The Road 2026. The beloved festival made its comeback this summer, and Clash experienced a rich lineup of music.
-Video.jpg)
Whitelands has released an emotional video for their latest single, 'Songbird (Forever)'. The group originated from the DIY underground scene in London, with Whitelands evolving.
Tendai has unveiled an exciting new single titled 'SMN.' In 2024, the Ivor Novello nominated songwriter released his project 'THE RAIN,' and Tendai has recently hinted at more to come.
To officially kick off TGE 2026, the glamorous setting of MOTH Club will feature three of the most thrilling newcomers in pop music.