Pukkelpop: The Atomic Orchestra returns with choir and mystery guests

For the third year running, The Atomic Orchestra is set to grace the Pukkelpop stage, promising another unique musical experience. Known for its surprising collaborations, the orchestra has previously featured artists like Daan, Eefje de Visser, Brihang, and Goldband. This year, orchestra leader Jo Hermans is bringing a choir along with the ensemble, adding a new dimension to their performance.

The Pukkelpop festival, known for its Saturday surprises, first featured The Atomic Orchestra in 2024 as a 45-piece ensemble with guest artists. That year saw performances from Selah Sue, Yong Yello, and Brutus, with notable moments including a costumed Daan and Alex Agnew taking the stage as a vocalist. The following year, Hermans continued the tradition with Gabriel Rios, Baloji, Amenra, and ISE, highlighted by a memorable collaboration with Goldband.

While the identity of this year's guest artists remains a closely guarded secret, Hermans is innovating in other ways. The newly assembled choir forms the core of this year's expansion. It is built upon the Ghent University Choir and further enriched by listeners of Studio Brussel, following a radio call that garnered over 600 responses. A select group of these respondents will join the orchestra on stage in the Marquee.

Hermans expressed his ambition to "try to make something magical out of it." In a lighthearted video with Frederik Luyten of Pukkelpop, he offered a glimpse into the ensemble of guest artists, hinting at "a big hit," "Limburg heroes," and "a surprising name." The exact lineup of performers, however, is expected to be revealed only as the show unfolds.