Five bands we’ll be watching at ArcTanGent
Words/Photos: Nadine Ballantyne
ArcTanGent continues to grow despite remaining the same independent alt-rock festival contemporary music fans have come to adore. Headliners every year keep setting the bar higher and higher in terms of production and draw and this year is no exception.
ArcTanGent returns 19th-22nd August 2026 at Fernhill Farm. For more information and tickets visit - https://www.arctangent.co.uk/
Here’s 5 bands we certainly won’t miss in 2026.
Photo: Nadine Ballantyne
HECK - Nottingham, UK
I don’t think there’s ever been a time where I’ve seen Heck live and a member hasn’t climbed on something or someone. Fuelled by what feelslike pure raw rage will see their set be of chaotic nature. Mathcore meetspunk rock.
Napalm Death - West Midlands, UK
What feels like a household name for most British metal fans, everyone’sheard of Napalm Death, a band who have been going since the early 80s. They could be seen as a legacy band as their impact continues to inspire. Blast beats and beers should mix swimmingly.
Overhead, The Albatross - Dublin, Ireland
If you need a break from the math rock and blast beats and want something more orchestral go and watch Overhead, The Albatross. Mostly instrumental it’ll leave you feeling profound and moved with their spirited cinematic soundscapes.
Primus - California, USA
It’s hard to categorise Primus - experimental funk? Progressive rock? Arctangent has nailed down another legendary band from the 80s, a band labels rejected yet the fans enthroned. Primus feels like a towering name for this festival and one that should bring in travellers from all over the country.
Conjurer - Warwickshire, UK
If doom and gloom is your vibe then spend a set with Conjurer - the finest sludge metal from England. Always impeccably tight live, their set comes across aggressive and ever evolving - passionately and skilfully.