“Someone has gotta snap you out of this phase.“
For many years, Slam Dunk has been one of those festivals that cannot be missed. Whether you’re a devotee of pop-punk, ska, or heavier genres like metalcore and hardcore, Slam Dunk has always offered something for everyone. This year’s line-up features the likes of Good Charlotte, Knocked Loose, Sublime, and Taking Back Sunday, each a headline act in their own right, and all worth catching, even on the same day.
While these big names (and many others on the bill) are undoubtedly unmissable, we’d like to shine a spotlight on the smaller, perhaps more obscure acts on this year’s roster. Here at Boolin, we take pride in championing the lesser-known names. Knocked Loose were once in this very position, and look at them now! So, without further ado, here is our list of Slam Dunk 2026: Ones To Watch.
Origami Angel
Emo to the extreme-o, Origami Angel has been steadily carving out a name for themselves over the past few years, appearing on bigger and brighter line-ups with every tour announcement, and sharing stages with some of the genre’s modern greats. An effortless blend of indie and contemporary emo, they possess a sound that’s unique yet instantly familiar. Half-sung, half-whined vocals meet twinkly, occasionally mathy guitars, with subtle, understated drums weaving it all into something otherworldly. If they’re not already on your radar, what rock have you been hiding under? Catch them at Slam Dunk and join the GAMI-gang.
FFO: Saturdays at Your Place, Michael Cera Palin & Microwave
Heriot
Swindon hardcore band Heriot are no strangers to visceral live shows. Their sound ranges from demonic, hellish tones and instrumentals to moments where vocalist Debbie Gough shines with ethereal, angelic melodies. Yet Gough can also unleash guttural, defiant, and ruthless screams, ensuring a performance full of intensity and contrast. Having recently supported the legendary SiKth, it seems the only way is up for Heriot, and Slam Dunk attendees would be remiss to miss them live.
FFO: Pupil Slicer, Conjurer & Svalbard
Static Dress
A household name for any devoted Boolin Tunes reader, we’ve made no secret of our admiration for Static Dress. Returning to Slam Dunk for the first time since 2023, the post-hardcore quartet masterfully channels the nostalgic sound of mid-to-early 2000s emo and post-hardcore while always adding a distinctive twist. With the announcement of their sophomore album Injury Episode, Slam Dunk feels like the perfect venue to debut new tracks. Expect high-energy performances that will captivate and leave you grinning.
FFO: Underoath, Concealer. & Hail The Sun
Dying Wish
One of our heavier picks for Slam Dunk 2026, Dying Wish have been making waves for a while, but with their latest album, Flesh Stays Together, they’ve truly broken the mould, showcasing their full potential. A melting pot of old-school metalcore, modern hardcore, and post-hardcore, Dying Wish draw from the best of those who came before them. With vocalist Emma Boster wielding a remarkable vocal range, it’s no surprise they’re growing at such a pace. If you’re not yet a fan, you will be after their set.
FFO: Orthodox, Mugshot & Counterparts
Cartel
Having officially reformed in 2022 following anniversary shows for their cult-classic album CHROMA, US pop-punk legends Cartel are continuing the celebrations at Slam Dunk. While they may not be instantly recognisable to all, their sound and influence evoke instant nostalgia. Without Cartel, so many bands that have played Slam Dunk over the years would not exist, and they deserve your time for that alone. An OG 2000s pop-punk staple, Cartel is a must-see for any self-respecting fan of the genre.
FFO: Cute Is What We Aim For, The Academy Is… & Yellowcard
Bayside
Those of us who’ve been around a while will already know Bayside, but for newcomers, it’s time to pay attention. Renowned for their 2004 self-titled debut, Bayside laid the groundwork for many of today’s favourites. They’ve continued to release fantastic music ever since, and while they may not command the same impact as before, they remain one of the scene’s most consistent and underrated post-hardcore acts. Dive into their back catalogue, catch them live, and prepare to witness some anthems in their natural habitat.
FFO: Armor for Sleep, The Wonder Years & Finch
Currents
Connecticut’s Currents are a decidedly underrated force in metalcore. It might sound clichéd, but listen to their performance on Audiotree Live, then tell us otherwise. Their sound strikes a flawless balance between melodic, emotional passages and brutal, anguished intensity, all underpinned by atmospheric instrumentation that creates a dynamic soundscape. For these reasons alone, they have the Boolin seal of approval and are high on our list of bands to catch at Slam Dunk.
FFO: Silent Planet, Invent Animate & The Devil Wears Prada
Angel Du$t
With the release of COLD 2 THE TOUCH, Angel Du$t has elevated itself into an entirely new realm. Already famed for their live performances, the Maryland natives draw inspiration from legacy acts like Iggy Pop and AC/DC, alongside modern trailblazers such as Turnstile and Sugar Horse. They possess a rare gift: the ability to make hardcore accessible. With Slam Dunk marking one of their first UK performances since the album’s release, expect them to pull out all the stops.
FFO: Koyo, Militarie Gun & Higher Power
Unpeople
London-based quartet Unpeople are for anyone who feels like an outcast. Refusing to be confined to a single genre, they speak directly to the ‘upeople’. Their sound oscillates between alt-rock melodies and groovy, rhythmic pop-punk, promising a refreshing energy and a unique addition to Slam Dunk’s lineup. Also, they’ve (finally) begun to tease new material through cryptic social media videos; their upcoming shows are likely to start including tracks from their next release, whatever form it might be taking.
FFO: Call Me Amour, Boston Manor & Trash Boat
Pest Control
Thrash may feel like a dying art, but Leeds-based Pest Control are keeping the flame alive. Merging modern hardcore with thrashy guitars, they’ve crafted a sound few can replicate. Having already graced the main stage at multiple UK festivals, their Slam Dunk set promises to be one for the history books.
FFO: Lifes Question, Initiate & Mindforce
Slam Dunk takes place May 23–24, 2026, in Hatfield and Leeds. Tickets can be purchased here.