An internationally acclaimed experimental and heavy music festival returns to Digbeth for its 22nd edition this August.

Supersonic Festival is produced and created by Capsule, the Birmingham-based arts organisation also responsible for the groundbreaking heritage project Home of Metal. Working closely with Black Sabbath, Home of Metal has been championing their global legacy and Birmingham’s place in music history since 2007.

Supersonic’s unique programme brings together pioneering artists from across the globe. This year’s line-up features UK exclusive performances from Zambian-Canadian rapper Backxwash, Sweden’s Funeral Folk (Maria W Horn & Sara Parkman), and Norway’s Witch Club Satan, alongside artists from Nigeria, Ireland, North America, and beyond. The festival also champions local talent, with rising Black Country duo Big Special joining the bill.

Supersonic also seeks to nurture the next generation of music lovers through its family-friendly kids gigs – Big Sounds for Little People – designed to introduce children to experimental and live music in a joyful, inclusive setting.

BBC Radio 6 Music Presenter Stuart Maconie, a long-time supporter of the festival, describes Supersonic as: “Daring, challenging, wild, often very loud and always great fun, Supersonic is a highlight of the musical year, bringing global sonic adventurers to the heart of a city that has always celebrated innovation and experimentation.”

As a long-term media partner, BBC Radio 6 Music will be on-site at Supersonic Festival, attending and recording throughout the weekend.

Despite Supersonic’s popularity, festival co-founder and Artistic Director Lisa Meyer has warned that it faces mounting pressure: “Supersonic is a homegrown success story that continues to bring global recognition and economic benefits to Birmingham. But the pressures we’re under are growing. To keep this internationally acclaimed event in the city, we need meaningful support and recognition of the vital role independent culture plays in Birmingham’s identity and future.”

Supersonic comes to Digbeth Fri 29 Aug – Sun 31 Aug. Tickets are on sale now, book yours using the button below.

Featured image credit: Robert Barrett