There's no shortage of exciting artists to discover at this year's Humber Street Sesh on Saturday 1st August, but some of the best are already making waves right here in Hull. To help narrow it down, I've picked ten home-grown acts I think are well worth catching, from established favourites to some of the city's most exciting emerging artists.
Fiona-Lee | Hull Business Angels Main Stage | 10:15pm
If there's one local artist who's gone from strength to strength over the past couple of years, it's Fiona-Lee. Raised on a soundtrack of Bruce Springsteen and Genesis, she combines heartfelt storytelling with huge vocals and guitar-driven indie anthems that feel made for festival crowds. After sharing stages with CMAT, James, Paul Weller and Tom Grennan, plus appearances at Glastonbury and Reading & Leeds, her return to Humber Street Sesh feels like a real full-circle moment.
Scaleraker | ITSL Sound & Light Rock Stage | 10:00pm
Hull's heavy scene is in good hands with Scaleraker. Pairing breakneck pace with huge, suffocating weight, they deliver metallic hardcore that's as calculated as it is uncompromising. It's intense without feeling messy, and all the more powerful because of it.
The Froot | Hull Trains Dead Bod Stage | 9:15pm
The Froot have spent years carving out a sound that feels both nostalgic and completely fresh. Drawing inspiration from the boundary-pushing music of the '60s and '70s while continuing to evolve, they've become one of Hull's most distinctive bands. Their long-awaited second album arrived this year, making this the perfect time to catch them live.
Jodie Langford | Hull Business Angels Main Stage | 8:00pm
Trying to pin Jodie Langford down to one genre is pretty much impossible, and that's exactly what makes her so exciting. Alongside producer Endoflevelbaddie, she blends electro, post-punk, techno and drum & bass into a live show that feels part rave, part punk gig. Add in razor-sharp lyrics, loads of humour and massive singalong choruses, and you've got one of the most entertaining sets of the weekend.
Pablo Carrizo | The Boardroom Beverley Stage | 6:45pm
Not many artists can say they sold out Hull's Adelphi before releasing a single, but Pablo Carrizo can. His heartfelt, soulful indie songs and effortless stage presence have earned him a loyal following, while high-profile support slots and his track Pablo becoming Hull FC's club anthem have only added to his growing reputation. If you like honest songwriting and big melodies, make sure he's on your list.
Gawld | Hull Trains Dead Bod Stage | 5:15pm
Gawld head into Humber Street Sesh with plenty of momentum after celebrating the release of their debut EP To The Tomb, and a packed-out hometown show. Their songs combine soaring melodies, heartfelt lyrics and plenty of indie swagger.
WENCH! | ITSL Sound & Light Rock Stage | 5:00pm
Wench have already become one of the fiercest punk bands on Hull's live circuit. Inspired by riot grrrl icons and modern feminist punk, they channel raw energy, humour and empowerment into explosive performances that leave a lasting impression. Catch them now, because with a packed festival season ahead, they're only going to get bigger.
Strange Pink | ITSL Sound & Light Rock Stage | 3:00pm
Fans of fuzzy guitars and '90s alternative should make a beeline for Strange Pink. Fronted by former Nine Black Alps singer Sam Forrest, they wear their influences proudly while delivering songs packed with melody, noise and just the right amount of grit.
The Sovereigns | Hull Business Angels Main Stage | 2:00pm
Looking for the perfect soundtrack to a sunny festival afternoon? The Sovereigns have you covered. Their blend of indie hooks, funky rhythms and feel-good energy is tailor-made for festival crowds, and their pride in Hull shines through in every performance. Don't be surprised if you end up dancing through the whole set.
Sarah Etheridge | BBC Introducing Stage | 1:45pm
Sarah Etheridge brings something a little different, blending singer-songwriter sensibilities with bassline, UK garage, chill house and trance influences. Whether you're looking to ease into the day or start dancing early, her genre-spanning set offers a refreshing alternative to the festival's guitar-heavy line-up.
One of the best things about Humber Street Sesh is that no two people will have exactly the same festival. You might head to a stage for one artist and leave having discovered three more. So use this list as a starting point, but leave plenty of room to explore.
You never know which set will end up being the highlight of your weekend! Find out where you can buy your wristbands here.