The award-nominated independent rock and metal festival, Takedown, has announced the next wave of artists for its 2026 edition. The festival is set to return to the Portsmouth Guildhall on Friday, 3rd and Saturday, 4th April 2026, delivering another packed lineup to the south coast.
Newly confirmed for the Saturday bill are Leicester’s alternative rock collective Mouth Culture, known for their high-energy chaos, and the shadowy London duo Zetra, who bring a unique brand of shoegaze-soaked metal. They will be joined by Lastelle. The Friday lineup is bolstered by the additions of South Of Salem and Asomvel.
This year’s event will see the masked collective President make their first-ever festival headline appearance on the Saturday night. Having quickly gained a reputation as one of heavy music’s most exciting new forces, their Takedown performance promises to be a defining moment. Topping the bill on Friday are Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons, who will bring decades of hard rock firepower with a special Motörhead set.
Speaking of their addition, Mouth Culture stated: “Takedown feels like home – chaotic, loud, and exactly where we belong. We’re ready to leave our mark on it.” South of Salem also shared their enthusiasm: “We could not be more excited to be a part of Takedown Festival 2026! The event is always incredible and we cannot wait to bring our high octane horror show to that awesome stage.”
After an eight-year hiatus, the legendary festival made a triumphant return in 2023 with headliners Sleep Token and Skindred. Relocating from its original home at Southampton University to the larger Portsmouth Guildhall, Takedown has re-established itself as a vital fixture in the UK rock calendar. Capping off its incredible comeback, the festival was nominated for Best Small Festival, Best Metropolitan Festival, and the Grassroots Festival Award at the 2023 UK Festival Awards.
Tickets for Takedown Festival 2026 are on sale now
Don’t fancy Patreon? Buy us a one-off beverage!
Takedown Festival: official | facebook | twitter | instagram
