The 2026 season for Gràcia Territori Sonor in Barcelona is set to be one of its most notable in 30 years. The programme begins with a concert on 9 May at the Centre Artesà Tradicionàrius, celebrating the 50th anniversary of Macromassa, a highly influential experimental band from Barcelona.
This special event will trace Macromassa's history with a unique line-up led by Juan Crek, a co-founder of the group alongside Víctor Nubla. Musicians such as Sergio Oca, Eduard Altaba, Pepino Pascual, Carles Esteban, and Pablo Volt “Pope” will join him. Organisers describe the concert as an exceptional gathering that highlights the legacy of a band critical to understanding the evolution of experimental music in Catalonia.
LEM Festival Returns for 31st Edition
Beyond this opening event, Gràcia Territori Sonor will mark its own anniversary with an exhibition at La Virreina Centre de la Imatge in November. Additionally, two concerts at the Centre Artesà Tradicionàrius will commemorate Macromassa's 50 years and Oriol Tramvia's album Bèstia!.
In parallel, the 31st edition of LEM, the Gràcia-Barcelona International Experimental Music Encounter, will continue its exploration of sound. The festival will run over two weeks in May and another two in October. It aims to be a meeting point for diverse practices, including improvisation, sound art, electronic music, and poetry.
Exploring New Sounds and Legacies
The LEM programme, spread across various venues in Gràcia and Barcelona, will feature about 15 acts. It will combine new premieres with significant returning artists. Participants include Alfredo Costa Monteiro, Veus Lliures, and Hulm. This edition maintains a balance between research and memory, reaffirming LEM's position as an essential event for contemporary experimental music, according to Gràcia Territori Sonor officials.
