60 New Acts + First Keynote Speaker Announced for FOCUS Wales 2018

Festival Crowd Header

60+ new acts announced today for FOCUS Wales 2018, including: hotly tipped alt-rockers Alpha Male Tea Party | HMS Morris return

...following the release of their new album Morbid Mind / Arth | Dutch band Canshaker Pi were the talk of the town amongst tastemakers at Eurosonic 2018 | the deservedly hyped indie pop trio Peaness | Cardiff’s Dan Bettridge who’s been building significant industry buzz on both sides of the Atlantic | Martin Carr of Britpoppers The Boo Radleys returns with his critically acclaimed solo work. Plus a host of incredible new artists from across the UK, joined by international acts from Estonia, Hungary, Korea, the Netherlands, Nova Scotia, Quebec, Sweden + more! 

The first keynote speaker for the FOCUS Wales 2018 conference has also been announced as Kliph Scurlock. Kliph became known for his dynamic and energetic drumming style during his long stint behind the kit for The Flaming Lips. In Wales he was perhaps just as well known for his ‘CYMRU’ tshirt, which he sported at most live shows. It is this distant yet passionate connection with the music of our tiny country, that eventually lured Kliph across the Atlantic to take up residence in Cardiff, and has since seen him perform alongside artists such as Gruff Rhys, Gulp, and Gwenno. Kliph will be discussing his life in music, and his love affair with Wales on Thursday 10th May at Wrexham’s brand new arts and markets centre Tŷ Pawb.    

Alongside this, more industry speakers have been announced for the FOCUS Wales interactive conference, including: Achal Dhillon (Killing Moon), Jad El Alam (Alternative Live Agency, France), Ffion Lewis (Sound Diplomacy), Lisa Whytock (Showcase Scotland Expo) and Hywel Wigley (Acapella) and lots more.   

 

Published on 27 January 2018 by UKFG

Recent News More news

  • In Cider Festival Returns to Weston-super-Mare in February 2026

    The popular In Cider Festival is back at Sand Bay Holiday Village near Weston-super-Mare from 6th to 8th February 2026. With a lineup of 22 national acts, including The Longest Johns, She Drew The Gun, and more, this winter-proof festival promises great music, evening meals, and leisure facilities.

  • Leicester Music Board Secures Youth Music Trailblazer Funding

    Leicester Music Board successfully secures Youth Music Trailblazer funding, leading to the launch of 'Leics Connect' talent development program. The program offers mentoring, skills development, and live performance opportunities for young musicians. Participants will also have access to the Leicest

  • Beat The Streets Reveals Final Line Up

    Loads more artists have been added to the Beat The Streets line up now finalised with 50+ acts playing across Nottingham on Sunday 25 January.

  • Love Saves The Day Announces 2026 Lineup at Ashton Court

    Love Saves The Day has officially announced the lineup for their 2026 event at Ashton Court. The festival promises a diverse range of performances from both renowned artists and local talents, showcasing the best of UK sounds and culture.

Upcoming Festivals Browse all

  • Tyneside Americana Blues Festival

    23 January - 25 January 2026

    Tyneside Americana Blues Festival 2026 Join the Tyneside Americana Blues Festival from 23rd to 25th January 2026 at the King Street Social Club in North Shields, Northumberland. This three-day event s...

  • Beat the Streets

    25 January 2026

    Beat the Streets 2026 Beat the Streets returns to Nottingham on Sunday, 25 January 2026, for a vibrant, all-day music festival across multiple city venues. This lively event showcases Nottingham’s bes...

  • Festival Supplier Awards

    29 January 2026

    Festival Supplier Awards 2026 The Festival Supplier Awards 2026 take place on Thursday 29th January at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms, London, celebrating the teams and suppliers behind outdoor events ...