The Spring bank holiday at the end of May is synonymous with the start of warmer nights, BBQs and that gratifying sense of ease that summer brings; it simultaneously marks one of the most exciting events on the musical calendar, Dot to Dot festival. Over the course of the weekend, Dot to Dot sees an incredible line-up touring across Manchester, Bristol and Nottingham, filling some of the most iconic venues of each city with the grooviest variety imaginable. The festival manages to hit a sweet spot between the names on everyone’s lips at the moment and newcomers bursting with potential – making it an absolute must for anyone looking to discover some of their favourite new bands and cement their summer soundtrack. Headlining this year are old favourites, the ever-innovative Crystal Fighters, fresh from the release of their fourth album, Gaia & Friends. Joined by a wealth of diverse artists such as old school ‘indie dreamboats’ Swim Deep and fresher faces such as Dream Wife and Viagra Boys, it promises an eclectic offering of sets across the day.

Perhaps the most enticing name on the line-up is New Zealand native Jordan Rakei. Having collaborated with some of the biggest names on the alternative scene right now, such as Tom Misch and FKJ, Jordan Rakei has solidified himself as a name to watch out for, time and time again proving his incredible vocals and talent – a recent highlight has inarguably been his feature on Loyle Carner’s heart-warming ‘Ottolenghi’. His set at Dot to Dot is undoubtedly going to be unmissable – with the release of ‘Mind’s Eye’ earlier this year, bigger things appear on the horizon for the artist, and it’s something you will want to be a part of.

Scouse sweethearts The Night Café consistently bring an enthused and heartfelt performance, and Dot to Dot is sure to be no exception. Another act to catch is Lauren Aquilina, who after a break from music has returned this year with a few singles, one of which, ‘Tobacco in my Sheets’ shows her at possibly her strongest yet – Aquilina has proven time and time again that she has mastered her indie folk/pop brand, and it is sure to be one of the highlight sets of the festival.

The abundance of undiscovered talent lying further down the line-up is immense; Dancing on Tables, hailing from Fife, have masses of promise – their playful indie-pop is sure to bring considerable energy to the stage across the weekend. It is the smaller bands who are destined to steal the weekend for many punters – Dot to Dot lends itself to the kind of festival experience where you can stumble across a random set on the off chance and find your new favourite band. With a lot of the line-up still unannounced, something already stellar can only get better – there is really no excuse not to turn up and have a boogie to someone who could quickly turn into your artist of the year.

You can grab your tickets here!