Bands and artists to watch out for.
As we kiss goodbye to another triumphant academic year, BIMM looks to reflect upon some of its greatest achievements. Here’s an (inexhaustive, of course) list of some key artists to watch out for.
Dan Mercer
With eight years of production under his belt, Dan Mercer has solidified himself as one of Brighton’s favourite up-and-coming DJs. He specialises in electronic music of all forms, merging energetic soundbites with melodic waves and experimental beats that make his music less than typical. Dan’s talent has received recognition beyond his local scene. Electronic mega-group Pendulum spun a record featuring Mercer at Boomtown in 2024 – something he considers the achievement of a lifetime. He’s also received numerous BBC Introducing plays and continues to garner hype for his music around the city.
Instagram: @danmercermusic
Juno
Irish singer/songwriter Juno embodies female empowerment, walking the line between strength and sensitivity that makes womanhood so special. Her music, influenced by the things she’s seen and felt, packs a punch of relatability wrapped up in huge, belting vocals and powerhouse instrumentals from her accompanying band. Uncomplicated but heartfelt, Juno’s songs say exactly what they need to and nothing more. Juno’s sensibility sets her apart from the saturation as she’s aware of her musical impact. It may not transcend expectations, but when you hear Juno sing, you’ll undoubtedly feel every inch of what she is conveying.
Instagram: @juno_hassonmusic
Lenny
Lenny embodies the bold, unfiltered energy of a true popstar, channelling early Katy Perry and Olivia Rodrigo with her own fervent twist. Her sound is fun, infectious and laced with a fiery passion to match her striking red hair. This year saw the release of her debut EP Fatal Attraction, celebrated with a sold-out release party and a standout set at Jodie Bryant’s Discover Live at The Hope & Ruin. With an unstoppable work ethic and sky-high ambition, Lenny is one to watch – a rising star whose career is destined to be nothing short of electric.
Instagram: @lennyoxz
Fever Rouge
Fever Rouge are arguably one of Brighton’s most critical rising acts. Their intricately crafted sound is not easy to put into words. It’s rock, above all, with flourishes of jazz, funk and an infectious discordance that holds you captive. The band seep energy, flare, highs and lows, and everything in between. You simply have to hear for yourself. Despite the tedious and gruelling pressure often faced by bands with such potential, this year has been one of triumph for Fever Rouge, including the release of their EP Feed the Villain and a UK mini tour. They promise to continue spreading their sound around Brighton and beyond.
Instagram: @fever.rouge
Bighead Tea Drinkers
Grown from the foundations laid by indie rock greats such as Catfish and the Bottlemen, Fontaines D.C. and Inhaler, Bighead Tea Drinkers are an effervescent guitar-based force that haven’t hit the brakes since their inception in 2022. Confidence is second nature to them. They operate with an absolute certainty in their sound and where they stand in the new wave of indie, tearing through tired traditions and defying expectations along the way. Every move Bighead Tea Drinkers makes is backed by their expert understanding of live music. They don’t just play to a crowd – they command it, delivering the kind of raw, electric performances that make them a natural headliner.
This year so far has been pretty immense for the band, with the release of their debut EP Submerge, a UK tour and the outstanding achievement of opening up the Isle of Wight Festival. So, be sure to keep an eye out for these guys, because the only way they’re headed is up!
Instagram: @bigheadteadrinkers
Honourable Mentio: Imi Darcy Wright – industry extraordinaire
While BIMM is known primarily for producing top-tier musicians, the university also does a stellar job at nurturing an extraordinarily talented group of people who often go overlooked: those behind the scenes. I’d like to honourably mention Imi Darcy Wright. She’s a sound engineer and events specialist who can only be described as blazing her way through the industry. From starting out at a grassroots level with the help of opportunities from BIMM, Imi has begun carving her own path into the wider industry. Most notably, after a mammoth six-festival run last summer, Imi was offered work on what is arguably the world’s most famous festival stage – the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury Festival. Imi may not be on the stage, but she’s certainly a superstar behind it. To the music industry… I hope you’re ready for this one!
Instagram: @imidarcyy
