Coachella Artists of the Day: Jan. 15, 2026

Model/Actriz

Origin: Boston, Massachusetts, USA

Genre / Subgenres: Rock / Post-punk, Noise rock, Dance-punk

Visceral, industrious, and abrasive, Model/Actriz's sound is completely chaotic, yet it still has structure, and flirts between being joyous and violent. It just works. They made huge waves in 2023 with their critically acclaimed debut album, Dogsbody, which was filled to the brim with danceable rhythms and sexually-charged overtones. This led to even more bookings and live performances worldwide. Even Miley Cyrus is a huge promoter of the band. They gained even more visibility when some members ventured into modeling, cross-pollinating audiences between music and fashion. They've elevated their game and have become a spectacle in the post-punk underground.

Performing: Sunday

Stage Prediction: Sonora

For Fans of: Gilla Band, Lip Critic, YHWH Nailgun

Key Tracks: Cinderella / Crossing Guard / Suntan

Live Set: Live on KEXP 2025 (Seattle, Washington, USA)

Rating: ★★★½

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BIGBANG

Origin: Seoul, South Korea

Genre / Subgenres: Pop / K-pop, Hip-hop, R&B, Electronic

BIGBANG is quite possibly the most influential and recognizable group in K-pop history. Whatever groups you're fans of today would not exist or have achieved global dominance without their existence. BTS, Stray Kids, BLACKPINK, TWICE, the list is endless. That is not hyperbole. I've had conversations with friends who aren't even going to the festival, and nearly all of them have said that BIGBANG's name on the poster is a huge deal, and it's apparent that their impact is felt 20 years later.

They didn't just follow K-pop trends; they created them. They wrote and produced their own music, leaned into individual fashion and attitudes, and blended multiple genres to create their own sound. One second, they're getting the clubs jumping ("Fantastic Baby"), and the next thing you know, you're being serenaded by angelic voices and an acoustic guitar ("IF YOU"). These guys are the straight-up blueprint. Put some respect on their name!

Performing: Sunday

Stage Prediction: Outdoor Theatre

For Fans of: iKON, 2NE1, BTS

Key Tracks: BANG BANG BANG / Haru Haru / Fantastic Baby

Live Set: 0to10 2016 (Seoul, South Korea)

Rating: ★★★★½

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Ratings are on a 5-star scale