From the Oyster Comes the Pearl in Dubai

The Mission, a British rock band formed in 1985, achieved remarkable success throughout their career. They scored 13 UK Top 40 singles, including iconic hits like "Wasteland" and "Tower of Strength." Their albums, such as "God's Own Medicine" and "Carved In Sand," sold over five million copies worldwide. The band's reputation as an exceptional live act is solidified through numerous accolades, sold-out global tours, and headlining festivals across the world, including the renowned Reading Festival twice. Despite lineup changes and hiatus', The Mission last reunited in 2011 and have continued to tour extensively ever since, captivating audiences across the globe.  

The Chameleons were formed in Manchester, England in 1981.
They originally consisted of singer & bassist Mark Burgess, guitarist Reg Smithies, guitarist Dave Fielding and drummer John Lever.Their music shared the anthemic soar of early U2 releases, whilst maintaining a decidedly “dreamy” feel that has influenced generations of musicians & bands. The Chameleons released four tremendous studio albums at a time when most bands released just one memorable one.

Live, their performances were incendiary and were able to not only capture but magnify their studio sound.

With a new studio album out this autumn, Mark Burgess & Reg Smithies still provide the backdrop to one of the best live bands currently around.

Established in late 2014, IST IST have forged a formidable reputation based on word-of-mouth recommendation of their uncompromisingly intense live shows. With a fierce Mancunian DIY work ethic & an ever-growing back catalogue of successful studio & live releases they are this year’s band to watch. All their recorded material is self-released through their own Kind Violence Record company.

Their recent European & UK tours in March & April 2024 found the band previewing tracks from ”Light A Bigger Fire” as well as their now extensive back catalogue with audiences grossing over 8,000 excited fans in nine different countries.

The band was originally formed by frontman Christian Riou & signed to Island Records in 1988. Their debut record “Through The Veil” sold tens of thousands copies internationally. They became a top live alternative band of the Gothic period, culminating as support to The Cult's massive “Sonic Temple”’ UK stadium tour.

1991 saw the band signed to EMI US, release the album “Out There” plus singles “Wanted It All” & “Ways Of Love” which reached the UK Top 50.

After support slots with Ozzy Osbourne & Soundgarden, the band returned to support Pearl Jam on their legendary 10 Tour.

After a hiatus, Riou re-formed a new CTT in 2004 for the Whitby Goth Festival & support slots followed including The Mission, Spear of Destiny and major events such as Camden Rocks. The band went back into hiatus in 2014.

Welcome to 2024, with the heritage alternative scene rocketing, a new Claytown Troupe was formed & remains led by Christian, and their first announcement was this Festival.

More exciting shows are planned for 2025 and maybe some secret warm up gigs in England.