A Global Showcase in the Heart of New York
God Is In The TV was thrilled to be invited to curate a stage at the 7th edition of New York’s prestigious New Colossus Festival. Held on the city’s vibrant Lower East Side, the festival hosted over 180 bands from across the globe. While the majority of the lineup hailed from the United States, our mission was to highlight exceptional music from beyond the Americas, bringing a truly international flavor to the event.
Despite the torrential rain outside, the atmosphere within the Parkside Lounge remained electric. Stepping through the curtain into the venue space felt like entering a different world—a sanctuary of sound where the weather was forgotten. With the expert guidance of sound engineer Kipp and stage manager Luke, the stage was perfectly set for five standout acts to deliver unforgettable performances.
The Artists: A Night to Remember
The showcase was a testament to the power of live music, fostering a sense of community where artists and fans mingled freely. We were honored to host Runner, Alien Chicks, Honey I’m Home, Mannequin Death Squad, and Bad Tomato. Each band brought a unique energy that resonated deeply with the New York crowd.
Runner (Ireland)
Representing Ireland, Runner described their sound as “alternative new age indie rock.” When asked about their origins, they revealed the name was inspired by the frontman’s father, who only enjoyed music that compelled him to run. As they look toward the remainder of 2026, the band is preparing for a series of Irish shows and international dates, with new material expected later this year.
Alien Chicks (UK)
The UK’s Alien Chicks brought a chaotic, genre-defying energy to the stage. Describing their music as “loud, quiet, fast, slow, confusing,” they shared their excitement about their first-ever US tour. Their experience at New Colossus was nothing short of cinematic, involving everything from jazz jams to spontaneous warehouse parties. Fans can look forward to a new double EP on vinyl, featuring a mix of studio tracks and live recordings from The Windmill in Brixton.
Honey I’m Home (Netherlands)
The Dutch duo Honey I’m Home brought a blend of “dark fantasy, dynamics, emotion, colorful, and fartjokes” to the stage. Their set highlighted their innovative approach to guitar music, incorporating electronic drum patterns and synths. They are currently recording new material that leans into their shared love for VHS horror and shoegaze, aiming to define the sound of guitar music for 2026.
Mannequin Death Squad (Australia)
Representing Australia, Mannequin Death Squad delivered a high-octane performance that left a lasting impression on the New York audience. Their raw, unfiltered approach to rock music perfectly complemented the eclectic spirit of the showcase.
Bad Tomato (Portugal)
Rounding out the night, Portugal’s Bad Tomato brought a mix of “anger, love, spice, dance, and coffee.” Their name, inspired by a child’s collage at the Tate Modern, reflects their punk-as-fuck ethos. With a debut album in the works and a major appearance at Mad Cool festival in Spain, they are a band to watch closely this year.
Reflections on New Colossus
The success of the God Is In The TV showcase was a collective effort. We extend our deepest gratitude to the New Colossus Festival team, the staff at the Parkside Lounge, and, most importantly, the artists who traveled thousands of miles to share their craft. It was a night that solidified the importance of international exchange in the modern music landscape, proving that even in a city as vast as New York, music remains the ultimate connector.