5 Upcoming Artists You Need to See at Kilby Block Party 2026

Kilby Block Party has something in store for everyone in terms of genres, but we’re here to tell you which artists you need to be front row for at this year’s fest.

Freak Slug

Freak Slug crafts dreamy indie-pop, where she blends hazy production with majestic lyricism. Her sound drifts between bedroom pop and subtle psychedelia, pairing soft vocals with textured, lo-fi instrumentation. With a growing following online, she’s carving out a distinct space through surreal aesthetics and songwriting. Freak Slub’s set is a perfect early discovery moment before the next wave breaks.

Chanel Beads

Chanel Beads blends ambient textures, glitchy electronics, and indie-pop sensibilities into a sound that feels immersive. Songs like “Embarrassed Dogs” and “Ache” layer distorted samples with delicate melodies. As his profile rises in experimental and alt circles, his live sets bring that same unpredictability to the stage. Catch him at the fest and feel absolutely transportive.

Die Spitz

Die Spitz bring snarling, high-voltage punk that’s as confrontational as it is cathartic, fusing riot grrrl attitude with raw garage energy. Best entry points include “Hair of Dog,” “Little Flame, and “i hate when GIRLS die.” Their songs hit fast and loud, driven by distortion and unapologetic intensity, and their live shows are pure chaos. Catch them at Kilby Block Party, where their explosive set is primed to be the weekend’s most visceral performance.

This is Lorelei

This Is Lorelei is the indie-rock project of Nate Amos, who’s best known for quietly incisive lyrics. Standout tracks like “Dancing in the Club,” “Angel’s Eye,” and “Brown Dog” highlight the project’s knack for subtle melodies. With growing buzz in DIY circles, their live sets feel loose, intimate, and disarmingly sincere.

Gelli Haha

Gelli Haha makes playful, off-kilter pop full of elastic vocals, quirky production, and left-field hooks. Tracks like “Funny Music,” and “Bounce House” showcase their knack for blending humor with genuine feeling. Their live shows lean into that unpredictability, turning each set into a colorful, high-energy experience that feels loose and interactive. Gelli Haha’s chaotic charm and infectious stage presence make their performances as memorable as their songs.

Kilby Block Party is taking place at the Utah State Fairpark in Salt Lake City from May 15th through May 17th. Tickets are on sale NOW, get yours here while you can.

I'm a full-time music journalist/photographer from Houston, number one Paramore fan and Husky dog owner. I have a B.S in Radio-Television-Film from UT Austin and a M.A in Mass Communications from the University of Houston, which makes me smart! On top of being an avid concert-goer and movie fanatic, I love bonding with others over the power of local music and media.