Wilderness Festival, presented by Audi, is set to take place this year from July 31st to August 3rd at Cornbury Park in Oxfordshire. Known for its exceptional design and commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences year after year, it’s an event you won’t want to miss. Described by The Independent as “the perfect place to discover your new favourite artist”, this preview of five standout performers offers the perfect place to start.
AURORA
Known as the ‘Fairy of Pop’ for her otherworldly blend of electronic, pop and folk music, 27-year-old Norwegian artist AURORA has captivated global audiences with her ethereal vocals and introspective lyrics. Since her debut, she has become a defining voice in Norway’s contemporary music scene, celebrated for pushing boundaries and challenging norms. Her latest album, What Happened to the Heart?, marks a new era of emotional and artistic depth, inspired by a powerful letter co-written by Indigenous activists.
Wet Leg
Rising from the Isle of Wight with a riotous blend of sarcasm, sass and surf-rock sensibilities, Wet Leg are at the forefront of feminist indie-rock. Fronted by Rhian Teasdale and Hester Chambers, the duo is known for dismantling patriarchal clichés with razor-sharp lyrics and irreverent charm. Their breakout single Chase Lounge became an instant hit, playfully skewering objectification. Their self-titled debut album channels a new kind of rebellion, one that is clever, catchy and defiantly fun, cementing their status as subversive icons for a new generation.
Olive Jones
With richly textured alt-pop production and haunting, emotionally raw vocals, Olive Jones bridges introspective storytelling with the expansive scope of modern electronic pop. Her songs navigate womanhood, mental health and emotional resilience with poetic depth. Drawing comparisons to artists like Florence Welch and Phoebe Bridges, Jones is part of a new wave of artists redefining vulnerability as power, crafting music that feels both confessional and quietly radical.
Bess Atwell
Rooted in the British folk tradition and infused with modern indie sensibilities, Bess Atwell offers a poignant take on contemporary songwriting. Her music explores identity, anxiety and the everyday tensions of womanhood through lush soundscapes and a voice that holds both softness and resolve. Atwell’s strength lies in stillness, as her lyrics linger, whilst her melodies soothe, making the calm feel otherworldly.
Hinds
Exploding out of Madrid with unfiltered energy and bilingual swagger, Hinds are a garage rock powerhouse redefining what it means to be a girl band. Known for their scrappy guitars, chaotic chemistry and playful spirit, the duo blends Spanish and English lyrics into fierce, freewheeling anthems about heartbreak, friendship and defiance. Equal parts mess and magic, Hinds bring a unique perspective to indie rock, with an irresistible and rebellious joy which isn’t worth passing up.
Wilderness truly has something for everyone. While these artists represent just a glimpse of the music and dancing offerings, the festival also features feasting and dining experiences, thought-provoking talks, comedy, wellness sessions and arts programming. Visit their website below to view the full line-up and grab tickets while they’re still available.
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