Territory artists win opportunity to take BASSINTHEGRASS stage
Three emerging Territory acts will take on the Territory’s biggest music stage in 2026 after winning the BASSINTHEGRASS Territory Artist Competition, marking a standout year for local talent. This year, three acts, instead of the usual two, were selected: TANG, Riley P and DJ D’Moss, following a highly competitive round that attracted 22 submissions, the highest since 2021.
Darwin fem‑rock trio TANG have quickly become a fixture of the local scene, known for their high‑energy performances and infectious sound. Guitarist and singer Elizabeth Lentaigne said the band was overwhelmed by the news. “We are stoked to have been chosen… the community has been super supportive to us, and we owe it to them,” she said. “I was screaming through the phone; I was so excited. We’re all massive fans of The Living End, so to be on the same line‑up is incredible.”
Hip‑hop artist Riley P brings sharp lyricism and high‑energy delivery to the festival. Winner of the AUS Take Flight fly16 2024 competition, he has supported major Australian acts including Drapht, Kerser and Bliss n Eso, and founded MNM Mentoring, delivering hip‑hop‑based youth programs across the NT.
Sixteen‑year‑old DJ D’Moss began spinning tracks at age 12 and has since performed at venues including The Cavenagh Hotel, Lost Arc, Monsoons, Mayberry, Kingpin and the Cocktail Festival. He will bring original music to the BASS stage, promising a set designed to get the crowd moving.
BASSINTHEGRASS is also strengthening its commitment to accessibility with the appointment of Clarence “CJ” McCarthy‑Grogan as Accessibility Ambassador. A Yanyuwa, Garrawa and Kuku‑Yalanji man from Darwin, CJ said he is excited to see the festival continue to grow. “I am looking forward to seeing Galantis, Peking Duk and Kobie Dee perform… I’m sure it’ll be another huge event as always,” he said. “Accessibility to me is everything — it’s a basic human right. It allows people of all abilities to come together and enjoy live music, and BASSINTHEGRASS shows what the city of Darwin has to offer to the rest of Australia.”
Delivered by Tourism and Events NT, BASSINTHEGRASS showcases Darwin as a world‑class destination for live music. Featuring three stages and more than 20 acts, this all‑ages festival promises an epic day under Top End palm trees and flawless Territory skies.
Final Release tickets are on sale for $155 (plus booking fee), with premium upgrades including ReFresh, Oasis and the family‑friendly BASS Camp. The festival offers strong value, with free transport, capped drink prices and food options under $5 and $10 at every vendor. Children under 13 receive free entry when accompanied by an adult.
More information and tickets: bassinthegrass.com.au