One of Europe’s most forward-thinking music festivals has officially revealed the first chapter of its 2026 programme. Unsound Festival has announced the initial lineup for its upcoming edition, introducing the theme SOFT POWER while unveiling a new format that will see the event unfold across both Warsaw and Kraków for the first time in its history.
Taking place over two consecutive weekends—from October 2nd to 6th in Warsaw and October 8th to 11th in Kraków—the 2026 edition marks a significant evolution for the renowned Polish festival. Importantly, organizers have confirmed that there will be no repeated performances between the two cities, giving each location its own unique identity and encouraging audiences to experience both chapters of the festival.
As always, Unsound’s lineup reflects its reputation for championing artists who challenge musical conventions and push the boundaries of contemporary electronic, experimental and audiovisual performance.
The first announcement features an impressive mix of established innovators and exciting new voices. Among the highlights is PPP, the collaborative project bringing together Piezo, DJ Plead and DJ Python, alongside acclaimed UK post-punk outfit Mandy, Indiana. Experimental composer Tim Hecker joins forces with visual artist Vincent de Belleval, while genre-defying producer Debit and underground favorite weed420 also appear on the initial bill.
One of the most anticipated performances comes from Actress, who will premiere a brand-new work titled Radical Frame, continuing his long-standing exploration of the intersection between electronic music, abstraction and contemporary art.
Another standout collaboration sees Mabe Fratti, Clarissa Connelly and Mark William Lewis performing together as Warp Records’ The Providenza Ensemble, promising one of the festival’s most intriguing live experiences.
The festival’s 2026 theme, SOFT POWER, offers a thought-provoking framework for this year’s programme. In a statement, Unsound explained that the concept explores the meaning of softness and influence during an era increasingly defined by conflict, technological acceleration and political uncertainty.
“Unsound asks what softness and power mean in a time of ‘might makes right,’ global lawlessness, artificial intelligence and algorithmic control,” the festival stated.
This kind of critical reflection has long been central to Unsound’s identity. More than simply presenting concerts, the festival consistently encourages dialogue around culture, technology and society, making it one of the most intellectually engaging events on the international music calendar.
Additional artists, venue details and city-specific programming will be announced in the coming weeks, gradually revealing how the two editions will complement one another while maintaining their own distinct character.
With another ambitious concept, an exceptional opening lineup and an expanded format that reflects its growing international stature, Unsound 2026 is already shaping up to be one of the year’s essential events for anyone passionate about adventurous music and contemporary culture.
This autumn, Poland once again becomes a global meeting point for sonic exploration. 🖤🎶✨
