Devonté Hynes, the creative force behind Blood Orange, is set to bring a vibrant and eclectic lineup to London’s Rally Festival this August. The community-driven music and arts event, returning for its fourth installment, will see Hynes not only headline but also co-curate the main stage, building on a legacy of showcasing visionary artists across alternative, electronic, and experimental music. The festival, slated for Saturday, August 29th in Southwark Park, promises a day steeped in innovative sounds and a distinctly independent spirit.

Hynes’ involvement extends beyond a performance; he’s collaborating with NTS Radio, GALA, and Bird On The Wire to shape the festival’s ambitious program. The aim, according to a press release, is to draw from “the fringes of experimental electronics, alt-pop and leftfield club music,” offering a platform for artists who push creative boundaries. This year’s Rally Festival is poised to be a significant moment for London’s alternative music scene, solidifying its reputation as a champion of emerging and boundary-pushing talent.

The lineup itself is a testament to this commitment. Joining Blood Orange will be Daniel Avery, performing with a full band and showcasing material from his recently released album, ‘Tremor.’ Also featured are Smerz and james K, alongside Jump Source, the live electronic project of Montréal-based DJs Priori and Patrick Holland, who will be making their UK debut at the festival. The diverse roster continues with GENA (featuring Liv.e & Karriem Riggins), keiyaA, YHWH Nailgun, Kiss Facility (Maya Alkhateri & Sega Bodega), dexter in the newsagent, mark william lewis, spirit blue, Tariq Al-Sabir, and thred.

This announcement follows Hynes’ return to music with ‘Essex Honey,’ his first full-length album under the Blood Orange moniker in six years. The album, which earned a four-star review from NME, was praised for its “stunning reflections on the meaning of home” and its exploration of British identity. ‘Essex Honey’ also secured a place at Number 15 on NME’s Best Albums of 2025 list, lauded for its “shimmering orchestral pop” and poignant themes of loss and belonging.

The album features collaborations with a stellar cast of artists, including Lorde, Caroline Polachek, Brendan Yates, and Mustafa. Hynes’ recent activity extends beyond album releases; he also covered The Smiths’ classic track ‘How Soon Is Now?’ in Los Angeles and partnered with AIAIAI to design a limited edition line of headphones.

Tickets for Rally go on sale March 2nd. Those interested in attending can find more information and purchase tickets here.

The Rally Festival has rapidly evolved into a key event for alternative and experimental music in London, spotlighting artists like CASISDEAD, Nourished By Time, Floating Points, Erika de Casier, and Mount Kimbie in previous years. This year, with Blood Orange at the helm, the festival is poised to reach new heights, continuing its commitment to championing innovative and forward-thinking artists.

As Blood Orange prepares to curate this year’s Rally Festival, the event promises a unique and immersive experience for music lovers seeking sounds beyond the mainstream. The festival’s focus on experimental music and its dedication to fostering a community-driven atmosphere suggest a vibrant and unforgettable day of music and art in Southwark Park. The anticipation is building for what promises to be a landmark event in London’s summer festival calendar.

Stay tuned for further announcements regarding the full festival program and additional details as Rally 2026 approaches. Share your excitement and connect with the festival community online.

James Blake’s Independent Turn Signals a Broader Shift in the Music Industry

The music industry is bracing for a wave of artist independence, and James Blake is leading the charge. With the announcement of his seventh studio album, ‘Trying Times,’ arriving March 13 via his own Good Boy Records, and a subsequent 2026 North American tour kicking off in Atlanta on May 27, Blake isn’t just releasing music – he’s signaling a fundamental shift in how artists control their narratives and careers. This move, following his departure from Republic Records, is emblematic of a growing trend where established artists are opting for self-reliance, fueled by evolving digital distribution models and a desire for creative autonomy.

‘Trying Times’: A Sonic Exploration of Uncertainty

The latest single, ‘I Had A Dream She Took My Hand,’ offers a glimpse into the emotional landscape of ‘Trying Times.’ Described as a “romantic waltz” with a “stripped-back, slightly melancholic melody,” the track showcases Blake’s signature haunting vocals and explores themes of optimism intertwined with unease. The song’s lyrical content – “I had a dream she took my hand/I feel higher than storms, lighter than sand” – hints at a broader album-long exploration of solitude and the complexities of modern love. This willingness to delve into vulnerability resonates with a contemporary audience increasingly seeking authenticity in music.

The Rise of Independent Artists: A New Power Dynamic

Blake’s decision to go independent isn’t isolated. More and more artists, even those with established label relationships, are recognizing the benefits of owning their masters and controlling their creative direction. This trend is driven by several factors. Firstly, the rise of direct-to-fan platforms like Bandcamp and Patreon allows artists to cultivate loyal audiences and generate revenue without relying on traditional intermediaries. Secondly, the decreasing cost of recording and production technology empowers artists to create high-quality music independently. Finally, the increasing dissatisfaction with the often-restrictive terms offered by major labels is pushing artists to seek alternative paths.

Touring as a Cornerstone of Independent Revenue

The announced 2026 North American tour – with dates in Atlanta, New York, Boston, Washington D.C., Toronto, Chicago, Berkeley, and Los Angeles – is a crucial component of Blake’s independent strategy. Live performances are increasingly becoming the primary revenue stream for musicians, particularly in the streaming era. Artists who control their touring schedules and ticket pricing can maximize their earnings and build stronger connections with their fans. Tickets go on sale February 20 at 10am local time, and represent a direct financial benefit to Blake and his team.

Beyond Blake: A Broader Industry Reshaping

James Blake’s journey reflects a larger industry reshaping. His previous collaborations, including the ‘Bad Cameo’ record with Lil Yachty and the ‘CMYK 002’ EP, demonstrate a willingness to experiment and engage with diverse musical landscapes – a freedom often enhanced by independent status. His recent performances, from accompanying Timothée Chalamet on Saturday Night Live to participating in benefit concerts like Brian Eno’s ‘Together For Palestine’ show, highlight his continued relevance and artistic versatility. These diverse engagements are easier to navigate when an artist isn’t bound by label constraints.

The move towards artist independence isn’t without its challenges. Independent artists must accept on the responsibilities of marketing, distribution, and promotion, which traditionally fell to the label. However, the potential rewards – greater creative control, a larger share of the revenue, and a stronger connection with fans – are proving increasingly attractive. James Blake’s ‘Trying Times’ and accompanying tour aren’t just a new release; they’re a blueprint for the future of the music industry.

What are your predictions for the future of artist independence in the music industry? Share your thoughts in the comments below!