Sound Factory Festival 2026: A Two-Day Indie Music Celebration featuring emerging artists
The 90s era was more than just a period – it was an undeniable feeling, a time when music broke barriers and everything seemed within reach. It witnessed the birth of legendary bands like Oasis and The Verve, showcased monumental ambition a la Stone Roses, and instilled a sense of hope that a guitar and some rebellious spirit could spark change. That same energy and essence are making a triumphant comeback in Plymouth with the highly-anticipated return of the Sound Factory Festival at The Depo on July 10th and 11th, 2026. Renowned as the city’s largest indoor indie rock festival to date, this year’s lineup features a captivating mix of emerging talents and established acts.
The headlining acts of the festival epitomize the transformative journey that emerged out of the 90s’ musical renaissance. Friday night’s spotlight belongs to none other than Kyle Falconer, the acclaimed Mercury-nominated lead singer of The View. The band achieved significant success with their debut album soaring to the top of the UK charts, and their infectious anthems became a fixture at festivals. Falconer’s solo ventures, award-winning records, and The View’s triumphant return with the 2023 album “Exorcism of Youth” showcase his evolution and enduring impact on the British rock scene. Falconer’s performance at The Depo promises to be a nostalgic ode to the era that not only defined a generation but paved the way for future musical luminaries to thrive.
Saturday night ushers in The Molotovs, a band that effortlessly channels the raw energy of early 80s mod classics with the tireless touring dedication reminiscent of the 90s music scene. Having shared stages with iconic bands such as Sex Pistols and The Libertines, they’ve gathered a loyal following known for their raucous live performances. Tipped for a UK Top 10 album in 2026, The Molotovs embody the unapologetic grit and gusto that defined the rock bands revered in the 90s.
The festival also celebrates the vibrant ecosystem that nurtures music and supports budding talents. Overlapping the weekend events, three stages – Main Stage, Sound Magazine Stage, and the rooftop BBC Introducing Stage – will showcase rising stars from across the UK. Bands like The Bracknall, Colour TV, Die Twice, The Velvet Hands, Tom A Smith, and an array of promising new acts will captivate audiences at every turn. This multi-stage spectacle honors the core essence of the 90s, where music forged connections, and live shows were transformative experiences embodying a shared community spirit.
Jon Cornfield, a legendary producer renowned for shaping sounds for Oasis, The Verve, and Muse, applauds the festival for spotlighting overlooked talents—a hallmark of the 90s era’s inclusivity and celebration of diverse voices. Building on the success of previous editions that propelled artists like The K’s to a UK No.1 album, Sound Factory Festival 2026 marks a significant expansion with larger stages, bigger names, and an unyielding ambition to craft lasting musical legacies.
The festival resonates with the fundamental tenet that music has the power to change lives, whether one is performing, attending, or discovering new sounds. It encapsulates the ethos learned from the 90s era—a pivotal period that shaped a generation and continues to inspire the next. Join us at the official website for more information and secure your tickets to witness history in the making.