Ancient Infinity Orchestra lead Cobalt Studios Mercury Prize Fringe showcase

The Cobalt Studios Mercury Prize Fringe showcase brings Ancient Infinity Orchestra to Newcastle on Friday 16 October, with Cobalt resident Weston joining the bill for a jazz-inspired DJ set.

Ancient Infinity Orchestra arrive as a 16-member ensemble led by double bassist and composer Ozzy Moysey. The Leeds group pull together double basses, harp, saxophones, clarinets, strings, woodwind, mandolin, piano and percussion, giving the night a much broader palette than a standard band setup. Their music leans into collective improvisation and a sense of movement, so Cobalt feels like a particularly good home for this one.

Cobalt Studios Mercury Prize Fringe showcase line-up

The official Generator listing describes Ancient Infinity Orchestra as a meeting point for different voices, traditions and energies. That comes through in the scale of the ensemble as much as the instrumentation. Rather than building around one fixed frontperson, the group works as a large musical conversation, with melodies and rhythms passing around the room.

Weston will support with a jazz-inspired DJ set. As a Cobalt resident, that gives the evening a strong venue connection as well as a useful bridge into the headliners’ own jazz-rooted, exploratory sound. It should make for a night that feels properly shaped around the space rather than simply dropped into it.

The show forms part of the 2026 Mercury Prize Fringe, which runs across Newcastle from 15 to 22 October. Generator’s wider programme puts local venues alongside emerging and established artists, while every Fringe gig operates on a Pay As You Feel basis. Contributions go directly back to participating venues.

Cobalt Studios Showcase
Date: Friday 16 October 2026
Venue: Cobalt Studios, Newcastle
Line-up: Ancient Infinity Orchestra and Weston (DJ)
Tickets: Pay As You Feel; advance booking required

Check the official Generator listing for booking information and any updates before travelling.