HF - DS (FB) - The Painting (1)

[ARTIST ANNOUNCEMENT] – The Painting

by: Simon Clark

05 December 2025

Introducing The Painting – Performing on Saturday 27 June 2026 on the Scottish Citylink Discovery Stage

Formed in 2024, The Painting are quickly establishing themselves as one of Scotland’s most exciting new pop-rock bands. Rising from the ashes of Arcade State, the six-piece bring together vocalist and songwriter Ciaran Murray, drummer Jordan Murray, keys/vocalist Marta Leslie, guitarists/vocalists Jonny Emerson and Cameron Roxburgh, and bassist Lewis Taylor. With members hailing from Drumchapel, Clydebank, Shetland, Oban and Glasgow, the band’s diverse roots shape a sound that is widescreen, emotive and rich with texture.

Their independently released 2025 album Before The Rain captures a band pushing themselves creatively — a record forged under pressure in Mark Morrow Studios and shaped by spontaneity, experimentation and emotional honesty. The album’s four singles highlight the group’s range: the driving energy of Imprint, the dreamy volatility of Scarlett, the stripped-back intimacy of Two Weeks, and the cinematic lift of Waiting On The Storm. Together, they form an expansive portrait of a band unafraid to explore new sonic territory.

On stage, The Painting are already making a significant impact. With sold-out shows at Glasgow’s Hug & Pint, packed headline nights at St Luke’s and King Tuts, and growing support from BBC Introducing Scotland, their rise has been swift and deserved. Their first UK tour — spanning Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Manchester, Newcastle, Birmingham and London — further cements their momentum.

Experience The Painting on the Scottish Citylink Discovery Stage on Saturday 27 June 2026.

Tickets for HF26 are on sale here.