SAMA Paisley Takeover 2026

Every now and then, a thriving music scene unveils a rare gem, an artist whose refined, imaginative, and insightful approach to music seems to echo through time. Glasgow’s Alice Faye stands as one of these remarkable discoveries. Her musical creations are intricate journeys, blending wild-eyed drama with poignant intimacy to form a distinctive narrative that captivates audiences.

Alice’s artistry is defined by bold, fearless choices that expand her creative horizons. She draws on classic 70s pop, 60s folk, and country traditions, enriching them with the dramatic flair of chanson icons like Piaf and Brel. Her music carries a confessional quality reminiscent of Rufus Wainwright, and her striking, unique vocal prowess, paired with unwavering musical confidence, creates a vivid, technicolor landscape that enthralls audiences. With a voice that feels timeless yet fresh, she paints intricate musical tapestries, weaving evocative storytelling into every note. Her songs are immersive experiences, transporting listeners to different worlds and exploring the full spectrum of human emotion.

Her journey so far includes the release of her acclaimed piano-based EP Deadbeat, which delves into themes of self-discovery and personal growth. The EP received widespread praise, including airplay on BBC Radio 2 and BBC Radio Scotland, as well as features in The List and The Skinny. Alice has graced major festival stages, including Belladrum, Celtic Connections, Doune the Rabbit Hole, Eden Festival, and Fyne Fest. She has toured the UK with Phillip Seth Campbell and performed at renowned jazz festivals such as Aberdeen Jazz Festival and Dundee Jazz Festival, sharing bills with legendary acts like Rufus Wainwright, Nick Lowe, and BMX Bandits.

A standout moment in 2024 saw Alice appear on Channel 4’s The Piano, where she won over audiences with Edie, a heartfelt ode to her sister. The performance resonated so deeply that she was invited back for the show’s Christmas special, cementing her as a rising star. After a series of sold-out headline shows in London, Edinburgh, and Glasgow, she reached a new milestone by selling out St Matthias Church.

In the summer of 2025, Alice embarked on her first-ever European headline tour, the Silly Little Fool EP Tour, spanning Germany, the Netherlands, and France - including sold-out dates in Paris and Amsterdam. The tour concluded with her largest London show to date at Omeara, another sell-out. Following that, she played her biggest hometown shows to date at Glasgow’s Art School and Edinburgh’s Caves.

In October, Alice won the Sound of Young Scotland 2025 award. The following month, she released Some Brief Encounters, her EP with Julen Santamaria, following up on their fan favourite Later, Later On. She now has her sights set on a special performance at Citizen’s Theatre as part of Celtic Connections 2026, touring France with Rainbow Girls, and playing

her largest London headline to date at Bush Hall in February. These milestones lead toward her highly anticipated Vaude Villain debut album, set for release in 2026, further establishing Alice Faye as one of Scotland’s most compelling and inventive musical storytellers - an artist whose voice and vision continue to resonate across genres and eras.

Kai Reesu is an exciting new project blending jazz, hip-hop, video-game soundworlds and 70s fusion. Led by Paul Copeland (keys) with Matt Sim (drums) and Robert McArthur (guitar/ bass), the band draws on psychedelia, grime, neo-classical textures and old-school funk to create a bold, modern sound.

Their debut album Kompromat was a deserving winner of the Scottish Album of the Year (SAY) award in 2025, and this year promises to take the band to new heights and international recognition. In the Tunnels on a Saturday night, there will be atmospheric instrumentals and dance-ready tracks that will show all that’s great in young Scottish contemporary jazz.

Hailing from Gourock on Scotland’s west coast, SLIX have grown into one of the country’s most exciting new live acts. Since their 2022 debut EP Jingle Jangle, they’ve built a loyal following through high-energy, heart-on-sleeve shows that blend hooky indie anthems with real working-class grit.

They’ve been busy making waves performing at TRNSMT 2023, selling out Glasgow’s St Luke’s (600 cap) in March 2024, and becoming one of the only bands to be booked two years running for a showcase at Wide Days. Last year also saw them step onto the international stage with appearances at Future Echoes (Sweden), The Great Escape, Twisterella, WISE Festival (Berlin) and Mad Cool (Madrid). They wrapped their first full UK tour supporting The LaFontaines and smahed their London Headline debut in 2025 by selling out the Elephants Head in Camden.

SLIX took home Best Live Act at the Scottish Alternative Music Awards, a nod to their growing reputation as a must-see live band. Media support has come from Clash, DIY, Scotland on Sunday, BBC Radio 1, BBC Scotland, Tenement TV, and even Metal Hammer (Spain) and Mondo Sonoro. Their single With You landed a sync on Made in Chelsea, and their ABBA cover Gimme Gimme Gimme picked up over 400k views online.

Francis Bondd

Francis Bondd, also known as Mr Commando, is a Glasgow-based singer, songwriter, guitarist, and busker. He gained a strong following on social media by sharing videos of his street performances across Scotland.

Over the past year, Francis has captured his busking journey through two EPs, Happy Land and Rent Is Due, featuring the singles “LOML,” “Toxic,” and “Politrixx.” He is a prolific songwriter who has collaborated with several musicians from Glasgow and beyond.

Francis is an eclectic vocalist who moves seamlessly between different genres, bringing versatility and energy to his performances. Known for his charm and distinctive style, Mr Commando has built a strong connection with audiences.

Originally from Lagos, Nigeria, Francis has fully embraced Scottish culture, which is reflected in his sound and musical identity. Driven by a message of love and happiness, he aims to reach fans around the world. In 2026, Francis formed a band called The Magik Boys.

SAMA Paisley Takeover is supported by Renfrewshire Lesire, and presented by SAMA EVENTS LTD.

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