News: Stockton Calling – Final Line Up

Stockton Calling has unveiled the full line‑up for its 15th edition, taking over seven town‑centre venues on Easter Saturday 4th April. One of the North’s standout multi‑venue festivals, it once again is set to offer music lovers a fun and vibrant day featuring the best and brightest talent from around the North-East and the UK.

Hard‑Fi, Gurriers and The Molotovs were already confirmed as headliners — and now another huge name joins them, with Young Rebel Set returning for a special hometown appearance after last year’s emotional, sold‑out comeback.

They join a bill of 60+ artists, mixing vital new UK voices with some of the North East’s most exciting emerging acts. Highlights include South Yorkshire indie‑alt outfit Cruz, rising Newcastle newcomers Leazes, alt‑pop shapeshifter Cortney Dixon, and London grunge revivalists Villanelle, fronted by Gene Gallagher.

Running from midday ‘til late, Stockton Calling once again turns the town into a one‑day celebration of discovery, with stages across ARC, ARC‑2, KU Stockton, Social Room, The Georgian Theatre, The Green Room and The Link.

Young Rebel Set’s return is a particularly poignant moment. Formed in Stockton in 2007, the band became cult favourites across the UK and Europe before stepping away for a decade following the tragic loss of frontman Matthew Chipchase. Their 2025 comeback reignited a devoted fanbase — and headlining KU Stockton at this year’s festival brings them full circle.

In a joint statement, the band said: “We’ve had so many amazing nights in this town, and Stockton Calling has always meant something special having played it back in 2014. To be part of the line-up this year, alongside so many great artists, both nationally and locally, will be a real celebration. It’s been a big journey to get back here, and we’re buzzing to be part of something that showcases what this scene is all about.”

Chris Cobain of Tees Music Alliance adds: “This year’s line-up is exactly what Stockton Calling is about – showcasing the best new talent from the North East alongside some more household names. To have Young Rebel Set on of Teesside’s favourtie bands back returning to our festival is something that mean’s a lot to us and the festival goers. And with an eclectic collection of artists like Cruz , Pit Pony, Pollyfromthedirt and Amelia Coburn also on the bill, it’s clear the next wave is just as exciting.”

Tickets are on sale now and available via the Stockton Calling website.