Which Newcomers at Glastonbury Festival Should You Catch?

Discovering Emerging Talents at Glastonbury Festival 2023

The Glastonbury Festival is a melting pot of musical talent, showcasing a diverse lineup that features both established stars and exciting newcomers. This year, while the spotlight shines on legendary names such as Rod Stewart and Neil Young, it’s the fresh faces that often steal the show. With anticipation building around the 56 "TBA" slots, festival-goers are buzzing with speculation about who will take the stage. This year's lineup promises a thrilling mix of genre-defying artists who are on the verge of breaking through to mainstream recognition. In this guide, we shine a light on five of the most promising new acts to watch at Glastonbury 2023—artists who might just become your next obsession.

Alessi Rose: A Rising Star from Derby

Alessi Rose has quickly made a name for herself in the music industry, having wrapped up her first-ever headline tour of the US just weeks before Glastonbury. The Derby-born singer has a unique talent for creating confessional lyrics that resonate with fans, drawing comparisons to acclaimed artists like Taylor Swift and Gracie Abrams. Her journey began in her bedroom, where she produced her debut single, "Say Ur Mine," which she wrote and produced herself.

At just 22 years old, Rose's heartfelt storytelling is evident in her latest single, "That Could Be Me," which captures the emotional turmoil of unrequited love. With electrifying vocals and engaging stage presence, audiences can expect an unforgettable performance as she opens the Other Stage on Saturday morning. Rose describes her upcoming set: "There's not gonna be a chill, nonchalant bone in my body that day. My mum cried when she found out... and she's not a crier. She was so happy because she knows it's my dream festival."

MRCY: Soulful Sounds with a Purpose

Next up is the British duo MRCY, composed of Kojo Degraft-Johnson and Barney Lister. Although they formed during the pandemic, their sound has roots in the rich tradition of '70s soul, blended with modern influences. Their live performances are anything but ordinary; with a team of up to seven musicians on stage, they create an uplifting atmosphere that draws in crowds.

Johnson's powerful vocals and Lister's production skills have already garnered attention from industry heavyweights like Elton John and Rolling Stone, who declared them "destined for greatness." Their music tackles pressing social issues, with songs like "Man" addressing modern masculinity and the importance of positivity amidst chaos. As they prepare for their Glastonbury debut, Lister shares, "We've put a lot of love into our music, and playing at Glastonbury is going to be a real privilege. So you should definitely come."

Koven: The Drum and Bass Trailblazer

Koven, fronted by the multi-talented Katie Boyle, brings a fresh approach to the drum and bass genre. What sets her apart from other DJs is her seamless transition from mixing tracks to singing live on stage. This unique blend of skills not only amps up the energy of her shows but also adds an element of authenticity that is often missing in electronic performances. With a custom DJ rack that even caught the attention of Spice Girl Mel C, Koven is set to captivate festival-goers with their euphoric dance anthems like "In Your Arms" and "Chase The Sun."

Performing at 11 PM on the Lonely Hearts Stage, Koven's ascent has been meteoric since their last performance, where they faced a tough time competing with Diana Ross's Pyramid Stage set. "If you turn up for our set on Saturday," Boyle encourages, "bring along a picture of a happy dog. I've had that on my rider for so long, but no one ever delivers it, so when they do, it's really, really sweet."

Ca7riel and Paco Amoroso: From Buenos Aires to Glastonbury

Hailing from Buenos Aires, Ca7riel and Paco Amoroso are on the fast track to international fame. Their genre-blurring sound, which combines elements of trap, rock, and Latin jazz, has earned them recognition beyond their local scene. Their breakthrough came after a performance on NPR's Tiny Desk concert series, which skyrocketed their daily Spotify streams from a mere 3,000 to an astonishing 220,000.

Now, they are set to perform on Glastonbury's West Holts stage. The duo reflects on their rapid rise, humorously lamenting in their song "Impostor" about the pressure of newfound fame. Despite the external pressures to conform, they remain committed to their unique sound and vision. "We get bored easily, so we try new things all the time and we love to make the audience crazy," they promise. With their set ending at 2 PM, they’re eager to explore the festival's many offerings.

Gurriers: The Voice of a Disillusioned Generation

Finally, we have Gurriers, a five-piece band whose music channels the frustrations of a generation grappling with political and social issues. Fresh off a support slot with Kneecap in Dublin, their visceral songs reflect deep cultural commentary and are part of a new wave of Irish acts. Their sound is raw and explosive, combining punk-driven energy with danceable rhythms.

Frontman Dan Hoff notes the importance of using music as a vessel for expression in today's political climate. "We're all using music and art to voice our opinions, instead of voicing them in a pub with our mates," he explains. Their performance on the Woodsies stage on Sunday promises to be a high-energy affair, with Hoff humorously noting that he’ll be on non-alcoholics all day to prepare.

The Magic of Discovering New Music at Festivals

Glastonbury Festival is more than just a celebration of established artists; it’s a gateway to discovering fresh musical talent that might soon dominate the charts. Whether you’re a die-hard music enthusiast or a casual festival-goer, the thrill of stumbling upon a new favorite act is part of the experience that makes Glastonbury so special. This year, don’t miss your chance to witness Alessi Rose, MRCY, Koven, Ca7riel, Paco Amoroso, and Gurriers as they take the stage and share their unique sounds with a global audience.

As we look forward to the festival, consider how these emerging artists resonate with the broader themes of creativity, resilience, and the communal spirit of music. Each performance is not only a showcase of talent but also a celebration of passion and the profound connection that music fosters among diverse audiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Glastonbury Festival known for?

Glastonbury Festival is known for its diverse lineup of musical acts, art installations, and a vibrant atmosphere that attracts thousands of attendees from around the world. It showcases both established artists and emerging talents across various genres.

Who are some of the notable acts performing this year?

This year, notable acts include Rod Stewart, Neil Young, and Olivia Rodrigo, along with a host of exciting newcomers like Alessi Rose, MRCY, Koven, Ca7riel, and Gurriers.

How can I discover new music at festivals?

To discover new music at festivals, explore smaller stages, attend performances by lesser-known artists, and engage with fellow festival-goers. Many attendees find joy in stumbling upon acts that resonate with them by exploring different genres and styles.

Conclusion

As Glastonbury Festival approaches, the excitement around emerging acts creates an atmosphere ripe for discovery and celebration. The stories of Alessi Rose, MRCY, Koven, Ca7riel, Paco Amoroso, and Gurriers serve as a reminder of the power of music to inspire and connect us. So, whether you’re planning your festival weekend or simply seeking new sounds, make sure to keep an ear out for these rising stars. Who knows? You might just find your next favorite artist amidst the vibrant chaos of Glastonbury.

As we anticipate the festival, it’s a great time to reflect on the role of music in our lives. What hidden gems will you discover this year? #Glastonbury2023 #NewMusic #EmergingArtists