In the new issue: Florence Road grace cover of Hot Press 'Hot For 2026' special

There's no better way to kick off a fresh new year, than with a major celebration of all the talent, albums, films, books and events that are set to shape the 12 months ahead. That's why we're thrilled to bring you our 'Hot For 2026' special issue – featuring Florence Road, the Bray band about to go supernova, as our cover stars, as well as the hotly anticipated "Wuthering Heights" on the flip-cover...

First up:

Following a phenomenal 2025, stardom appears imminent for Florence Road. As they gear up for another massive year – including a headline show at the 3Olympia Theatre, and support slots for The Last Dinner Party and Kings of Leon – the four-piece call into Hot Press to discuss tin whistle skills, the Irish language, inspirations, their ones-to-watch, and their remarkable journey from lunchtime concerts in their school canteen to opening for Olivia Rodrigo.

Florence Road at The Academy on November 30th, 2025. Copyright Abigail Ring/ hotpress.com

That action-packed Florence Road cover story leads us into our essential 'Hot For 2026' round-up – where we present our picks of the Irish and international artists primed for a big year. We also bring you special previews of the albums, films and books set to define your '26...

Over on the flip-cover, meanwhile:

Roe McDermott delves into all the excitement surrounding Emerald Fennell's "Wuthering Heights" – which boasts a brilliant cast, including Margot Robbie, Jacob Elordi and Cork's own Alison Oliver, as well as an epic soundtrack by Charli XCX...

"Wuthering Heights" (2026)

Elsewhere in the new issue:

Director Chloé Zhao and star Jessie Buckley discuss the hugely awaited adaptation of Maggie O'Farrell's novel Hamnet, a fictionalised account of Shakespeare's marriage that's already enjoying huge Oscar buzz.

Jessie Buckley in Hamnet

With the release of their powerful new album, The Demise Of Planet X, Sleaford Mods have hit the ground running for 2026. Jason Williamson informs Will Russell about its creation, stellar cast of collaborators and extensive inspirations.

Dublin band Big Sleep have built a cult following by gigging like crazy. Now, with the release of their debut album Holy Show, members Rónán Connolly and Naiara Clarke reflect on their hectic schedule and the transience of heartbreak.

KhakiKid sits down to chat about his recent Olympia Theatre sell-out, the Dublin hugely exciting Dublin music scene, and his ambitious plans for the year ahead.

KhakiKid at 3Olympia Theatre on November 27th, 2025. Copyright Grace Swartout/ hotpress.com

If Derry Girls was a tough act to follow, no one’s told Lisa McGee, whose How To Get To Heaven From Belfast follow up is about to take Netflix by storm. Róisín Gallagher tells us about her starring role in the comedy thriller, the craic that was had making it, and busting out some serious noughties dance moves...

How To Get To Heaven From Belfast. Credit: Christopher Barr/Netflix

Rob Doyle discusses his brilliant new meta extravaganza Cameo, the cultural ructions of the past decade, and the cult classic adaptation of his novel Here Are The Young Men, starring Anya Taylor-Joy.

As the CAO deadline approaches, we explore at the wide array of options available to students in 2026 – whether you’re looking within the traditional points-based system, or beyond it – as part of our Education Special...

In a special preview, we look ahead to the History In The Making: The Concert, a major, star-studded event – taking place at the 3Arena in Dublin on Friday, February 6 – that kicks off Hot Press's 50 anniversary celebrations...

And that's just a taste of what you can expect from the absolutely unmissable 'Hot For 2026' issue – in shops this week, and available to order online below: