Madrid’s music scene is buzzing this year, and not just with the big-name headliners. If you skip the Movistar Arena Madrid/Wizink crowds and dig a little deeper, you’ll find something even cooler going on — an exciting wave of up-and-coming artists taking over the city’s more intimate spots. Whether you’re all about indie or just in the mood for something a little different, these HighClouds-approved gigs are full of pure talent and good vibes.
NINA at Sala B – May 2
NINA is one of the three singer-songwriters in London’s bar italia. For over 10 years, she has also been stepping out solo with a vibe that’s murky, minimal, and kind of magnetic. Her music features drawled, theatrical vocals over skeletal beats—like early trip-hop tangled in broken post-punk wires.
E-Prime at Siroco – May 24
If you like your music introspective but still danceable, don’t miss E-Prime. This Toronto duo, formed by former members of the band Doomsquad — siblings Trevor and Jaclyn Blumas– blends ambient textures with sexy, retro beats. Their last EP, Dry Throats and Sunburns, was released on Montreal label SSURROUNDSS.
Sharp Pins at Sala B – May 27
Ready for some fuzzy, lo-fi power pop? Chicago’s Sharp Pins might be barely out of their teens, but they sound like seasoned indie rockers who grew up on 90s college radio. Their new album Radio DDR is packed with jangly guitars and punchy hooks — all delivered with an infectious DIY energy. El Sol has seen plenty of rising stars hit its stage, and Sharp Pins could be next, so catch them now before they blow up.
Cabiria at El Sótano – June 5
Cabiria’s dreamy synth-pop is like stepping into a neon-lit memory—melancholic, cinematic, and just plain addictive. Catch her at El Sótano, one of Malasaña’s coziest basement venues, if you want to hear songs from RADIO CORAL, her upcoming album, brought to life on stage.
Dehd at Sala Villanos – June 11
Dehd are bringing their reverb-soaked and theatrical garage rock all the way from Chicago, and their Madrid stop is shaping up to be one of the summer’s most cathartic gigs. Sala Villanos is gritty, loud, and perfect for the band’s raw energy. Expect sweat, singalongs, and a little heartbreak.
Kalorama Madrid – June 21
Featuring Boy Harsher, Model/Actriz, Azealia Banks & Pet Shop Boys
Yes, Pet Shop Boys and Azealia Banks are icons. But if you’re into the underground, get there early for Boy Harsher’s shadowy synths and Model/Actriz’s unhinged, industrial post-punk. Bonus: Scissor Sisters are back on stage and they’ll also perform on June 21st.
Beth Gibbons at Noches del Botánico – July 15
This one’s special. Beth Gibbons—yes, the haunting voice of Portishead—is playing a solo set in the lush gardens of Real Jardín Botánico. It’s outdoors. It’s intimate. It’ll probably ruin you emotionally in the best way possible. Don’t miss it.
Ethel Cain at Teatro Eslava – November 8
Gothic Americana meets Southern Gothic storytelling—Ethel Cain is the moment. Her show at Teatro Eslava this November will feel like a slow-burning sermon, drenched in reverb and religious imagery. If you know, you know. Unfortunately, this one sold out in a flash, so your best bet is to keep an eye on resale platforms and hope you get lucky. Her second album, Willoughby Tucker, I’ll Always Love You, is out in August 2025.
Destroyer at Teatro Magno – November 24
Canadian cult indie legend Dan Bejar (aka Destroyer) is set to drape the Magno club in his signature blend of poetic, off-kilter indie rock. Expect a set that swings from delicate to anthemic, all anchored by Bejar’s unmistakable half-sung, half-spoken vocals. It’s a rare chance to catch a cult favorite with decades of music under his belt in an intimate venue — soak it up.
We’ll do our best to keep this article updated with all the new gigs we’re excited about. If you want to meet up, shoot us a message on Instagram—let’s grab a beer before or after the show!
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