DEMM 2026 European Music Day
DEMM 26, the festival commemorating European Music Day, will take place from June 19 to 21. The program includes eight concerts at Plaza Matadero and two morning music sessions for families at the Plaza de Columnas (Central de Diseño).
The lineup for the evening concerts on June 19 and 20 at Plaza Matadero features pablopablo, Maria Arnal, Depresión Sonora, Alizzz, Ángeles Toledano, Rita Payés & Lucía Fumero, Gazzi, and Akazie.
Family audiences can enjoy morning performances by La Fantástica Banda and Le Parody on Saturday the 20th and Sunday the 21st, respectively, at the Central de Diseño.
This event, which has become a staple of Matadero Madrid’s programming since its inaugural edition in 2009, offers a comprehensive overview of the artists and styles defining the contemporary Spanish music scene—a blend of genres guided by excellence and the cutting edge of the industry.
The Artists
pablopablo When talent is this abundant, it speaks for itself. Pablo Drexler, known as pablopablo, balances his role as a key collaborator for artists like Guitarricadelafuente and C. Tangana with a solo career that skyrocketed this past year following the release of Canciones en Mi (2025). It is "plus-perfect" pop: utterly contemporary and instantly captivating. Pablopablo is already a force, and his trajectory is only going up.
Maria Arnal We first met Maria Arnal as part of her duo with Marcel Bagés. Together, they produced one of the most fascinating debuts in Spanish music history. 45 cerebros y 1 corazón was the starting point for a winding, multidisciplinary career built on vision and raw talent. At DEMM 2026, she will present her imminent debut solo album in a stunning show overflowing with imagination and sophisticated spectacle.
Depresión Sonora Becoming a voice for your generation is no small feat; many aspire to it, but few achieve it. Marcos Crespo (AKA Markusiano, AKA Depresión Sonora) has done exactly that through songs that feel more like anthems. His second album, Los perros no entienden Internet (y yo no entiendo de sentimientos), reinforces his ability to connect with the desires and frustrations of his peers through irresistible dark-pop and post-punk.
Alizzz Cristian Quirante, better known as Alizzz, is one of the most vibrant and charismatic figures in the music scene today. Grounded in irresistible postmodern pop, his songs are instant hits that pivot seamlessly between R&B, trap, electronica, and reggaeton. Having written for stars like Rosalía, Amaia, Becky G, Lola Índigo, and Aitana, Alizzz proves that few can match his melodic intuition.
Ángeles Toledano Every so often, a young artist emerges who can embrace tradition while sounding radically original. Such is the case with Ángeles Toledano, who has moved beyond the "flamenco revelation" label to become a powerhouse in Spanish-language music at large. With a privileged voice and infinite charisma, the artist from Jaén condenses her talent into her spectacular full-length debut, Sangre Sucia, released in September 2025.
Rita Payés Some projects are unique in both form and substance. Rita Payés’ is one of them. A trombonist, singer, and composer, her music is pure sensitivity—evocative songs of trembling beauty that drift between folklore and jazz. Her international success and intergenerational following are a testament to her emotional reach, further solidified by her latest album, De camino al camino.
Gazzi Born in Linares and long-settled in Madrid, Gazzi has become a staple in the booths and festivals of Spain. Known for his skill behind the decks, his sets prioritize fun and risk-taking, delivered with an exquisite taste that traverses genres. Expect broken beats, pulsating atmospheres, and a radically personal sonic universe designed to delight everyone from purists to newcomers.
Akazie In a constant search for unexplored territory, Galician artist Akazie confirms that experimentation and research are not at odds with enjoyment and accessibility. Now based in Madrid, she uses electronica to forge her own path, standing out as one of the strongest figures in the national scene. Sonic prejudices? None. Quality? Absolute.
Family Program
La Fantástica Banda It is possible to combine a family-oriented repertoire with sensitivity, taste, and craftsmanship. La Fantástica Banda is the perfect example. They offer respect for childhood through fun, educational shows. Composed of prestigious performers with consolidated careers, they will once again delight young audiences with their catchy, danceable tunes.
Le Parody. Magnetic, multifaceted, and exceptionally talented, Le Parody has long been a heavyweight in the Spanish avant-garde scene. Always restless and seeking new horizons, she has prepared a special performance for all ages, proving that risk and experimentation have a definitive place in family entertainment.
