The first six months of 2026 has surely been a storming one for releases from new, emerging, and under-the-radar acts, and the Spotify Evolving Tunes playlist has already featured about 200 of them during this time. Acts from the UK, Europe, and across the world have made up the playlist, but it evolves – with only about 25 tracks there at any one time – so do keep a regular eye (& your ears) on it for some fabulous artists.
I believe this ‘half year report’ also highlights the eclectic array of impressive new music that has been released too, which in the first six months has included:
Atmospheric post-punk by The Clockworks
Alternative electronica by Giant Party
Jazz infused EDM by City Limits
Sunshine psych pop by Elandra
Soulful Latin jazz by Malcolm Strachan
Mesmerising pop noir by Dark Tropics
Anthemic folk by The Slow Country
Indie rock ‘n’ roll by Blood Red Shoes
Furious US punk by Red Arrow Highway
Bouncing alternative dance floor rap by Good Health Good Wealth & Ben Kidson
I’m convinced the next six month will be packed with more amazing releases too, so do pop by and catch up on the playlist as often as possible…
Alternative Friday 