Kat Von D
Mexican-American Katherine von Drachenberg, famed tattoo artist Kat Von D, always had a passion for music. By 2021, she'd committed to it, releasing her debut album and then her second, My Side of the Mountain, which she's bringing to Budapest. Her sound is an intriguing mix of dark rock, post-punk, electronica, and a touch of 80s new wave. The support act is Prayers, the band of Kat Von D's husband.
- Where: A38 Ship
- When: 11 June
- Details here
Stereolab
If there's one truly unmissable gig in Hungary this year, it's the first Budapest show from British-French band Stereolab. Expect a proper pop celebration, as we've been waiting since their 1992 debut album, Peng!, if not their 1990 formation. After a 2009 split, the Lætitia Sadier and Tim Gane-led Stereolab reformed in 2019 and will be showcasing their 11th album, Instant Holograms on Metal Film (out late May), for the Hungarian crowd. Fingers crossed for some classic tracks too!
- Where: A38 Ship
- When: 15 June
- Details here
Cat Power
We're in for a treat with a minor music legend performing the songs of a major one: American singer-songwriter Cat Power is recreating Bob Dylan's iconic 1966 Royal Albert Hall concert in its entirety. This performance saw Dylan controversially switch from acoustic to electric guitar, marking a pivotal moment and making rock history. It's an ambitious endeavour, but with Cat Power's distinctive talent, it’s set to be a powerful and enduring highlight in Budapest.
- Where: Akvárium Klub
- When: 18 June
- Details here
CocoRosie
Also on the bill is CocoRosie, the American duo of the Casady sisters, who've graced our stages before with their distinctive sound. This summer they return to play tracks from their eighth album, Little Death Wishes, released in late March. CocoRosie's eclectic, art-pop music will be supported by young Brazilian artist Maia Kalwill, who blends hip-hop with indie pop.
- Where: House of Music Hungary
- When: 20 June
- Details here
Jean-Michel Jarre
France's top musical export, synth veteran Jean-Michel Jarre, is a key inspiration for countless electronic musicians. This influence goes both ways, evident in his later albums and reimagined classics. His concerts offer not just a unique musical experience but also a stunning visual spectacle, as Jarre is committed to experimentation and cutting-edge digital technology.
- Where: Papp László Budapest Sportaréna
- When: 26 June
- Details here
St. Vincent
We're thrilled to welcome back American singer-songwriter St. Vincent, especially with her special intimate duo performance. She'll be presenting rearranged versions of her most famous songs, accompanied by her pianist, Rachel Eckroth. St. Vincent's latest album, All Born Screaming, came out last year, so expect to hear some tracks from that too.
- Where: House of Music Hungary
- When: 26 June
- Details here
Sofi Tukker
If anyone knows how to throw a truly massive summer party, it's the delightful American electronic pop duo Sofi Tukker. Sophie Hawley-Weld and Tucker Halpern are no strangers in Budapest, so we know the drill: not just a show, but a lively, high-energy dance party — the kind that kicks off summer in the best possible way.
- Where: Budapest Park
- When: 15 July
- Details here
Queens of the Stone Age
When Queens of the Stone Age come to Hungary, it's always a huge rock celebration, especially since Josh Homme and the band last played Budapest in 2018. They're bringing their The End of Nero tour, which kicked off in the summer of 2023 and is still going strong. Expect joyful jamming on stage and a matching euphoric rock atmosphere in the crowd. Let's hope we don't have to wait another seven years after this summer gig!
- Where: Budapest Park
- When: 19 July
- Details here
Suuns
The Canadian trio Suuns crafts such a a unique sound that once you’ve heard it, you’ll know it anywhere. They build from psychedelic and krautrock foundations, sometimes noisily, sometimes with minimalist simplicity, and they're not afraid of electronica. They also cleverly incorporate pop elements in a truly creative way. Their music is the kind that keeps you rooted to the spot, though don't worry, while Suuns can be stirring, they're never dangerous. They're bringing their sixth album, The Breaks, with them.
- Where: A38 Ship
- When: 9 August
- Details here
Marc Rebillet
While the video might not fully capture the raw, humour-driven power of this madcap American act, it offers a glimpse. Marc Rebillet is both a remarkable and experimental electronic musician, and a witty parody of it – along with hip-hop and pop. The persona can be surprisingly silly and absurd, yet every joke lands. His performances are as much stand-up as they are concerts: a two-in-one party. What more could you want?
- Where: Budapest Park
- When: 27 August
- Details here
(Cover photo: Gina Wetzler – Getty Images)