Reading and Leeds

Nas, Frank Turner and more added to Reading and Leeds Festival

by
Reading & Leeds has added even more names to the Bank Holiday weekend mecca of music, with over 70 names announced today across 6 phenomenal stages. 
 
Leading the additions is New York hip-hop royalty Nas, who’ll be bringing his untouchable catalogue of defining anthems to Reading & Leeds this summer in a UK Festival Exclusive. Responsible for one of the most acclaimed and influential albums of all time; Illmatic, his heavy-hitting rhymes have kept him at the top for over 25 years. His set on the BBC Radio 1/NME Stage this summer is sure to be a welcomed reminder as to why he remains a true pioneer of hip-hop.
 
 
After breaking the record for consecutive appearances at Reading & Leeds last year with his ninth straight set, festival hero Frank Turner is set to make it a decade of singalongs and heart-on-your-sleeve performances as he takes to the stage this summer. His catalogue of distinctively British anthems has seen the troubadour stand as a true Reading & Leeds icon. Celebrating his tenth appearance in a row, Frank will open the Main Stage with a truly unique set this summer.
 
Frank Turner commented:
“I'm very happy to be making my tenth annual return to Reading and Leeds Festival this summer. That's the record, by miles, and I'm proud of it. They've always been supportive of my career, loyal to me, and I'm more than happy to repay that in kind. It's the best festival in the UK.”
 
Revered grime kingpin Kano cemented his reputation with his comeback album Made In The Manor; a collection of his classic rhymes and British flow, which he’ll be bringing to an electric headline set on the BBC 1Xtra Stage this year. Reading & Leeds have a strong history of musical icons taking the stages by storm and this year is no exception. Pop-punk trailblazers Good Charlotte will be returning to headline the intimate Lock Up Stage with track after track of euphoric classics in another UK Festival Exclusive. Coheed And Cambria are set for a mammoth return to the festivals on the Main Stage whilstMastodon bring their heavy tectonic rhythms to The Pit with a hugely anticipated headline performance.
 
On their return to Reading & Leeds, Good Charlotte said:
"For us there's no better way to celebrate the GC comeback than to come do it at Reading and Leeds. Everyone's favourite festival. It will be a highlight for sure.” 
 
Bringing together genres, generations and game-changers across the site, Reading & Leeds is delighted to reveal more top-calibre names taking to the stage for true festival moments this summer.
 
BBC RADIO 1/NME STAGE
 
With huge headline performances set from the already announced Jack Ü, Two Door Cinema Club and The 1975, new additions today include another UK Festival Exclusive from Australian rock morphers Tonight Alive; fresh from releasing their soundscape-filled third LP Limitless earlier in the year. Further additions include Mancunion buzz-rockers Spring King, the swirling pop dreams of Sunset Sons, translucent movers Haelos and the roaring heavy punch ofBlack Foxxes, who are all set to make the BBC Radio 1/NME Stage a roaring coliseum of altering and exciting game-changing soundtracks. 
 
Jenna McDougall of Tonight Alive said of their UK Festival Exclusive performance:
"We're over the moon to be returning to our favourite rock festival this year! We're coming back for our second round of Reading and Leeds, introducing the 'Limitless’ era.”
 
Black Foxxes commented:
“Reading and Leeds were always big festivals for us and we can’t believe we’ve gone from opening the smallest tent to the second stage in a year! Words can’t describe how stoked we are!!”
 
Tarek Musa of Spring King said:
"We’re ready for another wild year at Reading and Leeds Festival! It’s gonna be immense to play alongside some of our favourite bands!"
 
Sunset Sons who’ll be returning this year, commented:
"Reading and Leeds was our first taste of an iconic UK festival. We will always love playing it and are stoked to be back this year!"
 
Haelos said:
"Reading and Leeds were the first festivals we all went to as teenagers… Feels good to be playing this year."
 
FESTIVAL REPUBLIC STAGE
 
Previously announced headliners Maximo Park will take to the Festival Republic Stage this year where they’ll be joined in topping the stage by Australian euphoric dreamers The Temper Trap who’ll be ushering in the next phase of their acclaimed career with third LP Thick As Thieves due to land this summer. Also headlining the stage is Gaslight Anthem frontman Brian Fallon And The Crowes who’ll be bringing his emotionally charged debut solo releasePainkillers to the festivals, as an exciting new chapter for an American cult hero begins at Reading & Leeds. Sungazing, psychedelica, pin-up BØRNS will bring his Electro Love to Reading & Leeds this summer, whilst the hotly tipped Americana-soaked Clean Cut Kid will touch down for a hotly anticipated set. Heroes for the Leeds heavy scene will be aplenty with Eagulls and Pulled Apart by Horses destined to tear down the tent, with the enigmatic and unpredictable sound of Ezra Furman also set to bring his universally acclaimed catalogue of tracks to the Festival Republic Stage. 
 
Reading & Leeds is once again leading the way in fresh new music and the headliners of tomorrow before anyone else, with further names announced for the Festival Republic Stage today including VANT, The Magic Gang, Blaenavon, The Hunna, LANY, The Sherlocks, Rationale, Beach Baby,Transviolet, Isaac Gracie, Lewis Del Mar, Otherkin, Anteros, The Beach, The Vyrll Society, Area 52 and Tibet. 
 
Speaking about his headline slot, Brian Fallon said:
"Very excited and honoured to be apart of Reading and Leeds this year in celebration of my first solo album.  See you all there! Stay in love with everything!”
 
Leeds locals Pulled Apart By Horses said:
"We're pretty god damn excited about coming back this year. We're geared up with new album material to play and can't think of a better place to road-test it than at Leeds and Reading Festival!"
 
Blaenavon are looking forward to the weekend, saying:
"Reading and Leeds were the festivals we grew up with. I remember seeing At The Drive-In in 2012 and having my face utterly melted. We've only played Leeds before, so we're very stoked to have a proper go at both this year – the Festival Republic tent is probably our favourite stage as well. We'll have some new music out too, so it'll be wicked to try it out in a proper, frenzied festival scenario: abject dirt."
 
Eagulls commented:
"Us Eagulls love fests and Reading and Leeds. To us, it’s got to be up there as one of the most important fests. "
 
Gus from The Magic Gang commented:
"We’re so excited to play Reading and Leeds Festival for the first time, we can’t wait.”
 
VANT said:
"We can't wait for Reading and Leeds Festival 2016. We all went as kids and dreamed of playing it one day. It's such an honour to be there again this year on a bigger stage. See you in the pit!"
 
Rising pop movers Transviolet said:
"This year's line up is insane! So unreal to be a part of this!"
 
The Sherlocks said:
"Big love for Reading and Leeds! We hope that the tents are pegged down properly because we are going to blow the roof off! We'd urge everyone to get down extra early, last year the tents were rammed, this year it is going to be absolute carnage!!! We'd hate for anyone to miss our set, it's going off!"
 
THE PIT/LOCK-UP STAGE
 
With an incredible array of names from across the rock world, The Pit/Lock-Up Stage is the go-to home of all things heavy. Alongside Good Charlottereturning for a incredibly special headline set and stone drivers Mastodon topping the bill, Californian rock pioneers Thrice will return with a hotly anticipated set filled with classics and fresh cuts alike. Hacktivist will be bringing an unparalleled live experience to the stage this summer, whilst the anthemic refrains ofNothing More and the grunge kicks of Milk Teeth are destined to steal the stage with some truly breathtaking performances. 
 
In a seismic coming together of rock icons, supergroup Giraffe Tongue Orchestra will make a landmark appearance at the festivals as members of Alice in Chains, Mastodon, Dillinger Escape Plan, Dethklok and The Mars Volta combine for an unmissable performance. Further additions include the potent and brash rhymes of MGK, Heck, ROAM, Beach Slang, SWMRS, Superheaven, Big Spring and Waterparks as The Pit/Lock-Up Stage takes it to another level this summer.
 
Thrice drummer Riley Breckenridge said:
“It’s always an honor to be a part of a festival as steeped in tradition as Reading and Leeds. We’ve had some memorable shows in front of some incredible (and massive) crowds at both sites over the span of our career, and we can’t wait to get over there and do it all over again.”
 
Heck’s Matt Reynolds said:
"Reading and Leeds fest is like the holy grail of the festival circuit to us. It's a festival we've grown up going to every year and last time we played was probably one of our favourite shows to date. To be asked back to wreak our awful racket once again is an absolute honour."
 
Hacktivist co-frontman Ben Marvin commented:
"We're so hyped about playing again this year! It’s our third time playing but this time we have our debut album out so it's gonna be the most rowdy yet. See you in the pit."
 
Matt Roskilly of ROAM says:
"It really is a huge honour to be invited to play Reading and Leeds festivals this year. I've attended Reading festival for the last 5 years and it has always been mine and my friends favourite festival every time. Having the chance to play a stage, where over the years I have witnessed some of my favourite bands play is beyond exciting. This is a huge deal for me and the band, and is definitely one to cross off of the bucket list!"
 
Superheaven said:
"It's been a dream of ours to play this festival for some time now. It's exciting to get the opportunity to play."
 
Waterparks said:
“These festivals have been on my bucket list for years and it’s surreal that we actually get to be a part of it. See y’all there.”
 
 
BBC 1XTRA STAGE
 
Bringing together the hottest names from both sides of the atlantic, the BBC 1Xtra Stage is set for its biggest lineup to date, with Kano, Travi$ Scott and G-Eazy headlining across the weekend. New additions today include teenage slacker-rap sensation Yung Lean who has taken the world by storm with his unique flow and style, underground US wordsmith Hoodie Allen, the soulful tones of Maverick Sabre and the in-demand producer responsible for the most played and revered hip-hop tracks of recent times after working with Drake, Kanye West, Future and many more; Metro Boomin. 
 
Recently named in Forbes’ ‘30 Under 30’, the influential tales and torments of Little Simz will take to the BBC 1Xtra Stage stage, whilst the unmistakable rise of grime continues with Fekky, Geko and Manchester’s finest Bugzy Malone all dropping in across the weekend for quick-fire and relentless rhymes. Critically acclaimed US star Logic will be bringing his very own slant to proceedings alongside appearances over the weekend from K.Flay, Franko Fraizeand Radio 1’s Clara Amfo; making it a huge hip-hop superstar take over on the BBC 1Xtra Stage at Reading & Leeds this year.
 
Franko Fraize said:
"Absolutely buzzin’ to be part of Reading and Leeds this year! I've always had a proper good do as a punter so I'm proper excited to be the other side now and be the one bringing the party!" 
 
BBC RADIO 1 DANCE STAGE
 
Already soaked with unmistakable dance royalty, the BBC Radio 1 Dance Stage will be full of electronic boundary-pushers throughout the weekend, with new additions today including PC Music titan SOPHIE; whose superactive original sound has seen PC Music rise from bedroom concern to global festival stages. Fellow PC Music stalwart Danny L Harle will also bring the tectonic beats this summer, with the deep blues and soul of Brighton’s Rag’n’Bone Manalso destined to serenade the stage with his gritty blue-eyed charm. Dark bass honcho Friction will take to the decks over the bank holiday weekend, with further drum and bass takedowns set from Fred V & Grafix and Delta Heavy. 
 
After recently supporting The 1975 on their world tour, the hotly tipped electro-soul soother The Japanese House will mesmerise Reading & Leeds with her emotional masterclass. The Girl Is Mine chart supremos 99 Souls are set to bring the sunshine across the weekend, with experimental-house heavyweightRedlight and neo-soul groovers Lion Babe bringing their own refreshing beats that are sure to get the masses moving at Reading & Leeds 2016. With further performances from Zac Samuel, Tkay Maidza, Hermitude, Lemaitre, Low Steppa, Draper and James Organ over the weekend, the electronic souls and sounds are set to ring out from the BBC Radio 1 Dance Stage this year.  
 
Chart supremos 99 Souls said:
"Can't wait to be back at Reading and Leeds… If you look at the vids on our social media, Reading was our craziest crowd of 2015… We're hoping to do an even bigger set and have an even bigger reaction this year!"
 
Draper says:
"Reading and Leeds is going to be awesome and an amazing opportunity to perform what I've been working so hard on! Can't wait!"
 
Redlight commented:
"Love playing at Reading and Leeds. Always a sick one. Can't wait to come and have a party…"
 
Lemaitre says:
"Excited to play our first festivals in the UK at these two legendary festivals alongside some of our favourite artists." 
 
Rag’n’Bone Man commented:
"I'm really excited to play Reading and Leeds. I actually always wanted to go as a punter but never got the chance, now I get to go as a performer, it's gonna be a banger!"
 
On joining the line up Tkay Maidza said:
"Reading and Leeds is one of my bucket list festivals that I wanted to play before I had even released a song. It's also the first festival I'll play in the UK so I'm super excited!"
 
Friction says:
"Reading and Leeds! As well as historically being one of the greatest festivals on the planet, it has a vibe like no other. So pleased to be back again for this year!"
 
Low Steppa commented:
"Can't wait to take my sound to Reading and Leeds festival! Been looking forward to this for ages!”
 
Drum and bass titan Delta Heavy says:
"We're really looking forward to playing at Reading and Leeds for the first time this year.  Having been to Reading many times over the years as punters it's exciting to be able to come back and play as artists on the Radio 1 Dance Stage."
 
With over 70 names added today, Reading & Leeds 2016 boasts the biggest names, sounds and festival moments for another unmissable year. With 5 Headliners Across 3 Days, over 28 UK + European Festival Exclusives and an untouchable blend of musical legends and future stars announced so far,Reading & Leeds has it all for the defining festival weekend.
 
 
ANNOUNCED TODAY
Nas (UK Festival Exclusive)
Frank Turner
Kano
Good Charlotte (UK Festival Exclusive)
Coheed and Cambria
Mastodon
Tonight Alive (UK Festival Exclusive)
Spring King
Sunset Sons
Haelos
Black Foxxes
The Temper Trap
Brian Fallon And The Crowes
BØRNS
Eagulls
Clean Cut Kid
Pulled Apart By Horses
Ezra Furman
VANT
The Magic Gang
Blaenavon
The Hunna
LANY
The Sherlocks
Rationale
Beach Baby
Transviolet
Isaac Gracie
Lewis Del Mar
Otherkin
Anteros
The Beach
The Vryll Society
Area 52
Tibet
Thrice
Hacktivist
Nothing More
Milk Teeth
Giraffe Tongue Orchestra
MGK
Heck
ROAM
Beach Slang
SWMRS
Superheaven
Big Spring
Waterparks
Yung Lean
Hoodie Allen
Maverick Sabre
Metro Boomin
Little Simz
Fekky
Geko
Bugzy Malone
Logic
K.Flay
Franko Fraize
Clara Amfo
SOPHIE
Danny L Harle
Rag’n’Bone Man
Friction
Fred V & Grafix
Delta Heavy
The Japanese House
99 Souls
Redlight
Lion Babe
Zac Samuel
Tkay Maidza
Hermitude
Lemaitre
Low Steppa
Draper
James Organ
 
 
PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED
Biffy Clyro (Co-headline) (UK Festival Exclusive)
Fall Out Boy (Co-headline) (UK Festival Exclusive)
Red Hot Chili Peppers (Headline)
Foals (Co-Headline)
Disclosure (Co-Headline)
Imagine Dragons (European Festival Exclusive)
Jack Ü                  
Two Door Cinema Club                 
The 1975
Courteeners                     
Boy Better Know 
Chvrches 
The Vaccines (UK Festival Exclusive)
A$AP Rocky (UK Festival Exclusive)
HAIM (UK Festival Exclusive)
Jack Garratt
The Wombats
Twenty One Pilots (UK Festival Exclusive)                                                       
Crystal Castles (UK Festival Exclusive)    
Fetty Wap (UK Festival Exclusive)                     
Eagles Of Death Metal (UK Festival Exclusive)
Slaves  
Parkway Drive (UK Festival Exclusive)
Nothing But Thieves     
The Internet (UK Festival Exclusive)
Rat Boy
Hinds
Lower Than Atlantis (UK Festival Exclusive)
Asking Alexandria (UK Festival Exclusive)
The Dillinger Escape Plan (UK Festival Exclusive)
Travi$ Scott (UK Festival Exclusive)
G-Eazy (UK Festival Exclusive)
Skindred        
Five Finger Death Punch (UK Festival Exclusive)                     
Sleeping With Sirens (UK Festival Exclusive)
The Neighbourhood (UK Festival Exclusive)
Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes         
State Champs
Savages
Die Antwoord (UK Festival Exclusive)
Cage The Elephant (UK Festival Exclusive)
Krept & Konan
Sigma
Half Moon Run
Basement
Blossoms
Mura Masa
Giggs
Netsky
Highly Suspect (UK Festival Exclusive)
Sundara Karma
AlunaGeorge
Duke Dumont
David Rodigan MBE
Disciples                              
My Nu Leng B2B Oneman + Dread MC (Reading) / Oneman B2B My Nu Leng + Dread MC (Leeds)                          
MistaJam
Philip George                    
Riton                    
Birdy Nam Nam                               
Oliver Heldens   
DJ EZ
Hannah Wants
Crossfaith
Kurupt FM Presents: Champagne Steam Rooms
Cassetteboy vs DJ Rubbish
The King Blues
Kvelertak
FVK                                                          
Modern Baseball
Dead!         
Creeper             
Citizen                                      
Maxïmo Park
Raleigh Ritchie                                                                                                     
INHEAVEN                        
Banners                                                                                                                     
Tuff Love                                              
Seratones       
Anderson .Paak & The Free Nationals                         
Section Boyz                     
Protoje                                                              
Lady Leshurr
DJ Semtex (Reading)
Yungen    
Jauz  

Biffy Clyro & Fall Out Boy complete Reading and Leeds 2016 headliners

by
Joining a packed weekend of international heavyweights, Reading & Leeds are delighted to announce their final UK Festival Exclusive co-headliners of 2016; Biffy Clyro and Fall Out Boy. Unstoppable forces in alternative rock on both sides of the Atlantic, both will take to the stage to co-headline an emphatic evening of heavy riffs and melodies.
 
The phenomenal Biffy Clyro stand as true Reading & Leeds originals, rising through the ranks, their full-throttle rock has propelled them to the top of festival bills around the world. With a new album in the works, and a nation of fans eagerly awaiting their next step, Biffy Clyro are destined to bring their explosive headline credentials for a truly monumental performance at the top of the bill.
 
Biffy Clyro commented:
"We're baaaaack!! We are honoured to be asked to close Reading and Leeds this summer. We had one of the best nights of our lives last time and we're going to do all we can to make it even bigger and better in 2016. You ain't seen nothing yet motherfuckers!!"
 
Catalysts for an entire generation, alt rock kingpins Fall Out Boy have sound tracked the teenage dreams of fans around the globe. Their catalogue of unmistakable anthems laid the blueprint for a genre of their own, standing the band as one of the most influential acts of the 21st century. Their 2013 return to Reading & Leeds triggered one of the biggest crowds in festival history, so expect euphoria, nostalgia and pandemonium as Fall Out Boy headline Reading & Leeds 2016.
 
Speaking about their massive co-headlining spot, Fall Out Boy said:

"It’s pretty surreal to hear we are going to be co-headlining Reading and Leeds. R&L was our first real festival experience outside of the U.S. and since the start we have buckled in and had an insane and memorable experience every time we have played. This is it, the big one for us and we are excited to be a part of it."

 
Biffy Clyro and Fall Out Boy join an unparalleled line up of headliners for Reading & Leeds 2016, boasting headline performances destined to last long in the history books from Foals, Disclosure and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. With 5 Headliners over 3 Days, Reading & Leeds is the go-to destination for countless, mammoth festival moments.
 
On top of these sensational headliners, a raft of new names have been confirmed to appear across the bank holiday weekend. Synth-pop revelations Chvrches have taken the world by storm over the past 3 years, with two critically-acclaimed studio albums and a captivating live presence. Fresh from the worldwide success of last year’s “Every Open Eye”, their appearance at Reading & Leeds will leave a lasting effect on a legion of devoted fans.
 
The Vaccines graduation to the major leagues of British indie has been staggering, releasing three mammoth LPs in 5 years, and securing their reputation as one of the most vital names of recent times. With eclectic cuts from “English Graffiti” and old favourites abound, their set is one destined to elicit jubilant summertime scenes in a UK Festival Exclusive performance at Reading & Leeds 2016.
 
Uncompromising and consistently pushing boundaries, A$AP Rocky is a global force to be reckoned with, across two acclaimed collection of intoxicating records that both landed at number 1 on the US charts and drew universal acclaim from critics around the globe. A style icon and a generational influencer, his UK Festival Exclusive appearance at Reading & Leeds 2016 sees the crowning of the next king of hip-hop.
 
After a massive year that culminated in a sold out appearance at London’s Roundhouse, Lower Than Atlantis will be bringing their radio-ready hit parade to Reading & Leeds in a UK Festival Exclusive for yet another momentous milestone for Watford’s finest. They’ll be joined by the latest and greatest in the rock world with the primal tones of Sleeping With Sirens, Welsh reggae-rock titans Skindred, punk legend Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes, heavy American icons Five Finger Death Punch and State Champs.
 
Lower Than Atlantis leader Mike Duce said:
"I'm pretty sure I've said this before but it's because I mean it! It's such an honour to be asked to play R&L, let alone the main stage! And so high up the bill! This means business. It's really time to step up our game!"
 
Speaking about their Main Stage appearance this year, Skindred frontman Benji Webbe said:
"You will see a lot of bands at Reading & Leeds Festival but there's nothing that will come close to the energy that Skindred will deliver and the vibes that will be rocking through the festival when we hit the stage! A performance not to be missed, we come in peace but we will leave you in pieces."
 
Sleeping With Sirens said about their UK Festival Exclusive performance:
"Sleeping With Sirens couldn't be more excited for our return to Reading and Leeds Festival! 'If you can't hang then'..
 
Californian sisters HAIM have grown into mesmeric darlings of the indie-pop world since the global success of debut album “Days Are Gone”. As anticipation grows for their unannounced second studio effort, Este, Danielle and Alana will be transforming Reading & Leeds into their own sun-drenched paradise in another UK Festival Exclusive.
 
The name on everyone’s lips Jack Garratt will hit Reading & Leeds 2016 with his untouchable electro-rock grooves, fresh from claiming the BBC Sound Of 2016 and BRITS Critics Choice Award that has marked him out as the one to watch this year.
 
The Wombats unmistakable electro-pop hooks have sound tracked the nation for nearly 10 years and fresh from their biggest live shows of their career in 2015, the Liverpudlian trio will be returning for an unmissable performance.
 
Speaking of their performance, The Wombats said:
''We are beyond excited to get back to Reading & Leeds Festivals! If I'm correct this will be our fourth time around but without a doubt last year was our favourite. It doesn't get much better than an R&L crowd!"
 
Exclusively returning to the Reading & Leeds fields are South African rave phenomenon Die Antwoord lighting the stage across the weekend with their unpredictable and chaotic live show.
 
Kentucky psych-mixers Cage The Elephant will be touching down with a full-barraged assault on the senses, whilst Reading’s own indie dreamers Sundara Karma take to the biggest stages of their career.  
 
Tectonic beats and bass-heavy vibrations are abound, with performances across the weekend from chart-hitters Sigma, dance don Netsky, “White Noise” gliders AlunaGeorge and highly tipped electronic svengali Mura Masa. Grime pillars Krept & Konan will cement their ascent with a high-energy turn at this year’s festivals, with underground king Giggs also due to appear.
 
Duo Sigma commented:
“We can’t wait to bring the new live show to Reading and Leeds for the first time – see you down the front!”
 
Netsky said:
“So excited to be coming back to the UK for Reading & Leeds this summer, the crowds always blow me away at these ones, and I can’t wait to bring the live band back again this year once my new album is out. See you in August!”
 
The Neighbourhood have also been announced, alongside punk purveyors Savages, ‘BBC Sound Of’ indie-mixers Blossoms, recently reunited Suffolk hardcore outfit Basement, Canadian anthem-sourcers Half Moon Run and the fresh dynamic rock of Highly Suspect, who all make for unmissable performances at this year’s festivals.
 
Basement said:
"We're all really excited to be playing Reading and Leeds festival again this year. It's a huge honour to be asked back and we can't wait to play the NME stage for the first time."
 
Highly Suspect had this to say on their upcoming appearance at Reading & Leeds 2016:
"Coming to the U.K. was some of the best shit that ever happened to us. Can't believe we get to come back again so soon and play at such an incredible festival. Pumped."
 
Reading & Leeds rich history in highlighting the sub genres and game-changers of the alternative world will continue in 2016, with calculating metallers The Dillinger Escape Plan returning to the festival 14 years after one of the most talked about appearances in festival history in a UK Festival Exclusive. Another UK Festival Exclusive sits with the unstoppable behemoth that is Asking Alexandria making their Reading & Leeds debut with a headline spectacle for the ages. The returning punks The King Blues will also be bringing their politically-charged sermons on the modern nation to the Reading & Leeds crowds.
 
Itch from The King Blues says:
"We're so excited to be back amongst the freaks and the troublemakers on the punk stage we've played so many times. This is truly going to be the highlight of my summer"
 
Bringing an equally fierce live reputation is Creeper, the most talked about new band in the UK, whose sets have become community gatherings with their electric blend of goth and punk rock, making them ones not to be missed. Also announced is the glam-rock stomp of FVK, Rage Against The Machine’s Tim Commerford unleashing his fierce new outfit Wakrat, Philadelphian rockers Modern Baseball, rising punks Dead!, Norweigan six-piece Kvelertak and dark rock glazers Citizen.
 
FVK co-frontman Kier Kemp commented:
"Well then here's another one for the bucket list! Some of our fondest festival memories are from Reading Festival, and to think we'll be gracing those stages this year is unreal. I guess all I can say is thanks to everyone that's got us here. Yay!"
 
Creeper said:
"We are incredibly excited to be playing Reading and Leeds festival this year. Members of our band have been attending these festivals since we were kids, it is an incredible honour to have been asked to play and we promise a very special show."
 
Tim Commerford of Wakrat said:
“I can't believe that WAKRAT will be playing Reading and Leeds this year. It's a blessing to play and introduce my new passion to a part of the world that has been so good to me and has some of the most incredible fans and we hope to win more over.”
 
Rising punks DEAD! said:
"R&L has become a rite of passage for bands building something and taking it that bit further. We're excited to take that step. See you down the front X"
 
Reading & Leeds emphatic array of the best in hip-hop continues with the addition of US hit machine Travi$ Scott. The eccentric, genre-blender released his acclaimed debut LP ‘Rodeo” at the end of 2015, only extending his reputation as the most in-demand name in modern hip-hop. He’ll be joined across the weekend with headline sets from G-Eazy whose acclaimed appearance on Grace’s “You Don’t Own Me” sent his stardom to another level. Both of these huge names stand as UK Festival Exclusives, making Reading & Leeds the only place to be for the hottest names in modern hip-hop.
 
Further additions include Anderson .Paak & The Free Nationals who set to deliver an unmissable masterclass in modern jazz and soul whilst reggae wordsmith Protoje, South London’s Section Boyz, gritty actor turned musician Raleigh Ritchie, the undeniable rhymes of Lady Leshurr, label disc-jockey DJ Semtex and Yungen are all set to tear apart the stage at this year’s festivals.
 
Protoje said about his addition to the lineup:
"The UK is one of my favorite places in the world to play music so it's always a pleasure to come there and play. The crowds there always show up with an energy that is unlike anywhere else in the world. Looking forward to the response at Reading and Leeds Fest."
 
Indie veterans and Newcastle’s favourite sons   Maxïmo Park will be opening their catalogue of art-rock soundscapes that defined a generation of guitar bands. Expect the hits and more from dynamic frontman Paul Smith. In another UK Festival Exclusive, Seratones join the line up, bringing their infectious, swinging rock to Reading & Leeds for an unprecedented evening of Southern charm.
 
Taking to the stage across the weekend, will be the shining solo moods of Banners, the riotous snarl of rockers INHEAVEN and the fuzzed grunge goodness of Glaswegian dreamers Tuff Love.
 
Joining co-headliners Disclosure in the dance music world at Reading & Leeds 2016 is a mixture of pioneering legends and the hottest names in underground dance. Duke Dumont will be dropping an undeniable masterclass in modern pop whilst David Rodigan MBE 1Xtra’s Mistajam, BRIT Award nominees Disciples, “Alone No More” hitmaker Philip George, French DJ supremos Birdy Nam Nam, LA spinner Jauz, “Rinse & Repeat” hitmaker Riton and a decadent bass breakdown with My Nu Leng B2B Oneman + Dread MC (Reading) and Oneman B2B My Nu Leng + Dread MC (Leeds) as all take to the decks for unique and bass-shaking performances over the weekend, proving the home of modern dance is Reading & Leeds.
 
Philip George said:
“When you’re a kid, Reading and Leeds were two festivals you really dream of playing at – and this summer I am buzzing that I get to make that dream come true I remember seeing all the lineups coming out for Reading/Leeds and they are always quality so it's mint that I'm playing it this summer. I’m really looking forward to it”
 
Including the unprecedented 5 Headliners Over 3 Days in Red Hot Chili Peppers, Foals, Disclosure and today’s announcement of Biffy Clyro and Fall Out Boy, previously announced acts including pop kings The 1975, dance supremos Jack U, Las Vegas chart heroes Imagine Dragons, US hip/hop enigma Fetty Wap, Grime collective Boy Better Know, Courteeners, Twenty One Pilots, Two Door Cinema Club and many, many more!
 
ANNOUNCED TODAY:
 
Biffy Clyro (co-headline) (UK Festival Exclusive)
Fall Out Boy (co-headline) (UK Festival Exclusive)
Chvrches
The Vaccines (UK Festival Exclusive)
A$AP Rocky (UK Festival Exclusive)
HAIM (UK Festival Exclusive)
Jack Garratt
The Wombats
Lower Than Atlantis (UK Festival Exclusive)
Asking Alexandria (UK Festival Exclusive)
The Dillinger Escape Plan (UK Festival Exclusive)
Travi$ Scott (UK Festival Exclusive)
G-Eazy (UK Festival Exclusive)
Skindred        
Five Finger Death Punch (UK Festival Exclusive)                     
Sleeping With Sirens (UK Festival Exclusive)
The Neighbourhood (UK Festival Exclusive)
Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes         
State Champs
Savages
Die Antwoord (UK Festival Exclusive)
Cage The Elephant (UK Festival Exclusive)
Krept & Konan
Sigma
Half Moon Run
Basement
Blossoms
Mura Masa
Giggs
Netsky
Highly Suspect (UK Festival Exclusive)
Sundara Karma
AlunaGeorge   
Duke Dumont
David Rodigan MBE
Disciples                              
My Nu Leng B2B Oneman + Dread MC (Reading) / Oneman B2B My Nu Leng + Dread MC (Leeds)                          
MistaJam
Philip George                    
Riton                    
Birdy Nam Nam                               
Wakrat
The King Blues
Kvelertak
FVK                                                          
Modern Baseball
Dead!         
Creeper             
Citizen                                      
Maxïmo Park
Raleigh Ritchie                                                                                                     
INHEAVEN                        
Banners                                                                                                                     
Tuff Love                                              
Seratones       
Anderson .Paak & The Free Nationals                         
Section Boyz                     
Protoje                                                              
Lady Leshurr
DJ Semtex
Yungen       
Juaz                                            
 
PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED:
                   
Red Hot Chili Peppers
Foals (Co-Headline)
Disclosure (Co-Headline)
Imagine Dragons (European Festival Exclusive)
Jack U                  
Two Door Cinema Club                 
The 1975
Courteeners                     
Boy Better Know (UK Festival Exclusive)       
Twenty One Pilots (UK Festival Exclusive)                                                       
Crystal Castles (UK Festival Exclusive)    
Fetty Wap (UK Festival Exclusive)                     
Eagles Of Death Metal (UK Festival Exclusive)
Slaves  
Parkway Drive (UK Festival Exclusive)
Nothing But Thieves     
The Internet (UK Festival Exclusive)
Rat Boy
Hinds
Oliver Heldens   
DJ EZ
Hannah Wants
Crossfaith
Kurupt FM Presents: Champagne Steam Rooms
Cassetteboy vs DJ Rubbish

Disclosure and Foals to co-headline Reading and Leeds Festival 2016

by
Reading & Leeds Festivals are delighted to announce Foals and Disclosure as co- headliners for this year’s festival taking place across Bank Holiday Weekend 26-28 August 2016. In a Reading & Leeds first, two bastions of modern British music will be making the step up to the largest festival stages of their careers, bringing together two defining acts of a generation.
 
Returning after their festival-stopping surprise set last year, 2016 will see Foals in their debut headline performance at Reading & Leeds. Unafraid of genre limitations, their endless creativity and ferocious live shows have seen the Oxford five-piece rise through the ranks, positioning themselves as one of the most unmissable live acts in the world.
 
Joining Foals as co-headliners of Reading & Leeds 2016 is the dance phenomenon Disclosure, in their very first Major UK Festival headlining set. Their chart topping dance anthems sound-tracked the worldwide explosion of UK dance. Their 2014 performance saw crowds overflowing the NME/Radio 1 Stage, so their return to headline in 2016 is one not to be missed.
 
Melvin Benn commented: “I couldn’t be more excited about this announcement. A co -headline with two of the most promising British acts out there; Foals secret set last year was a highlight for me, as I’m sure their debut headline slot will be, coupled with the phenomenal Disclosure – we’re very proud to be able to give these acts the recognition they deserve.”
 
Foals commented: “We're absolutely buzzing to be headlining Reading & Leeds this year. It's a dream come true. I used to watch Nirvana live at Reading '92, on vhs, repeatedly while dying my hair blue & learning how to play guitar, badly. We've worked our way up on our own terms & to be given the chance to headline one of the world’s most iconic festivals is a huge achievement for us & hopefully a sign for all bands, that, if you stick to your guns & focus on what matters, you'll get there & smash it. Onwards & upwards friends. Long live the guitar band”
 
Disclosure commented: " We’re incredibly excited to be co-headlining Reading and Leeds with our good friends Foals. We've been going to Reading festival since we were kids and have played at both festivals several times, but never in a million years did we think we'd be at the top of the line-up, especially considering there hasn't been an electronic headliner since The Prodigy in 2002! Truly honoured" 
 
 
Dance super group Jack Ü have shifted the face of modern dance, with worldwide smash ‘Where Are U Now’ dominating the airwaves and music libraries of millions. Bringing together electronic dance icons Skrillex and Diplo, their live shows at Reading & Leeds 2016 will be a summer extravaganza like no other. 
 
In a European Festival Exclusive, Imagine Dragons will be returning to Reading & Leeds; with a catalogue of chart hits including ‘Radioactive’, ‘It’s Time’ and ‘Demons’ that are destined to whip the capacity crowds into frenzy. Reading & Leeds 2016 will be the only place to catch them in Europe over the summer. 
 
Commenting on their appearance at Reading & Leeds this year, the band say:
“Reading and Leeds is one of the best festivals in the world. We look forward to the wonderful people. The music. And even the mud. See you soon."
 
Two Door Cinema Club joins the impressive line up at Reading & Leeds this year in a UK Festival Exclusiveperformance. Expect old favourites and new tracks galore, as the Northern Irish trio smash yet another festival crowd on their way to indie immortality.
 
The hottest name in hip-hop, Fetty Wap will make his debut UK Live Appearance at this year’s Reading and Leeds, in yet another UK Festival Exclusive. Shaking up the hip-hop scene with his dark tales of modern life, the underground king has remained an untouchable enigma since his rise to stardom. The master behind 2015 hit ‘Trap Queen’, Fetty also made Billboard history when his first four singles – ‘Trap Queen’, ‘Again’, ‘My Way’ and ‘679’ – charted simultaneously on the Hot Rap Songs chart.
 
A true breakthrough success story, the soaring vocals from Nothing But Thieves will be returning to Reading & Leeds bringing their unique brand of rock, and hits from their eponymous debut album released late last year. They’ll be sharing the bill with pulsating electro pioneers Crystal Castles fresh from a new line up and sound, expect a barrage of synthesised distortion and a visceral live show like no other.
 
Nothing But Thieves said on their Reading & Leeds return:
"Last year’s Reading & Leeds was one of our highlights of 2015, it was an honour to play a stage that we've seen so many bands at since we were kids, cannot wait to be playing Reading & Leeds again this year."
 
Parkway Drive are set to bring their angry metalcore cocktail to Reading & Leeds 2016 with their only UK Festival appearance of the summer, whilst The Internet will be gripping the crowds with their modern take on neo-soul and trip-hop in yet another UK Festival Exclusive.
 
Securing Reading & Leeds 2016 as the go-to festival for global dance superstars, co-headliners Disclosure will be joined on the line-up by ‘Gecko (Overdrive)’ chart supremo Oliver Heldens and the undisputed queen of UK danceHannah Wants for bursts of unrelenting electronic gold.
 
Hannah Wants: "2015 was my very first experience playing Reading & Leeds and wow I was impressed! The crowds were absolutely insaaaaaane! I’m so hyped to returning again this year!”
 
Oliver Heldens says: “I’m really looking forward to play at Reading and Leeds this August. I like the fact that there is a very diverse line up and I hope to see some cool acts when I’m at the festival. I can’t wait to be back in the UK and hope to see you all there!”
 
On the Alternative Stage we’re thrilled to announce headliners Kurupt FM will present Champagne Steam Rooms, bringing the pure vibes of champagne era UKG to Reading & Leeds 2016, with special guest DJ Barely Legal, one of the best bass DJs around. On release, the BBC mockumentary pilot, People Just Do Nothing, became the most popular programme of the month. Following the MCs behind West London’s finest pirate radio station, the show developed a cult following, and with Series 3 airing in 2016 they’re now revelling in success. They’re the biggest thing to come out of Brentford since the football club and they’re taking over Reading & Leeds
 
Joining Kurupt FM on the Alternative Stage at Reading and Leeds 2016 are Cassetteboy. Their most popular videos, Cassetteboy vs The Bloody Apprentice, and David Cameron’s Conference Rap, have both been watched over 6 million times.  They’ve enlisted the help of their shouty friend DJ Rubbish to create a comedy disco. He’ll be hyping up the crowd while Cassetteboy caper around behind him. The resulting show looks like your Tivo box went out clubbing and got hammered.  Dot Cotton and Gregg Wallace are mashed up with Rihanna and The Human League in the weirdest party you’ve ever been to.  It will be a stupid, messy, funny festival highlight.
 
Standing as the only place to catch the biggest and most influential acts of modern times, Reading & Leeds 2016 is destined to be the epicentre of the 2016 music calendar, full of exclusive moments that will define the year in modern music. 
 
Newly announced additions:
 
Foals (Co-Headliner)
Disclosure (Co-Headliner)
Jack Ü
Imagine Dragons (European Festival Exclusive)
Two Door Cinema Club (UK Festival Exclusive)
Fetty Wap (UK Festival Exclusive)
Crystal Castles
Parkway Drive (UK Festival Exclusive)
Nothing But Thieves
The Internet (UK Festival Exclusive)
Oliver Heldens
Hannah Wants
Kurupt FM Presents: Champagne Steam Rooms
CassetteBoy vs DJ Rubbish
 
Previously announced:
Red Hot Chili Peppers (Headliner: Festival Exclusive)
The 1975
Courteeners
Boy Better Know
Twenty One Pilots
Eagles Of Death Metal (UK Festival Exclusive)
Slaves
Hinds
Rat Boy
DJ EZ

Red Hot Chili Peppers to headline Reading and Leeds 2016

by

Reading & Leeds Festivals are excited to announce RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS as the first headliners for 2016.

Taking to the main stage for what promises to be a phenomenal headline set as a FESTIVAL EXCLUSIVE, Red Hot Chili Peppers are; Anthony Kiedis, Flea, Chad Smith and Josh Klinghoffer. Returning to Reading and Leeds Festival nine years after their last performance there, it’s fair to say their live return is highly anticipated. When the band were asked which UK Festival they would like to play next summer, Chad Smith commented “the simultaneous answer was ‘Reading and Leeds’”

Melvin Benn commented:

“I’m thrilled to be able to announce Red Hot Chili Peppers as the first headliner for Reading & Leeds 2016, as a festival exclusive. Their incredible live show will be an unforgettable headline performance at the UK's biggest music festival. We’ve still got some really exciting names to announce and I can’t wait to reveal the rest of the line up. It’s going to be our best year yet.”

The 1975 will be making a huge appearance at next year’s festival following the release of their highly anticipated second album. With a gargantuan new stage set up and a fiercely dedicated fan base, their appearance is going to be undeniably special.

Mancunian festival favourites Courteeners will also be returning in majestic fashion in 2016, following the release of ‘Concrete Love’ and a huge show in Heaton Park earlier this summer, priming them for a massive performance.

With a famously visceral live show, Twenty One Pilots appearance at Reading & Leeds 2016 looks set to be nothing short of mind blowing, especially in the wake of their November sold-out UK tour and their recent album Blurryface, which topped the Billboard Charts. 2015 has been a huge year for the guys and with another sold out tour under their belts in February and two nights at Madison Square Garden in the summer, 2016 is set to be another incredible year for this band and their performance at Reading & Leeds will definitely cement them as the most exciting band around right now.

Slaves embody some of the emerging talent on offer at the festival, moving into a bigger slot after storming their performance this year, not to mention their Mercury Prize nomination earlier this month.

Slaves commented: 

“It's always a pleasure to play at Reading and Leeds and it's an honour to be invited back to play again in 2016. The crowds have been good to us and we are always very grateful. The line up is always a gooden and we're looking forward to being part of it and taking things up another level this time. See you there xxx”

Another group known for their raucous live shows, HINDS have undoubtedly proved themselves as one of the finest new bands to surface this year, winning crowds over across Europe with their delightfully ramshackle performance, fans will need to look out for their debut Reading and Leeds performance. RAT BOY is also joining the line up – fresh after a summer of huge shows, including last month’s inaugural Community Festival and a recent tour supporting The 1975, hit singles such as ‘Sign On’ and ‘Fake ID’ will no doubt draw huge sing-alongs.

Rat Boy commented:

“It’s gonna be lit!”

Reading & Leeds favourites Crossfaith will no doubt see a crowd of thousands descend on the legendary Japanese rave-metal group’s performance.

Crossfaith commented:

“It is an absolute honour to be invited to legendary rock festival ‘Reading & Leeds’ three years in a row. We are always feeling your big love for us! Can't wait to party and rock with you guys! See you in da pit! Let's make history!”

Kicking off a huge dance line up, the iconic DJ EZ has also been revealed to perform. A master of his craft, EZ has played to crowds all over the world over the last decade, making him the perfect candidate to get the Reading & Leeds crowd moving.

DJ EZ commented:

"I can't wait for these festivals! Looking forward to seeing you there."

Reading and Leeds Festival announce BBC Introducing Stage for 2015

by

Forever championing up and coming talent, the BBC Introducing Stage is back once again this year offering one of the biggest launch platforms for new music from the UK, having last year offered up sets from the likes of Jack Garratt, Rae Morris, and Prides. Over the years BBC Introducing stage has also hosted R&L debut slots from Jake Bugg, Catfish and the Bottlemen and Spector, the stage is a must visit for anyone wishing to catch future stars’ formative moments.

Headlining the Friday at Reading and the Saturday at Leeds will be hotly tipped genre-masher Georgia whose debut, self-titled album is sure to be one of the alternative hits of the summer. She’ll be joined by Warrington based indie poppers Viola Beach, Bristol grunge-rock quartet The Jacques, Reading locals The Amazons, singer-songwriter Martin Luke Brown, electronic trio Moon Tourists, Hull alternative four piece LIFE and metalcore heavyweights Return To Rome.

Saturday at Reading and Sunday at Leeds will see the stage headlined by hotly-tipped, freshly signed Liverpool band Clean Cut Kid whose whip-smart pop is surely destined for the festival’s bigger stages! Also appearing on the stage that day are Leeds genre-spanners Clay, NME-tipped rock ’n’ rollers Demob Happy, Glasgow art-pop quintet White, indie-rock songwriter John Joseph Brill, folk punk band Ducking Punches, the psychedelic garage of Crosa Rosa as well as Reading rockers Area 52.

Closing the weekend at Reading on the Sunday and headlining the first night on Friday at Leeds will be the massively up and coming, high energy band Childcare. Their playful debut EP Flush has garnered a huge amount of attention and with good reason; they are not to be missed. Joining them are moody London alt-rockersThe Big Moon, Telford newcomers Hyena, 60s beat influenced group Hidden Charms, DIY surf-rock songwriterWillie J Healey, blues-rock duo Kit Trigg, Leeds electronic pop artist Skinner and brooding dream-pop bandR51.

The stage also plays host to Irish grunge-pop band Otherkin, the infectious pop of Vitamin, experimental duoMalpas and Paul Weller championed Brighton five piece White Room alongside Centre Stage Competition winners The Mallrats as well as Futuresound Competition runners up Treason Kings, Samuel S. Parkes, Happy Daggers, Where Fires Are and NARCS.

With something for everyone and the cream of the UK’s upcoming talent on display, the BBC Introducing Stage is the place to be for any discerning new music fan.

Dance lineup confirmed for Relentless Stage at Leeds Festival

by
Known as the latest and loudest stage at Leeds Festival, the Relentless Stage returns for 2015 with another mega party line-up. Headlining each night are leading names in dance and electronic music, including Bondax, Mau5trap Presents Special Guests, DJ EZ and Modestep (DJ set).
 
The Relentless Stage continues the party vibe as it has done in previous years, with music kicking off from 8pm every night going straight through until 3am. The eponymous 3-d image mapped stage is back in the same location, nestled amongst the trees, between the Orange and Red campsites.
 
Kicking off the first night of the festival in style is none other than electronic duo Bondax, backed by Fono, and Relentless’s Here to be Heard DJ competition 2014 winner, Luke Hassan.
 
Ravers should get to the Relentless Stage early on Friday night for an incredible line-up presented by Mau5trap featuring some very special guest appearances. Watch this space…
 
Saturday night will be a showcase of London talent, with garage legend, DJ EZ, showing us why he’s still king of the festival party. He will be supported by Rinse FM regular, Oneman, and NTS’s record maker, player and mixer, Martelo.
 
There's no let up on Sunday, the final night, as London-based dubstep and electronic rock band Modestep take to the stage with a late-night DJ set. He will be backed by electronic / dubstep favourite Culprate as well as this year’s Relentless’s yet-to-be-decided Here to be Heard DJ competition winner – check out http://relentlesshtbh.com/ for the latest news on the competition. 

Reading & Leeds 2015 Announce Alternative Stage And Transgressive Takeover

by
With eight weeks to go until the Festival gates open, the line-up for the Alternative Stage at Reading & Leeds has been announced. With tickets for both sites still available there’s never been a better time to buy a ticket. On top of the already huge line-up including headlinersMumford and Sons, Metallica and The Libertines comes a host of the best in comedy and alternative talent from the UK and beyond plus the annual after-hours takeover from Transgressive Records.
 
Heading up proceedings on the comedy front is TV favourite Milton Jones, whose regular appearances on ‘Mock The Week’ along withmultiple Radio 4 shows has made him the leader of the pack when it comes to deadpan comedy. With sidesplitting one-liners aplenty, his Reading & Leeds performance is not to be missed. Bringing the jokes outside of the 140 character limit, Rob Delaney will also be making appearances at Reading & Leeds, proving his worth as an acclaimed stand up comedian after finding fame through making jokes on Twitter. Also heading for Leeds will be Adam Buxton of BBC6 Music fame who will perform his BFI London show BUG. TV joker Russell Kane will also be bringing his hugely popular brand of comedy to the festival, offering a rare chance to see the funnyman outside of the huge venues he’s already playing around the country.
 
With a line-up also including the brilliant ‘Stand Up For The Week’ regular and star of BBC’s Twenty Twelve Sara Pascoe and Canadian Comedy star Katherine Ryan who was a breakout star on Live At The Apollo both of whom who you’ll have seen on Never Mind The Buzzcocks, QI, Have I Got News For You and Mock The Week. They are joined by wild haired standup and Virtually Famous TV star Seann Walsh, fast rising UK star Daniel Sloss and ‘Show Me The Funny’ finalist Tiffany Stevenson, The Alternative Stage is truly one of the must see parts of the festival.
 
The comedy bill expands even further with the delightfully cutting Stephen K Amos, the hugely inventive Abandoman, Radio 1 star Tom Deacon, the man from TV’s Uncle and Heavy Entertainment; Nick Helm, panel-show favourite the hilarious Holly Walsh, the fearlessly funnySuzi Ruffell, metalhead Andrew O’Neill, comedian and captain of ITV’s Reality Bites Joel Dommett, online superstar, fantastic comic and Beyoncé enthusiast Luisa Omielan, impractical joker Paul McCaffrey,Viral Tap and Xtra Factor star Matt Richardson, Edinburgh 2014 Best Newcomer Award winner Alex Edelman, BBC regular and break out star Dane Baptiste, Magician and Comic just returned from dazzling Las Vegas the side-splittingly funny Piff The Magic Dragon, sketch icons Wit Tank, fast-rising star David Morgan the newly announced co-host of ITV’s SafeWord, and finally everyone’s favourite from Channel 4’s Mr Drew’s School for Boys teacher and rapper, Mark Grist.
 
The famous Alternative Stage is far more than just another festival comedy tent though, as it bills some of the best in forward thinking music and spoken word. Fast gaining a name as one of the UK’s most vital talents after appearing on the BBC Sound of 2015 longlist, George The Poet will be bringing his incredible, realistic, unafraid hybrid of spoken word and hip hop to the festival, which is sure to be an unforgettable moment of the weekend. Another huge name joining the bill is Jaguar Skills who will be spinning some of his most notable, eclectic, multi-genre mixes, alongside London-based electronica and Techno producer Max Cooper who is making his Leeds Festival debut. 
 
On top of this, Transgressive’s annual takeover brings together another hotly anticipated late-night line-up to Reading & Leeds. Fresh after celebrating their 10th anniversary at the festival last year, the independent label is bringing another specially curated bill that is their biggest yet. Hi-jacking the Saturday and Sunday nights in Leeds, the stage will run from 9.30pm until late, featuring a host of emerging and established talent throughout the weekend. Grime hero Wiley will be bringing his fantastic and ferocious live show to the tent in the wake of his critically acclaimed album Snakes and Ladders, released at the end of 2014 to huge fanfare. Looking to the future stars of the genre, Novelist will be also be making an appearance, while the likes of Jackmaster, Madame X and DJ Target will get crowds moving throughout the weekend.
 
Transgressive will be taking over Reading by bringing Dj-ing talent to a Silent Disco in the Alternative Stage courtesy of Alt J, Palma Violets,Peace and BBC Radio 1's Huw Stephens and Jen Long, which looks set to be nothing short of spectacular.
 
All of this sits alongside parties from Buttoned Down Disco and a series of extra special DJ sets from The Libertines’ Gary Powell and The Kooks’ Hugh Harris for Propaganda.

Reading and Leeds Festival add more acts to their lineup for 2015

by

With a huge bill topped by festival headliners Metallica, Mumford & Sons and The Libertines plus a supporting cast of some of the world’s biggest names in music including Kendrick Lamar, Alt J and Bring Me The Horizon, the already bursting Reading & Leeds Festival lineup is now bolstered by even more incredible names.

MAIN STAGE

With the Main Stage lineup already providing a huge number of must-see acts across this summer’s bank holiday weekend,Mariachi El Bronx return to the prestigious opening slot to bring festival crowds their signature brand of traditional mariachi and feel good pop for a set that is sure to bring the sunshine. The LA punks, The Bronx, will also play The Lock up Stage.

NME/BBC RADIO 1 STAGE

Taking the NME/BBC Radio 1 Stage on the Friday at Reading and Saturday at Leeds, The Struts will be making their R&L debut this year; treating crowds to their potent mix of indie and glam rock as found on last years ‘Everybody Wants’ LP. Having played support to The Rolling Stones last year, they are truly a world-class rock act.

Since forming in 2009 Chicago, Illinois natives Twin Peaks have continued to build on the buzz surrounding their furious brand of garage punk. Heading for Reading on the Saturday and Sunday at Leeds, theirs is a set not to be missed. 

To say that British songwriter and producer Shura has a bright future ahead of her would be a complete understatement. With standout headline shows under her belt and armed with tracks like the smooth electro-pop of recent Radio 1 championed single ‘2Shy’, expect huge crowds on Sunday at Reading and Friday at Leeds. 

BBC RADIO 1 DANCE STAGE

Dance music enthusiasts can once again rejoice as the BBC Radio 1 Dance Stage once again brings only the finest acts from across the world together under one roof.

Joining this year’s lineup are Australian hitmaker Hayden James, German deep-house wizard Ferdinand Weber, a very special live set from DJ Fresh, Irish favourites Riptide Movement, live electronic duo Maribou State, pop starlet Petite Meller and The Six. 

THE LOCK UP/PIT STAGE

A host of exciting new names have been announced for The Lock Up/Pit stage, including The Bronx and Progressive metal legends Baroness. Japanese noise-mongers Bo Ningen will bring their visceral, undeniably unique sound to a mid-afternoon slot on Friday Reading / Saturday Leeds. Earlier in the day the gloriously destructive God Damn will be proving why so much hype has surrounded them in recent months. Vant will also be opening proceedings with Skinny Lister.Elsewhere throughout the weekend, No Devotion and As It Is join a mammoth lineup on Saturday Reading / Sunday Leeds, further proving why The Lock Up / Pit Stage is one of the festival’s most exciting, diverse areas on site.

FESTIVAL REPUBLIC STAGE

The Festival Republic Stage remains the area of the festivals with a focus on both emerging and established alternative talent. Having appeared on the BBC Sound of 2015 longlist earlier this year, Sunset Sons‘ fresh brand of beachside indie has built a huge fan base who will no doubt pack out the tent Friday Reading / Saturday Leeds. Scottish synth-poppersNeon Waltz play Saturday Reading / Sunday Leeds having drawn critical acclaim from blogs around the world whilst Spring King fuse visceral indie with modern pop charm.

Seether and The Last Internationale complete the current announcement, rounding off an incredible stage lineup that features the best alternative talent the world has to offer.

BBC 1XTRA STAGE

Further proving the vital place of Hip Hop and Urban music at R&L, more names have also been added to the hugely popular BBC 1XTRA Stage. Bringing together 80’s pop hooks with a 60’s aesthetic, Brighton’s Remi Miles will open the stage Saturday Reading / Sunday Leeds.

Fresh after collaborating with Jamie XX, unlikely rap hero Young Thug will also be making a rare appearance Friday Leeds / Saturday Reading, bringing a barrage of hits that prove impossible not to shout along to.

Sibling production / DJ duo Star.One also join the lineup, perfectly encapsulating the diverse and groundbreaking nature of both the BBC 1xtra Stage, and Reading and Leeds as a whole.

Reading and Leeds Festival add alt-J, Palma Violets, Modestep and more

by
With only four months to go until August Bank Holiday Weekend, Reading & Leeds Festivals are excited to add over 60 new acts to an already incredible bill headlined by Mumford & Sons, Metallica and The Libertines.
Leading the charge are indie rock heroes and all round band of the moment alt-J. Last seen headlining the NME/BBC Radio 1 Stage at the Festivals, the band’s sophomore album ‘This Is All Yours’ has established them as one of Britain’s brightest and biggest bands, who will deservedly step up to an evening set on the Main Stage in 2015.
 
Gus Unger-Hamilton says:
"We're really over the moon to be returning to Reading & Leeds. It'll be our third time playing, and we always have the best time."
 
Joining alt-J on the Main Stage on Friday at Reading / Saturday at Leeds, Palma Violets will be treating revelers to cuts from their upcoming ‘Danger In The Club’. Their garage rock clatter is sure to get the crowd going, whilst Drenge graduate to Main Stage status with their extremely loud brand of grunge.
 
Fusing dubstep and rock to create a sound that is entirely their own, London’s Modestep step up to the plate on Saturday at Reading / Sunday at Leeds, joined on the bill by raucous LA skate punks FIDLAR and Japanese metal idol stars Babymetal, who will be opening the stage.
 
Sunday at Reading / Friday at Leeds will see the return of Festival favourites The Gaslight Anthem, whose signature heartfelt punk rock is sure to provide one of the afternoon’s biggest singalongs. Lead by the iconic Laura Jane Grace the passionate, dynamic punk of Against Me! will cause a similar stir whilst British hardcore titans Feed The Rhino will be providing a suitably noisy start to the day.
NME / BBC RADIO 1 STAGE
Joining the NME/BBC Radio 1 Stage line-up on Friday at Reading / Saturday at Leeds are energetic Brooklyn indie-punks Parquet Courts and LA indie-poppers Echosmith.
After storming the stage last year Scottish chart-smashing rockers Twin Atlantic will return to the bill on Saturday at Reading / Sunday at Leeds, celebrating a huge year with a characteristically anthemic evening set. London indie favourites Spector and up and coming rock newcomers Nothing But Thieves return to the Festival. British soul and R&B singer Kwabs, AWOLNATION, Ghostpoet and The Skints are added to the bill on Sunday at Reading / Friday at Leeds.
BBC RADIO 1 DANCE STAGE
Getting the BBC Radio 1 Dance tent moving on Friday at Reading / Saturday at Leeds will be Jacob Plant, Maribou State, LANY and All We Are, while dance-icon MK will be bringing his stunning show to close the stage on Saturday at Reading / Sunday at Leeds. Oliver Dollar is added to the bill at Reading only, while Kevin Saunderson will fill this slot with an exclusive set at Leeds.
 
After a stunning 2014, pop provocateur Charli XCX also joins the Radio 1 Dance Tent line-up, a highly anticipated performance in the wake of her critically acclaimed new album Sucker and a sold-out UK tour. Secondcity,Dimension x Kove and Elliphant will join an amazing line-up on Saturday at Reading / Sunday at Leeds, whileBlonde Live, Rustie, Evian Christ, Snakehips, TCTS and 99 Souls are set to entertain the BBC Radio 1 Dance Stage audience on Sunday at Reading / Friday at Leeds.
THE LOCK UP / THE PIT
Joining an already huge line-up on the Lock Up, on Friday at Reading / Saturday at Leeds will be Modern Baseball, The Bots, The Smith Street Band and Youth Man.
 
The Pit will feature a of line-up of gargantuan established acts and fresh emerging talent including iconic metalcore group Atreyu, PVRIS, And So I Watch You From Afar, Black Peaks, Ho99o9 and The One Hundredon Saturday at Reading / Sunday at Leeds.
 
On Sunday at Reading / Friday at Leeds, American metalcore five piece Beartooth are added to the bill, and former Gallows frontman Frank Carter will be bringing his new band Frank Carter and The Rattlesnakes, whileriff-tastic Bristol rockers Turbowolf, Moose Blood, Queen Kwong, Hawk Eyes, Single Mothers, Black Foxxesand Fort Hope are also now revealed for the stage.
FESTIVAL REPUBLIC STAGE
Fresh indie talent has been added to the line-up for the much-loved Festival Republic Stage, with Saint Raymond set to bring his joyous indie pop to the masses on Friday at Reading / Saturday at Leeds. Bombastic Scottish trio Prides, Bear’s Den, Vaults, Joywave, Eliza And The Bear and Hunter & The Bear are also revealed for the bill.
 
With new single ‘Our Eyes’ currently receiving huge radio support and fast-amassing buzz for her forthcoming second album, Lucy Rose will play second on the bill on Saturday at Reading / Sunday at Leeds, with Blossoms and Bad Breeding also added to the line-up.
 
Geordie heroes Little Comets will take to the stage on Sunday at Reading / Friday at Leeds, along with Mini Mansions, Gengahr, Hippo Campus, Sundara Karma, Black Honey and The Sherlocks.
BBC 1XTRA STAGE
 
One of the most exciting stages at the Festival, the BBC 1XTRA Stage sees British legend Ms Dynamite announced for Saturday at Reading / Sunday at Leeds, joined by visceral Tempa T, Loyle Carner, and Kiko Bun.
 
Dope D.O.D., Fekky, Siobhan Bell and Isaiah Dreads are revealed for the line-up on Sunday at Reading / Friday at Leeds, joining a bill which features some of the best urban talent the world has to offer. 

Alexisonfire come together at Reading and Leeds Festival

by

ALEXISONFIRE have announced they will come together for a series of summer festivals. They have made Reading and Leeds their exclusive European performance.

The classic lineup of George Pettit, Chris Steele, Wade MacNeil, Dallas Green and Jordan ‘Ratbeard’ Hastings will come back to British soil for the first time since they briefly reunited for a worldwide 10th anniversary tour in 2012.

One of the biggest bands to come out of Canada’s underground music scene, Alexisonfire released four successful albums internationally, and amassed a legion of fans all over the world.

ALEXISONFIRE play the Main Stage on Saturday at Reading and Sunday at Leeds, joining headliners Metallica alongside Bring Me The Horizon, Royal Blood, Pierce The Veil and Marmozets.

Mumford & Sons and The Libertines will also headline the Festivals this August Bank Holiday