Solfest in Cumbria is just around the corner! To celebrate this wonderful independent, multi-genre fest, we took a look at some of the artists we can’t wait to see on stage.

Last updated: 20th Jul 2023

Originally published: 14th Jul 2023

Solfest comes to North Lakes Country Park in Silloth, Cumbria on Thursday 24 - Sunday 27 August 2023. The fest is the county’s biggest celebration of music and arts, delivering a range of incredible artists from genres including indie, rock, reggae, drum and bass, house, folk, and punk. 

With it just around the corner, we thought we’d take a look at some of the artists we’re dying to see hit the stage at one of the best independent fests in the UK. 

De La Soul

One of the biggest hip-hop groups to emerge from the genre's golden era, De La Soul quickly became known for their unconventional lyrics, innovative sampling abilities, and helping to develop hip-hop subgenres. 

The group have a fair share of bangers that will get the whole crowd jamming, and we’re eager to see the positive energy they bring. Better still, the group will be joined by a live band which will only make the performance that bit more special.

 

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Band of Skulls

Solfest welcomes artists from so many genres. Representing the heavier side, Band of Skulls is an English rock band that’ll deliver gritty, rawer sounds over the weekend. The band also have a handful of songs the majority of a rock-loving crowd will recognise. 

 

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Mollie Collins 

We did say Solfest has an eclectic mix of music! One of the drum and bass DJs on the lineup, Mollie Collins, has toured the world, playing at some of the biggest clubs and festivals on the planet. With all this in mind, and her absolutely banging tracks, we know she'll absolutely smash it and have the crowd in the palm of her hand.

 

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Ocean Colour Scene  

The Day We Caught The Train was made for festivals. We’d argue it’s one of the best songs for throwing your arm over your mate's shoulder, holding your pint high in the air, and belting the chorus at the top of your lungs. And judging from this performance, it seems the band definitely still have it! An iconic band with legendary tunes, their set will be stunning. 

 

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Hollie Cook

Such a sunny, beautiful voice. Hollie Cook (formerly of The Slits) makes music that she calls “tropical pop.” Carefree, laidback, and just straight-up lush, her music is so uplifting and perfectly suited for a festival. She’s clearly amazing live too. We’re praying the sun comes out for her set because everyone knows reggae and sunshine is a match made in heaven.

 

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The Undertones 

Another rock band from back in the day with some huge bangers, The Undertones, who are clearly still full of energy and likely adore performing, will land at Solfest this year. Their self-titled debut album is recognised as an incredible album, being voted as one of the 100 greatest British albums of all time in a poll by Q in 2000. Great tunes, great live performances, what more do we need to say? 

 

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The Libertines 

Still as gloriously chaotic and messy as they were in their heyday, The Libertines certainly aren’t short of anthems to sing along to including Don’t Look Back Into The Sun, Can’t Stand Me Now, Time For Heroes, What Katie Did, and Music When The Lights Go Out. The Libertines’ passion and sublime songwriting is what will make their set incredible. 

 

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If all this has got you giddy, there are still tickets left! Secure your day or full weekend tickets now at the bottom of this page and get ready for some banging tunes and loving community vibes. 

 

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Check out our What's On Guide to discover even more rowdy raves and sweaty gigs taking place over the coming weeks and months. For festivals, lifestyle events and more, head on over to our Things To Do page or be inspired by the event selections on our Inspire Me page.

 

 

  

 

 

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