Emma-Jean Thackray Joins WOMAD's Jazz-Heavy Programme

WOMAD 2026 has placed contemporary jazz at the heart of its late-night programme, with Emma-Jean Thackray among the key names at its first edition at Neston Park, Wiltshire, from 23-26 July. The Mercury Prize-nominated artist performs Saturday 25 July, alongside Alfa Mist and corto.alto, artists at the vanguard of UK jazz's new golden era.

Thackray arrives fresh from last year's Weirdo, her second album for Brownswood Recordings—a raw, sprawling work that combined grunge textures with her trademark spiritual jazz leanings. She was nominated for the 2025 Mercury Music Prize for the record, which she wrote, performed, and produced entirely in her London apartment.

Following a year away, demand for WOMAD 2026 has been exceptional, making this one of the strongest-selling editions in the festival's history. Saturday's bill runs alongside Brazilian star Daniela Mercury and Congolese groove outfit Jupiter & Okwess.

WOMAD takes place 23–26 July at Neston Park, Wiltshire.