10 acts beyond mainstream you shouldn't miss at this year's Sziget Festival

Sziget Festival 2024 kicks off on Wednesday, and while the Main Stage is undoubtedly a draw, there's a wealth of talent to be discovered elsewhere on the island. We've picked out 10 artists to whet your appetite.

1. Royel Otis

This Australian indie pop duo, formed in 2019, has been making waves with their sunny, upbeat sound. Their debut album, Pratts & Pain, dropped in February and is a perfect soundtrack to a festival day.

When: August 7, 20:10
Where: The Buzz

2. L'Impératrice

Get ready to dance the night away with L'Impératrice. The French band's blend of nu-disco and funky grooves is pure escapism. Their infectious energy and retro-inspired sound have captured audiences across generations. They're bringing their third album to Hungary for the first time, so expect a high-energy show.

When: August 7, 22:45
Where: Revolut Stage

3. Marc Rebillet

This American electronic musician is a one-man show, blending music, dance, and comedy effortlessly. His chaotic energy and infectious enthusiasm will have you laughing and dancing in equal measure. Don't miss his wild performance.

When: August 7, 22:45
Where: Revolut Stage

4. God Is An Astronaut

We're getting into the spiritual realm with a performance by Ireland's God Is An Astronaut. Their transcendental music is just as otherworldly as their name suggests. This post-rock cornerstone from the early 2000s might seem like an unexpected addition to Sziget's lineup, but we're thrilled to see the festival venturing into these more experimental territories. Let's hope for more acts like them in the future!

When: August 10, 23:10
Where: The Buzz

5. Fontaines D.C.

Just two weeks before the release of their fourth album, Ireland's hottest band, Fontaines D.C., will be taking the Sziget stage. Having already wowed the crowd two years ago, there's no doubt they'll deliver another unforgettable performance. We're placing a hefty bet on hearing plenty of new material from their upcoming album.

When: August 11, 20:45
Where: Revolut Stage

6. Kiasmos live

Iceland's Ólafur Arnalds and the Faroe Islands' Janus Rasmussen are two of the most sought-after electronic music producers today. Their solo albums, DJ sets, and remixes are always in high demand, not to mention Ólafur Arnalds' film scores. Their duo, Kiasmos, has been active since 2009, creating music that's both psychedelic and dancefloor-friendly.

When: August 11, 00:30
Where: Revolut Stage

7. Yard Act

One of the brightest spots in the recent British post-punk wave, Yard Act arrives at just the right moment with their second album released in March. Their music combines classic post-punk sounds with hints of Italo disco, and their lyrics are full of humour. Elton John is a big fan, and they even recorded a version of their song 100% Endurance featuring the legendary singer-pianist, as well as a cover of Tiny Dancer.

When: August 12, 18:45
Where: Revolut Stage

8. Big Thief

We're not going to hide the fact that we're perhaps most looking forward to the Brooklyn band Big Thief's concert in this year's lineup, even though they played the festival in 2019. Back then, the Main Stage and the afternoon slot didn't quite suit their often very intimate folk rock, but this time we can see them in prime time and indoors. Most of their songs are written by one of the greatest contemporary songwriters, guitarist and singer Adrianne Lenker, and since their last Budapest concert, they've released both a regular and a double album.

When: August 12, 20:45
Where: Revolut Stage

9. Four Tet

After some post-rock beginnings, the British electronic music ace switched to machines in the second half of the 90s. This producer/DJ, who precariously balances between the mainstream and the underground with amazing talent, has given the world twelve albums and numerous party anthems so far, and we're eagerly awaiting his performance at Sziget to get us dancing.

When: August 12, 23:00
Where: Revolut Stage

10. Nia Archives

It's hard to imagine a better way to say goodbye to Sziget than at a party by one of the hottest new stars of jungle music. Nia Archives is only 24 years old but has a great sense of the genre born in the early 90s. Unlike many producers, she also sings in her songs, which adds a lot to her live performances. Her first album was released in April this year, and we predict a bright future for her.