In a striking turn of events, the Eden Project has confirmed that Irish sensation CMAT will take centre stage as the headliner for the concluding night of the 2026 Eden Sessions on 15 July. This announcement comes on the heels of Canadian-American rock legend Neil Young’s decision to cancel his entire European tour, which included a much-anticipated date at the iconic Cornish venue.
CMAT’s Rising Star Power
CMAT, whose real name is Ciara Mary-Alice Thompson, has rapidly established herself as a formidable force in the music industry. Her debut album, *If My Wife Knew I’d Be Dead*, clinched the prestigious Choice Music Prize, while her follow-up record, *Crazymad, For Me*, garnered a nomination for the Mercury Prize. This recognition has catapulted her into the limelight, earning her accolades such as nominations for both Brit and Ivor Novello awards and a spot on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list.
The Eden Sessions director, Simon Townsend, expressed enthusiasm about CMAT’s involvement, stating, “Her honesty, humour and originality resonate deeply with audiences, and we’re delighted to welcome her to the Eden Sessions this summer.” Her infectious singles, including “Take a Sexy Picture of Me” and “I Wanna Be a Cowboy, Baby!”, have transformed her performances into lively singalongs, a testament to her engaging stage presence.
Neil Young’s Departure
The unexpected exit of Neil Young from the Eden Sessions is a major blow for both fans and the venue. Scheduled to perform on 17 June, Young’s cancellation is part of a larger withdrawal from his entire European tour, leaving ticket holders in a lurch. The Eden Sessions assured patrons that they would be directly contacted regarding full refunds to the original payment methods. Despite this setback, the festival lineup remains impressive, featuring other notable acts such as Snow Patrol, Wolf Alice, Mika, and Pixies.
A Celebration of Music and Resilience
As the Eden Project celebrates its 25th anniversary, CMAT’s performance promises to be a fitting finale to a summer filled with musical excellence. The venue, renowned for its unique blend of nature and culture, will serve as a backdrop for CMAT’s dynamic artistry, allowing audiences to connect with her music in an unforgettable setting.
The loss of Neil Young casts a shadow, yet it also opens the door for CMAT to shine brighter than ever. Her rise in the industry reflects not only her talent but also a broader trend in music where fresh voices are increasingly celebrated.
Why it Matters
The inclusion of CMAT as the closing act for the Eden Sessions signifies a pivotal moment for the festival and the music scene at large. In a climate where established artists often dominate, her ascent underscores the importance of supporting emerging talent. As audiences flock to experience her captivating performances, it reinforces the notion that music continues to evolve, welcoming new stories and perspectives. The Eden Sessions is not merely a concert series but a celebration of the transformative power of music, which thrives even amidst unexpected changes.
