ONE OF Reading’s most celebrated music charities, behind one of the town’s festival staples, is back for its first event of 2026.
Readipop is bringing a new night of live performance and documentary showings to a venue in town this month.
Readipop Presents: XOX 2026 is coming to Oakford Social Club, bringing six live electronic music performers from across the UK alongside live visuals curated by Readipop’s XOX and RG EMOM teams.
Swansea-based audiovisual innovators Movement81 will make their Reading debut with their blend of indie synth and dance music combined with immersive visuals.
London-based modular synth artist Mentat will deliver an improvised live set of evolving techno and progressive house, while newly formed electronic drumming supergroup Bloco Electrohed will make their debut performance.
Also appearing are ambient soundscape creator Sophie Sirota and synth-pop inspired artist Spryt Electra, whose retro analogue influences and contemporary electronic production promise a captivating live experience.
Following the live performances, the evening will continue with DJ sets from the Readipop XOX team, who have previously shared stages with artists including The Orb and 808 State, keeping the Oakford dancefloor moving until 1am.
The event will feature a special guest appearance from Martin Christie, founder of the Electronic Music Open Mic (EMOM) movement, who will perform and co-host the evening.
It will also see the premiere screening of A Year in the Life of RG EMOM, a new mini-documentary by BAFTA-winning filmmaker Matt Hulse.
Gavin Lombos, Co-Founder of Readipop, said: “We’re incredibly excited to be bringing Readipop events back after the break and XOX 2026 feels like the perfect way to return.
“The electronic music community that has grown around XOX and RG EMOM over recent years is one of the most creative, supportive and innovative scenes we’ve been privileged to work with.”
He explained: “This event celebrates everything we love about grassroots electronic music – amazing live performers, visual artists, collaboration, experimentation and community.
“We’re especially delighted to welcome Martin Christie, whose vision for EMOM has inspired thousands of artists around the world, and to premiere Matt Hulse’s documentary showcasing the incredible RG EMOM journey over the past year.”
“The fact that we’re able to offer this event completely free of charge reflects Readipop’s commitment to making live music accessible to everyone. We expect tickets to go quickly, so we’d encourage people to book early and join us for what promises to be a very special night.”
Readipop Presents: XOX 2026 comes to Oakford Social Club on Saturday, June 13, from 6.30pm.
Admission is free, aged 18+.
More information about Readipop, including upcoming events and how to support the charity, is available via: readipop.co.uk
