Get ready for a sonic boom at Kendal Calling 2026 as Tim Burgess unleashes his unique 'Straight To Vinyl' recording experience! On Friday, July 31, the Charlatans frontman will take to the Tim Peaks Diner stage, capturing a live album directly onto vinyl in what promises to be an electrifying and fast-paced production process. With just over 24 hours from performance to finished product, this adrenaline-fuelled endeavour is set to deliver an exclusive and highly coveted collectible for festival-goers.
This bold venture marks Burgess's first personal 'Straight To Vinyl' recording, a concept that has already been championed by other acts at the Tim Peaks Diner. As he takes centre stage, his team will be working feverishly in Teeside to master the audio, cut lacquers, and create metal stampers through electroplating before pressing the vinyl – all under intense time pressure.
Kerry Todd from Press On Vinyl describes the challenge as 'a high-wire act', where every stage of production must run like clockwork to meet the tight deadline. One misstep could send the project back to square one, making this a genuine nail-biter of an event. The goal is for the finished records to be transported back to the Tim Peaks Diner by Sunday morning's early hours, ready for festival-goers.
A mere 400 copies of this exclusive live album will be available for purchase at Kendal Calling – a tantalising prospect for attendees looking to take home a unique memento. For those who can't make it to the festival, a limited online batch will go on sale from Wednesday, August 5 – but be warned, these won't last long!
Kendal Calling 2026 marks a milestone as the festival celebrates its 20th anniversary in style. This year's extravaganza features an impressive line-up of acts, including headliners Biffy Clyro, Wolf Alice, Two Door Cinema Club, and The Kooks, who will close out Thursday night's proceedings. Other notable names include The Cribs, The Libertines, The Vaccines, Scissor Sisters, and Gabrielle – a true celebration of live music in the beautiful Lake District setting.