circa waves

Bestival announces all three headliners and the theme for 2017!

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It’s a brand-new era, so prepare for the truly immersive experience of Bestival 2017. Announcing four incredible headliners and a huge bill of amazing music, we are entering a new chapter of light and sound, exploring the wonders of Colour on our mission to increase the peace this 7th – 10th September at the Lulworth Estate, Dorset.

Rob da Bank says: “Well what an adventure this promises to be… we have a beautiful new home with a massive castle in the middle of it, acres of beautiful woodland and forest, a sea view and the dramatic Jurassic coastline. Going back to our roots with Josie da Bank’s hand-drawn artwork, reviving all our favourite stages from 14 years of Bestival history and going out with all our headliners for the first time ever together, we’re pretty excited at Bestival HQ. From pop to grime, hip-hop to techno, folk to classical and every style in between we are reclaiming our place as the funnest, most adventurous, musically savvy and downright magical festival on the map. Please come along for the ride. and remember Increase the Peace”

We are honoured to say that The xx will be the first ever Castle Stage headliners at Bestival! Never anything less than breath-taking, we can’t think of a more fitting band to get the main stage action underway in our new home.

Commenting on their headline performance, The xx said: “Bestival was one of the first festivals we played, back in 2010, and it had always been a dream for us…we even begged to play the previous year. In 2012 we returned to play the main stage and we’re so happy to say we’ll be headlining this year, at the new site in Dorset. The Isle of Wight will hold a special place in our hearts but we’re excited to bring our new show to their new home”.

Guaranteed to be momentous, we are extremely excited indeed to announce that hip-hop heroes A Tribe Called Quest will headline Saturday at Bestival 2017, performing what will be their last UK Show.

Bringing our debut mainland Bestival to a suitably triumphant close, we are completely over the moon to announce synth-pop geniuses Pet Shop Boys as our Sunday night headliners. Quite simply legends, we think they’re the perfect band to bring some mind-blowing colour to our first Lulworth Estate finale!

Commenting on their headline show, Pet Shop Boys said: “Amazingly it is over ten years since we last played Bestival but we remember it being one of the most enjoyable festivals ever. Looking forward to bringing our new show there this year – and seeing how the audience has decided to dress up!”

And completing 2017’s fantastic foursome of first-time headliners we are delighted to announce Wimbledon’s finest, Jamie T will be the man kicking it all off with an exclusive performance topping the Thursday night bill on our second stage, The Box.

We’ll also have mind-blowing live music from super suave Gallic funksters Justice, plus, Dizzee Rascal, DJ Shadow, Little Dragon, Danny Brown, Rag’n’Bone Man, Laura Mvula, Soul II Soul, MNEK, Circa Waves, Ray BLK, Lucy Rose, and Charlotte Church’s Late Night Pop Dungeon among many, many others.

And there will be DJ sets from Annie Mac, Andy C presents 25 Years of RAM, Kurupt FM, David Rodigan presents RAM JAM, DJ Yoda, Maceo Plex, Jackmaster, Kölsch, Dusky, Toddla T presents Carnival, Artwork presents Art’s House, Sink the Pink and loads more to boot. Check the line-up so far listing at the end of this press release for even more names playing across the weekend. 

Redrawing our favourite party in the spirit of its original pioneering vision, Bestival’s creative essence will explode before your very eyes with a cavalcade of brilliant new stages, incredible destinations and stone cold classics, including our brand new main stage The Castle Stage, the eclectic wonders of The Box, the hands in the air nirvana of Temple, Bestival’s heart and soul, Bollywood, and the righteous vibrations of Reggae Roots.

Back by very popular demand HMS Bestival is the last word in off the hook partying, plus you can dance like there’s no tomorrow in new venues The Frozen Mole and Stacey’s, delve into the vintage madness of Caravanserai, and Club DaDa, and kick back in the enchanting Ambient Forest, and at our steam punk vision, Oberon’s Observatory. 

Bestival 2017 is a whole new world to explore and to keep you on your toes we’ll also have the dazzling delights of The World's Biggest Confetti Canon, Castle Fireworks Finale, the Love-Bot, The World's Biggest Bouncy Castle, Bestival Inflatable Church, Confetti Wedding Disco, The Feast Collective, Slow Motion, Revolution Rides, Carnival Day Parade and Night Parades, the Sugar Skulls Cocktail Bus, Sunday Best Cardboard Record Shop, Lost in the Woods, Ancient Woodlands, Free Haircuts, Campsite Recycling Hubs, Kids’ Field and for all you vexillophiles out there, Flags by Angus Watt.

 

Kasabian set to headline Reading and Leeds Festival 2017

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With their sixth studio album set for release this spring, rock juggernauts Kasabian stand as one of the biggest and most beloved British bands of the 21st century. Their unmistakable modern-day rock & roll anthems have seen them reinvent themselves from the vintage classics of West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum, through to the electro-infused party starters of recent album 48:13. A band leading the charge in modern British rock – their UK Festival Exclusive performance at Reading & Leeds will mark an invigorating new chapter for a defining band of our time.

 Kasabian commented: “It’s been five years, and as a band we have come a long way since then. We’re looking forward to playing tunes from the new record and bringing the mosh pit to Reading & Leeds Festival!”

Two Door Cinema Club join the impressive line up for another vibrant performance at Reading and Leeds. Expect old favourites alongside new tracks from latest album Gameshow, as the Northern Irish trio smash yet another festival crowd on their way to indie immortality. 
 
Two Door Cinema Club commented: "It's so good to be back at Reading and Leeds, it's always a highlight of our summer. Good to see so many guitar bands on the bill this year as well."

 Aussie electro king Flume is set to touch down at Reading & Leeds this summer. Latest album Skin saw him branch into stunning collaborations with AlunaGeorge, Vic Mensa, Vince Staples and Beck amongst others. Expect a stellar production of the soundtrack to 2017 when one of the most in-demand producers in modern dance, Flume takes to the Reading & Leeds stage for a UK Festival Exclusive performance.

 No British DJ stands as iconic as Fatboy Slim. In the span of his 20 year career, he not only pioneered an entire revolution in British dance, but became the genre’s leading face and changed a generation in the process. From ‘The Rockafeller Skank’, through ‘Praise You’, ‘Right Here, Right Now’ and many more, Fatboy Slim’s first ever performance at Reading & Leeds this summer is guaranteed to leave festival-goers wanting to ‘Eat, Sleep, Rave, Repeat’ for the entire weekend.

Following the success of his top ten album The Godfather, Wiley returns to Reading and Leeds in 2017. Widely acknowledged for laying the foundations for one of the most explosive and important genres of the 21st century, catch the godfather himself performing his art in its purest form.
 
Circa Waves will mark their unstoppable return with an appearance at this year’s festivals, bringing their hotly anticipated new album Different Creatures to life with the live presence that has catapulted them to sold-out shows across the globe.
 
Talking about playing Reading & Leeds this year, Circa Waves said: “We are SO made up to be playing Reading and Leeds again. We are so ready for the festival and can't wait to tear the stage up!”

Undisputedly one of the most influential pop-punk rock acts of the past 20 years, Jimmy Eat World powered the 90’s emo scene with inimitable songwriting and epic live performances that made them a cult phenomenon. JEW’s strike rate on hit records since then speak for themselves; alongside 2001’s “The Middle”, the likes of “Pain”, “Work”, “Sweetness” and “Always Be” have not only helped them attain chart success here but also a vehemently loyal fanbase in the UK and around the world. As Jimmy Eat World return to the Reading and Leeds Festival stage once more, in support of their recently released album Integrity Blues, this will be a moment that cannot be missed.

 Aussie metalcore titans The Amity Affliction will make their way to Reading & Leeds this summer for a UK Festival Exclusive performance, bringing their unmistakable sound to new levels after a mammoth 12 months of touring around the globe. One of the most talked about post-hardcore bands of the moment, their debut appearance at Reading & Leeds will be a calling moment of a band in their element.

Joel Birch of The Amity Affliction says: "I can’t actually believe we’re going to be playing Reading and Leeds. What a wild dream we’re living in. After seeing insane photos of these festivals for my entire adult life and wishing I could just go as an attending music lover, it’s going to be an extremely special experience for me personally to be standing on those stages."
 
After a mammoth 12 months of trail-blazing live moments with a growing legion of devoted fans, Rat Boy will be returning to Reading & Leeds in August. Sparking with a youthful rebellion that’s captivated a nation, his riotous performance is not to be missed this summer.
 
ANNOUNCED TODAY
Kasabian | Two Door Cinema Club | Flume | Fatboy Slim | Wiley | Circa Waves | Jimmy Eat World |
The Amity Affliction | Rat Boy 
PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED
Muse | Major Lazer | Bastille | At The Drive In | Architects | Torey Lanez | Glass Animals | Against The Current | Danny Brown | Andy C | While She Sleeps
 

Leefest Presented The Neverland, and it was awesome. Review 2016

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The Neverland, Leefest

 

The last weekend of July, deep in the woodlands of Kent, after taking the second star to the right and straight on till morning, Neverland itself appeared for a brief window, boasting a three-day escapade of music, madness, and absolute magic. Surrounded by Pirates, Mermaids and mischievous lost boys, you would be forgiven for truly believing you were in the middle of a fantasy world, but in fact, this was Leefest, 2016.

 

Small, sweet and charmingly rebellious, the story of Leefest almost writes itself – spawned from a classic act of teenage rebellion, the festival started in Lee’s back garden. Under strict instructions not to have a house party, Lee and a few of his friends built a stage, gathered some bands, got in some food, some booze, and started the adventure of a lifetime.

 

Map of the Neverland

 

It may be 10 years old, and have substantially grown in size from its original gathering, but it still boasts that friendly, backyard vibe that many flock from all around to be a part of. It’s still small, it only has a 5000 person capacity – but it has enough life to surpass anyone’s expectations. Lee, masquerading as Peter Pan himself, can often be found floating around the ‘Neverland’ – smiling, cheerful and just generally warm, his refusal to grow up has resulted in an incredibly organic experience that can only be described as Secret Garden Party meets your local village fete.

 

The site itself is quite small, there’s one large campsite for punters, and the arena is stretched out over three different ‘realms’ yet would probably take about 5 minutes to cross completely, yet it’s littleness gives off a more collective, cosy feel than a cramped one. The three realms are focused around the peoples of Neverland. The Lost Boys rule the roost, the main stage is placed bang in the middle, with tree houses, ropes and various bushcraft surrounding the stage, often with the lost boys and woodland creatures perched in their nooks and crannies. The Pirates rule Skull Ridge, substituting Hook for Captain Morgan, most of the heavier bands played the little garage-like venue Hooks Rock and dirty DJ’s heading the Gold Mine, an alleged old bomb crater that was kitted out to look like a true pirate quarry, complete with a wooden structure complete with a platform and dancing pirates. Heading over the other side, you’ll find Mermaid’s Lagoon, where colourful sea creatures will greet you to the colourful, eclectic 50’s retro style area, with an airstream cocktail bar, the Wondersands beach where Neptune will keep you moving, hot tubs and the Rainbow Rooms. Alongside the realms are those who control it; the mermaids are glamorous and fabulous, and mainly mind their own business, which is a good idea when the Lost Boys pull their own pranks and the Pirates are the chaotic havoc wreckers who are meant to terrorise everyone, but in reality are happy to give you a sip of their rum, or a gold coin if you pledge allegiance.

 

 

The Pirates of Skull Ridge

 

Though there are performers and punters alike going a little crazy, the festival is incredibly family friendly. Throughout the day, the place is awash with kids, there are tonnes of activities from face-painting, to swing dance lessons, and water fights between pirates and lost boys to keep the little ones occupied. As the night gets on, you see fewer kids, but the good-natured attitude doesn’t change.

 

The Mermaids at Mermaid Lodge

 

Leefest is pretty famous for discovering bands before they blow up, and a lot of the past performers are now incredibly popular. The bands themselves can quite often be seen wandering around the festival and stopping in on all the various artists, the crowds are just incredibly accepting. The beautiful thing about Leefest that I found was the complete lack of celebrity culture. Everyone just seems to accept each other for who they are, people for people, and just genuinely excited to be there. Maybe that’s even due to Lee himself, who never without a smile, is often wondering around the grounds, happy to stay and chat to people, or jump on wherever necessary, in fact on the Saturday he jumped behind a busy bar to serve me a couple of beers.  

 

Though the crowds aren’t big, they’re lively and loving, and this passes into the acts themselves, many putting so much energy into performances. A lot of bands that play Leefest blow up in the months and years to follow and this is certainly to be the case for a large amount of the artists there. Saturday Headliner Lianne La Havas serenaded an entire festival with her melodic, soulful voice and faultless charming personality. Genuinely humble about the headline slot, and overwhelmed by the love and support of the crowd, her multi-instrumental set was a glorious end to the three-day gathering.

 

Lianne La Havas at Leefest

 

In terms of the rest of the music, there is not one artist I could even begin to fault. Leefest is a little different in the way it's a Thursday, Friday, Saturday lineup, which mixes up the whole ‘sunday feeling’ kind of vibe, but it works the way it does. Thursday was a fairly quiet day, everyone was just getting into the swing of it, and performances by Everything Everything and Ghostpoet paved the way for what was to come. Everything Everything were on the bill as special guests, but their impeccable energy and infamous stage presence gave the crowd a perfect start. A contrast, but equally spellbinding performance by Ghostpoet left the festival goers content and blissful as they headed back to the campsite ready for an earlier start on the Friday.

 

Everything Everything at Leefest

 

Friday saw an incredible mixture of artists, me myself discovering new bands and artists to fall in love with. Peluche kicked off the main stage, followed by the melodic compilations of Corey Fox-Fardell. Roots Manuva played a brilliant but short sub-headline set, followed by the Liverpudlian indie rockers Circa Waves. In terms of the main stage however, I was most impressed with Lil Simz, the North London, grime-esque artist that completely took over the energy of the crowd, and I fully expect to see her take over the scene in the coming year.

 

Lil Simz on the main stage

 

Over the other stages, the growth garage/grunge rock movement and Lo-Fi sound was increasingly obvious, much to my delight, with bands Beaty Heart, Get Inuit and Spring Kings gaining hype and support and playing amazing sets. Otherkin are another of those bands I expect to see blow up in the next year; in the middle of a European tour and set to play the Festival Republic stage at Reading and Leeds this year, the band are a mix of punky pop meets grunge rock and have a live show that’s one of the most ferocious I've ever seen, the band themselves heading into the crowd, complete with mics and instruments, and oozing a carefree attitude, which was easily caught up by the crowd. Inviting the crowd on-stage for the last song, the boys really brought it all, and I'm converted a few more fans than just me.

 

The crowds at Leefest

 

As Leefest closes on Saturday, that sloppy Sunday feeling got a bit mixed up, as the latest, busiest night was also the last. Acoustic, Ellie Goulding inspired pop artist Hannah Trigwell took the main stage following her Sofar Sounds set earlier in the day, wooing the crowds with her catchy melodies, a perfect precursor for Lianne La Havas, the soulstress herself and beautiful human to play as the main headliner. Pop punk indie band We Are Scientists also took the main stage, themselves fascinated with the various tribes of Leefest, as did Shura, whose mass popularity after the release of her first album really showed as fans were wowed by her performance. Saturday was also definitely one for strong female artists, with The Big Moon, Skinny Girl Diet, King Kwong, She Drew The Gun and GIRLI playing amazing sets. Vant also hit up the circus tent, with their politically fueled music proving a hit on the Leefest crowds.

 

Frank Carter and the Rattlesnacks

 

Though all good things must come to an end, the festival does not stop when the music does, with the pub-like structure on site hosting Electric Swing and DJs Madame Barducci and the fierce Rumpsteppers, plus still serving drinks until the beginning of the sunrise at 5am.

 

Skull Ridge, Leefest

 

Honestly, there aren’t even enough words to truly describe how beautiful this little festival is. I don’t know what I was expecting but whatever it was, was truly blown out of the water.

Fire Dancing Pirates, Leefest

Wondersands at the Mermaid's Lodge

All photos supplied by official Leefest Photographers

Circa Waves to headline LeeFest

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LeeFest Presents: The Neverland continues to take flight, with the magical land welcoming Circa Waves as Friday Night Headliners to its kingdom of kaleidoscopic dreams.
 
Emerging as indie-guitar music’s brightest lights, Circa Waves have rapidly become one of the most acclaimed young bands in the country with their infectious sunshine-drenched indie-pop. Liverpool’s favourite sons have enjoyed a huge 12 months which included the release of debut LP “Young Chasers” and a celebratory UK tour.  Circa Waves will be making their UK Festival Headlining Debut at LeeFest Presents: The Neverland, as another exciting chapter in the band and festivals ascendancy unfolds.
 
Speaking about their landmark performance, Circa Waves frontman Kieran Shudall says:
"So excited to headline our first festival! It's going to be big. It's going to be awesome. The Neverland won't know what's hit it."
 
They’ll be joined on the bill by art-rock pioneers Everything Everything whose critically acclaimed recent LP “Get To Heaven” drew plaudits from across the musical spectrum for its daring electronic edges and the distinctive vocal range of frontman Jonathan Higgins. With three revered albums in their back pocket, their set at LeeFest Presents: The Neverland will showcase one of the most creative names in modern British rock. 
 
Hotly tipped, garage rockers VANT and cult drum and bass hero DJ Marky + MC GQ bring their unique styles to The Neverland, with the latter taking to theElectric Circus & Innersoul curated evening at Skull Ridge with A.Skills and more. Skull Ridge will also welcome acclaimed club night Percolatepresenting an incredible evening in the Ridge with chameleonic DJ Midland and Horse Meat Disco amongst others. These all join an extensive lineup of new musical talent, continuing the revered LeeFest tradition of bringing through and championing the brightest names in music. Alongside Saturday night headliner Lianne La Havas, the weekend sees performances from Ghostpoet, Shura, Roots Manuva, The 2 Bears, Submotion Orchestra, Little Simz, Loyle Carner, Formation, Clean Cut Kid, Spring King and many more. 
 
On joining the lineup, VANT said:
“Looking forward to LeeFest Presents: The Neverland, a festival like no other… Created and maintained by one dude and his ever expanding garden. Hopefully we will get to meet the mystery man himself. See you all in the sun (fingers crossed)!
 
The Neverland is an immersive, kaleidoscopic world of creativity, reckless abandon and the undiminished desire to never grow old. Across 3 Main Stages, 12 Music Venues and 6 Immersive Venues, The Neverland has it all, whether that be the pesky pirates patrolling Skull Ridge with its decadent Bomb Crater Rave, the lunatic lost boys in The Neverwoods Treehouse Stage or mesmerising mermaids glistening through Mermaids Lagoon with its decked real life beach party, there’s a story and an experience around every corner of The Neverland. 
 
From the no-nonsense Drag Queens to the notorious Glitter Wrestling The Neverland is filled to the brim with unimaginable exuberance. Regular Paint Fights, Secret Parties and Cabaret ensure the inhabitants of The Neverland are set for an immersive and unparalleled weekend of culture and partying, whilst in the Gaming Arcades islanders jump back to childhood through the glitchy viral screens..
 
A mecca of debauchery and darkness, Skull Ridge lies in the shadows of The Neverland with vivid Burlesque displays, Adult Cinema and seedy Casinoswhere dwellers take one last roll of the dice. Corruption and lawlessness are rife and mob rule is ever present in this unforgiving part of The Neverland.
 
Sanctuary awaits at the picturesque vistas of Mermaid’s Lagoon where a sunshine-soaked lake is the centre piece and the beautiful people reside. Tropical beats come courtesy of The 2 Bears and DJ Luck & MC Neat and cocktails, swimming and massages await at the Holistic Hot Tubs and Tranquillity Spa.
 
Experience the unimaginable, dive into The Neverland and pursue the dream to never grow old.
 
LIANNE LA HAVAS // CIRCA WAVES
Plus Special Guests EVERYTHING EVERYTHING 
 
GHOSTPOET // SHURA // ROOTS MANUVA // LITTLE SIMZ // THE 2 BEARS // 
SUBMOTION ORCHESTRA // LOYLE CARNER // DJ LUCK & MC NEAT // SPRING KING // FORMATION //
CLEAN CUT KID // THE BIG MOON // BEATY HEART // BIG DEAL // COREY FOX-FARDELL // DEMOB HAPPY // DINOSAUR PILE-UP // FORT HOPE // QUEEN KWONG // DJ MARKY + MC GQ // GIRLI // NIMMO // OSCAR // SKINNY GIRL DIET // WILL JOSEPH COOK // TUFF LOVE // GET INUIT // 
HANNAH LOU CLARK // MIAMIGO // OTHERKIN // PELUCHE // MIDLAND // EXMAGICIAN //
SHE DREW THE GUN // HANNAH TRIDWELL // LAZY DAY // 
ROBBING MILLIONS // SERAMIC // THE PEARL HEARTS // WOLF NOTE // 
HORSE MEAT DISCO // KRYWALD & FARRER // A.SKILLS
 
ADULT CINEMA // BEACH PARTIES // BOMB CRATER RAVE // BURLESQUE // CABARET // CASINO // CAMPFIRES // CIRCUS // COCKTAIL BARS // COMEDY // CRAFT MARKETS // CRAFT WORKSHOPS // 
DANCE CLASSES // DRAG QUEENS // FOOD FIGHTS // GAMES & SPORTS // 
GAMING ARCADES // GLITTER WRESTLING // HIDDEN VENUES // HOT TUBS // 
INSTALLATIONS & GALLERIES // KIDS AREA // LAKE // LOCAL ALES // MAGIC //
 MASSAGES // PAINT FIGHTS // SECRET PARTIES //SPOKEN WORD // STREET FOOD // TALKS & DEBATES // THEATRE // THERAPIES // TRANQUILITY SPA // 
TREE HOUSE STAGE // WIDE GAMES // YOGA

Jess Glynne, Circa Waves and more for Live at Leeds 2016

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Officially kicking off the festival season, Live At Leeds hosts the biggest names alongside the best in new and upcoming acts, and this year is no different. Having played host to the likes of Bastille, James Blake, Wild Beasts, The Cribs, Bombay Bicycle Club, Rudimental and The Vaccines over the years, each year Live At Leeds provides a snapshot of everything that is vital in music right now, and 2016’s event will be no different.

Leading the charge amongst the first series of artists to be announced is the fantastic Jess Glynne, who will be bringing her chart-topping hits to Live At Leeds 2016. Breaking onto the scene after her appearances with Clean Bandit, this year saw Glynne release her acclaimed debut album I Cry When I Laugh, which was jam packed with singles that will no doubt sound massive when played at the UK's premiere metropolitan festival for new music.

Joining 2015’s biggest pop sensation will be Circa Waves. Arguably one of the most important groups in indie at the moment, the Liverpool four piece have gone from strength to strength in 2015, storming major festivals all over the world and smashing stunning headline tours, rising to play huge venues including 02 Brixton Academy and more. Needless to say, their appearance at LAL looks set to be nothing short of spectacular.

Also joining the bill are indie legends We Are Scientists. Undeniable icons, it's fair to say the duo hold fond memories in any indie fan's heart, releasing countless hits over the last decade, from classics like 'The Great Escape' and 'Nobody Move, Nobody Gets Hurt', through to 2014's 'Dumb Luck' and 'Return The Favour'. Visceral, empowering and above all else fun, their performance is sure to draw a huge crowd. Band of Skulls will also bring their signature brand of raucous rock to proceedings, effortlessly justifying the huge festival and support slots they’ve played in the past.

Representing the artists that will come to dominate 2016, Rat Boy, Clean Cut Kid and Barns Courtney have also been revealed to play the festival. Receiving a wealth of critical acclaim in recent months, these three acts look set to be huge by 2016, and with a barrage of hits already under their belts, summer festival season is theirs for the taking, starting with Live At Leeds.

Speaking about this year’s talent and the festival’s 10 year legacy, lead booker Andy Smith commented: “2016 will be the tenth year of booking Live at Leeds, it feels like a great achievement to have grown what was originally a four venue bill to what it is today.”

“We have seen some great names grace our stages over those ten years and I’m really looking forward to next year and what will hopefully be our biggest event yet, it really feels like we are stepping up another level”

Best Kept Secret 2015: What we’re looking forward to this year.

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It might be monday, but no need to fret because this weekend is one of the most widely anticipated european festivals of the year. Best Kept Secret is still in its youth, in fact this year will only be it’s third birthday! But that doesn’t stop it from being one of the festival heavyweights. With headliners such as the Libertines, Alt-J and Noel Gallaghers High Flying Birds, and set in Hilvarenbeek, in the middle of the Netherlands, the dutch really know how to put on a show. So with the days creeping ever closer, here are some of the acts we’re most looking forward to seeing this weekend. 




Libertines


Now that they’re done making the reunion rounds, they’ve got their hearts set on reclaiming the rock and roll throne. Rumours of a new album leaving fans gripping the edge of their seat, and if their history of stage antics and cult following has anything to go by, we can tell the friday night headliners are not one to be missed. You never know, we might even get some sneak peeks of a new track or two. 
 
A$AP Rocky


Bound to be one of the best shows of the weekend after the much anticipated release of AT.LONG.LAST, A$AP Rocky aka Rakim Meyers is on top form. Not your average hip hop star, the young kid from Harlem continues to break the mould with his interest in fashion, his discontent with his own hype and passion for the art behind the music. The two year gap between his debut LONG.LIVE.A$AP and his new release had some of us reeling with frustration but now that it’s here, we could not have asked for more. Watch him on the main stage saturday night, he won’t disappoint. 


Royal Blood


One of the hottest new acts of the past year, Brighton duo Royal Blood are continuing to blow up, despite still being on their debut. Don’t let their youthfulness deter you, because the matching of heavy drums and perfectly executed riffs in their blues infused rock is enough to make your hair stand on end. Spend a few minutes with them on sunday and you’ll be the newest heir to the royal blood throne. 


Wolf Alice


Often called the ‘lovechild of grunge and folk’, Wolf Alice are kicking off the sunday at the second stage. Originally a duo that hit up the London Open Mic scene, they’ve now beefed up their sound and gained a cult following, making them one of the UK’s ones to watch over the coming year. Bearing in mind they don’t even have an official album yet, they’re doing pretty well for themselves and we can’t see what their show has to offer. 


Vaccines


Gracing the main stage on Saturday is the return of the Vaccines, having matured slightly from their 2011 grunge-rock, strokes inspired anthems, their awaiting release English Graffiti shows their stature and is sure to cement their place in the halls of pop-rock fame. 


Balthazar


One of Belgium’s hidden gems, Balthazar are back with their third album Thin Walls, and believe me it doesn’t disappoint. Chucked full of witty lyrics, dreamy guitar and a feeling of blues, if you haven’t heard them yet take some time to listen - they’re sure to become your new favourite band. 


Though these are just a few of the bands gracing the stages of Beekse Bergen, but the lineup is even better. It’s sure to be a great weekend ahead.

Top Trumps released: Circa Waves and Typhoon added to Best Kept Secret bill

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Best Kept Secret are certainly playing a game of cards, and they’ve just added two to their hand: Liverpudlian rock-indie band Circa Waves and Dutch hip-hop star have just been added to the lineup.

These acts join an already sensational lineup by on the Dutch Festival in June. Boasting headliners such as The Libertines, Alt-J and Noel Gallaghers High Flying Birds, and other crowd pleasers such as A$AP Rocky, The Tallest Man on Earth, Drenge, The Vaccines, First Aid Kit, Royal Blood and Earl Sweatshirt, this years scope of talent is sure to please everyone.

 

The War on Drugs, Palma Violets, Ella Eyre and many more added to T in the Park 2015 lineup

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Some of the most talked about buzz bands at this month’s SXSW festival are amongst a wave of new acts added to the T in the Park bill today, festival organisers DF Concerts and founding partner Tennent’s Lager are delighted to announce. The following acts have today joined the T in the Park bill and are set to play Strathallan Castle over Friday 10th – Sunday 12th July:
 
FRIDAY 10TH JULY LINE-UP ADDITIONS
The War on Drugs, SIGMA, The Cribs, Hannah Wants, The Twilight Sad, Prides, Lucy Rose, Slaves, Lower Than Atlantis, Kitty, Daisy & Lewis, Lonely The Brave, Indiana, Coasts, Blossoms, The Beaches, The Riptide Movement, Fort Hope
 
SATURDAY 11TH JULY LINE-UP ADDITIONS
Marina & The Diamonds, Palma Violets, Circa Waves, The Strypes, The LaFontaines, Sunset Sons, George The Poet, Walking on Cars, The Coronas, Gavin James, Vaults
SLAM TENT: Maceo Plex (headline set), Annie Mac (joins the Slam Tent bill in addition to her Main Stage Friday set)
 
SUNDAY 12TH JULY LINE-UP ADDITIONS
Ella Eyre, Wolf Alice, Benjamin Booker, Young Guns, Black Rivers
SLAM TENT: Claude VonStroke
 
Philadelphia’s The War on Drugs’ signature layered, dense sound has won the band a mass of fans around the globe. They reached the number two spot in the UK Independent chart with 2014’sLost In The Dream, which was hailed Album of the Year by Uncut and Q. The band continue to reap recognition internationally, and fresh from an epic performance at SXSW, they are a hugely exciting addition to this year’s T in the Park line-up.
 
International chart toppers SIGMA’s early releases quickly marked them out as producers to watch, while remixes for Eric Prydz, Ellie Goulding, Stylo G and Sway began to take them to a wider audience. Their first number one single, Nobody To Love was followed up by another chart topper when their second single, Changing ft. Paloma Faith was released, and they’re sure to bring a party vibe to Strathallan Castle.
 
Marina & the Diamonds aka Marina Diamandis creates irresistible electro indie pop, and will make her long-awaited T in the Park debut this summer. The Welsh singer-songwriter has released her latest album Froot this month and is sure to showcase new material in her T in the Park set.
 
Since forming in 2002, The Cribs have won major plaudits including NME’s prestigious Outstanding Contribution to Music Award in 2013. The band return this month with a brand new album For All My Sisters, heralding an exciting new chapter in the upwards trajectory of the Jarman brothers. BigT in the Park favourites, they’re sure to go down a storm at Strathallan Castle.
 
Hailed “the undisputed queen of 2014” by Mixmag, Hannah Wants has validated herself as a world renowned DJ with some serious credentials. Last year alone she picked up the Best Breakthrough DJ title at the DJ Mag awards and became Mixmag’s Best Breakthrough DJ and Star Of The Year, and her set is not to be missed.
 
Scottish trio The Twilight Sad’s desolate, majestic and dense sound has earned them major plaudits since they formed in 2003. Their fourth studio album Nobody Wants To Be Here And Nobody Wants To Leave (released in October) was named Scottish Album of the Year by The Scotsman and Album of the Year by Drowned in Sound.
 
Another exciting band hot off the back of shows at SXSW, Palma Violets have been working with producer John Leckie (Radiohead, Stone Roses) on their new album Danger in the Club, due for release this May. The band recently went on the road for the NME Awards Tour and will bring their euphoric sound to T in the Park this summer.  
 
In what’s sure to be a huge moment for band and fans alike, Prides will make T in the Parkhistory when they become the first band to play the Main Stage at the festival's new home, Strathallan Castle. Since they last appeared at Balado in 2013, they have played to a global audience at The Commonwealth Games Closing Ceremony. Producing original synth-pop tracks with infectious lyrics and feel-good melodies, the Glasgow trio are sure to receive a local heroes’ when they open the Main Stage on the Friday. 
 
Slaves aka Laurie Vincent and Isaac Holman opened the NME Awards Tour’s 20th anniversary shows earlier this year. They count Arctic Monkeys amongst their many fans, and are set to make a hotly anticipated return to T in the Park after their incredible headline set on the BBC Introducing Stage last year.
 
Liverpudlian quartet Circa Waves are another band who dazzled crowds in Austin and who are hotly-tipped for a successful year. After making a big impression at last year’s T in the Park, Circa Waves have played sold-out shows around the country and are sure to delight fans with their energetic indie pop tracks at T in the Park in July.
 
Since forming in 2007, Lower Than Atlantis’ sound has evolved from hardcore punk to melodic indie rock. Their self-titled fourth record was released in October last year and was hailed album of the year by Rocksound.
 
Siblings Kitty, Daisy and Lewis’ musical references and skills are rooted in the old tradition where songs and music are handed down, played and enjoyed at gatherings of family and friends. They’ve built an impressive fan base and will showcase tunes from their exquisite second studio albumSmoking In Heaven.
 
Creating infectious rhythm and blues infused rock 'n' roll, Ireland’s The Strypes have in the past toured with the likes of Arctic Monkeys and are sure to get the T in the Park crowd rocking when they return to the festival this July.
 
Cambridge quintet Lonely The Brave are one of the most exciting live acts on the UK rock scene at the moment, with David Jakes’ goose-bump-inducing vocals as striking live as they are on record. They released their debut album The Day’s War to massive critical acclaim and a place at no. 14 in the UK album charts this past September.
Nottingham singer-songwriter Indiana released her critically acclaimed debut album No Romeo in February of this year. Featuring the hit single Solo Dancing, the record is a collection of moody electro pop gems.
 
Original party band, The LaFontaines had a belter of a year in 2014. Playing their first US headline shows, conquering Europe with Watsky and performing to a capacity crowd at T in the Park as well as headlining their biggest ever show at Glasgow’s O2 ABC. 2015 is the year they release their highly anticipated debut album ‘Class’ – produced by Matt O’Grady (You Me At Six, Don Broco, Deaf Havana), with an accompanying UK headline tour.  
 
Bristol’s Coasts are creating a huge buzz around the UK and beyond. Recently on tour in America, their performance at this year’s T in the Park is sure to treat the crowd to a soaring performance full of indie rock tunes. Tracks including recent single Oceans have received support from the likes of Radio 1 alumni Zane Lowe and has resulted in festival slots at the likes of Coachella and Lollapalooza.
 
Also fresh from SXSW, Blossoms are one of Stockport’s finest musical exports. They combine psyche-pop riffs, vocal melodies, a film noir meets 60s aesthetic, a range of audible references from Arctic Monkeys via Abba to The Doors to incredible effect and are sure to be a big hit at T in the Park this July.
 
The start of 2014 saw Sunset Sons morph from surfers making music for fun into a band at the centre of an A&R scrum into a major label-signed, red hot tip to become arena-sized stars. Their irresistible sun-soaked pop rock anthems earned them a spot on the BBC’s Sound of 2015 longlist.
 
Bold, edgy, with an incredible vocal to boot, Ella Eyre’s buzz has grown exponentially. A casual songwriting session with Rudimental evolved into Ella writing two songs for their debut album, and she can be heard on the band’s Waiting All Night. Also featuring on DJ Fresh’s top 5 smash Gravity, she won the MOBO Award for Best Newcomer last year and releases her first studio album Feline in May.
 
The Beaches – named after the area of Toronto where they live – are proud pioneers of the new wave of fem-rock. Their sassy, saw-toothed alt-rock songs recall The Strokes, Elastica, The White Stripes, Metric and The Runaways, and they exude the kind of romantic defiance, youth rebellion and peer solidarity that makes them a formidable force for rock.
 
George the Poet blends poetry and rap to hypnotic effect. Having amassed more than half a million views for his poems on YouTube and Vimeo, he has brought poetry to a new generation, mixing social and political comment with humour, and featured at no.5 in the BBC’s Sound of 2015.
 
Fresh from a rapturous appearance at SXSW, Wolf Alice will release their debut album My Love Is Cool in June and will bring some of their rock-tinged new material to T in the Park the following month. The grungy London four-piece create a relentless sound fused with superfuzzed guitars and were named Breakthrough Act of the Year at the UK Festival Awards in December.
 
Walking on Cars are one of Ireland’s most exciting new acts. Signed to Virgin EMI Records, they’ve been taking their soaring rock anthems to an international audience including a packed show at SXSW earlier this month and will make their first appearance at T in the Park this July.
 
Songstress Lucy Rose, The Riptide Movement (who supported the Rolling Stones at their Hyde Park show in 2013), Fort Hope who combine earth shattering riffs with soaring melodies, Dublin’s boisterous rock outfit The Coronas, soulful New Orleans singer-songwriter Benjamin Booker, English rockers Young Guns, Ireland’s Choice Music Prize Award Winner for ‘Song Of The Year’Gavin James and London trio Vaults (who made a big impression when they supported Paolo Nutini on tour at the end of last year) also join the bill. As two-thirds of Manchester’s Doves, the Williams brothers Jez and Andy achieved major success with four hit albums, before forming their new band Black Rivers. They recently supported T in the Park headliners Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds on their UK tour, and will make their Strathallan Castle debut this July.
 
T in the Park and Slam are also delighted to confirm that Annie Mac, Claude VonStroke andMaceo Plex will play the Slam Tent this July. Annie Mac – who has recently taken over from the legendary Zane Lowe on BBC Radio 1 and who also plays a Main Stage set on Friday – has joined the bill for the Slam Tent on Saturday. Maceo Plex first gained popularity during the early 90s rave culture with his mixes of techno, electro, and house music, before incorporating a more funk and groove-based sound. He’s played some of the most prestigious clubs in the world such as Cocoon and Fabric, and headlines the Slam Tent at T in the Park on the Saturday night. San Francisco-based house and techno producer Claude VonStroke is another exciting addition to the Slam Tent line-up.
With some of the biggest names in music heading for Scotland this summer, T in the Park’s debut outing at Strathallan Castle is already shaping up to be an unmissable weekend:
 
FRIDAY 10th JULY: Kasabian, David Guetta, Sam Smith, Rudimental, Fatboy Slim, Hozier, Mark Ronson (DJ set), The War on Drugs, Annie Mac, Hot Chip, The Wombats, Gorgon City, Duke Dumont, SIGMA, Jessie Ware, Fuse ODG, The Cribs, Hannah Wants, The Twilight Sad, Prides, Lucy Rose, Slaves, Lower than Atlantis, Kitty, Daisy & Lewis, Lonely the Brave, Indiana, Coasts, Blossoms, The Beaches, Fort Hope, The Riptide Movement
SLAM TENT: Adam Beyer B2B Joseph Capriati, Âme, Ben Klock, Eats Everything, Slam, Telford
 
SATURDAY 11th JULY: Avicii, The Libertines, The Script, Twin Atlantic, alt-J, George Ezra, Jessie J, Courteeners, The Vaccines, Labrinth, The Proclaimers, St. Vincent, Enter Shikari, Seasick Steve, Jungle, Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott, Marina & the Diamonds, Idlewild, Jess Glynne, Charli XCX, Palma Violets, Circa Waves, Jack Savoretti, The Strypes, Rae Morris, The LaFontaines, Sunset Sons, George the Poet, Walking on Cars, The Coronas, Gavin James, Vaults
SLAM TENT: Annie Mac, Art Department, Gary Beck, Jackmaster B2B Joy Orbison, Lil Louis, Rødhåd, Visionquest, Maceo Plex
 
SUNDAY 12th JULY: Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, The Prodigy, Stereophonics, Jamie T, Paloma Faith, Above & Beyond, Alabama Shakes, Kodaline, Catfish & the Bottlemen, James Bay, Clean Bandit, Oliver Heldens, Ella Henderson, The View, Modest Mouse, Years & Years, Peace, Everything Everything, Admiral Fallow, Ella Eyre, Marmozets, Wolf Alice, Benjamin Booker, Saint Raymond, Young Guns, Black Rivers
SLAM TENT: Alan Fitzpatrick, Dense & Pika, Dixon, Dubfire, Loco Dice, Maya Jane Coles, Claude VonStroke

Live At Leeds Festival Review

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The first event on the festival calendar saw a multitude of British and international bands and artists descend to a number of venues across a sunny Leeds on Saturday, with an expansion of sounds fitting the bill – from chart topping electronic with strings quartet, Clean Bandit to two-man rock duo, Royal Blood, both drawing massive crowds.

“Aren't there a lot of bands that sound like the toilet music”, says a man commenting on Nation of Shopkeepers choice of bathroom music, saying “I’m into my experimental electronic music but this just sounds like Fuck Buttons”.

Three-piece ‘NME Radar’ guitar band, Blaenavon, drew an unexpectedly busy crowd to cool bar-come-gig-venue, Nation of Shopkeepers, with an early 1pm set. Performing tracks from their Koso E.P, the young and impressive trio sound like a mix of Maccabees-esque gliding riffs in Prague, which are contrasted with the emotive Wu Lyf-like atmosphere in tracks, Gods, and Wunderkind. With just a handful of songs under their belt, an album is surely in the pipeline for the talented Hampshire trio.

Swiftly pacing across the city to catch Wet’s debut visit to the UK at cool underground venue, The Hifi Club, the Brooklyn trio supply futuristic dream-pop for the Soundcloud and Apple Mac generation. Performing the entirety of their debut Dreams E.P, they mix the electronic synths of Chvrches with the chilled out melancholic storytelling of The XX. Set opener, "Don’t Wanna Be Your Girl" and new track "Bad Idea" showcase singer, Kelly Zutrau’s effortless crystal vocals before she explains to the music-savvy crowd: “This is out first time in Leeds and in the UK – we’re having a lot of fun." Dreams and No Lie, also of the E.P, create a swaying, breezy fantasy atmosphere before penultimate single, You’re The Best, which is currently receiving daytime support on Radio One from Fearne Cotton and Zane Lowe. With added house synths, it receives an impressive reaction with most of the crowd singing along – it’s sure to be a future hit, especially with the major label bidding war which is currently engulfing Wet’s futuristic R&B productions.

Next up, London based Gengahr performed to a busy crowd at the Belgrave Centre. With pitch-shifted vocals sounding similar to Unknown Mortal Orchestra, this is one of their first live shows. Summery foot-tapper, She's A Witch is a perfect indie track which sees the floppy haired young singer bop on the spot. Huw Stephens supported single, Fill My Gums With Blood, sounds sweet and soft despite the grizzly connotations of the tracks title. Clocking in at just 20 minutes, it’s a short-but-sweet set of endearing and exciting tracks – hopefully we’ll hear more from Gengahr in time for the summer.

SFG take an hour break to recharge batteries (physical and phones) before arriving back at the Hifi club to see electronic producer, Tourist who has recently toured with Disclosure play a late afternoon set. His blend of chill-wave house and electronica translates well to a packed, mixed-age crowd. William Philips aka Tourist introduces himself, saying: "I'm Tourist, I haven’t been here for a while, and it’s nice to be back”, before building electronic synths silence whispered murmurs in the crowd. Opening with Lies, a crowd pleasing remix of popular Glasgow synth-poppers, Chvrches, it’s a clever start. It could be expected that Tourist’s house beats and bass popping grooves are more night time friendly but the crowd still seem to still love it. Meanwhile, William energetically bops around behind his synth touch-pad and laptop. Later, I Can't Keep Up and Together from the new Patterns E.P bring him the biggest crowd of the day so far, with people still piling in during the last song. The penultimate track, a remix of Haim’s, The Wire, which featured on the LA sisters deluxe album ignites a carnival like energy with Jamie XX-like percussion beats soaring through the room before final E.P title track, Patterns ends the impressive set. With impressive sets like this one, Tourist’s atmospheric, forward-thinking sound will sit perfectly at outdoor festivals this summer. Make sure to catch him at one.

Darlia, who perform to a busy Cockpit crowd at the other end of the city, are three young lads from Blackpool making Nirvana influenced 90’s rock revival – lead singer Nathan Day, even looks like Kurt Cobain. Pronounced by Radio 1’s Playlist boss Nigel Harding, as “the most exciting new guitar band in the UK”, it’s difficult to argue against the statement. Playing a 30-minute set of heavy guitars and drums, they sound a lot heavier live than on record. Animal Kingdom and the infectious Queen of Hearts, the latter harkening to the sound of Smells Like Teen Spirit. Later, the audience revel in joining in for the chorus of current single Candyman, which translates far rawer, grittier and scuzzier in a live environment. The sweaty and loud, Cockpit is the perfect venue for their rock ‘n’ roll barrage to really make you take notice before they hit the big-time with a slot booked at Leeds Festival in August.

Two-piece rock outfit, Royal Blood, who have just announced a support slot on The Pixies US tour, attracted the biggest crowd of the day, with the queue stretching far beyond the confines of Leeds Metropolitan Univeristy, where the duo were unleashing their faultless energy. SFG were even lucky to get in, with press restricted to a one-in-one-out rule. New single, Come On Over’s heavy riffs make it sound as though there at least four band members before the singles Little Monster and Out of the Black encourage a circle pit in the crowd centre. Royal Blood really are the next big thing, ever since their NME Award Show and SXSW slots, they've multiplied in fans wanting to see them.

Running over half hour late due to technical problems, R&B crooner/ rapper Raleigh Ritchie, says they must keep the set quite short but doesn't let that dampen his spirit. He bounces across the stage telling engaging stories of growing up and gaining independence in Stronger Than Ever and Freefall, the latter about being sad in a cit. Later, before Keep It Simple, Raleigh tells his debut album will be out by the end of the year. Ending with set highlight, 2013 single, Bloodsport, the technical problems have been forgotten and he’s managed to captivate the crowd with an emotive, ‘give it your all’ vocal performance.

Later, Circa Waves expectedly pack out The Cockpit with a circle pit ensuing ten minutes in to the set during popular single Good For Me. Catch My Breath sounds like if The Vaccines stamping choruses met Vampire Weekend’s catchy indie riffs. The upbeat indie-pop of Stuck in My Teeth and Fossils quickly follow, before frontman Keiran Shuddall teases the crowd saying: "It's been very special for us – anyone going to Leeds festival? Well see you there.”

Chart-topping electronic with classical strings quartet Clean Bandit, headlined the 02 Academy with an important hour set, justifying their soon-to-be big name festival headlining status. Chilled openers, Rihanna and A&E impress with effortless guest vocals. It’s been a long time coming for them, but the success of Rather Be, which stole the top of the charts for a month is set to be followed up by new single, Extraordinary – both of which get an outing tonight. The Cambridge-graduates fit the large stage perfectly with colourful visuals of their EP covers placed neatly behind the set while pulsing house beats move the crowd throughout new track, Heart on Fire. Older tech-house track, Mozart’s House asks the question whether electronic music is boring? Certainly not, judging from tonight’s crowd who lap up every chart ready track. Later, Nightingale is mixed into the deep-house Gorgon City remix before they mix things up with their own rendition of Show Me Love. Clean Bandit are impossible to dislike, fusing every genre of music into their own concoction of strings, house, pop and R&B, their live shows have become a phenomenal spectacle.

Catering for the masses with a range of acts across a multitude of genres and a friendly atmosphere throughout, Live At Leeds, showcased new bands in their prime, most of which will be playing big-player, Reading & Leeds Festival – be sure to catch them there!

Photos by Heather Berrisford

Latitude Festival Lake Stage lineup announced

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Handpicked by DJ and broadcaster Huw Stephens, The Lake Stage will be the first place festival goers can see the stars of the future.  Previous artists who have graced the stage before going on to win awards or headline their own shows include BRITS Critic Choice winner 2014 Sam Smith, 2012’s Mercury Music Prize winners Alt-J, The 1975, Clean Bandits, Bombay Bicycle Club, Metronomy and more.
 
Making a grand entrance this year is the hit electronic duo Bondax, who first shot to fame in 2011 through an introduction from BBC Radio. The pair from Lancashire have since gone on to set up their own record label, Just Us Recordings, and grown in popularity with hits such as a cover of Blackstreet’s No Diggity and have toured around the world. They are set apart by the tempo of their tracks, significantly below current house music’s 125 beats per minute, but still with enough groove to make them sensual, get dancefloors packed and secure plays on Annie Mac. Likened to a “northern Disclosure” by The Guardian, they have supported other dance music greats such as Basement Jaxx. Bondax promise to be a hit at Latitude with their sun kissed tunes.
 
Catfish and the Bottlemen, from Llandudno, Wales, have an old school take on indie rock playing loud & explosive guitar laden riffs, that have led to comparisons including Feeder & Foo Fighters, while their single Rango being chosen for Zane Lowe’s Top 100 of 2013. Still relatively unknown, but well on their way to super rock stardom following B List support from BBC Radio 1 for their single Kathleen, their performance at the festival will be one to see in an intimate setting whilst you still have the chance.
 
Talented virtuoso Luke Sital Singh, will headline the stage on the Sunday of Latitude. Compared to the likes of Bon Iver and Damien Rice, Luke is a rising star and received early support from BBC Radio 1, BBC Radio 6 Music and XFM. Having played a sold-out series of headline shows across London he released his third EP Tornados towards the end of 2013 and has featured in the iTunes singer-songwriter charts and The Guardian’s ‘New Band of the Day’.
 
Also on The Lake Stage will be Cate Le Bon who wowed Latitude with her stunning performance in 2012. She returns with her unforgettable haunting voice, twinned with a unique folk rock style, following the release of her 2013 albumTurnstile. Joining Cate will be the minimalist music of Sumie – the younger sister of front man Yukimi for the Swedish synth pop band Little Dragon, Sumie makes delicate, dreamlike folk with a similar unpolished, outsider feel to the loner folk of early '70s artists Sibylle Baier and Linda Perhacs.
 
Following the release of his debut album Days in the City this January, Only Real mixes hip-hop influences with London city tales against a 90’s pop backdrop and has been described as having “delightful languor and piercing lyrical turns”,Loud & Quiet. After much duly deserved attention from the release of his first LP in 2013, Latitude is thrilled to welcome talented producer and songsmith Oliver Wilde. Wilde’s electronic downer-pop music will soothe listeners in to a blissful hazy trance this summer.
 
Making their Latitude debut is the South East garage punk duo Slaves. Unlike many British punk bands, these boys don’t sway towards American themes of punk, but stick to their Kentish roots, evident in their charged performances. Also joining the 2014 line-up for The Lake Stage are The Bohicas, a quartet from Essex and East London and makers of arresting indie rock 'n' roll. Forecast to be one of the major live acts this summer, these lads have serious stage presence and are guaranteed to deliver an epic performance.
 
Latitude is pleased to welcome newcomers Circa Waves to this year’s festival circuit, their rendition of up-beat garage-rock is a revival of the early-Noughties. Originating from Liverpool and less than a year old, Circa Waves have already been tipped by BBC Radio 1 DJ Zane Lowe with their single Get Away, which was praised as one of his hottest records in the world.
 
Latitude is proud to announce the North Dakota-based band Gengahr (formally known as RES) will be performing at this year’s festival. Following a string of new releases the up-and-coming band will get crowds going with their own easy-listening brand of indie-rock music. Festival goers can expect a sweaty, fun-filled extravaganza from Manchester bandSpring King, whose raw version of garage-rock revival bands is reminiscent of that covetable untamed youth. Their debut album In All This Murk And Dirt is a talented home production of tracks performed and recorded in a day, making them a real musical gem. Four-piece Woman’s Hour consists of siblings Fiona on lead vocals and William on guitar, along with bandmates Nick and Josh. Described by The Guardian’s New band of The Day as “singing about the enervating aspects of love in a soft, sighing way over…modern indie styles.” They are currently touring Europe with Metronomy, and their bring their debut album Conversations to Latitude just days after its release.
 
The Lake Stage is proud to showcase a plethora of emerging talent this year. Making her debut on a major UK festival stage this year is the super talented 16 year-old SOAK  from Derry, Ireland who has already been cited as ‘one to watch’ by The Guardian. Gracing the stage this year will be the soulful Elli Ingram whose ambient sounds accentuate her creativity as one of the most contemporary and eclectic artists around. Soul singer, Moko joins the bill with her original blend of soul, house and gospel. Both Moko and Elli are renowned for their work supporting and collaborating with on the famous duo Chase & Status. Also making her first appearance at a major UK festival is London resident from New York, Norma Jean Martine, replete with The Black Keys-like woo’s and a vocal talent and mystique reminiscent of Amy Winehouse, Norma will be one of many shining gems at the festival.