Primus Announce First European Show In Nearly A Decade

Primus have officially confirmed their return to European soil, ending a hiatus that has lasted nearly a decade. The band, led by bassist extraordinaire Les Claypool, has been announced as a main stage headliner for the 2026 edition of the ArcTanGent Festival in Bristol, UK.

The performance will mark Primus‘ first appearance in Europe since their 2017 show at London’s Roundhouse. The group was previously scheduled to tour the UK and Europe in 2022 with their “A Tribute To Kings” tour—performing Rush‘s A Farewell To Kings in its entirety—but those dates were ultimately cancelled due to logistical issues.

Festival organizer James Scarlett expressed his disbelief at finally securing the band, noting that the 2026 lineup represents a “stars aligned” moment for the event.

“The stars really have aligned for this set of ArcTanGent headliners – and it’s safe to say all three have been firmly at the top of our wish lists for a very, very long time,” Scarlett said. “Primus at ArcTanGent is well overdue… To have them all headline ATG in the same year is literally unbelievable – and we’re extremely proud to present a festival line-up truly unlike anything else you’ll find on the planet.”

Joining Primus at the top of the bill are two other heavyweight acts offering exclusive sets. Gothic-doom songwriter Chelsea Wolfe will finally take her headline slot, fulfilling a booking that was originally scheduled for 2020 but scrapped due to the COVID-19 pandemic. She will be touring in support of her critically acclaimed 2024 album, She Reaches Out to She Reaches Out to She Reaches.

Additionally, Swedish post-metal titans Cult of Luna will join forces with vocalist Julie Christmas for a special performance celebrating the 10th anniversary of their collaborative masterpiece, Mariner.

“Mariner by Cult of Luna and Julie Christmas is 100% one of the greatest albums of all time (and celebrating its 10th anniversary next year!),” Scarlett added.

The formidable undercard for the festival, which takes place at Fernhill Farm from August 19-22, 2026, includes grindcore pioneers Napalm Death, progressive metal favorites Sikth, and sludge heavyweights High On Fire. Other confirmed acts include Oathbreaker, Alcest, Chat Pile, Svalbard, Conjurer, Agent Fresco, Perturbator, and Jo Quail.

ArcTanGent 2026 Lineup Highlights

• Primus (European Exclusive)
• Chelsea Wolfe
• Cult of Luna & Julie Christmas (Performing Mariner)
• Napalm Death
• High On Fire
• Sikth
• Alcest
• Oathbreaker
• Chat Pile