On 13 and 14 November 2026 8MM Fest returns for two nights across three of Berlin’s most distinctive spaces: 8MM Bar in Prenzlauer Berg, ACUD MACHT NEU in Mitte, and the Zionskirche. Deliberately kept lean, the festival channels 8MM Bar’s two-decade reputation for curating the best of the world’s underground into a compact, Mitte-centered weekend.
New York City’s New Colossus Festival is delighted to return to curate a stage for two nights at ACUD MACHT NEU. Here is a brief introduction to some of the artists performing. Scotland’s Dictator share heartbreaking ballads and foot stomping indie bangers. This is a band with a strong focus on collaboration and an outspoken social conscious, they are vocal supporters of their local scene and have an intimate connection with their fanbase. Combining this with tongue in cheek social media antics and playful live performances ensures they are a consistent must see live act.
Please provide 5 words to describe Dictator?
Scottish, melodic, electronic, unconventional, handsome.
For those that don’t know Dictator, what song should they start with?
Start with ‘El Niño’. It’s a good introduction to what we’re about. Although we’re not entirely sure what that is ourselves. If you don’t like that one then there’s a good chance you won’t like the rest either!
A surprising fact about Dictator please
We’re officially the most handsome band in Scotland. This hasn’t been independently verified but we’re confident the judges would agree.
What are you looking forward to playing in Berlin at the New Colossus showcase for 8mm Festival?
Playing to a new crowd, discovering some new music and bringing a bit of Scottish nonsense to Berlin. We’re also looking forward to exploring the city.. although we’re probably more likely to be found looking for coffee and food than partying until 5am.
Looking forward what’s on the horizon for Dictator?
We’re putting the final pieces together for the release of our debut album. All the hard work is done and we’re now getting everything lined up to get it out into the world. At the same time we’re already working on material for album number two. Apparently we don’t know when to stop!
If I looked in your fridge right now what would I find?
Irn-Bru, obviously! We’re Scottish so it’s a legal requirement. Plenty of food, probably some leftovers and a suspicious amount of sparkling water.
For more information on 8mm Fest in Berlin please check here.
For more information on New Colossus please check here.
For more information on Dictator please check their instagram and website.
