Kilby Block Party 2026: A Salt Lake City Pilgrimage
ListenSD is officially heading to the mountains. For the first time, we’re packing our bags and trading the Pacific coastline for the high-desert energy of Salt Lake City to cover the seventh annual Kilby Block Party.
What started as a DIY celebration for the legendary all-ages venue Kilby Court has evolved into a powerhouse of independent music. From May 15–17, the Utah State Fairpark becomes a sanctuary for the indie-obsessed, and we’re here to give you the lowdown on the sounds we’re chasing
The Heavy Hitters
The top of the bill is a curated dream. We’re finally getting the return of The xx, whose minimalist, nocturnal pop is perfectly suited for the crisp Utah night air. Joining them is Lorde, back to reclaim her alt-pop throne, and Turnstile, who will undoubtedly turn the fairgrounds into a high-octane sea of movement. Added to the mix is a rare appearance by Hayley Williams, bringing a level of vocal prowess and charisma that is frankly unmatched.
The International Connection
Kilby has always had a global ear, and this year is no exception. We are particularly stoked for Él Mató a un Policía Motorizado. The Argentine legends bring a sprawling, cinematic brand of space-rock that feels like it was written specifically for wide-open western horizons. Also making the trek is the UK’s The Last Dinner Party, whose theatrical, baroque-pop energy has been dominating conversations across the Atlantic—seeing them in this setting will be nothing short of ethereal.
Obscure Gems & Post-Punk Precision
If you’re looking for the sharp, the jagged, and the brilliantly weird, look no further:
Automatic: Hailing from Los Angeles, this trio delivers synth-driven post-punk that is as sleek as it is icy. Their motorik rhythms are built for the dancefloor of a dystopian future.
YHWH Nailgun: For those who like their music with a bit of grit and industrial tension, this is a must-see. It’s noisy, it’s experimental, and it’s exactly the kind of “discovery” that makes festivals worth it.
Chanel Beads: Fusing lo-fi textures with orchestral pop sensibilities, they provide a dreamlike contrast to the more aggressive acts on the bill.
Dry Cleaning: If you haven’t experienced Florence Shaw’s deadpan, spoken-word delivery over swirling post-punk instrumentals, now is the time. It’s intellectual, funny, and incredibly cool.
Why We’re Going
Kilby Block Party maintains that rare, “if you know, you know” community atmosphere while hosting world-class talent. It’s a celebration of the independent spirit—the same one we champion here in San Diego. Whether it’s the nostalgic indie-rock of Modest Mouse and Grandaddy, or the hyperpop-adjacent sounds of Jane Remover, the 2026 lineup is a testament to the diversity of the current scene.
Stay tuned to ListenSD.com and our Instagram as we bring you live updates, photo galleries, and deep-dive reviews from the heart of Salt Lake City.
Will we see you at the Fairpark?