Festival season is nearly here 2017 is starting off with a bang and the Isle of Wight Festival will be taking place on the weekend of the 8th – 11th June, this year will be celebrating 'The Best of the British'.
This year's headliners are some of the most creative, outstanding and some of the most influential performers to date. Rod Stewart and Arcade Fire will be joined by RUN DMC and David Guetta who will be performing some of the most outstanding anthems that they have created over the past few decades.
The Isle of Wight will be opening their gates for festival goers on Thursday 8th June, with the one and only Razorlight, They will be sharing the stage with artists such as Starsailor, The Alarm and The Sex Pissed Dolls. They will be creating the atmosphere for a weekend of antics and live music, for people from all around visiting one of the biggest festivals in the UK.
Joining the isle of wight headliners, artists such as: The Kaiser Chiefs who will be bringing there energetic and powerful performance to the stage with fellow artists, Example + DJ Wire, The second sons, The amazons, The Novatones, Judas, The Vamps, The Strypes, Clean bandit and Zara Larson who will be followed by the band Texas who is performing for the first time in over a year after celebrating 25 years in the industry, they will be sharing the stage with artists such as Alison Moyet, Rag 'n' bones Man, George Erza, The shires and Jack Savoretti. With the Pretenders providing us with a classic such as 'I will walk 500 miles and i will walk 500 more" getting the crowd to there feet to party the night away.
2017 will be the 16th Isle of Wight Festival since it was successfully relaunched in 2002 to become one of the most popular weekends of the summer, with a proud heritage of show-stopping headliners such as Foo Fighters, The Rolling Stones, The Killers, Paul McCartney, Coldplay, Blur and Fleetwood Mac and the legendary Queen starring Adam Lambert.
There will be crowds of people celebrating the best within the industry, that have created so many lasting memories within British History, they have performed to thousands upon thousands of fans within their careers and they will be playing to one of the largest audience within the UK. Celebrating the Isle of Wight festival, whilst creating the atmosphere, bringing the crowds of people together to sing along, dance and to create new and long lasting memories.
So Bring your sleeping bags, your tents and lets celebrate 2017 as it is meant to be celebrated, with good people, laughter and outstanding music, Here's to 2017 The Best and most influential Artists In the music industry.
See you there guys,
Isle of Wight Festival Information:
Basic information:
Weekend with / without Camping – £195 Day Ticket: Friday – £60 / Saturday and Sunday – £80 Student – £175 Teen – £145 Children Under 12: Free *Prices subject to a booking fee
Camping options:
Camp Kerala Mademoiselle provide Luxury Glamping backstage with room service and VIP transport. Eve's Tipis – Try something different and stay in a tipi! Enjoy cocktails or champagne from the bar, or some hot breakfast options to start your day right. Podpads – Bunk down in the colourful Podpads with solid wood or canvas options. Love Your Tent – Enjoy an ethical camping experience plus hot showers and a Poodle Parlour! Pink Moon Camping – Choose from a colourful collection of accommodation and enjoy your weekend with a unique camping experience Tangerine Fields – This is ever festival-goers dream for a hassle free camping experience. Just book your pitch and the rest is done for you!
To find out more information on Weekend Tickets, Day Tickets and camping check out www.isleofwightfestival.com
Bringing together a unique weekend of irresistible fun, extraordinary experiences and unrivalled entertainment, Standon Calling has over 11 years marked itself as the true epitome of what a festival is. Celebrating creativity, community and freedom – Standon Calling offers a genuine weekend escape that’s seen over 12,000 festival-goers return year after year – with 2017’s 12th edition only set to continue that story.
Originators, visionaries and vital in defining an era for an entire generation, Orbital sit on the head-table of electronic royalty with a catalogue and legacy packed with forward-thinking music. Since emerging at the start of the 90s, the Hartnoll brothers have consistently evolved and innovated, with rapturous live sets of infectious techno beats and peerless anthems such as ‘Belfast’, ‘Halcyon And On And On’ and ‘Chime’ standing in a class of their own. After five years away from the stage, Orbital are destined to provided a truly staggering festival moment, when they headline Standon Calling 2017 – as one of dance music’s true greats bursts back into frame.
One of the most infectious and dynamic pop groups of the 21st century, Clean Bandit’s fusion of classical strings, electro beats and vintage pop hooks have made them a treasured and adored part of British pop culture. Their worldwide smash ‘Rather Be’ paved the way for a career which consistently finds them creating and developing, with hits such as ‘Real Love’, ‘Tears’ and last year’s Christmas number 1 ‘Rockabye’ all becoming go-to anthems in music collections around the country. Guaranteed to bring the sun-soaked vibes, Clean Bandit are ones destined to seize the moment when they headline Standon Calling 2017.
Talking about their headline set at Standon Calling 2017, Clean Bandit said:
“Having spent so long in the studio working on the new album, it’s incredibly exciting to have the opportunity to play our new music to fans this summer. It’s a really exciting opportunity to be headlining a festival in the UK and we hope to bring the party to Standon this summer!”
Both Orbital and Clean Bandit head up a staggering wealth of talent making their way to StandonCalling, continuing a long-standing passion for emerging talent that has been the backbone of the festival for many years.
Heading back to the fields after a breakout set in 2015 is youthful punk royalty Slaves, bringing a live show amped full of blistering intensity, unquenchable energy and unmissable presence. One of the defining live bands of recent years, the Mercury Prize-nominated duo are sure to leave their mark at Standon Calling 2017. Fellow Mercury Prize nominee Laura Mvula knows all about show-stealing moments, and her set at Standon Calling is sure to be a stand-out, bringing the infectious rhythms of latest album ‘Phenomenal Woman’ to the fields. One of the fastest rising British bands of recent times, Nothing But Thieves will bring their anthemic and explosive live presence to Standon for a heavyweight offering of future riff royalty whilst dark-pop heavyweight Gary Numan will delve into his synth-laden cabinets of punk for a stunning trip down memory lane with an artist right at the forefront of individuality and independence.
Continuing the festival’s rich history of bringing some of the most critically celebrated acts to the forefront at Standon Calling, The Laundry Meadows stage (in association with The Independent) is set to play host to a myriad of game-changing talent. These include Beta Band frontman Steve Mason who is destined to lay out a dazzling set with choice cuts from his recent solo return ‘Meet The Humans’ full of revitalising modern experimentation. !!! (Chk Chk Chk) are a band born and raised exactly for explosive festival fields and eruptive live moments, and their set at Standon Calling is destined to be a true embodiment of everything the dance-punk groovers represent. The full live experience also radiates through British Sea Power, returning to Standon Calling with new album ‘Let The Dancers Inherit The Party’ continuing to show why their storied tales of British-life still resonate with a legion of fans around the country. Expect their live show to be a truly unmissable moment in a weekend crammed full of them.
Standon Calling once again brings the most talked about names in new music into one weekend, with UK MC Nadia Rose, shimmering indie-pop slickers Fickle Friends and Manchester anarchists Cabbage confirmed for the festival, whilst renowned party-lighters The Cuban Brothers will turn on the charm for a festival moment bound to trigger pure joy around the site. Manchster’s art-pop groovers Dutch Uncles will be spinning through latest album ‘Big Balloon’ at this year’s festival, with respected UK hip-hop wordsmith Akala also touching down for a set of explosive and vital portraits of a nation. With even more spectacular sounds emanating from electro genre melders Kero Kero Bonito, dreamers Plastic Mermaids and proto-punk hitters Idles – Standon Calling 2017 is laying out the red carpet for the future of exciting new music.
Drawing in dance innovators on every level, Standon Calling’s late-night lineup boasts a staggering array of electronic names and unparalleled stage takeovers. Leading the first reveal of must-see DJ sets is Joe Goddard (of Hot Chip fame), influential favourites Faithless, Jax Jones,DJ Yoda and Maxxi Soundsystem with a plethora of beat-maker and party-shakers. The Cowshed will once again trade in infamous and standout takeovers from the likes of the glamour-soaked glitz-filled extravaganza of Sink The Pink, the drum’n’bass gurus from Hospital Records with their Hospitality live spectacle, The Streets figurehead Mike Skinner and Manchester rap-rave heroes Murkage bringing their Tonga night to the fields and sombre club night Feeling Gloomy presenting their own distinct Bowie Disco – the spectacular and the unique are celebrated in style with the late night highs of Standon Calling.
Speaking about the first line-up announcement, Founder and Festival Director Alex Trenchard said:
“Standon Calling has always been about jaw dropping performances, whether that be from crowd favourites or emerging talent. For me, the very first Orbital Glastonbury show is something I will never forget but Standon is also about the now and I'm very excited to be announcing Clean Bandit straight off the back of nine weeks at number 1. When it comes to breaking acts, something that has been such an important part of Standon’s gone-by, I'm really excited about Cabbage, Nadia Rose and Fickle Friends. We've got loads more to announce including a very special Sunday night headliner, and I can't quite believe this is only the first wave. But what I do know is Standon 2017 is going to be the best ever.”
Over at The Lawn, there’s entertainment at every turn – lead by the incredible new comedy programme headlined by rising star and TV stalwart James Acaster, bringing an extremely special hour long Edinburgh preview to the festival as one of the nation’s leading new comedians heads to Standon Calling. With emerging star John Robins also confirmed for a set, expect to hear the belly laughs ringing from the comedy programme of stand-up and sketch performers across the weekend. Along with the gather-round thrills of the Pub Quiz, the sipping of smooth concoctions from the Cocktail Masterclasses, the unwinding Acoustic Sets or the in-depth talks – Standon Calling has it all and The Lawn will be its beating heart.
Whether it’s adults letting their hair down until 4am to the rings of late-night dance or dipping in the outdoor swimming pool, kids aged from teens to toddlers enjoying a daytime array of unique activities and celebrated entertainment or even dogs – participating in the renowned Standon Calling Dog Show – there’s something unmistakably new at every corner of Standon Calling. The Matthew Bourne Re:Bourne programme of modern ballet performances and workshopswill appear at the festival this summer, choreographed by the five time Olivier award winning choreographer himself – Sir Matthew Bourne – in what’s sure to be a truly stunning experience of modern dance of the highest order. From Rockaoke to the Groove Garden, the wellness area boasting hot tubs, Yoga, meditation and more to the Real Ale Festival and the stunning array of curated street food, one-off delicacies and beyond – Standon Calling brings every turn of modern culture into one unforgettable weekend.
Unparalleled and unmissable, Standon Calling 2017 will once again open its gates for a weekend that defines the British festival experience.
Standon Calling 2017
ORBITAL / CLEAN BANDIT
SLAVES / LAURA MVULA / NOTHING BUT THIEVES / GARY NUMAN / STEVE MASON /
BRITISH SEA POWER / !!! (CHK CHK CHK)
NADIA ROSE / FICKLE FRIENDS / CABBAGE / DUTCH UNCLES / AKALA / KERO KERO BONITO / IDLES / THE CUBAN BROTHERS / PLASTIC MERMAIDS / LUCY SPRAGGAN / CHARLIE CUNNINGHAM / PREP / LONGY / TANGERINES / VENN / THE EARLY YEARS / CLUB DRIVE / JAE TYLER / ALEX FRANCIS / BARON GOODLOVE & THE DREADFUL NOISE / VOLKOVA SISTERS / MADDOX / WASTE / BRING YOUR OWN BRASS
DJ SETS FROM:
JOE GODDARD (HOT CHIP) / FAITHLESS / JAX JONES / DJ YODA / MAXXI SOUNDSYSTEM / EDWARD ADOO
COWSHED TAKEOVERS FROM:
SINK THE PINK / HOSPITALITY / MIKE SKINNER & MURKAGE PRESENTS TONGA /
FEELING GLOOMY PRESENTS BOWIE DISCO
BRAND NEW COMEDY STAGE
JAMES ACASTER / JOHN ROBINS / CASUAL VIOLENCE
WITH MANY MORE TO BE ANNOUNCED
THE STANDON CALLING DOG SHOW / MATTHEW BOURNE RE:BOURNE / FAMILY LINE UP TBA / SWIMMING POOL / TALKS, DEBATES & WORKSHOPS / REAL ALE FESTIVAL / FOOD FESTIVAL / GROOVE GARDEN / DIG IT SOUNDSYSTEM / ROCKAOKE / BEEFY MELON’S TEMPLE OF LOVE & GRATITUDE / THE PEOPLE’S FRONT ROOM / LISA MARTIN SINGS ADELE (AS SEEN ON BBC ONE)
Today, The Isle of Wight Festival 2017 announces ten young and upcoming acts for the 2017 festival: Catfish and the Bottlemen, Zara Larsson, Clean Bandit, The Vamps, The Strypes, The Amazons, Germein Sisters, Judas,The Novatones and The Second Sons.
They join recently announced headliners David Guetta, Run DMC, Arcade Fire and Rod Stewart, as well as Kaiser Chiefs, Texas, The Shires, Example + DJ Wire, Jonas Blue, Nothing But Thieves, The Sherlocks, Ward Thomas, The Undertones, The Alarm and Elle Exxe. As well as George Ezra, Bastille, Jack Savoretti and Rag’n’Bone Man.
John Giddings said: “We've always supported fresh, new and exciting talent at the at the Isle of Wight Festival. It’s what music festivals are all about. We had Blossoms in 2015 and they've just been nominated for a BRIT award! Looking forward to seeing what the Isle of Wight 2017’s talents have in store for us!”
The most exciting new guitar band to come out of the UK this decade, Catfish and the Bottlemen released their debut album ‘The Balcony’ in September 2014 and went on to win best newcomer at the BBC Awards later that year. The platinum selling album debuted in the Top Ten in the UK, yielded hit singles aplenty and saw the band win a BRIT Award for best British Breakthrough Act. Known for their incendiary live shows, Catfish and the Bottlemen have toured extensively on both sides of the Atlantic and in May 2016 released their eagerly anticipated second album ‘The Ride’. It went straight to the top of the charts on release, and has sold an astonishing 150,000 copies to date. After a summer of sold out open air shows and festival appearances across the world, the end of 2016 saw the band embark upon an 8 week tour of the US before finishing up with arena dates across the UK. 2017 sees Catfish and the Bottlemen play dates in Australia, Japan and South America, and embark upon a major stadium tour of the USA in the summer with Green Day.
Zara Larsson said: “So Excited to play the Isle of Wight Festival! UK festivals are always so much fun! You guys always bring 100%.”
Genre-defying Clean Bandit first emerged on the scene in 2012 with their matchless blend of electronica, pop, r’n’b and string arrangements, and have gone onto become global Number One stars. Landing their first UK Number One single in 2014 with ‘Rather Be’ feat. Jess Glynne (the track stayed as the UK Number One for four consecutive weeks), it won a GRAMMY Award for ‘Best Dance Recording’ in 2015, not to mention two Ivor Novello nods for the band’s multi-instrumentalist/producer, Jack Patterson, in the same year for his work on the track. Currently in the studio working on their new album – the follow-up to 2014’s Top Three debut ‘New Eyes’ – Clean Bandit released their mighty single ‘Rockabye’ at the end of 2016; staying at Number One for nine consecutive weeks in the UK and featuring vocals from woman-of-the-moment, Anne-Marie, and the mighty Sean Paul, it was also 2016’s official Christmas Number One in the UK.
The Vamps following continues to grow rapidly. Since they burst onto the scene in 2013, they have had five UK Top 10 singles, two smash hit albums and their YouTube and VEVO channels have topped ½ billion views and 2.7 million subscribers. They often trend around the world on Twitter, and have over 3.3 million followers. The band are also regulars on Facebook where they have 6.3 million Facebook fans. The band have sold out London’s 20,000 capacity O2 four times, with a fifth on sale now, and have hit the road for multiple world tours visiting over 25 countries. The Vamps have won Best Breakthrough, Best British Single and Best British Group (twice!) at the Radio 1 Teen Awards, as well as being nominated for Best Love Song and Best Breakout Group at the Teen Choice Awards. Their current single, All Night, is rising up the charts around the globe and has picked up over 100 million streams worldwide, making it currently the 21st most streamed song on Spotify in the world.
The Vamps Brad Simpson said: “We all can’t wait to play the Isle of Wight Festival! We love playing festivals!”
The Strypes are a four piece rock'n'roll band from Ireland. They began playing together at primary school and signed a record deal in 2012. Their debut album Snapshot was produced by Chris Thomas (Sex Pistols/Beatles) and made the top five in the UK album charts. Their follow up Little Victories cracked the UK top 20 and reached number One in their home country. Their TV appearances include Later with Jools Holland, Late Night with Letterman and Conan O'Brien.
The Strypes’ Ross Farrelly said: “We love the Isle of Wight Festival. It’s one of our favourite festivals, so being invited back to play is incredible news! We can’t wait. Roll on June!”
Reading four-piece, The Amazons, took the new music scene by storm when they released ‘Stay With Me’, produced by Tom Dalgety (Royal Blood and The Maccabees). They have already been championed by BBC Music Introducing, featured on the BBC Sound of 2017 shortlist and the MTV Brand New for 2017 shortlist.
The Amazon’s Matt Thompson said: “We’re very excited to be escaping the mainland to play Isle of Wight Festival for the second time. We had a blast last year at the Jack Rocks tent and can’t wait to join a line-up of some of our favourite artists"
Australia’s Germein Sisters have been turning heads across the globe with their indie pop tunes. Sibling trio Georgia (guitar, keys), Ella (electric cello, bass) and Clara Germein (drums) have got music critics raving worldwide with their flawless harmonies, catchy melodies, and euphoric live show. Described as “my soundtrack to summer” by Music in Time UK, the trio’s organically crafted pop sensibility, intriguing element of electronicism, topped off with that distinctive sibling magic has been making waves ever since they started jamming together on their family’s bushland property in South Australia. Their debut single ‘Da Da Doo’ was nominated for ‘Best Song’ at the South Australian Music Awards, where the girls also scored nominations for ‘Best Pop Artist’ and ‘Best Band’. Germein Sisters have performed across Australia, New Zealand, China, and Europe; and not forgetting supporting Ronan Keating on his tour of Germany, and representing Australia at the Hue Festival in Vietnam, and the Women of the World Festival in Germany.
British Four piece ‘Judas’ have quickly managed to gain a reputation as one of the best new emerging rock and roll bands in the UK, with a fearsome live reputation to boot. Led by charismatic frontman and chief song writer John Clancy, having previously gigged with indie heavyweights such as The View, Catfish & The Bottlemen and The Mystery Jets, he has certainly picked up their knack for writing bona fide indie anthems.
The Novatones are fast becoming a festival favourite. Since first playing at the Isle of Wight Festival in 2014, they have risen up the stages year on year with a huge performance in the Big Top last year. They seem to be the support band of choice in 2017, and are now getting played on 6 Music.
One of London’s most exciting new bands, The Second Sons have risen to international acclaim in 2016 after releasing their debut single “Best Of Me” featuring the late, legendary Bobby Keys and have recently followed up with the bands electrifying collaboration with iconic record producer Chris Kimsey on their most recent single “Can’t You See”. Always able to get people off their feet and dancing, the Second Sons are one of the most entertaining live acts in music to date. "The Second Sons are the best thing to happen to rock n roll since Booker T fell in with the MG’s. It drives like a freight train and punches like a very young Mike Tyson. This band gives me hope for the republic of rock n roll." Rich Cohen – Contributing Editor, Rolling Stone
The Second Sons’ Nick Harding said:“We are thrilled to be back this year, the Isle of Wight Festival is one of the world’s finest and we are happy to be playing it again for a second time.”
Larmer Tree Festival returns this summer, presenting the adventurous, the absorbing and the unforgettable, with an all-new programme of music, comedy, theatre, poetry and more across five days (13th-17th July 2016).
Set in Victorian gardens in the stunning landscape of the Cranborne Chase, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty spread across Dorset and Wiltshire, Larmer Tree is the quintessential party; an intimate and eccentric festival perfect for first-timers and experienced festival-goers alike.
Each of the stages are carefully curated by the Larmer Tree team, combining established favourites with newcomers destined for success. The final line-up will appeal to festival-goers of all generations.
Music headliners
Tom Odell replaces the previously announced Clean Bandit.
Tom Odell is returning to Larmer Tree Festival after a stunning debut performance in 2014. With hit tracks from his platinum album ‘Long Way Down’ and plenty of new material to share with the Larmer Tree audience, the Brit Awards winner will bring the festival to a close with true style.
With a Grammy, two Golden Globes, two GQ Man of the Years, three Brits, three Sony Radios and numerous other nominations and awards under his belt, we are over the moon to welcome Jamie Cullum to Larmer Tree 2016. The festival will once again present its attendees with a customarily diverse offering where electronic meets traditional, jazz meets folk.
Having wowed across the world Caro Emerald, with her infectious mix of jazz, pop and electro-swing, is coming to charm the Main Stage. The record-breaking Dutch singer is known for her style, and we expect her performance to be as timeless as she is.
Crossing global barriers as well as musical, Calexico’s international mix of artists is the reason for their eclectic releases. With a sound which adapts and evolves as the band visit new places, we’re excited to see the result of Larmer Tree’s infectious vibrancy!
Some significant new additions have been added to the line-up, promising a huge variety of sounds in the intimate and unique landscape of the festival’s Gardens setting. DJ and Producer Quantic combines the use of multiple instruments with elements of salsa, soul, funk, jazz and bossa nova, all performed by Worcestershire-born Will Holland. Top international reggae collective Easy Star All-Stars have also confirmed an exciting set at Larmer Tree. Renowned for their unique, dub-inspired interpretations of classic albums (including ‘Dub Side of the Moon’ and ‘Easy Star’s Thrillah’) this is a band not to be missed.
Mercury Prize album of the year nominee, Zimbabwean born singer-songwriter Eska also joins the bill, along with Columbian band Sidestepper, Sheffield duo Slow Club and the much anticipated Hot 8 Brass Band. Plus Stevie Parker, based in Bath and performing under the ambient electro pop genre, who has enraptured audiences across the South West with her powerful voice.
Johnny Lynch as The Pictish Trail and East-End folk group Stick in the Wheel, who are famed for using the sounds and culture of London life, from birdsong to sirens, in their music.
Also added, Larmer Tree are pleased to confirm returning festival favourite Steve Knightley, Louisiana guitarist Gill Landry and up-and-coming band The Little Unsaid, who will be performing tracks from
their hugely successful crowdfunded album ‘Fisher King’.
Poetry, Literature & Talks Headliner
Larmer Tree’s poetry and spoken word headliner is Dr John Cooper Clarke, who will be taking to the ARC stage. An original, performance ‘punk poet’, Clarke has toured with punk and reggae legends including the Sex Pistols, Elvis Costello and Joy Division, with his characteristic set of lively, rapid-fire, a cappella poetry.
Family Festivaling
Larmer Tree has an exciting special guest for the littlest festival-goers of 2016. Pop along and say ‘Ello!’ to Mr Bloom from CBeebies. There’ll be a bundle of veggie stories, gardening games and catchy Nursery songs for Tiddlers and Parents alike.
Even More Music
Gabrielle Aplin, with her melodious vocals and girl-next-door charm will be returning to grace the Main Stage as will Lau, the free-thinking visionaries regarded as the epicentre of the new folk boom. Between them, these two acts boast shelves groaning with awards, countless ecstatic reviews and breathless plaudits from excited audiences world-wide.
Four years ago, Jack Savoretti had had enough of scratching a living as an independent artist, of business bust-ups, of being touted as a soon-to-be star. Now, he shines as one of the brightest stars in 2016, recently completing a sold-out headline UK and Ireland tour which finished at London's Shepherd's Bush Empire and was rated four stars by The Independent. Afro Celt Sound System return to Larmer Tree this year to captivate the crowd, fusing electronic dance music with traditional Irish and West African music.
Launching in 2016 is The Chase, a stage championing the best in new music, showcasing artists such as Rozi Plain who will be singing individually as well as alongside the hushed horns and electronic textures of This is the Kit. Artists performing in The Chase are part of an eclectic programme of skronk jazz, space folk and twisted pop; from the acoustic sounds of The Wave Pictures to Cristobal and the Sea’s Southern Mediterranean tropicalia pop, with further acts including Melt Yourself Down and Hillbenders, the Missouri band who tribute The Who in rock opera Tommy.
The Chase stage has been hand-curated by the festival’s newest team members Todd Wills and Matt Aitken, music programmers behind Bristol’s home of music, Colston Hall. With an emphasis on discovering both emerging talent and musicians who deserve to be on your radar, The Chase promises to be a firm festival favourite.
Away from The Chase, Treacherous Orchestra’s musical gaelic ferocity and the lively foot-stomping blues from Dana Immanuel & The Stolen Band cater to the high-energy. Yet as always, songwriters and folk will also take a leading role in proceedings and Martin Simpson & Dom Flemons, Ethan Johns & Black Eyed Dogs, Sound of the Sirens and Fenne Lily are all expected to shower you with smooth rhythms, acoustic guitar and hair-raising vocals.
Larmer Tree always attracts performers from across the world like Rev Peyton’s Big Damn Band who come bearing Country Blues from Indiana, but this year the representation of eclectic British acts is astounding. From the hillbilly swing of Urban Pioneers and the dark jazz texture of The Chris Woods Groove Orchestra to Lady Maisery’s revival of the dying art of tune singing and the lively Caribbean roots music of Edward II, this year’s festival truly has it all.
The incredible bill consists of hugely successful electronic artists that have dominated music, radio and streaming charts across the globe. The artists featured in this year’s festival include Grammy, Billboard and ARIA Award winners who have performed on major international stages throughout the world, and at the most prestigious clubs and festivals.
Major Lazer was the first artist announced on Sunday, 12 July 2015 as one of the headlining acts this year. Major Lazer is arguably the biggest act in electronic music, and with their incredible track ‘Lean On’ receiving over 2.5 million streams on Spotify daily and achieving a #1 chart position in Australia, they are looking forward to bringing their energetic live show to Stereosonic this year.
Joining Major Lazer on the international line-up is Armin Van Buuren, Axwell^Ingrosso, DJ Snake, Duke Dumont (live), Galantis, Clean Bandit and more.
Armin van Buuren, the five-time winner of DJ Mag’s Top 100 artist DJ poll eagerly awaits his return to Australia, remarking, “I can’t wait to be back in one of the countries I love the most in the world! I’m really looking forward to seeing all my Australian fans again at Stereosonic!”
Billboard Award winning artist, DJ Snake has taken the world by storm in the last 18 months, with his track ‘Turn Down for What’. The Frenchman’s debut performance at Stereosonic last year has become legendary and he is planning his triumphant return, adding, “I’m excited to be coming back to Australia and play at Stereosonic. It’s always a good time.”
Australian artists joining the bill that have enjoyed local chart success and international recognition include; Peking Duk, MaRLo, What So Not, Will Sparks, Hot Dub Time Machine, Timmy Trumpet, Tigerlily, Generik, Slumberjack and Carmada.
The 2015 line-up has consciously been curated to meet the tastes of various types of electronic music fans, with the introduction of arenas to create genre specific environments. The arenas are – Stereo, Sonic, ATLANTIS, The Woods and Beatport. They will showcase acts from various genres including commercial, house, trap, bass, trance, electronica, techno and deep house music.
Stereosonic was recently awarded 2014 Favourite Touring Festival in Australia and will return to its original festival format this year with a jam-packed one-day event. Totem Onelove Group has ensured the ticket price is great value, starting at $129.95 (plus booking fee). The ‘Good Times Embassy' upgrade tickets (does not include Stereosonic ticket) are available for $60.00 (plus booking fee) and ' The Palms' VIP tickets will be priced at $280 (plus booking fee) and are only available in Sydney and Melbourne.
Stereosonic 2015 National Line-up (Arena by Arena)
Stereo
Armin van Buuren
Axwell ^ Ingrosso
Major Lazer Live
Showtek
Peking Duk
Oliver Heldens
Galantis Live
Generik
Sonic
Diplo*
DJ Snake
Duke Dumont Live **
Tchami
What So Not
Clean Bandit Live*
Carmada
JAUZ
SHOCKONE
Slumberjack
Atlantis
Gareth Emery
Andrew Rayel
MaRLo
Andrew Bayer
Emma Hewitt Live*
Mark Sherry
Jason Ross
Special Guest Headhunterz
The Woods
MK
Claptone Immortal Live*
Claude VonStroke*
Hannah Wants*
Patrick Topping*
Shiba San*
Cut Snake*
Beatport
Carnage
Will Sparks
Hot Dub Time Machine
Timmy Trumpet
Snails
Jessie Andrews
Tigerlily
All artists will be appearing exclusively at Stereosonic Sydney.
There will be no sideshows for Perth, Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane.
** Not playing live in Brisbane
*Not playing in Adelaide
Sydney, Saturday November 28, Sydney Showground
Perth, Sunday November 29, Claremont Showground*
Melbourne, Saturday December 5, Melbourne Showgrounds
Adelaide, Saturday December 5, Bonython Park
Brisbane, Sunday December 6, Brisbane Showgrounds
*Subject to council approval
Stereosonic’s official ticketing partner in 2015 is Moshtix.
Festivals are big business, and the last few years have seen many boom with the increasing commercialisation of the smaller festivals and the increase in artist attention through social media. Truck, by contrast, has been going for 18 years, maintaining both its small capacity and indie ethos, providing a platform for local and underground artists to showcase their talents alongside big, well-known artists such as Clean Bandit, The Charlatans, and Basement Jaxx. Truck’s local connections run deeper than just the line-up however, with the local Rotary Club handling the majority of the catering, and one of the most popular stages sat in a concrete barn that held the lingering smell of the cattle that usually reside there.
With an increased crowd capacity of 6,000, this festival was shockingly a sell out once again! The highlights of the two-day event, which came to a head in the early hours of Sunday morning, came in the form of the headliners – indie-rock band The Charlatans, dance act Basement Jaxx and the more mainstream, Clean Bandit – as well as the smaller and lesser known artists – Essex group Rat Boy (who caused rather a stir with security with an audience stage invasion at the end of the set), Joy Division star Peter Hook, and Bedfordshire’s Don Broco.
The low-key nature had its upsides and downsides: lip smacking food and great local acts where balanced by the fact that, with the exception of the main Truck stage, and to some extent the Market stage, the stages were almost all set up inside small tents and buildings such as the Barn, which couldn't hold the capacity of people wanting to watch the amazing bands on offer. For acts such as The Wytches and Slaves, there were queues surrounding the entire field for over half hour before the band were even ready to start, just to try and get into the barn, which was already full to the brim. The capacity of the Barn compared to the popularity of the bands playing was a shame because it hosted so many of my personal festival highlights, as it did for many others.
The weekend vibe was completely laid back and inclusive, once again. It was in no way about wearing the right clothes or being seen, but rather about kicking back and enjoying the unique atmosphere while soaking up the festival sun. There was no fancy VIP area like you'll find at other big festivals; backstage was purely functional. Instead, everyone mingles in the main arena – the artists roam the site, picking up beers at the bar just like everyone else. Truck is clearly about the music and people enjoying themselves, something that feels lacking at the bigger festivals which seem to be just money-spinning corporate beasts.
With every act, bar the headliner’s of each stage, allotted a half-hour performance slot, it’s nothing if not fair. You can power through bands and stick with sets you might otherwise leave, meaning you get a great idea of each carefully edited set list designed by each band to show themselves at their best.
While small, sweet, and harmonious, the weekend did not go without its troubles. On Friday, people arrived at the Market stage to catch the first band of the weekend only to find out that the security fence had not yet been erected, causing the stage to open over an hour late! With similar issues over at the Barn Stage, the first acts at each stage found their sets being cut by 5-10 minutes through no fault of their own, often meaning the crowd missed out on some of their favourite songs. And it wasn’t just the organisation causing problems.
During the set of the popular two piece punk band from Tunbridge Wells, Slaves, two bright red flares went up in the middle of the crowd. As security got hold of the flare and made it back out through the crowd, you could feel the heat of the flame. And just as you thought it was in hand, up went another one from the same troublemaker. Slaves, however, were not phased, even calling for another flare when the song finished and the lights went dim!
With the fabulous line-up, a new site layout and even a new bridge across the stream, alongside the perfect festival weather, this was the festival you’ll be gutted to have missed.
Thousands flocked to Finsbury Park this weekend for popular festival – Wireless. Each year the festivals line up is spectacular, Summer Festival Guide headed over to check things out. With over 40 acts on both Saturday and Sunday; including Ciara, Jessie J, David Guetta, Nicki Minaj, Avicci and Kendrick Lamar, Wireless was sure to be a festival not to be forgotten.
With the sun beating down on Finsbury Park Saturday's sold-out show, started to fill out almost immediately. As the crowd flooded through the gates of Finsbury Park, they were greeted by a high-spirited Conor Maynard who kicked started Saturday on the main stage, whilst KStewart and Ady Sulieman took to the other two stages.
Raleigh Ritchie and Tinashe later took to the main stage and both performed equally good sets. Raleigh got the crowd jumping around and seemed to genuinely enjoy it just as much as they were enjoying him. Tinashe performed a great up beat set from her latest album Aquarius. Summer Festival Guide caught up with Raleigh Ritchie back stage where he told us about his love for performing, festivals and Game of Thrones.
Indiana took to the Pepsi Max Arena where she slowed things down a bit and performed a very mellow set. Fans swayed as the singer performed tracks from her latest album – ‘No Romeo’ and she drew in the crowd however the singer sped things up a bit towards the end of her set and the crowd loved it.
Whilst waiting for Mary J Blige crowds flocked to numerous food vans to refuel. Ranging from Chinese to Mexican, Vegan to Steak Grills and Lebanese to Caribbean food the crowd were definitely spoilt for choice. Mary J Blige dived straight in to her set list starting with her hit song ‘Just Fine’. The crowd immediately jumped to their feet and started dancing. Mary J had the crowd dancing for the whole 45 minutes of her set. With a great set list and her high-spirit Mary J had the crowd eating out of the palm of her hands.
Gorgon City and Childish Gambino later took to the main stage. Whilst Stormzy took to the RE: WIRED stage. Gorgon City's up beat set had the crowd dancing with range of hits including 'Stronger', 'Rather Be' & 'Real Love'.
The mult-talented Childish Gambino ran out onto the main stage next and it wasn't long before he was shirtless and belting out 'Crawl', 'Worldstar' and more from his back cataloge of albums.
Stormzy had a huge crowd for his highly anticipated set performing his latest tracks to a very appreciative crowd who sung their hearts out word for word.
As the crowd waited for Kendrick Lamar yet again they headed for the food vans and the bars to refuel and rehydrate. Kendrick took to the stage performing many tracks both old and new including 'Backstreet Freestyle', 'Bitch Don't Kill My Vibe' and 'Swimming Pools (Drank). The crowd loved Kendrick and Kendrick loved the crowd. Avicii wowed crowds when he later took to the stage and saw what had been an amazing day off with an equally amazing set and a spectacular light and firework display.
Sunday afternoon saw Wretch 32 kick start the day off on the main stage with an impressive performance. Also kicking off the day around the park was Samm Henshaw on the Re: WIRED stage and Kiko Bun in the Pepsi Max Arena. Summer Festival Guide caught up with Samm Henshaw backstage and he was just as happy and full of energy off stage as he was on.
Charlie XCX, August Alsina and Clean Bandit were the main stage line up for the afternoon. Whilst Arrested Development, Ciara, Pusha T and Rae Sremmurd took to the Pepsi Max Arena. Leaving Damage, Jacob Plant, Tove Stryke, Jaden & Willow Smith, Elliphant and Shakka to entertain those at the RE: WIRED stage.
Charli XCX with her trademark Sucker heart prop and full band on stage rocked the crowd with her hits 'Sucker', 'Breaking Up', 'I Love It'. Full of energy and with the sun pelting down on Finsbury Park, Charli had the crowd singing with her throughout her entire set!
Ciara was off to a rocky start with her mic being switched off for the first 15 minutes of her set. However that did not stop the crowd from singing along to the popular singer's songs and enjoying the show Ciara provided. Jaden and Willow left the crowd slightly befuddled with a rather unusual performance. However the crowd soon perked up when willow performed popular hit 'Whip my Hair' and Jaden shared a new track with the Wireless crowd. The sibling duo were full of energy and provided a good performance, aiding each other throughout.
As night began to fall, crowds were left disheartened when the festival organisers shamefully admitted that Nicki Minaj was running late due to travel complications and that they had lost touch with the award winning female rapper. It was later announced that Nicki and David Guetta had mutually agreed to share the set time which crowd's responded to with boos.
When David Guetta took to the stage half an hour after the announcement crowds went wild as he started his set. The light show Guetta provided was spectacular and he managed to win back the crowd with popular tracks, smoke, confetti and fireworks. David Guetta continued for a further 40 minutes before Nicki Minaj finally made her entrance and crowds seemed to have forgiven the female rapper within an instance.
Nicki continued to work the crowd and performed popular songs including 'Truffle Butter', 'Only', 'Moment for Life' and 'Anaconda'. Adoring fans sang and danced the night away enjoying the all-round amazing show Nicki delivered. Nicki Minaj was the perfect act to round off the Wireless weekend she left the crowd on a positive high and closed the show with a tremendously great performance.
After a triumphant debut, Corona SunSets will be making its way back to the stunning shores of Weston-Super-Mare on the 11th July. This next edition will see chart toppers Clean Bandit headlining the beach-fronted festival with a whole host of amazing electronic acts!
One of the planet’s biggest selling dance acts, Groove Armada, are set to make their Griffin Stage DJ debut at Corona SunSets festival. Groove Armada have been a staple to the electronic scene for the past 20 years and will be bringing their sublime sound to the west coast. Rocketing to fame in recent years, new kids on the block and tastemakers of modern clubland, Eton Messy, are also joining the bill along with Bestival boss Mr. Rob da Bank, Berlin’s Claptone and Janis Jakobsons AKA Uppfade.
Groove Armada said “If you like a GA sunset with a twist of lime, Weston super-Mare is the spot. Join us beachside, July 11th”
The Crown Stage will be hosted by a combination of Bristol's finest party starters, Motion, Team Love andThe Blast who will bring some of their favourite acts to the stage to party into the night, including the mightyCrazy P, legendary disco don Greg Wilson, carnival king Toddla T feat. MC DRS and a very special live performance from Jus Now.
Corona SunSets Festival at Weston-super-Mare will not only showcase an impressive line-up, but will also offer unique tastes and flavours courtesy of globally-renowned chef Andre Amaro, with his delicious wood-fire-based cuisine, and the Shaker Boys who will concoct Corona-based cocktails.
Festivalgoers attending SunSets will also have the opportunity to visit a festival marketplace offering local crafts and clothing, experience relaxing activities, including therapeutic massages, and encounter creative characters such as Corona Goddesses and Nymphs who embody the spirit of SunSets.
Corona Sunsets kicked off in the brand’s home of Mexico to a sold out crowd in Playa del Carmen on May 2. The event, held at Mamitas Beach Club, was a unique experience for fans in that market and featured global and local music artists such as Laidback Luke, DJ Robin Schulz and Mexican Institute of Sound. In addition to Mexico and the upcoming festival in the UK, SunSets will be introducing four additional large-scale, but still intimate and laid-back, festival experiences in Italy (July 25), Spain (Aug 13), China (dates TBC), and Australia (dates TBC).
Corona SunSets will additionally bring over 150 SunSets events in more than 20 markets including Rio de Janeiro – Brazil, Santiago – Chile, Toronto – Canada, Goa – India, Okinawa -Japan and Dubai. “Music is a passion for our fans – along with travel, food and culture,” said Steph Okell, Marketing Director UK for Corona. “The Corona SunSets platform gives us an opportunity to combine all four into an immersive experience around the world.”
Bank holiday weekend in Southampton, all the cool kids are down at the beach right? Wrong. This weekend there’s a new festival on the scene brought to you by the wonderful wizards behind Bestival and Camp Bestival and it’s called Common People. Held on the beautiful Southampton Common smack bang in the middle of town, it’s easy to get to and find places to stay, family friendly and with an eclectic line-up sure to please each and every person in your squad.
Saturday sees the likes of George The Poet energising the main stage whilst the rolling thunder of The Portsmouth Batala band is going strong in the foodie area, and people are soaking up the sunshine and sipping pitchers of cocktails on the grass. Around the corner from the Uncommon stage hides the exciting kids area, featuring a tiny chair-carousel, a massive inflatable slide and a whole host of activities from crafts to stilt walking. A group of dads are also haphazardly trying to one-up each other with their hula-hooping skills.
Over on the main stage The South Sea Alternative Choir are looking decidedly mod but are banging out some classic covers from the likes of The Beatles and Blur. The VIP area is awash with sunbathing bodies on the woven canopy beds and the arena is starting to fill up for the masked Ninja DJ, Jaguar Skills. Jag’s set starts out loud and heavy, mixing in his musical influences and pop culture references, The Prodigy’s ‘Omen’ makes an appearance, as does the festival’s (already much played) namesake tune ‘Common People’ from Pulp. Black Sabbath’s ‘Iron Man’ gets a round of applause from the Dad contingent, and everyone loves a bit of Faithless ‘Insomnia’. It’s a powerful set, if a little weird to witness in the daytime, instead of a dark grimy warehouse.
DJ Yoda is up next, a Bestival stalwart who usually has an incredible AV show, which was advertised but doesn’t seem to have materialised. Nonetheless, Yoda’s mixes are seamless and the guy just looks permanently happy. From Macklemore to The Sugar Hill Gang, Chic to the Sesame Street theme, DJ Yoda just knows how to deliver a great set.
Following Yoda comes De La Soul, who spend the first few minutes of their show joking with the crowd and calling “Can all the photographers, all the journalists down here, just put their cameras down for a second and put one hand up in the air… and get down” as well as teasing the VIP area saying “VIP? We don’t do that bullshit”. Their no-nonsense style brings out the gangsta in the crowd, and there are random gang signs being thrown up all over.
Around 8pm appears to be dinner time in the south, as the queues stretch out in front of each food outlet, but the offerings are better than your average city festival. No dodgy burgers or disappointing noodles to be had here – it’s gourmet grilled cheese for us (brie, pear and walnut) from a little independent trader, washed down with a cocktail from the Day of the Dead Cocktail Bus.
Big Top headliners Waze & Odyssey are going off and the stripy tent is bouncing as the sun goes down. The Main stage welcomes firm festival favourite and long time Rob-da-Bank pal Norman Cook, also known as the epic Fatboy Slim. Bringing out a choir to intro ‘Eat Sleep Rave Repeat’ is a touch of genius and something completely special, even to those who have had the pleasure of seeing a Fatboy Slim show before. With his creepy white mask torn off, and signature Hawaiian shirt out and proud, Norm hypes up the packed arena with a host of hits and mixes at ear-bleeding levels, and everyone loves it. There’s something pretty exciting about seeing parents and teens raving alongside each other, covered in neon paint and totally lost in the music together. Giant inflatable balls are thrown out for ‘Right Here, Right Now’ and the crowd is going absolutely mental. Finishing up with lasers and another choral rendition of ‘Praise You’, it’s clear that Fatboy Slim has made Common People his own, and to top it off a barrage of fireworks breaks out as the sitewide exodus into town begins.
Sunday starts out a little cooler and there are decidedly less people in early, though judging by the state of some of last night’s revellers, that may be down to hangover recovery in nearby hotels and homes. Over on The Uncommon Stage a decent crowd has gathered for young bid-winners The Costellos who thank everyone for coming out to see them, before diving headlong into a fun and energetic set.
People are dancing on benches and drinking cocktails out of hollowed out watermelons over at the Day of The Dead bus, whilst the West End Kids put on a great main stage show. It’s a pretty clever and creative idea for the early slot at a festival actually, something that is lively and entertaining but can be sat and watched, it’s a wonder more festivals haven’t yet tried it. DJ Craig Charles wants everyone to know that his alter egos from Red Dwarf, Coronation Street, Takeshi’s Castle and Robot Wars are ‘not him’, and that he’s just a DJ who loves to play funk and soul. Despite a bit of a mishap repeating ‘Uptown Funk’ at the beginning, it’s a set that dragged the masses from their bums to the front for a good old boogie.
Following on comes the unstoppable and lewd force of The Cuban Brothers. For those who’ve never seen them before, it is a life-lesson in exactly what the watershed exists for. The cheeky chaps bounce around the stage break dancing and throwing shapes like there’s no tomorrow, with a couple of big jumps and lifts from One-Erection and Kengo-San, some head-spinning and of course an almost-nude run around the gangway by Miguel. Archerio in a lycra fringed onesie is an image which could haunt a child, but luckily his moves are memorable and there are more than a few kids worryingly trying to imitate his twerking. Miguel carries a kids-only chant for “Kenny… the bastard” before making up his own little ditty about touching husbands’ wives whilst they go to the bar… #miguelitomumtouch. Yelling “I’ve had five punnets of nose-whisky” to explain why he can’t run for Mayor of Southampton, Miguel drops into ‘Mike for President’ and the crowd is loving it.
Next up, Kitty, Daisy and Lewis are joined onstage by enough equipment to power the London Philharmonic, which they swap and change frequently. They do a good job and play some truly beautiful music, but in terms of atmosphere, it is a bit of a comedown after the wild abandon of The Cubans. Hot band of the moment, neo-punk rockers Slaves strut onstage and launch into an aural assault of drums and riffs that would be right at home with Vyvyan and Rick from The Young Ones. Gurning like bosses they get everyone amped up, but it might be a bit more of a style over substance situation. At least ‘Cheer Up London’ is an anthem for those who’ve travelled down from the city.
Stand out performance of the day goes to BBC Sound of 2015 winners Years and Years. The unassuming electro-popsters take to their first ever festival main stage and completely blow everyone away with their mix of soulful style of house beats and beautiful vocals. ‘Titus’ and ‘Eyes Shut’ have the (extremely young and female) front row screaming at the highest pitch, and when lead singer Olly really gets into it and winds down to the stage – the mood is electric. New single ‘Shine’ is a surefire hit, and their already fan-favourites ‘Real’ and ‘Kings’ are standalone incredible.
Band of Skulls bring a rock and roll edge to the proceedings with ‘Hoochie Coochie’ and tell the crowd “We’re so proud to be here for the first Common People, thanks to Rob for inviting us, we hope this goes on for a very long time”. ‘Sweet Sour’ is raw and brilliant, but ‘The Devil Takes Care of His Own’ is the standout song of their set.
Up next Clean Bandit clearly have a following as a slight delay sees people chanting for them to come on, and ‘Come Over’ gets a warm welcome as we say goodbye to the last snippet of sun-sun-sun-sunshine for today. Jess Glynne collaboration ‘Rather Be’ is the final song of an amazing set, and seems like a perfect sentiment for a Sunday afternoon of revelry, especially considering it’s a bank holiday tomorrow.
As a black curtain is raised over the main stage, it’s time for the final act of the first ever Common People. The ever bonkers Grace Jones is a breath of fabulousness that comes from years of not giving a single eff what anyone thinks of her. Striding on in an ensemble that can only be attributed to the tale of the Emperor’s New Clothes, and high heels, Jones proves that she is the ultimate performer, gadding about the two layer stage and winding with an extremely buff male pole dancer. Hits ‘La Vie En Rose’ and ‘Pull up to the Bumper’ go down well, but it’s her combination of ‘Slave to the Rhythm’ and her mad hula-hooping skills that set the night alight. Grace Jones has been there, done it, got the tshirt and discarded it for a thong. As the fireworks explode over the Common, it’s clear that Rob-da-Bank and crew are onto another winner. With Bestival, Camp Bestival and Bestival Toronto all still to come this year, Southampton has had the first tasty smackerel of this summers’ winning formula, and it is spectacular.
Clean Bandit, Temples and Public Service Broadcasting lead the third series of bands announced for TRUCK 2015
Without further ado, we have the pleasure to introduce you to….
Our two sub headliners; Grammy award winning and chart conquering Clean Bandit and Temples alongside other huge names and the best brand new bands.
Clean Bandit’s rapid rise to fame has seen the quartet bag a Grammy for their hit ‘Rather Be’, now this summer we'll see them perform this and other smash hits for our wonderful audience.
Formed whilst studying at the University of Cambridge the band hail from enemy territory, no doubt a serving of polished electro-pop will build bridges during their set.
Temples, signed to the much-respected Heavenly Recordings, bring a slice of psychedelia to proceedings. The band has previously supported The Rolling Stones, while Brett Anderson personally invited them to tour with Suede. Temples’ set at Truck therefore comes with some very weighty recommendations.
Also joining the bill are the heady mix of rock, samples, spoken word and synths make up the mind-bending experience that is Public Service Broadcasting. The duo consisting of the enigmatically named J. Willgoose, Esq. and Wrigglesworth will provide a not-to-miss moment at Truck.
Further additions to appear alongside headliners Basement Jaxx and The Charlatans include:
DJ Luck and MC Neat All We Are D.I.D The Bohicas Summer Camp DMA's Rat Boy The Magic Gang Neon Waltz New Desert Blues
