26 November 2025
Newsdesk
Gilles Peterson’s award-winning We Out Here Festival is set to return to the idyllic Dorset countryside from 20th to 23rd August 2026, today announcing a first wave lineup that confirms its status as a champion of musical discovery. True to its signature style, the initial announcement mixes genre pioneers, established icons, and the finest emerging talent across jazz, soul, hip-hop, electronica, and beyond.
Leading the charge is legendary Brazilian composer and producer Arthur Verocai, who will perform with the Nu Civilisation Orchestra. They are joined by the revered "father of Ethio-Jazz," Mulatu Astatke, and the influential Anglo-French avant-pop experimentalists, Stereolab.
The festival’s commitment to unique programming is further highlighted by Speakers Corner Quartet, who will present a special interpretation of the music of cult composer and queer icon Arthur Russell, celebrating his genre-spanning work 33 years after his passing.
The stacked lineup also features Jamaican dub innovator Scientist, boundary-pushing Zambian artist Sampa The Great, and Little Dragon frontwoman Yukimi. The spectrum of modern music continues with acclaimed New York rapper MIKE, 90s drum & bass pioneer Adam F, Mercury Prize shortlisted Scottish jazz project corto.alto, and London R&B vocalist Yazmin Lacey.
These headliners are supported by an incredible array of live acts and DJs, including Jamie Woon, Jazzanova (live), Kahil El ‘Zabar, Ana Frango Eléctrico, and more. With over 50% of tickets already sold before any lineup announcements, the festival is riding high on the success of its 2025 edition, which was its fifth consecutive sell-out year.
We Out Here, now entering its seventh year, fosters a positive community atmosphere amidst towering trees, offering a unique opportunity to switch off and immerse fully in its trademark offering: outstanding live music, world-class DJ sets, and a focus on wellness and cultural activities. Tickets are available now, but fans are urged to act quickly before the Early Bird Ticket Offer concludes on Sunday, November 30th.
