IPO Liverpool 2026
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Artists From Liverpool
Andy Bellis – Bellis has been performing around Merseyside and North Wales for a number of years, engaging audiences with a mixture of covers and originals. “…but it’s the vocal that wows! Such a range, from low, grating tones with a raspiness, to full, loud and real angst-ridden sounds…it’s haunting, atmospheric and you can literally feel the spectrum of emotions conveyed during each song” (Janet Harding, All Music Magazine).
The Gentle Scars – Merseyside’s sleazy-punk dirty rock band are back and better than ever: Cool, quirky, inventive, and hard not to like! Their latest album is Songs For The Loveless; and they’ve gone back to the studio, so a new one may be on the way soon. Catch their IPO showcase as they are an amazing live band as well!
Sue Hedges – If it isn’t remarkable enough that she has met King Charles and has performed on bills with Steve Earle and Emmylou Harris, this Liverpool lass has been blind almost since birth! But there are many sides to the prolific Miss Hedges – she’s been known to display her rock diva persona, throw in a jangle-pop song, a bit of country twang, a heartfelt ballad, and then belt out some soul all in the space of a single set! The title of her recent album, Strong, typifies both the woman and her work: “…catchy, feminine, full of beat, scorn and promise in one all-consuming package” (Ian Hall, Liverpool Sound and Vision). Her latest album, By Yourself (A Different Kind of), showcases her lyrical maturity, pairing soulful vocals with intricate piano arrangements. Her powerful vocals have earned some well-deserved comparisons to greats such as Barbara Streisand and Carly Simon!
Hijinx – Hijinx are back at IPO again with their fizzy mix of power pop and big chords. Built on a foundation of strong bass lines, sweet lead guitar licks, and a whole lotta energy, they serve up killer hooks and three-part harmonies worthy of their influences – Kiss, Cheap Trick, Nick Gilder and The Sweet!
Hushtones – One of Liverpool’s hottest new acts, Hushtones blend nostalgic soaring cinematic melodies with girl/boy harmonies, backed by driving indie rock energy and a touch of dreamy psychedelia. Their Wildflowers In The Mystery album has been called “indie pop perfection” (The Mirror). Fans of Fleetwood Mac in particular will dig it!
Edgar Jones – Steeped deeply in Northern Soul and Bacharachian influences, Jones has been performing in various bands around Liverpool for quite some time. Known to some as the bass player / songwriter for The Stairs, he has also played under other guises and served as a session musician for Ian McCulloch, Paul Weller, and Ocean Colour Scene. His recent Reflections of a Soul Dimension album showcases his smooth as velvet vocals and earned an enviable four-stars from MOJO Magazine!
Jon Keats – We’ve long known Keats for his powerful vocals and ability to entertain and engage a crowd as one of the regular afternoon performers on the front stage of The Cavern Club, but did you know he’s also got a crop of captivating originals? More in the vein of Simon & Garfunkel, CSNY, or Elvis (Presley), than The Beatles, Keats’ debut album, Any Man Would Do The Same, features a who’s who of supporting musicians from Liverpool and beyond, and shows off both a more tender side to his vocals and his ability to write a catchy hook! We’re thrilled to welcome him back for the fourth year in a row as part of our IPO Liverpool festival lineup!
Helen Maw – A talented young singer/songwriter who has been penning and performing her own music since her teens and shows no signs of slowing down. She’s been performing all over Liverpool, and as far afield as Madrid and Stockholm (where she joined us for IPO last year), and has been getting both radio airplay in Europe and America and music industry buzz since the release of her first single in 2019. Her style ranges from ballads with classical undertones to anthemic piano pop. Fans of artists such as Joni Mitchell, Carly Simon, and Nora Jones should check out her IPO showcase and pick up a copy of her debut album, Growing Pains.
Planet Noir – A new Liverpool power trio consisting of Simon on guitar and vocals, Nikki on drums and Mike on bass, their songs are an homage to the music they love: everything from post punk to rockabilly, goth, indie rock and (of course) a bit of power pop. Their debut EP, Destination, is an open invitation to take a musical journey into their world. It’s dark, quirky, and catchy, and we can’t wait to see and hear them do their thing live at their first IPO!
Mark Pountney – Having previously led various musical projects, such as The Mojave Collection and Mark Delaney & Friends, Pountney is now performing under his own name, shedding the restrictions of a “band” format and working with no fixed musical style and with an extended family of musicians to have fun and make music. His songs are influenced by everything from The Beatles to The Move to Cat Stevens to Howlin’ Wolf, and a whole lot in between! His latest album, Love Luck and Time, also channels influences from The Byrds, Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones, Chuck Berry, and The La’s – and it really rocks!
Martin Quinn – We’ve known Quinn for a number of years as one of The Cavern staff, but we had no idea he was also a musician until he asked to play the festival this year, and we are certainly thrilled he did! His songs fall roughly into the poignant folk rock storyteller tradition of Bruce Springsteen, Cat Stevens, and Fleet Foxes, and are accentuated by his angelic voice.
Cal Ruddy – A dynamic young singer/songwriter with an old school rockabilly/country/Americana style that will put a smile on your face and set your toes tappin’. Fans of Chuck Berry, Hank Williams, Elvis Presley, and The Everly Brothers will dig his debut full length album, Elliston Place, and his latest release, The Edenhust Session EP.
Joe Symes & The Loving Kind – Combining powerful vocals with a commanding stage presence and an unrelenting work ethic, Joe Symes & The Loving Kind are one of the hottest indie acts in the UK and are poised to take on the world. The title track from their recent EP, A Place to Call Our Own, reached number 8 in the national 365 Radio Top 30 charts, climbing higher than such artists as Florence and the Machine, Liam Gallagher, Jack White, White Lies, and Ed Sheeran, and remained in the top 20 for five weeks! They’ve also been inducted to the HMV Liverpool “Wall of Fame.” “I think there is a parallel universe where Joe Symes and the Loving Kind go mainstream and are more popular than Oasis” (Sphere Music blog). Their latest album, Portmanteau, represents the latest evolution of their indie rock meets catchy pop sound, and a fourth album is in the works! Come to their IPO showcase to see and hear them for yourself!
The Warm 33’s – Known for their unique blend of indie and alternative rock with catchy melodies and poignant lyrics, The Warm 33’s are the latest band to encapsulate the spirit of a region rich in musical heritage. Drawing inspiration from the likes of The Beatles and Echo & the Bunnymen, The Warm 33’s infuse their sound with contemporary influences, making them a refreshing addition to the local music landscape. Their energetic performances and engaging presence have garnered a dedicated following, reflecting Merseyside’s ongoing legacy of nurturing innovative talent. We can’t wait to see and hear them do their thing at their first IPO!
Artists From The UK
Cabin Beat -A fine young three-piece band from Selby, North Yorkshre who can go from lovely, heartfelt ballads to hearty power pop in the blink of an eye. Lead vocalist Will’s voice is beautiful, and the band’s jangle is the perfect complement on tracks like their new single,”Fly Today”. Definitely a band of whom we should be on the lookout!
Captain Wilberforce – Fronted by Leeds-based songwriter /singer Si Bristoll, Captain Wilberforce create instantly memorable melodies chock full of hooks and harmonies, taking influence from the last 50 years of pop. The band have had airplay on BBC Radio 2, BBC 6 Music, BBC Radio Leeds and Radio Aire, and their songs have been synched to programmes on HBO, ITV and The Fashion Channel! The songs on the new Captain Wilberforce album, Another World. Another Life. Another Time, “…take their cues from a diverse array of sounds including 70s AM radio pop, 80s new wave acts in the vein of XTC, Elvis Costello, et al and cerebral, mature pop stylings à la Crowded House, Split Enz and Squeeze” (David M Rangel, Indy Review Records). And oh! Those scintillating chord and quicksilver style changes! Awesome!
Crafting Machines – A trio from Cambridge who craft moody guitar pop in many guises – sometimes melancholy, sometimes anthemic, sometimes folky, sometimes energetic and angsty…but all compelling. Check out their 2019 EP, The Fayre Tale, their slew of more recent singles, and their IPO showcase, to see and hear what we mean!
The Crystal Teardrop – Inspired by a mutual passion for the sights, sounds and creative experimentation of the mid to late 1960s, the songs on their debut album, The Crystal Teardrop…Is Forming, run the gamut of ‘60s pop stylings: from jangly, dreamy, and trippy psychedelia to catchy psychedelic-tinged bubblegum a la The Monkees (if they were fronted by a girl) to in-your-face garage rockers, this band from The Midlands can do it all! We can’t wait to see and hear them do their thing live at IPO!
The Dead Religion – Blending the dusty soul of Americana with the bittersweet twang of vintage country and a haze of 1960s melancholy, The Dead Religion crafts songs that feel like they’ve always existed—playing softly on a jukebox in a dream you can’t quite remember. Their sound is steeped in the shimmer of jangly 12-string guitars, the lonesome cry of harmonica, and the echoes of stories too heavy to tell straight. Hailing from Carlisle in the misted edges of northern England, the band brings a uniquely British lens to the open-road loneliness and gospel-ghost heart of their American influences. It’s a sound where campfire confessions meet cathedral reverb—where every note feels like a memory on the verge of fading.
The Fast Camels – Glasgow is a veritable fountain of psychedelic garage music, and these guys are quintessential purveyors of that sound. Their trippy, ‘60s-inspired sounds bring to mind such bands as early Pink Floyd, Love and The Byrds. They’ve been scarfing up airplay and fans in the UK, US, and Europe since the release of their 2007 debut album, The Magic Optician. Their eagerly awaited fifth album, Lost To This World has just been released, and adds a touch of wistful Americana, channeling artists such as The Doors, while still kicking the psychedelic jangle and harmonies up to 11! If you don’t already know them and love them, you must come to their shows at IPO Liverpool to see and hear for yourself why they’ve become a perennial favorite at the festival of both fans and fellow performers alike!
The Forty Fours – Built for loud rooms, this London-based three-piece R&B-inflected guitar band are driven by melody, immediacy, and the kind of live energy that turns casual listeners into regulars. Drawing on the sharp songwriting and harmony-led approach of classic British rock, the band deliver concise, hook-filled songs that feel current rather than nostalgic. Their debut album, FourPlay, is finished and the band are poised for their next step in gathering world-wide fandom, whilst remaining true to their grass-roots ethos. We’re excited to welcome them to the IPO family!
Micah Gilbert & The Come Back Shanes – Main man Gilbert writes songs that have been appreciated for their distinctive and memorable melodies, skillfully crafted and intelligent lyrics, vivid images, catchy subtlety, and fine details. Calling Gilbert’s debut album Book of Changes a “Singer Songwriter Classic,” Don Valentine proclaimed that the subsequent Tales of Love “enhances his reputation”: “Gilbert writes songs of depth that may jangle or strum, but hang on melody and lyrical strength” (I Don’t Hear a Single blog). In 2024 he released two new albums on streaming platforms, with CDs to follow soon. Wheel includes the single “Colour Wheel,” which had spent several weeks in the Top 10 on the Radio Indie Alliance charts. Songs from Wheel and the second recent release, Passing Places, have featured on radio outlets such as the UK’s iconic station Radio Caroline (The Boat That Rocked!) and internet radio show “The Music Authority.” Gilbert is joined again this year by talented friends Alan Murray and Grace Murray (the duo Mist & Wing), Paul Syme, and Scott Stewart. Collectively, “The Come Back Shanes” hail from Skye, central Scotland, and Athens, Georgia, and were a hit at last year’s IPO Liverpool. Gilbert’s music has wide appeal – fans of the Beatles, Neil Finn, and Sam Phillips will want to be there!
The Hornets – A ‘60s influenced R&B band, they unabashedly proclaim themselves on their website as “the best young band to come out of West London since The Who.” Cheeky? Yeah, but as anyone who has seen them live will attest and the fiery fun of the songs on their recent Hornet’s Nest album suggest, they just may have the goods to back it up! If you missed their shows at IPO last year, make sure not to miss them again! And if you were there…well, you know what we’re talking about! Bring your dancing shoes!!
Scott Howells – Since his days as the main man of Cardiff’s The Broken Vinyl Club (who were signed to Acid Jazz and played on stages supporting such groups as The Stereophonics, The Animals, and The Pretty Things), Howells has displayed a knack for writing punchy tunes with a psychedelic flair. Whether playing solo or with a full band (as he will at IPO), Howells builds on this foundation in his own music, but mixes in dramatic mod, folk and world music touches. Fans of his prior work, as well as devotees of The Beatles, The Creation and The Monkees will dig his 2018 self-titled album and his IPO performance.
How To Swim – Punchy pop with an eclectic array of influences is the order of the day with this Glasgow-based combo. The songs on their recent Poundstore Diabolism album channel everything from quirky ‘80s new wave and college rock to orchestrated pop, post punk, funk, soul, folk, and even rap! Fans of artists from Weird Al and Zappa to XTC, ELO and Randy Newman as well as fans of artists such as The Cure, Funkadelic, Waylon Jennings or The Beastie Boys will all find something here to love!
The Information Highway – Just five humans traveling the road from Manchester, bringing love, peace and jangle…with a touch of funk, soul, and freakbeat thrown in for good measure! Their debut EP, All I Said Was, has just been released, and perfectly captures the warmth of their live performances!
Iodynes – An energetic and dark anthemic rock band from Inverness whose hard-hitting grooves and sing along hook lines will also appeal to many a power pop fan. Check out their recently released LUX EP and their IPO showcase to see and hear for yourself!
It’s Karma It’s Cool – Any band led by James Styring is gonna be good, but It’s Karma It’s Cool is – pun fully intended – his coolest project yet! Like both of his prior bands (Postcards From Places That Don’t Exist and The Pop Dogs), the focus is on melody. Their latest album, One Million Suburban Sunsets, is a bit darker than their previous work, while still showcasing their knack for classic tunesmithery and ability to blend power pop with psych pop, alt rock, and a bit of orchestrated prog that inevitably lands their albums near the top of several year-end “best of” lists whenever they release one. “They know how to turn the volume control up to eleven but understand that you then need to mould melodies, hang harmonies, smooth the edges, and create dynamics. And also, use that as a vehicle for poised and poignant lyricism. By doing all of that, they are able to produce albums that sound less like a collection of songs and more like a greatest hits compilation” (Dave Franklin, The Big Takeover). One of our favorite bands from Lincoln!
Jody & The Jerms – Formed in Oxford in the Summer of 2019, Jody & The Jerms have been writing, recording and playing their blend of melodic and uplifting indie/alt rock ever since – with national airtime on Radio X (UK), Sirius XM (USA), RTVE (Spain) and multiple BBC-affiliated outlets. They made quite an impression at IPO Liverpool over the past few years with their “…seemingly effortlessness melodies and choruses which embed themselves in your head for days” (XS Noise). Fans of artists such as Blondie and The Bangles will love their recently released album, Love Descends (as well as their previous work). They return to IPO on the heels of releasing “Grace,” their first single of 2026, and we’re thrilled to welcome them back!
Jumada – Led by the irrepressible Junior Dayvis, singer/songwriter/guitarist/actor, and host of the Craft Punkz open mic nights in Stockton Heath, Jumada are a Runcorn-based rock band with a wide array of influences. Their music is an amalgamation of everything from classic rock and pop to R&B, jazz, folk, and a little reggae thrown in for flavour!
Kim, Lee and Morris – The husband-and-wife dynamic duo of Kimberley Rew (of Katrina and the Waves and The Soft Boys) and bass player extraordinaire Lee Cave Berry, Kim and Lee play classic folk-edged blues rock with a pop sensibility. Their latest album, Happy Place, celebrates their sense of fun and enjoyment of playing music together over a wide array of styles, and of sharing their music and love with their fans. They are joined for their IPO showcase by Morris Windsor, one of Kim’s long-time partners from The Soft Boys, making it a show not to be missed and sure to put a smile on your face!
Last Breath – A band from Blackpool including brothers James and Tom Parkinson, who specialize in intense modern rock influenced by Nickelback, 3 Doors Down, Black Stone Cherry, All Time Low, Paramore, Volbeat, Blink 182, Green Day, et al…but more melodic than any of them. The songs on their Heads Or Tails album are instantly addictive, and their recent single, “Mr. Nice Guy,” has the potential to become an anthemic pop rock hit! We look forward to seeing them back again at IPO Liverpool to do their thing live!
Col Lewis – A singer/songwriter from Leeds who has one LA Music awards and UK Performing Arts Award! He specializes in acoustic driven Pop melodies with a ‘50s and ‘60s beat, and has worked with producers from The La’s, The Quarrymen, and James Blunt on his upcoming album, When Things Become Real. His latest single, “I’ll Be There”, displays a strong Buddy Holly influence!
Little Wonder – The latest project of James Jeffries, who some may remember from IPO Liverpool’s gone by as the main man of Sunshine Bloom, who brought a sonic pallet of progressive power pop in the fine tradition of artists such as Jellyfish, Big Star, and Wings, woven with rich textures, harmonies and melodies. Little Wonder trends more towards soulful jangle, while retaining all of the melodic pop sensibilities and Jeffries’ penchant for penning a crunchy hook. Their recently released EP, Wonderlust, will also appeal to fans of Stevie Wonder and Lenny Kravitz.
Carl Marah – Some at IPO may remember Marah as one of the co-leaders of the psychedelic mod pop band Logan’s Close, but the Edinburgh-based singer-songwriter has also established a name for himself as a distinctive solo voice. His blend of classic storytelling and lyrical depth combined with melodic invention and a modern cinematic edge have been gaining him a growing base of fans around the globe. He even recently reached the semi-finals on the Polish TV Talent show, Mam Talent, seen by over two-million viewers! His debut EP, Me, Myself, and I, is set for release on the heels of his IPO appearance, so watch for it!
Midland Railway – All aboard! Arriving as scheduled on a stage near you at IPO is Midland Railway, on track with a carriage full of noisy guitars, three-part vocal harmonies, quirky lyrics and barrel-scraping train related metaphors. This three-guys-and-a-gal quartet originally departing from Manchester play a form of nerdy folk-punk, influenced by the likes of Weezer, Bright Eyes, and The Smiths, and have timetabled a back catalogue of tunes on varied topics ranging from online football management, Pokémon, exes, currents, never-weres and punk clichés. One of the most fun and fun-loving bands we’ve had at the festival, we’re excited to welcome them back! But wait…there’s more: they finally released a self-titled album last year, featuring many of those songs we’ve loved seeing them do live plus a few new ones. If you’ve only heard them on one of the many internet radio stations giving them some well-deserved airplay, you need to come to their IPO showcase: trust us – this is one band you haven’t truly experienced until you’ve seen them live!!
Morning Early – The “other” band of the uber-talented Drew Sturgeon of The Fast Camels (see above), Morning Early originally formed in the mid ‘90s, and then disbanded by the end of the decade with naught but a single to their credit. Luckily for us, they have recently reunited for the release of their debut self-titled album, and what an album it is! Filled with driving guitar jangle blending influences from the UK and The American West Coast sounds of the late ‘60s and early ‘70s, their music is sure to appeal to fans of Buffalo Springfield, Pentangle, and – of course – The Fast Camels.
Mr Magpie – Is it a time-travelling mystic? A talking bird? No, thankfully for IPO, Mr. Magpie is the name of a fabulous band from Sheffield who blend pretty 12-string jangle with pastoral pop whimsy and unexpected chord and tempo changes. Their debut album, The Magical World of Mr. Magpie, was kicked off with a bicycle tour from Sheffield to Liverpool, where the band strapped their guitars on their backs and stopped to gig along the way. Their second album, The Fever Dreams of Mr Magpie, is finally available on vinyl and many fine streaming platforms. Fans of The Byrds and Fairport Convention will dig them!
Greg Murray & The Seven Wonders – They hail from Northern Ireland, and their music fuses the twang of Americana with Latino and “death country,” with brash and anthemic choruses, soaring into the sky with the help of rousing brass, played at one hundred miles per hour. There is Springsteen, Arcade Fire, The Waterboys, Calexico, Van Morrison, all with a slight Irish tinge. Fans of any of these artists or really anyone who needs a great musical “pick me up” should check out Murray’s recently released The Pain and The Glory album. They bring something different to the gunfight with a totally original brand of sincere, positive, heart-felt, hugely majestic blend of music – making an incredible carnival of a live show.
Mylittlebrother – “There is something happening in the Lake District that is really rather special” (Louder Than War), and these Cumbrian indie-poppers are a big part of that. Their music is a mixture of ‘60s harmony pop, experimental Britpop, and folk pop that will appeal to fans of Fairport Convention and Brian Wilson, but they can also turn up the rock when they want to. Their latest album, Throwing Darts At Maps, was five years in the making, and finally released late last year to rave reviews, earning 4 stars from RnR Magazine and appearing on several year-end best of lists (including mine!). As beautiful as these songs are on record, they are completely different (and we mean that in an incredibly good way!) when experienced live. Don’t miss their dynamic live performance!
The Newds – An alt-pop sextet from Bolton whose passion for what they do is evident in their songs. “It’s as if The Newds have stumbled across a musical jumble sale, and they’ve picked up the threads of melody dropped off by the obvious greats like Harry Nilsson, Simon & Garfunkel, Lennon and Heather Mills’ ex-husband…” (Austin Collings). If this sounds too good to be true, just pick up a copy of their Drawing A Line album, which also pulls in influences from LOVE and Squeeze, and you too will understand why they’ve been getting lots of attention from the pop radio underground all over the world wide web! They’ll be celebrating 25-years as a band with some nifty new T-shirts as well as some new tunes, so come join the party!
Nine Violets – The hooks and harmonies of this Yorkshire-based sextet will instantly embed themselves in your brain! Their latest album, Envy, is an homage to all that is great about power pop: it’s got the power and the pop, mixed with the jangle, harmonies, hooks and chord changes we all love! Fans of The Beatles, ELO, Big Star, Badfinger, Cheap Trick and The Bay City Rollers, rejoice! Plus, co-main man Matthew Johnson is also currently a member of The Fourmost. Yes, THAT Fourmost! A big IPO favourite!
The Restless Souls – Hailing from Atherstone, The Restless Souls play guitar driven British indie pop music, infused with soul. This talented band have previously played with a range of well-known artists such as Wham!, The Beat, The Dream Factory, and Paul Weller. They originally formed in 2019 to play IPO Liverpool, but unfortunately the pandemic nixed that, but they’ve recently re-formed with a new all-star line-up and two brand new songs, “The Future Starts Here!” and “Wasted Time,” to join us for IPOs Liverpool and Stockholm this year. We can hardly wait!
Rinaldi Sings – These Swingin’ Londoners play a stylish and uptempo brand of pop that acknowledges a deep debt to the bubblegum soul of the late ‘60s. With a complicated pop sound sometimes likened to My Life Story and the Divine Comedy, the band are fronted by Steve Rinaldi, described by NME as “a cocksure 21st Century Scott Walker” and features Bob Kelly of Kelly’s Heels on backing vocals, guitar, and snazzy footwear. Their debut album, What’s It All About?, was featured among the Best Albums Of 2004 in Village Voice’s annual Rock Critics Poll, and their latest, The Party’s Over, is even better! They’ve been busy in the studio working on a new one, for which the debut single, “Out The Other Side,” will be released by the time you read this!
Michael Roberts – A Swansea-based artist who merits a listen (or two, or three…) by any self-respecting fan of ‘70s pop! His debut album, Suspended In This Space, features dynamic hooks garnished with dreamy lyrics that will take you to a magical place of Utopia, fantastically produced into a joyous experience, and his latest, The Sights & Sounds You Hear , is his best one yet! He and his band have definitely become one of our favourites that we look forward to seeing each year in Liverpool!
The Samurai Seven – They’re back again under their original name after several past IPO appearances in both Liverpool and LA as The Dirty Royals, and we’re glad to have ‘em! Sparkling sibling harmonies, heaps of hooks, mountains of melody, and an energetic live show are what makes this band from Oxford one of the quintessential purveyors of modern power pop! This year’s appearance comes on the heels of the release of their brand new EP, Everything We Do Is For The Good Of The Team, so come out to see and hear them play and be one of the first to own a copy!
Searching For Sylvia – This South Yorkshire-based band has evolved from its folk/country/indie roots to create a body of work which can be best described as an eclectic mix of guitar-driven rock with true pop sensibilities. Their sets include all manner of frothy pop tunes; a well observed mix of ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s pop/rock which echoes American acts such as Big Star, Gigolo Aunts and The Gin Blossoms, UK bands such as Teenage Fanclub and Be-Bop Deluxe, and takes in newer influences along the way. Melody is king in both their live set and their Play That Song EP, and return to IPO this year with a new drummer and some new songs. Whether it’s a ‘dumb as you like’ rocker or a jangle pop ballad, you’re never more than a few seconds away from a tasty hook!
SheBeat – Loveable lo-fi indie folk from the heart of Scotland (by way of Liverpool), SheBeat returns to play IPO in her former hometown, armed with her debut album, From Liverpool to Leith. The album has been getting rave reviews and radio airplay from various BBC Scotland on air personalities. Infectious hooks and beats and vocals that range from sweet and saucy to soft and dreamy, and her love of sharing her music with audiences large and small shine through the songs on the album, so we can’t wait to see and hear her play live at IPO!
Sip of Milk – Raiders of their Dad’s record collection, this quintet of lads from Manchester blend classic influences with modern synth pop and rock to create their own soaring melodies. The result is somewhere between Super Furry Animals and Adam Green…with a dose of Paul McCartney and Graham Parker thrown in for good measure. Check out their recent singles and their IPO showcase to hear for yourself!
The Sitting Tennants – An outfit from Wiltshire who perform original material with an electric brand of R&B, power pop & a quirky English style of psychedelia that will leave you entranced. Their latest 208 Records release, The Best of Vols 1-6, is an eclectic collection of their work to date: some garage, some psychedelia, some Kinks-esque whimsy. We can’t wait to see them to do their thing live!
Sleuth – Essentially the nom-de-plume of bookish indie-popster from Woverhampton, Christopher Taylor-Ashcroft and his band of like-minded pop geeks, Sleuth’s gentle piano pop and catchy melodies have been called both “lyrically thoughtful and musically enticing” (Songwall). They’ve shared stages with the likes of The Wombats and have been a featured Artist of The Week on the BBC Introducing. Their latest EP, As The Stork Flies, was named EP of the Month by Ryan’s Gig Guide. With this sort of praise, you owe it to yourself to check them out!
Richard Snow & The In Laws – We’re thrilled to welcome this Nottingham band, who played many an IPO in the ‘00s and early ‘10s back after far too long an absence! Their songs have been compared to The Beach Boys, Simon & Garfunkel, Phil Spector, and The Byrds. Their latest album, Look Back in Manga, also adds a more Beatle-esque twist, with nods to Zappa and ska along the way, and is a more eclectic version of their harmony drenched jangle pop, featuring Snow’s penchant for fine melodies and hooks. A vinyl only “Best Of” Collection, entitled Beautiful Decay – The Best Of Richard Snow & The In Laws, is also available for those who want a quick introduction to why they are one of our favourite bands!
Sorry Monks – Flora and Fauna, the new album by this Salisbury-based outfit, has been called “A warm return to chiming guitars, wry lyrics, and timeless indie charm…These aren’t just any songs, but near-perfect gems with jangly guitars that produce a heart-on-sleeve spring sound and shimmering vocals with a pleasantly frayed edge (Dennis, Add To Want List blog). Fans of artists from The Beatles and The Kinks to Teenage Fanclub, Stereophonics and 10cc will want to check it out!
The Sound of Pop Art – Led by Chris Free (co-writer/guitarist of The Used and a resident on Paul Weller’s Respond Records) and vocalist Samantha Kempers, they bring their brand of late ‘60s/early ‘70s influenced cinematic soft pop, psych pop, and soul from Newmarket to IPO! Their latest album, Shapes & Shadows, will appeal to fans of Burt Bacharach, The Beach Boys, The Fifth Dimension and The Hillside Singers!
Spygenius – Inspired by bands like The Beach Boys, The Beatles and Robyn Hitchcock, Spygenius offer ultra-melodic music with a light ‘60s influence. The Canterbury-based four-piece play original guitar-based pop for people with an appreciation for harmonies and clever wordplay….and who among us can’t appreciate that!? You can experience their unique brand of jangle pop madness on Man On The Sea, an ambitious double-album that earned several year-end best-of list mentions in 2020, including “Album of the Year” from Here Comes The Flood, or on their 2021 album, Blows Their Covers, which pays homage to their wide variety of influences, both classic and contemporary. Their latest original album, Jabbernowl, on Big Stir Records, is a heady brew of deep emotional themes with their free-wheeling spirit, resplendent love of language, hooks and harmonies for which they are beloved. As good as they are on record, they are truly at their best when live, so don’t miss their IPO showcase!
Stilton – The bastard love-child of Marco Rae of The Wellgreen and Lavinia Blackwall of Trembling Bells, Stilton combines ‘60s inflected harmony, sunshine, and soft pop influences with those of the late ‘60s/early ‘70s British pastoral folk movement, and a touch of whimsy, resulting in beautiful music you can dance to. Fans of artists like Burt Bacharach, Randy Newman, Brian Wilson, Sandy Denny, Kate Bush, The Wellgreen and Trembling Bells will not want to miss them! Check out Lavinia’s album, The Making, which received a five-star review in Shindig! Magazine and earned the top spot on this reviewer’s “Best of 2025” year end list!
Surfin’ Lungs – A group of still young at heart beach rats – who knew each other from surfing the same coves along Bracknell’s famous north shore and racing their hot-rods at the local strip – first came together in 1981 to form the power-house of high octane guitar-licks and super-charged Farfisa that is Surfin’ Lungs. They take influences from the golden age of surf music – Dick Dale, The Beach Boys, Jan and Dean – and give it a fuel-injected thrust by combining it with the power-pop energy of the likes of The Monkees and the Ramones. They’re released a vast array of albums over the years and are still going strong, and IPO is proud to have ‘em!
The Stoke Barehills Town Band – IPO is thrilled to present live performances by this Basingstoke combo, led by pianist Dan Leese, who started the band primarily as a studio project. Their Heard The Word and All Aboard The Moving Ship! albums are a sonic evocation to the lost intangible innocence of a traditional English life that may or may not have ever existed but one day still might…or not. Drenched with memories, sunshine chords and golden harmonies, musical influences including The Zombies, mid-to-late ‘60s Beach Boys and The Beatles are clearly, and abundantly in evidence.
Thee Strawberry Mynde – This band of North East UK mod/psych/garage poppers have previously supported the likes of The James Taylor Quartet, The Bellrays, The Space Agency, The Godfathers and Galileo 7, and have several singles and EPs to their credit, including their latest, Reflections. We think their brand of alternatingly sweet and gruff vocals, soulful guitar riffs, and keyboard-fueled psychedelic mayhem fits in perfectly at IPO!
Tenderhooks – A five-piece band from Brighton who “excel at crafting mind blowing Rock stylings” (From The Depths Entertainment). Whether your thing is power pop, classic rock, or ‘70s inflected soft rock ballads, or ballsy blues rock, you will find something to love in the songs on their recent Mr Laughing album and their IPO Liverpool showcase. They’ve got a brand-new album – their eleventh! – simply titled 11, due out later this year, so watch for it!
The TR5’s – One of Surrey and South London’s best-kept secrets, The TR5’s have been ripping up stages for over three years, capturing hearts and minds with their highly charged blend of ‘50s skiffle and early ‘60s rock ‘n’ roll, playing such prestigious London venues as the O2 Academy Islington, the 100 Club and Shepherds Bush Empire. Their recently released album, A Triumphant Return, is available on Foot Stomping Records, and their charismatic live show will fit right in at IPO, reminding us all of the energy of The Cavern in the early days!
Tuppenny Bunters – A husband/wife duo from Southend-on-Sea with a wide variety of influences from music hall, baroque, garage, new wave, and punk, which they weave together with reckless abandon to create a unique and visceral sound. Sounds intriguing? Then be sure to check out their The Tuppenny Hangover album and their IPO showcase. Their live show has been compared to The White Stripes crossed with Wings and X-Ray Specs!
TV Pins – An electrifying band from London and The Midlands whose debut album, Aircutter, was released to worldwide critical acclaim. Their songs are an “…amalgam of London assertiveness and chutzpah, and the generosity of Midlands’ spirit tagged with the boldness of previous generations from the area which catapulted heroes such as E.L.O. into the hearts of the nation as Britpop meets the West Coast sound of the ‘70s. Big, brave, willing to be bold and focused, and yet throughout playful, lively, and as mischievous as its possible to be…”(Ian D Hall, Liverpool Sound and Vision). We can’t wait to see and hear them do their thing live at IPO!
Marc Valentine – As frontman of cult power-pop outfit Last Great Dreamers, Valentine has brought sparkle to venues and turntables alike with his distinctive vocals, wry charm and songbook of secret classics. Now, with his favourite guitar in tow, he’s heading out from his home in Norwich on a solo adventure, loading his flight case with a fresh set of tunes, and polishing the trademark twinkle in his eye. His debut album, Future Obscure, builds on his past while expanding his sonic palette, to craft a collection of should-be hits. His brand-new album, Uncommon Side Effects, his second on the great Wicked Cool Records, is chock-full of catchy punchy tunes with sing along choruses that make it feel like a power pop classic. “This is the album you need if you’re looking for some good songwriting and catchy powerpop tunes with a glam vibe” (Laurent C, Veglam).
The Viewers – A Cornish rock four-piece who found the world lacking in the kind of music they wanted to listen to themselves, so they did something about it, and we are certainly glad that they did! They play ‘60s-influenced original music, inspired by iconic names such as The Beatles, The Byrds, The Kinks and The Hollies. They’re back with a new lease on life (main man Paul Eustace is a cancer survivor) and their recent If Not Now, When? album, and we can hardly wait to see and hear them do their thing again at IPO!
Whelligan – A London-based band with Merseyside roots, Whelligan is the musical incarnation of singer/songwriter Jamie Whelligan, a pop troubadour in the classic late ‘60s mode: A busker on the London Underground, an actor in arthouse film, and a voice compared to Paul Heaton and Scott Walker. Whelligan’s songs mine that English vein of quirky, psychedelic guitar pop that Merseyside bands are famous for. With songs spinning effortlessly from one thing to another, fans of XTC, Syd Barrett, and Rutles won’t be disappointed. His newest album, In Pursuit of Inchoate Visions of Beauty, earned a very well deserved 4-stars from Shindig! Magazine, with comparisons to Super Furry Animals, Duane Eddy and XTC. “It’s joyous, wistful, slightly eccentric stuff with mini-kitchen sink biographies set to ethereal multi-layered backing vocals” (Henry Hutton, Shindig!). Come to their IPO showcase to see and hear them for yourself!
Lucas Williams – A 15-year-old singer-songwriter from Lancashire who began performing in local pubs at just 12, developing a confident and heartfelt style beyond his years. In May 2025, he released his debut single, “Change,” sharing honest original music that reflects his growth and maturity as an artist. After supporting Reverend and The Makers at a sold-out show in Blackpool, Lucas is quickly emerging as one of Lancashire’s promising young talents.
Winnie (The Side) – An infectious rock band from the Scottish Highlands, The Side draws influences from the likes of The Beatles, Ben Folds Five, and Ocean Colour Scene, and have been garnering great praise from press and fans alike: “A Great band from the highlands, The Stone Roses meets Ben Folds Five with dazzling results” (Daily Record). They’ve got several singles up on multiple fine digital platforms, and are working towards the release of an EP. The band couldn’t make it this year, but that’s not enough to stop main man, Winnie, from going it alone! We can’t wait to hear the more intimate rendition of those powerful anthemic vocals.
Artists From Outside The UK
The Alloy Six – Formed by members of quintessential Stockholm psychedelic garage rockers, The Moving Sounds and The Fourtune-Tellers, The Alloy Six play rock n’ roll influenced by the late ‘60s and early ‘70s music scene. Fueled by Hammond organ and 12-string guitar, along with razor sharp distortion, solid drumming and spot-on bass, their sound will be an instant hit with fans of artists such as The Doors, The Electric Prunes, and 13th Floor Elevators! Their latest album, Delicate Days, is out now on Beluga Records, and they’ve begun recording for the next one! They’ve become one of the highlight acts at IPO Stockholm for the past few years, and we’re excited to have them join us for the first time in Liverpool!
The Arcadeans – Take Phil Lynott’s energy, Eric Clapton’s melody and Keith Richard’s subtlety, blend for four minutes and add course helpings of Nic Cester’s (Jet) vocals, and you get The Arcadeans, a four-piece melodic rock and indie blues band from Cork, Ireland. Fans of KISS and AC/DC will also appreciate their Duplicity EP!
Armchair Oracles – Classic-style power pop with great melodies, quirky tempo and chord changes, and spot-on harmonies are what this band from Norway are all about. Their 2023 album, Nothingeveris, was released to much critical acclaim, building upon an already impressive catalog, influenced primarily by Harry Nilsson and Brian Wilson…but also embracing influences from bands such as Big Star, Cheap Trick, Spin Doctors, Tame Impala, and all that is melodic, interesting, and beautiful in between. Their latest album, Saturnine, is an ambitious project fusing prog-rock suites and sweeping chamber pop with the raw immediacy of rock, proving once again that these guys can do just about any form of melodic pop and rock and do it amazingly well. Truly a band after IPO’s heart!
Bellvie – An indie pop band from Malmö, Sweden who writes tight and energetic music with a sound driven by guitars, drawing inspiration from both the British and Swedish indie scenes. Fans of Suzanne Vega, The Cardigans, The Cranberries and Björk in particular will dig Johanna’s dreamy jazzy vocals. Check out their brand-new EP, Until Next Time, and their emotional live show.
Janne Borgh Fanclub – Whether solo or in any of his band incarnations, Borgh certainly knows his way around a great melody and a catchy hook! He was a member of the first Swedish mod-revival band, The Moderns, who released an album on EMI-Parlophone and toured the UK with Echo & The Bunnymen in 1980. Fans of classic power pop and Americana bands – from The Beatles, Badfinger, and Big Star to The Records, The Replacements, Tom Petty and Cheap Trick – will love his new rockin’ outfit and their recent album, Poetry, Protest & Popsongs!
David Brookings and The Average Lookings – Originally from Richmond, Virginia, Brookings has made his home in Memphis, San Jose, and Los Angeles for several years, and is now based out of Nashville Tennessee. He has long had a penchant for consistently releasing stellar albums wherever he goes; his brand-new one, Exposure, reflects many of the places he’s been and things he’s experienced, with lyrics that range from heartfelt and melancholy to brimming with tongue-in-cheek humor. His smooth vocal style and talent for writing a jangly pop melody have earned comparisons to the likes of Jellyfish, Matthew Sweet, and Rooney.
Shirley Callaghan – An Irish singer-songwriter whose music blends emotional, atmospheric songwriting with powerful vocals and acoustic-driven melodies. Since beginning to release music over the past two years, she has drawn comparisons to artists such as Sinéad O’Connor and Dolores O’Riordan while developing a distinctive voice of her own.
Caper Clowns – A quintet of young Danes from Odense who made an immediate splash on Danish radio and the world-wide power pop blog underground with the release of their debut, The Buca Bus, late in 2016! The lead single, “Pockets”, was immediately chosen as the “weekly hit tip” on Danish national radio station DR P4, and received much airplay. Their follow up, A Salty Taste To The Lake, has been called “simply delicious indie power pop” and easily rose to the top of several 2018 “best of” lists. Their latest album, Without A Safety Net, officially released just after last year’s IPO Liverpool appearance, took the world by storm, with the first single “Anywhere Is Home” climbing the charts on various indie podcasts and internet radio stations as soon as it was released. With multiple comparisons to the likes of McCartney, Crowded House, ELO and Jellyfish, it’s understandable why they have become a perennial fan favourite fixture at IPO Liverpool!
Captain Storm – All along its career, this Parisian band has mixed positive energy with catchy tunes and powerful orchestrations together with country music and soulful colors. Their trade-off of male/female lead and harmony vocals always keep it interesting, varied and fun. Their love of making music together and DIY ethos shines through in their newest album, Unplug ‘n’ Play, which also brings in a few interesting folk and flamenco elements. Very cool!
The Dave Park Five – A Stockholm supergroup formed by members of Baby Said Yeah!, First Cab, Donvan’s Brain, Elvert Under-Ground, and A Padded Room, who combined forces to honour the memory of their friend David Parkin, who played in all of these bands, but sadly succumbed to cancer in the fall of 2020. The result is an outpouring of intricately arranged, hooky and harmonious guitar pop. A must-see band for any fan of Scandinavian pop!!
Draped Apes – A new art garage rock group out of Nashville, led by multi-instrumentalist Timoscles, the group revolves around a steady core of longtime collaborators, which expands and contracts according to each song’s needs. Their latest single, “Making It (Up),” had been getting airplay on local radio station WXNA, as well as in the UK on BBC 6 music and John Kennedy’s Radio X program. ASBO Magazine says it’s “…cerebral without being pretentious, and raw without being messy.” Glide Magazine called the band, “Fearless innovators hellbent on creating something they can call their own.”
The Elephant Green – From Aix en Provence, France, they come to Liverpool prepared to bring rock and roll back with power and melody. They channel Oasis’ swagger, The Beatles’ pop brilliance, and Teenage Fanclub’s jangly energy. With soaring guitars, catchy hooks, and unforgettable choruses, their music makes you feel like you’re living the dream, epic, timeless, and always ready for the next level. Check out their recent Here’s Everything album and their IPO showcase to see and hear for yourself!
Jose Estragos Band – A singer/songwriter from Madrid, Spain, along with his band, who became a much-anticipated fixture at IPO Liverpool in the pre-pandemic years, so we’re thrilled to welcome them back for their 3rd post pandemic IPO Liverpool appearance! Their songs are heavily influenced by Lennon-McCartney and other Merseybeat greats, and their on-stage energy and obvious love for what they do is infectious! Check the merch tables to get yourself a copy of their many fine albums and souvenir magnets!
The Fantastic Fellinis – A “…vibrant and eclectic band that’s been painting the town with their kaleidoscopic tunes…. With a name that dances off the tongue and a sound that’s as rich as a tapestry woven from the threads of bygone eras, this group is a living, breathing homage to the cinematic flair of Federico Fellini and the unabashed spirit of rock ‘n’ roll” (Get That Beat). Their latest album, DEUX, is an ultrasonic mod/pop/soul tour-de-force, available on Soundflat Records and many fine streaming platforms. These Los Angelinos also put on quite the electric live show, so don’t miss it!
Forre Sterra – An indie/Britpop band from Helmond, The Netherlands, that combines energetic, Beatlesque indie rock with bold, visual storytelling and depressingly catchy tunes with soaring vocals. Avid tea drinkers, vinyl collectors, and cat lovers, they’re a perfect fit for IPO!! Check out their latest album, Drifters, and their IPO showcase to see and hear what we mean!
For Sale – A quartet from Zaragoza, Spain, who love nothing more than having a good time making beautiful noise with guitars and getting the audience to sing along and bob their heads. They like to write lyrics about love and heartbreak, sadness and joy, the everyday and the transcendental that are so simple that they’re understandable to all, even if you don’t speak a word of Spanish! They deliver it all with energetic performances and catchy melodies – the kind you whistle or hum without knowing why. Check out their latest album, Un Dia En Parque, and their IPO showcase to see and hear why these guys are one of our favourite new Spanish power pop bands!
The Greeting – One of the many projects of Richard Öhrn, guitarist for Uppsala jangle pop darlings, In Deed, who played IPOs Liverpool and Stockholm in 2018. Think big guitars, big melodies, and catchy choruses with a few surprising twists and turns, with nods to punk, Britpop, and of course, powerpop. Or better yet, check out their recent full-length album, Request An Audience, and their IPO showcase.
The High Frequencies – Fronted by the reigning queen of fun-filled power pop, Lisa Ellie Mychols, whose previous bands include The Masticators, NUSHU, The Lisa Mychols 3 and The Seven and Six, The High Frequencies songs are a roller coaster ride of energetic new wave and bubblegum inspired power pop that can’t help but make you happy. The High Frequencies sound is rounded out by Tom Richards and Ricky Tubbs (of major label darlings, The Waking Hours), along with Scott Richards. Their debut self-titled album was released on Jem Records late last year, and instantly rose towards the top of many a year end “best of” list (including mine). We’re thrilled they’re finally able to make the trip from Richmond, Virginia to join us for IPO Liverpool!
The Incurables – Headquartered right in the Heart of the Ann Arbor/Detroit Metropolitan Area, The Incurables provide guitar driven high energy harmonic indie garage rock, at your service! They host a weekly Power Hour on KB Radio, where each week they reveal a different side of their many influences. Their latest album, Inside Out & Backwards, released on Big Stir Records, consists of ten tracks total in under 34 minutes, placing the Michigan quartet firmly in the lineage of The Ramones and The Clash (with a touch of hometown heroes, The Stooges), and provides just a taste of what you can expect to see and hear live from these motor city madmen!
Leonie Jakobi – Born and raised in Dreieich, Germany, Jakobi splits her time between her native home town and her adoptive home of Liverpool, to which she relocated in 2018 to further her international music career. Her songs are influenced by artists such as Suzi Quatro, Debbie Harry, Pat Benatar, and Belinda Carlisle, and inspired by her own experience and observations. Her debut full-length album, What Are The People Gonna Say?, was released late last year in Germany, and we’re honored that her IPO performance this year will also be her album launch party in the UK! She is also a dynamic live performer who loves nothing more than to connect with a live audience, so come see her rock!
The Jeremy Band – The eponymous band led by one of the most genuine, unique people on the pop scene, as well as one of the most prolific pop artists around. Jeremy Morris’ John Lennon-influenced pop is as spiritual as it is melodic, and has been rocking a lot more lately; you can hear this for yourself on any of his recent CDs (he’s released over 60 of them, so it’s hard to keep up with which is the latest!) This Kalamazoo, Michigan resident and his band can stake their rightful place in the IPO Hall Of Fame!
Lolas – Formed in the late ‘90s and still going strong, Lolas hails from the unlikely location of Birmingham (Alabama, not UK), yet remain one of the best beloved bands on the pop scene today, in large part due to the perfect pop singing/songwriting of Tim Boykin! Their debut CD, Ballerina Breakout, received rave reviews everywhere for its crunchy, sweet power pop songs. Their recent album, Big Hits & Freak Disasters, released on the great Kool Kat Records, is a compilation of Lolas favorites, both old and new!
Lora & The Stalkers – Fronted by the singer/guitarist Lora and the multi-instrumentalist songwriter Alex Meozzi, the Rome-based quartet bring you indie/power pop/garage rock mixing laid-back ‘60s psychedelia and dreamy bedroom pop with post-punk energy and seriousness with childish mischief. Their debut album, No Desire Control, nods heavily in the direction of artists from Buddy Holly, Roy Orbison, and The Beach Boys to Siouxsie and the Banshees or The Clash, while their latest, Morning Hours, blends noise-driven dissonance with a strong pop attitude and harmonically adventurous arrangements. Deeply influenced by the gritty, cinematic atmosphere of their home city, the band creates a sound where Italian melodic heritage meets modern avant-rock. They are also consummate live performers, blending a bit of something for everyone into their shows, so come check them out!
Mansfield – The band makes their home in Copenhagen, but takes its name after Mansfield, a former coal mining town in the East Midlands of England. Both visually and musically, the quartet takes the audience on a journey back to the early ‘60s, with their trademark retro-cool mod-style suits and energetic performances. The music is honest, direct and instantly appealing, cleverly fusing contemporary rock with the legendary ‘60s Mersey sound, and elements of Motown, resulting in catchy and to-the-point songs that ooze of toe-tapping energy. So far, 7 out of 11 tracks from their debut album, Star-Crossed Lovers, have been played on Danish national radio, and the album itself was awarded “Album of the Week” on radio station P5, and receiving 4 and 5 star reviews in which critics have compared the band to The Beatles, Oasis and The Kinks, as well as Danish rock band The Beatophonics. Pretty impressive, but also very well deserved. Their latest album, For All The Right Reasons, is ”…a living history book of UK pop-rock wrapped up in a Danish pastry all the way from Copenhagen” (Nordic Music Central). We can’t wait to see them come rock IPO Liverpool again!!
Marlovers – Soaring catchy choruses, neuron-tingling chord changes, and melodies that shift in mood and tempo between Abba-esque power pop and twee-edged jangle pop…what’s not to love? Our favorite band from Illes Balears, Spain, returns to IPO with their brand-new concept album, Sixteen Sunrises From The Soyuz, celebrating the number of sunrises as seen from the Soyuz capsule in a 24-hour period of orbiting the earth. “The 16 new songs specialize in bright guitars shadowed by poetic doubt, turning slacker pop nostalgia into something oddly life-affirming. There’s a homespun charm to the earnest, slightly scruffy, and disarmingly sincere performances, supported by effective vocal variation and a rocking rhythm section. Emotional gravity and psychedelic comfort hold the entire 50-minute flight, like sunshine through thin clouds: warm, familiar, and just melancholic enough to remain after the last ellipse fades” (Dennis, Add To Want List).
Meadowlake – A young indie band from Groningen, The Netherlands who’s single, “Dead Man on the Payroll”, was number one in the Dutch Indie Chart, and was also chosen as the Best Song of 2018. The band’s album, Wait For Me, has been called “Tranquility and arrested beauty in one” by none other than The New York Times! They return to IPO Liverpool having honed their new, more stripped-down (but no less rockin’) sound as a three piece—inspired by bands such as Low, Daughter, and Big Thief. Definitely not your average indie rock/dreampop/shoegazer band…although fans of all those forms of pop and rock will dig both their latest album, where the mountain meets the sea, and their IPO showcase!
Tomas Nilsson – Some at IPO may remember Nilsson as the frontman for Falköping-based band, The Mop Tops, who played several IPOs in Liverpool, New York, and Stockholm from the mid ‘00s to mid ‘10s. Fans of Rickenbacker-flavored power pop were absolutely floored by their landmark 1995 disc, Inside, and none other than Little Steven himself was duly impressed when he caught their appearance at IPO New York. After releasing several more albums and appearing on various compilations with The Mop Tops, Nilsson is stepping out on his own, and comes to Liverpool armed with his latest release, Inside My Universe. And who wouldn’t want to live in a universe layered with jangle, harmony and sunshine?
Noise Detectors – A supergroup from Stockholm featuring members of Eager Beaver, The Joints, The Piltdown 5, and Stupidity, you can be sure they will make a joyous noise to put a smile on your face and set your feet dancing. Their sound is a mix of power pop hooks and mod-punk energy, with a bit of soul and ska thrown in for good measure! Check out their Six by Four EP and more recent digital singles, or better yet, come see and hear them do their thing live at IPO…and keep an eye out for a new full-length album due out soon!!
Dean Presley – A young singer-songwriter from Alkmaar, The Netherlands, who draws his inspiration from the pop, (soft) rock, and country music of the late 1960s and early 1970s. You may occasionally catch sounds reminiscent of The Eagles, The Beatles, or CSNY, but above all, his tracks sound distinctly like Dean Presley. His debut self-titled album, on which he collaborated with luminaries from some of our other long time favorite Dutch pop bands, such as Johann, Darryl Ann, and The Kik, transports you back to your first breakup and prompts you to reflect on the people you have lost, but—most importantly—it allows you to truly feel what gratitude is.
Matt Purcell – Purcell had played in a number of bands in his former home of Sydney, Australia, including his ‘90s project, Clover, with whom he played a reunion show at IPO Liverpool in 2023 to celebrate the release of their overdue debut album, Over & Over, before stepping out under his own name and relocating to Ireland, where he now makes his home in Nanegh. His debut solo album, Silver Man, combined influences from folk-rock to power pop and is appreciated by fans of Wilco, Big Star, and traditional Irish folk, receiving favourable reviews by Hotpress Magazine for the debut single from the album, “Carry Me Home.” Purcell’s latest studio album, Message To You, evokes the sound of the great ‘60s beat groups, power pop luminaries, and early Italian rock n’ rollers. A prolific and engaging performer, regardless of what style of pop he happens to be doing!
Dave Rave – The venerable Mr. Dave Rave began popping very powerfully indeed a near quarter century ago as part of the legendary Canadian bands Teenage Head (who recently celebrated their 50th anniversary as a band!) and The Shakers, has often been referred to as “The Canadian Nick Lowe,” and is now an inductee in the Canadian Indie Music Hall of Fame!! (Congratulations, Dave!!) A recent CD, Live With What You Know, was nominated for a Grammy, as was one of its songs, “Anne Marie.” His latest album, Adventureland, is “… [j]am-packed with the melodic, catchy pop rock that Dave’s best known for, this ferocious recording captures the rambunctious, boundless energy he always displays on stage.” (Hamilton Blues Lovers) From 2010 to 2014 he played 50 IPO festivals in a row (yes, you read that right), and he still plays many of them…and we look forward to many more. Thank you, Dave!!
Rome 56 – A band who certainly know their way around a great song, Rome 56 is led by Arthur Lamonica of The Shirts, who’s song “Tell Me Your Plans” shot to the Top 10 in Holland some 35 years ago, and still has some regular airplay. They’ve played IPO New York the past several years and join us for their first IPO outside their hometown in celebration of their eighth full-length record, Pony Tales, released late last year on Think Like A Key Records. The album is twelve song tales that “…swing from future-gazing anthems…to sci-fi dreamscapes…, with melodic rock that knows when to floor it and when to ease off the gas. Knopfler-esque guitar lines weave through lush keyboards while Lamonica’s vocals carry that Costello-like bite that cuts through the prettiness (Think Like A Key website).”
Shitbaby Mammals – Bubblegum punk pop purveyors from Linkoping, Sweden, Shitbaby Mammals specialize in energy, hooks and harmony with lightning quick angular shifts and a touch of tongue in cheek humor. The songs on their recent Godspeed album can’t help but put a smile on your face!
The Silverados – Did you say you want Mod? Well, you got Mod with this dynamic young trio who have both the look and the sound of bands like The Jam and The Boys down to a T! If you didn’t know any better, you’d swear they were from The Medway, but they’re from thousands of miles west: Los Angeles, California! So great to see young bands going for that classic sound, and doing it well!
The Sonny Wilsons – The original power pop project of Memphis residents Adam Yancey and Allen Couch joined by Chris Swenson, Danny McGregor and Johnny Norris, the music on their recent debut album, Maybe, is “…riddled with hooks, not afraid of being accused of being commercial, but still holding on to some strong indie cred (Denis Pilon, Pop Rock Record). Think Big Star meets The Posies, and you get the idea. We were duly impressed when they joined us for IPO LA last summer and look forward to seeing and hearing them do their thing again at IPO Liverpool!
Star Collector – These stalwarts of the Vancouver scene last played IPO Liverpool 20 years ago, so we’re thrilled to welcome them back! Their patented blend of decadent hooky Americana, British power pop and glam influences and powerhouse vocals will knock you off your feet! If you don’t already own them, any – and all – of their previous six CDs are a must have for any true power pop fan, and well-worth seeking out. Their latest disc, Everything Must Go!, features a veritable “who’s who” of co-writers (such as Jody Porter of Fountains Of Wayne and Ian Person of The Soundtrack Of Our Lives) and guest performers (such as Renee Suchy of The Pursuit Of Happiness, Paul Myers of The Paul & John and Derek MacDonald of The Bad Beats), and proves they’re just as good as ever…if not even better! It’s an album where the rock’s rockier, the pop’s poppier, and the mood’s moodier, veering into some previously uncharted territory as the band continues to challenge expectation, while still staying true to their mod-influenced rock n’ roll roots.
Super Buffet – Inhabiting the nexus of driving garage rock and earnest indie sensibility, Super Buffet evokes a spirited pillow fight between King Kahn and Jonathan Richman, while “96 Tears” plays in the background. Super Buffet is about bringing short, sharp, sing-able songs to the masses or whomever shows up. They’re one of the fan favorites at IPO in their hometown of San Diego, and are excited to share their music with a fresh group of unsuspecting soon to be fans at IPO Liverpool!
Vinyl Floor – A long-time Danish alt-rock favorite of IPO led by brothers Thomas Charlie and Daniel Pederson, they’ve got several full-length albums to their credit and have previously played IPOs not only in their hometown of Copenhagen, but also once or twice in Liverpool and LA. While their previous album, Employees Must Wash Hands, went more in a classic pop direction (think Brian Wilson meets Burt Bacharach meets The Beatles, sometimes stripped down, and sometimes with full chorus and orchestra), their latest creation, Balancing Act, is – as the title might suggest – a balance between varied moods and styles. “The muddy—and, at times, unintuitive—chord progressions are reminiscent of early Pearl Jam. The album’s instrumentation explores discordant piano and dewy electric guitar chords, weaving in and out of genres spanning polka to country, only to settle back into their rock-fueled turf” (Anna Jordan, Music Connection Magazine). “In summary: this is an album built on melody, mood and musicianship rather than bombast. It doesn’t shout for attention — it gently asks for it. Spend time with it, and you may find it settles into your rotation like that dependable record you didn’t know you needed” (Stevie Ritson, Rock The Joint Magazine).
Who’s This Mary? – Back for their second straight IPO Liverpool, Chicagoland’s Premier Power Pop Sons, Who’s This Mary? perform original groovealicious pop gems and a tastefully curated selection of Britpop and Mod classics. Their live performance is an extravaganza not to be missed!
William Pears – They played the very first IPO Liverpool (along with a few IPOs in Los Angeles back in the day), and we’re thrilled to welcome them back! Some of the most elegant, sophisticated, regal pop music appears on their classic albums from the ‘90s, and although they’re from Paris, their grasp of the subtleties of English is better than most native English speakers! Truly remarkable! Classic pop perfection!
With Radiant Action – A truly international band with members from Denmark (some of whom you may recognize from Caper Clowns, see above), Brazil, and The USA, they’ve been entertaining IPO audiences in New York, Vancouver, LA, and San Diego, as well as last year’s IPO Liverpool as Rick Kingo featuring Cherry Fez. They’re back again under their new name, bringing their unique blend of catchy melodies and harmony running the gamut from power pop to folk pop to heartfelt ballads. Check out their debut single, “Temporarily” available on many fine streaming platforms…but don’t miss them live, as they are truly at their best when interacting with the crowd between songs.
The Would Be’s – They’ve been championed by John Peel, toured with Morrissey, and have made NME‘s single of the week on several occasions. Their latest album, HindZeigeist is as delicate, intricate and on-the-button slice of indie pop as you are likely to hear this side of bands like The Smiths and The Sundays. One of Cavan Co, Ireland’s finest pop bands, and more than 30 years on, they’re as good as ever!
Phil Yates & The Affiliates – Yates is an indie power pop artist formerly based out of Burlington, VT, who for the past several years has made his home in Chicago, and Vermont’s loss is definitely Chicago’s gain! With his hooky sound that’s “too folky for the rockers and too rocky for the folkers,” Phil has played with artists such as The Mountain Goats, The Babies, Cave Singers, Holly Golightly, and Mary Prankster. A Thin Thread, his latest album with The Affiliates, is the first featuring the Chicago lineup of the band, and showcases the band’s ability to do everything from frenetic Britpop to bubblegummy ear candy confections!