The booking team at 2000trees are renowned for having their fingers on the pulse of the greatest in new and underground music… Whether it’s an act that climbs to stratospheric heights like Wolf Alice, a band that builds a cult audience and pushes the boundaries of their sound (e.g. Black Peaks) or an artist you see on the cuff one year that quickly becomes a favorite (that’s Narcs for us), they have it all covered.
Here, we pick out 5 new or smaller bands you’ll want to check out on Upcote Farm this July.
Exit Child, Neu Stage – Thursday
‘For fans of nihilism, self-loathing and long walks on the beach, ex-Sœur guitarist and vocalist Anya Pulver’s new band are a powerful force to be reckoned with. Making their festival debut at this year’s 2000trees, they promise a blend of loud, grunge-inspired riffs and honest, reflective self-examination.
Sprints, Neu Stage – Saturday
Formed in late 2019 with a keen focus on accepting – and celebrating – who you are, Dublin quartet Sprints’ vital sound blends elements of The Fall or Art Brut’s acerbic wit with the zest of early Supergrass. Sprints say every song is a call-to-arms that silences internal doubts and fights back against outdated social tropes. We’re more than happy to sign up at 2000trees. Join us.
Prima Queen, Forest Sessions – Friday
Inspired by the likes of Lucy Dacus and Julia Jacklins, best friends Louise Macphail and Kristin McFadden have played shows with Pip Blom, The Big Moon and Wet Leg and have quickly established themselves as one of the most talked-about bands of 2023. The transatlantic duo specialise in wry anti-folk-style storytelling and hooks you’ll be humming all festival and beyond.
Reminders, Neu Stage – Saturday
The Isle of Wight’s finest, Reminders offer relatable observations on modern Britain, the after-effects of heartbreak and the importance of mental health against a spiky slew of riffs that fall somewhere between bouncy Britpop and Pup.Lakes, Forest Sessions – Friday
Fresh from a support slot to American Football (also on the bill) and following the release of gorgeous third album ‘Elysian Skies’, Lakes’ set in-between the trees promises to be very special indeed. Weaving between chamber pop and math rock with ease, expect lots of group chanting, glockenspiel and maybe a few tears.
Other recommendations – feel free to add your own!
Witch Fever
Enola Gay
Carsick
Gaffa Tape Sandy
Loose Articles
New Pagans
Pet Needs
Suds
Lambrini Girls
