Keep your eyes peeled for some exceptional talent in Denver’s music scene this year. The local acts are ready to make waves, and you won’t want to miss them.
As Denver gears up for another busy year of concerts, the local music scene promises to shine alongside the bigger tours hitting venues like the Mission Ballroom and Red Rocks. A diverse array of artists is set to captivate audiences, and here are five key players to watch in 2026.
Isabel V Photography has been a recognizable name in the Denver music community, thanks to Bruce Trujillo’s impactful tenure as a host for Indie 102.3 and OpenAir from 2016 to 2023. In 2023, Trujillo opened Manos Sagrados at the Aurora Fox Arts Center, creating a welcoming space in an underserved area of the city. The venue quickly became a community hub, hosting popular cumbia nights and SarahFest, a DIY event featuring live music, a clothing swap, and yoga classes led by Trujillo. The nonprofit Colorado Music Industry Alliance has also held mixers there, making it a favored spot for networking while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Kyle Hartman and Kori Hazel are the dynamic duo behind Future Garden, a local agency that has rapidly established itself since its inception in 2019. Their roster includes standout acts such as Neoma, DOGTAGS, N3ptune, and the Mananas. Future Garden not only represents its artists but has also secured slots for them at prestigious festivals like Electric Forest. In 2025, the agency made a splash with its own Secret Garden stage during the Underground Music Showcase, delivering free performances and a festive vibe that resonated well with attendees. As we look to 2026, expect even bigger initiatives from this agency.
Another act making significant strides is the bluegrass ensemble Clay Street Unit, which celebrated a major milestone in 2025 by signing with Monument Records. Since their formation in 2020, the band has captured attention with their energetic performances. Their debut release with Monument, titled “Introducing Clay Street Unit,” dropped in January, and they’ve already graced the stage at Red Rocks opening for iconic groups like Leftover Salmon and Kitchen Dwellers. They’re set to return to Red Rocks this July, sharing the stage with the String Cheese Incident.
Horse Bitch is a local powerhouse bringing a unique blend of punk and folk to the Denver scene. Formed in 2021, the band consists of Dave Knodle, Riley Merino, Adam Cabrera, Alec Doniger, Olivia Shaw, Caleb Amelunke, and Ashley McKinney. Their high-energy live shows are a spectacle, with an engaging set that often features fun props like bubble machines. They’re scheduled to headline the Bluebird Theater on February 6, a performance that shouldn’t be missed.
Lastly, the metal band Insipidus has made quite a name for itself through busking at various locations across Denver. Comprised of Yoav Daube, Travis Hatley, and Kane Pascarelli, Insipidus has drawn a loyal following through its vibrant street performances and will soon release a new album. The band earned recognition after being invited to perform at a tech conference in 2025, which was headlined by the heavy metal giants Metallica. Fans are eager to see what’s next for this exciting act.
These artists represent just a glimpse of the talent currently thriving in Denver. As the local music scene evolves, it’s an exciting time for fans and newcomers alike. Keep an ear to the ground—2026 is shaping up to be a remarkable year for music in the Mile High City.
