Taunton is gearing up for a serious dose of nostalgia‑fuelled euphoria this August as Electric Summer, a brand‑new festival for the South West, prepares to roll out the neon carpet for three of the 80s’ most enduring icons: Howard Jones, Heaven 17, and Blancmange.
Between them, the trio have more than 80 tour dates booked across the UK and beyond this year, a reminder that the synth‑pop generation isn’t just alive and well, it’s thriving. But for Howard Jones, Electric Summer isn’t just another stop on a packed touring calendar. It’s a homecoming.
After headlining his THINGS CAN ONLY GET BETTER festival tour across the USA, Howard Jones will touch down in Taunton for his one and only UK performance of the year, and he couldn’t be happier that it’s happening in the town he’s called home for more than two decades.
“Vivary Park is such a beautiful venue for this show and come rain or shine it’s gonna be a must‑see gig because of the incredible line up,” he says. “I’m very happy to be playing with my friends Heaven 17 and Blancmange, and can’t wait to see everyone on August 30th.”
Electric Summer is the latest creation from Souvenir Events, with organiser Jez Damsell aiming to build a festival that celebrates the golden age of synth‑pop while shining a spotlight on the new wave of artists inspired by it.
“It’s a dream come true to create an event which not just celebrates that era, but also introduces some brilliant newer artists who loved the legends themselves and have gone on to create their own fantastic music,” he explains.
Joining the headliners are a hand‑picked selection of contemporary electronic acts including Black Nail Cabaret, Mesh, Agency V, and Neon Fields, plus DJ sets from Paul Dakeyne to keep the energy high between performances.
Electric Summer also carries a charitable heartbeat. A donation from every ticket sold will go to Nordoff and Robbins, the UK’s leading music therapy charity, whose work helps people of all ages break through barriers and connect through music. It’s a fitting partnership for a festival built on the emotional power of sound.
With a heavyweight lineup, a picturesque setting, and a mission that blends nostalgia with discovery, Electric Summer is shaping up to be one of the South West’s standout events of 2026. Whether you grew up with these artists or discovered them through today’s synth revival, this is a bank holiday Sunday built for big choruses, warm memories, and a whole lot of dancing.
Electric Summer takes place on Sunday 30th August at Vivary Park, Taunton.
Tickets are on sale now: https://www.universe.com/electricsummer26