The Great Escape Festival returns to Brighton, England, from May 15th to 18th, highlighting a diverse lineup of Japanese musical talent alongside hundreds of acts from across the globe. This year’s roster includes Helsinki Lambda Club, Domico, Kaneko Ayano, and LITE, alongside Chicago-based Sen Morimoto and London-based Miso Extra.
Since its inception in 2006, The Great Escape has been a significant event in the music calendar, attracting over 500 artists annually to perform across more than 30 stages throughout the city over four days. Known for launching emerging talent onto the global stage, past line-ups have featured appearances from acclaimed Japanese acts such as CHAI, [Alexandros], Buffalo Daughter, DYGL, and Kyary Pamyu Pamyu.
Continuing this tradition, this year’s lineup offers a diverse mix of sounds and styles from both Japan and beyond.
LITE
Formed in 2003, LITE are a celebrated four-piece band renowned for their unique approach to instrumental rock and math rock. Having released music through the esteemed American indie label Topshelf Records and toured extensively across North America, Europe, and Asia, LITE have earned global recognition for their compelling melodies and cutting-edge rhythms. In January, after commemorating their 20th anniversary, the band unveiled their seventh album, ‘STRATA’, further cementing their position as one of Japan’s finest musical exports.
LITE
STRATA
Release Date: 31/01/2024
Label: I Want The Moon
Stream: Spotify | Apple Music
Helsinki Lambda Club
Formed in 2013, Helsinki Lambda Club are a three-piece rock band led by vocalist and guitarist Kaoru Hashimoto. With their highly addictive melodies and experimental sounds blending surf rock and psychedelia, the band has gained recognition both domestically and internationally. Following successful performances at SXSW 2024 in the United States, Helsinki Lambda Club seek to entrance UK audiences with their imaginative soundscapes.
Helsinki Lambda Club
Welcome to Helsinki Lambda Club
Release Date: 09/08/2023
Label: UK.PROJECT
Stream: Spotify | Apple Music
domico
Established in 2011, domico are a groundbreaking duo consisting of Hikaru Sakashita and Keita Hasegawa. Known for their distinctive sound that pushes the boundaries of traditional rock music, domico have garnered acclaim for their dynamic live performances and experimental approach. With plans to release a series of re-recorded EPs in 2024, the duo’s unique style continues to earn them a dedicated fanbase both in Japan and abroad.
domico
Whale Nest
Release Date: 06/03/2024
Label: FRIENDSHIP.
Stream: Spotify | Apple Music
Kaneko Ayano
Originating from Yokohama, Kanagawa prefecture, Kaneko Ayano is a singer-songwriter praised for her poignant lyrics and emotionally stirring performances. With critically acclaimed albums like ‘Shukusai’ and ‘Sansan’, Ayano has solidified her status as a prominent figure in the Japanese music scene. Following her successful 2023, which included a two-day one-man show at the Nippon Budokan and her UK live debut, Ayano continues to mesmerize audiences with her intense and intimate live performances, promising unforgettable experiences with each show.
Kaneko Ayano
Towelket Ha Odayakana
Release Date: 25/01/2023
Label: 1994
Stream: Spotify | Apple Music
Sen Morimoto
Kyoto-born and Massachusetts-raised, Sen Morimoto’s musical journey reflects adaptability and originality. Through albums like ‘Cannonball!’ and ‘Diagnosis’, Morimoto delves into topics of mental well-being, identity, and societal reflection with unfiltered sincerity and imagination. Drawing from personal narratives and global narratives, Morimoto’s music breaks conventional barriers, leaving an enduring impression on modern music.
Sen Morimoto
Diagnosis
Release Date: 03/11/2023
Label: Sooper Records
Stream: Spotify | Apple Music
Miso Extra
London-based singer, rapper, and producer Miso Extra embodies cultural fusion and artistic innovation, blending influences from J Dilla to Kelis. With 2 EPs and a sold-out London headline show under her belt, Miso is turning heads with her infectious hip-hop tunes and lyrical versatility. Rising as a star in the music scene, Miso Extra promises unforgettable performances with her unique blend of influences and bold vision.
RELATED: MISO EXTRA SMASHES HER FIRST EVER FESTIVAL SET AT THE GREAT ESCAPE 2022
Miso Extra
2nd Floor / Constant Surprises
Release Date: 20/11/2023
Label: Transgressive Records
Stream: Spotify | Apple Music
May 15th – 18th – UK, Brighton, The Great Escape Festival 2024