Jessie Ware

Isle of Wight Festival 2015 Review

by

The Isle of Wight festival has returned for its annual event bringing artist and music lovers together to celebrate 45 years since Jimi Hendrix performed his last ever UK performance in 1970. Where they estimated over 600,000 people turned up to experience his music in the flesh, In celebration of the man himself they have taken the opportunity to name the main stage ‘Electric Church’ This referring to how Jimi Hendrix himself described his music, as though music itself is a religion, away to express, influence and bring positivity to audiences all around the world, through his guitar and vocals. 

45 Years later music is adapting, changing and influencing their audiences, and today i am in Seaclose Park, Newport in the Isle of Wight,  The festival begins, here’s to threes days of music, dancing, paint fighting and food.

FRIDAY 12th JUNE 2015. IOW OFFICIALLY BEGINS

So it is Finally here I am arriving at the Isle of Wight festival 2015.  Gear at the ready, Tent… check, Portable toilet… Check, Clothes… Check and myself… Double check. The crowds are gathering and the atmosphere is captivating, The fashion of the season is floral, and the young female hipster’s seem to favour the hotpant welly combination, this was thriving through the sea of people, they might find that they will be regretting that later. When the monsoon type weather hits the isle of wight. Although this has not dampened their spirits but motivated them to create a buzzing atmosphere and supporting the artists of the festival, with what i would consider rain dancing, glasses of cider and laughter. Myself on the other hand thought after being in the rain for an hour, that is was more sensible to listen to the artists from my tent, in the dry. 

When walking around the event, which you do a lot of you see a variety of people from all walks of life, getting involved in the festival spirit, getting creative with the airbrush tattooing to dancing in the rain to 90’s pop sensations, communities sitting around being social with each other getting involved with the discussion of the moment. Getting the feeling of what the isle of wight festival is about, Families, music and people appreciating and creating that memorable year at the Isle of Wight festival. 

Through out the evening there were bands performing on the ‘Electric Church’ stage. The line up included The Struts, Kodaline, Counting Crows, You me at six, The Black Keys and the prodigy. Even though there was heavy rain Festival goers still went out and supported the bands, The Black Keys alone sounded amazing, you could hear them from the camp site and even hear the audience cheering along with them, you could imagine the audience was their in the rain, rain macs on and arms in the air enjoy the sensational Black Keys and not caring that the rain was lashing down. The headliner of the night The Prodigy I was informed was outstanding, they didn’t falter under the weather conditions, the crowd went wild, raved, danced and enjoyed the electronic music from the 90’s and now. Some people only lasted half of the set but most stayed for the whole gig enjoying the captivating performance from their fellow English brothers. 

Even though the weather was horrendous it was a great way to start the Isle of Wight Festival 2015.  Now the sun should shine the clouds be visible and the weekend should improve for the upcoming bands of 2015.

Photo courtesy of Isle of Wight Festival by Sara Lincoln

 

SATURDAY 13TH JUNE 2015-IOW: DAY TWO 

After the torrential weather from the  previous night, The people at the Isle of Wight Festival were ready and waiting for the music sensations to start tickling their ear drums, no matter how much rain that came down,  it did not dampen their spirits, it just egged them on and made them want more. I can tell you, that day the small stalls around the festival made some money from Welly Purchases and Clothes alone before the food even came in to play. Lucky enough I woke up to slight clouds and a tent that was still standing, I feel this is a proud moment i would like to share with you guys, I Sharron put a tent together and it survived a storm and a half, and i survived sleeping through it, which i am grateful for as there are some outstanding acts that the Isle of Wight festival Goers are going to experience today.

Today was the Day Blur was performing on the 'Electric Stage', Their first ever performance at the Isle of wight festival, For me it was bag of mixed emotions. Damon Albarn the lead singer of Blur had previously lost his voice to illness before the gig, but this did not stop the man from performing with power, passion and giving 110% to his fans. They Did an hour and fifty minutes. Their first section was a mixture of their new album, which i felt didn’t get the crowd moving as much, and i found that it was to much new and not enough of the classics, which finally came towards the middle of the set, when they started playing songs such as Parklife which had guest star Phil Daniels performing with the guys,  this got the crowd jumping around, the atmosphere changed and people started moving and getting involved with the music, they followed this up with Coffee and TV, Girls and Boys, Song 2 and the classic Tender. For me the classic win over all, it got people moving and ended the night with a bang. 

Photo courtesy of Isle of Wight Festival by Sara Lincoln

Previously to Blur we had the one and only Pharell Williams who first performed at the Isle of Wight festival back in 2008 with his band N.E.R.D, Tonight he gave a performance of old and new songs which included his special Guest his band member from N.E.R.D, They performed classics such as Lapdance and She likes to move, which they welcomed fans from the audience to dance on stage with them, a highlight of the night was the women who danced with the band to the song she likes to move. She bought entertainment to the Isle of Wight festival and the audience cheered her on as her performance bought laughter and fun to the event. He took a moment to celebrate Jimi Hendrix 45 years through an instrumental of the song one love, which the audience in turn put one finger in the air to celebrate a legend that stood on the Isle of Wight stage 45 years ago. He then went on to play renditions of songs that he performed with artists such as Gwen Stefani, Snoop Dogg and many more.  He ended the set with the all time Minon favourite song ‘Happy’ He bought to the stage, the children that the Isle of Wight festival where raising awareness and donations for. To join him and to perform and dance on stage to get the crowd clapping along to the song. 

Between Blur and Pharell Williams we had the sensational DJ Shortee Blitz, Getting the atmosphere and audience ready for the next big act Blur, he played songs from the 80’s and 90’s to get people on their feet, the last two songs were from the legendary Queen, We are the Champions and Bohemian Rhapsody. This got everyone going and ready for the rest of the night, the crowd was singing and the Isle of Wight was in full song. It was a stunning moment to bring on the one and only Blur. 

Through out the day we had performances from bands such as, Ward Thomas, Nothing But Thieves, Jess Glynne, James Bay, Jessie Ware, Kool and the Gang and Dj Shortee Blitz. James Bay created an electric acoustic feel to the festival, He bought his soul and spirit to his music creating a mind blowing set that inspired people and relaxed them, whilst they singing along to the lyrics from hold back the river from his number 1 album and songs such as Let it go and if you ever want to be in love. He was followed by the astonishing Jessie Ware our London goddess, she bought her wonderful voice and performed her electro-pop music, whilst enchanting the audience with songs known as champagne kisses, wildest moments, Say you love me, running and kind of.. sometimes.. maybe which she considered to be her flirtatious song. Jessie ware gave an exceptional performance one of my favourites from this years Isle of Wight festival. 

Over on the 'Big Top' stage we had band such as Twin Wild, New City Kings, La Femme, The Shires, Foxes, Stiff Little Fingers and Paul Oakenfold. Foxes performed on this stage creating a strong and fun atmosphere for their audience, people where coming from other venues such as the Colourena, where they had live Djs performing around the clock with classics from the 70’s 80’s and 90’s they provided Paint fighting with music for people to go and let their hair down in between acts and to burn off those calories added from all the food venders on site. It was a fun way to meet, mingle and to dance your socks off before going to rock out to your favourite artist on stage. 

SUNDAY 14th JUNE 2015 IOW: DAY THREE

Sunday was the lead up to the headliners Fleetwood Mac and Paolo Nutini, through out the day you witnessed more and more people arriving to get a good spot at the main stage known as the ’Electric Stage’ for the evenings events to unfold.  The line up through out the day consisted of The Rainband, Suzanne Vega, Jethro Tull’s Ian Anderson, The Courteeners, and First aid Kit.  Suzanne Vega performed with her Guitarist classics such as Left of centre, known for the Pretty in Pink soundtrack in the 1980’s. 

In the ‘BIG TOP’ stage we had the band Coasts performing songs such as Modern Love and new hits from their upcoming Debut album also known as ‘coasts’ a new number 1 in the mix called Tonight, this Bristol band got the audience jumping around, whilst pulling people in from all around the Isle of Wight festival to enjoy this fresh new sound created by this 5 piece band from the UK.  They where followed up with The View,  Lightening Seeds and the one and only Ash.  

Ash who performed songs such as Burn baby burn and Shining Light, bringing their music to their fans, the audience were bursting at the seems, the 'BIG TOP' stage was packed and people were gathering to watch this captivating performance, Although I only got to witness the first 15 minutes of this i can tell you these guys where rocking this crowd, and keeping the standard of the Isle of Wight festival which was created over the past two days going. 

Even though there was rumours of Fleetwood Mac possibly cancelling the show due to illness and two previous cancellations on their current tour which they have already done 90 shows since last year, they turned up and Gave a performance of a lifetime, Fleetwood Mac Arrived with such grace and presence. The field was full, the Fans where waiting and the night was about to begin, the act that everyone was waiting to see was here, over 50,000 fans filled the Isle of Wight creating an nostalgic atmosphere with the sun setting in the background, creating a perfect evening for an outdoor gig. 

They had previously been warmed up by the ever popular Paolo Nutini, His soulful, gruff voice wowed the audience with such power and grace, he topped this of with his dynamic stage presence it created the perfect show to watch and to get the crowed moving to songs such as Better Man, Jenny don’t be hasty and a beautiful rendition of New Shoes. A stunning performance by an amazing Artist, Thumbs up! 

Fleetwood Mac opened the show with the song The Chains creating the atmosphere for the evening, and not disappointing with their renditions of classics such as, Go your own way, Rhiannon, Gypsy and who can forget Landslide which Stevie Nicks dedicated to her friend and fellow Artist David Grohl, Who has recently broken his leg whilst touring. This  song was written and performed originally in 1974, 41 years prior to Isle of Wight 2015, this did not disappoint but left the audience in ore.  They provided a spectacular end to an amazing weekend with the song ‘Don’t Stop’. Whilst performing, Fireworks where provided the perfect end with the perfect song, the crowd danced, they sang and they didn’t want the night to end wanting more from the legendary Fleetwood Mac who had performed for an outstanding 2 hours, getting better and better with each song, and their individual solos showing us what the music industry is all about.

Once Fleetwood Mac had ended, people departed the ‘Electric Stage’ and went on to other events within the Isle of Wight Festival, In the ‘BIG TOP’ stage The Charlatans where closing down the last gig to be performed on the ‘BiG TOP’ for the Isle of Wight 2015, the fans filled the tent and crowded around the edges to see these guys perform, people still buzzing and enjoying their last night at the Isle of Wight Festival, taking in the music, the atmosphere and their fellow music lovers around them. Joining in with the music and capturing these moments through images and tweets via social medias such as Twitter and Facebook. Truly showing what the Festival season is about, Music, Artists, Fans getting together under one Social weekend to celebrate 45 Years of music inspired by those who performed at the Isle of wight 2015 and those who helped to create the Isle of Wight Festival since 1968. 

Artists known as: Jimi Hendrix, The Doors, Joni Mitchell, Supertramp, Leonard Cohen, Joan Baez, Chicago, Procol Harum, The Rolling Stones, The Who, David Bowie, Muse, Foo Fighters, Bruce Springsteen, Paul McCartney, Pearl Jam, Kasabian, Amy Winehouse, Kings of Leon, Jay-Z, The Strokes, Coldplay, The Sex Pistols, The Police, Blondie etc. 

Thank you guys for a wonderful weekend and an oustanding festival…till next year. 

Top Artists to see at this years Isle of Wight Festival 2015

by

Okay, so it's officially that time of year again the Isle of wight festival 2015 begins. Hope you've got your camping gear and your dancing shoes on to rock out with some of the top artists from around the globe. I can say I am officially exited and looking forward to all the acts this year. If you're starting early and camping on Thursday I recommend you go and check out the one and only Billy Idol, he will be getting you ready and in the mood for what is to come, over this epic weekend. He will be followed up by UB40'S Ali Campbell, Astro and Micky Virtue, so get dancing and ready to party. 

From the 12-14th June 2015 there are going to be some great performerances coming your way, here are my top 10 to look out for at the Isle of Wight Festival this year. 

1. Fleetwood Mac Bringing you Classics such as Dreams, Go your own way, Songbird and Don't stop, performing with Christine McVie after taking 16 years out, but now back to perform on their current tour, check them out on the "Electric Church" stage on Sunday 

2. Blur Bringing their indie-pop music and the original four line up performing classic that rocked the 90's such as Park life, Boys and Girls and Song 2 and songs from their current number 1 album The Magic Whip, performing on the "Electric Church" stage on Saturday

3. Pharrell Williams Who last performed at the Isle of Wight in 2008 performing with his band N.E.R.D, but now soloing with many hits under his belt such as Happy, Get Lucky and GIRL, performing on the "Electric Church" stage on Saturday 

4. Paolo Nutini This Scottish smooth artist will performing songs such as New Shoes, Jenny don't be hasty and Better Man, bringing his soulful rendition and vocals to the "Electric Church" stage on Sunday

5. James Bay This is guy is one to look out for, this guys has been going from strength to strength, bringing his unique and soulful voice and capturing his fans with his individuality, See him performing on the "Electric Church" stage on Saturday.

6. Counting Crows Who last performed at the Isle of Wight Festival in 2003, are back bringing their Californian vibe, These guys will be performing on the 'Electric Church' stage on Friday 

7. Jessie Ware This London sensation, will be bringing her electronic soulful sound to the stage gracing you with songs such as Champaign Kisses, Say you love me and Wildest Moments, she will be performing on the "Electric Stage" on Saturday

8. Prodigy Will be opening the festival bringing their electronic, industrial rave music to you via the "Electronic Church" stage Friday get ready to rave like it's the 1990s 

9. Ash Bringing their alternative rock to the stage with songs such as Shining light, Girls from mars and A life less ordinary you can check these guys out on the "Big Top" stage on Sunday 

10. James Bringing classics such as don't sit down, she's a star and sometimes, bringing the 90's to the stage taking you back to those dancing days he will be performing on the "Electric Church" stage on Saturday

So guys can't wait to see you all there, not long now. Isle of Wight Festival 2015, enjoy and bring your dancing shoes and check out the Isle of Wight lineup and see who will be on your list to see. 

No Tomorrow Festival Review 2015

by

Following a successful first year, No Tomorrow festival returned to Nottingham for a two-day spectacle, showcasing some of the biggest names in EDM and other chart-topping artists such as John Newman and Jessie Ware.

Not your typical large-scale music festival with tens of thousands of party-goers, No Tomorrow was comparatively much smaller; but this made the experience thoroughly more enjoyable.

With the usually unreliable British weather holding up throughout the course of the weekend, punters were able to lie on the grass and soak up the rays whilst listening to their favourite artists. Three well-staffed bars also ensured revellers did not wait long for drinks in the summer heat.

Dominating the park was the main stage which featured a brightly coloured ‘No Tomorrow’ banner with the Stealth stage occupying a gigantic tent in a sub-section of the park.

Stealth was not to be out done by its larger counterpart. A set list consisting of Garage and House well-known names such as DJ EZ, Hannah Wants and Gorgon City arguably made it the highlight of the festival.

Saturday's bill did not disappoint, Hannah Wants well and truly got the proceedings of the weekend underway and set the tone for what was to come with her one and a half hour set.

Fans packed the Stealth stage for DJ EZ and despite technical sound issues he still managed to get the crowd buzzing with a trademark mix of old school Garage anthems, rounding off what was a hugely successful first day.

Sunday built on the success of the previous day, with performances from Justin Martin on Stealth stage and Milky Chance on the main stage meaning that wherever you were there was music worth listening to.

Milky Chance’s hit ‘Stolen Dance’ was met with a great reception as fans joined in singing along with the feel good music. Whilst over on Stealth stage, Gorgon City followed Justin Martin and carried on the upbeat vibe with some well-known House tunes as the sun slowly slipped behind the clouds.

Perhaps the most notable performance of the entire weekend was My Nu Leng who closed the Stealth stage with a combination of Deep House, Grime and Rap beats working to get the crowd hyped, and ending the festival in style.

Leaving the festival to John Newman’s popular anthem ‘Love Me Again’ echoing from the main stage, party-goers were able to travel back to the city centre from the gates of Woollaton Park for £2 thanks to festival organisers.

Overall a perfect way to start the summer, a well-balanced mixture of intense and laid-back music combining to create a memorable weekend, definitely a festival SFG would recommend for the future.

 

Photos by Mike Ruane

Day tickets released for No Tomorrow Festival

by
This weekend, 6th & 7th June in Nottingham’s Wollaton Park, music lovers at No Tomorrow festival will welcome in the summer to a soundtrack provided by headliners John Newman, Jessie Ware and many more including Bondax and Gorgon City. In the buzzing build up to the party, due to high demand, a batch of day tickets priced at £47.50 (including booking fee) have been released via notomorrowfestival.co.uk.
 
As well as the promise of some of the best electronic acts around, reports of a heat wave are adding to the excitement for No Tomorrow festival this weekend. A site map is now online to highlight where festival-goers can grab food, drink, join in workshops, grab a shuttle bus or duck into the festival photo booth for a selfie memento. Furthermore ticket holders will soon be able to plan ahead to catch chart-topping, and award-winning talent such as James Bay, SOAK, DJ Fresh and many more by heading to the No Tomorrow website where the all important set times will soon be published.
 
In addition to the new day tickets, the last few weekend (£65 + booking fee) and VIP tickets (£125 + booking fee) are also still available via notomorrowfestival.co.uk.
 
The clock is ticking, it’ll soon be time to party like there is No Tomorrow. 
 

Love Saves the Day Review 2015

by

The Bristolian two day event kicked off to a sunny start, bringing in flocks of hipsters from far and wide to Eastville Park. Saturday was a sell-out with queues of up to two hours to get into the festival site and huge lines for both the bar and toilets too. Despite the lack of amenities the curation of the festival was really well done, with all tents hosting an array of sounds for all tastes. With lots of Bristol performers, caterers and exhibitors, Love Saves the day 2015 definitely seemed a joyous celebration of the cool and diverse city.

Established as one of the best and biggest selling electronic acts, Groove Armada was one of the most legendary names to perform at Love Saves the Day this year. The relaxed and chilled vibes of daytime main stage instantly filled into a crowd of avid fans eagerly awaiting the electronic music duo. At the first kick drum the crowd went wild, kicking off the party atmosphere at main stage. Playing samples of 'I see you baby' the duo quickly move on delivering to a sea of raised arms and shoulder riders. Towards the end, the crowds attention began to slant just before teasing us with the legendary party anthem 'Superstylin' then kicking into it in full at the end just in time for sunset.

Cloud 9 presented by Apex proved to be tent for the party atmosphere hosting the likes of Tourist and Gorgon City. Tourist- a Grammy winning artist is certainly grabbing the musics lovers attention and 2015 has been a good year for him. As well as an excellent musician, he proved himself as a phenomenal DJ for Saturday Love Saves the Day. At no point did the crowds attention seem to stray. Gorgon City also provided a high finish to a night for the house/ garage fans.

The London singer/songwriter Jessie Ware, turned out to be a wonderful wind down a predominantly DJ and dance night. With some technical difficulties at the beginning Jessie Ware smoothly brushes it over by greeting the crowd. Her soulful and flawless voice eased us into sways of utter blissful happiness. Right before the end of the set Ware announces to 'slow dance with person you are standing next to' to which we complied singing the heart stopping 'Wildest Moments'. With the stage lights now turned off and heading back through the cold, the atmosphere of sheer satisfaction was upon the crowds face as you could hear passers-by singing Jessie Ware lyrics.

Saturday’s sunshine and atmosphere was the perfect way to really kick off the festival season and although the prior weather reports suggested otherwise, Sunday’s proceedings started in much the same way. Again, queues for the bars and toilets were a slight annoyance, even though tickets were still available on the door but it was nowhere near as bad as the first day. Perhaps the fewer people seeing the entire festival through were really making the most of the penultimate bank holiday before Christmas!

Giant illuminated signs outside the festival gates informed Sunday’s crowd that it was ‘party time’, and if any of the stages at Love Saves the Day lived up to this promise, it was the ‘Shambarber’ stage. Tucked away in the corner of the site, sheltered from the wind by the Paradiso tent and a slightly quieter bar ;) – this place was alive with festival spirit. It was a suntrap, with Dirtytalk and Jethro Binns providing the perfect accompaniment of feel-good house tunes making it really difficult to leave.

After a day outside, it was time to get some shade inside the paradise stage – one of the festival’s two larger tents. Floating Points’ stepped out, accompanied by a familiar face in Kieran Hebden (Four Tet), who must have been getting into the zone for his set later in the night. Floating Points’ impressed with yet another feel-good festival set – something he can be relied on. Whilst scatterings of electro-funk and disco took the premise, it was his own record ‘Nuits Sonores’ which really stood out as being something special.

After this a set by Daniel Avery which was again a lot of fun (although a little tamer than the last time I saw him at Manchester’s Soup Kitchen) it was the turn of Four Tet to take to the stage once again. Four Tet is an artist in the true sense of the word and once again he sculpted the perfect set to close the festival for the Paridiso tent’s crowd. He threw out tunes from every corner of the world, with samplings of African music seamlessly transitioned into deep electronic soundscapes. He treated our ears to some of his own tracks, with the reaction of the crowd to the haunting ‘Angel Echoes’ standing out as a highlight to the whole festival.

The time had come to get ready to round off a really memorable weekend and it was down to Harlem’s own Azealia Banks to close it out in style. Whilst Miss Bank$ has been known for a number of high profile arguments with other certain celebrities in the past, at love saves the day she let her music (and dancing) do the talking. Donning her sparkly purple jacket and white high tops and joined by her backing dancers, she covered and owned every inch of the stage. Singing and rapping along to songs which ducked and dived between hip-hop and popular dance in style, she brought her A-game from in the opening song of ‘Idle Delilah’, continuing to impress through to her arguably most famous track in ‘212’. There was no grand exit from Azealia – a simple ‘Thank you Bristol’ and she was gone.  

Snoop Dogg & Rudimental to headline Lovebox 2015

by

Lovebox are proud to announce two incredible headliners:
Rudimental and Snoop Dogg. Rudimental are the Hackney quartet and Black Butter records breakout act that defined the sound of current UK music with their debut album Home, which featured the massive singles 'Feel the Love' and 'Waiting All Night'. Their set at Lovebox will see them performing tracks from their eagerly-awaited, incoming sophomore LP and they'll be sure to start the party off right when they headline on Fri-day: "We are so happy to announce we're back on the Lovebox stage this summer. London, are you ready?!"

Saturday sees the one and only Snoop Dogg headlining. A hip hop icon, the inimitable Snoop will be showcasing tracks from his forthcoming Pharrell-produced album BUSH, which Snoop himself describes as blos-soming with a "funkadelic glow". With BUSH set to channel feel-good, retro-futuristic funk and R&B, it's sure to charm the Lovebox crowd as effortlessly as his classic tracks 'Gin and Juice' and 'What's My Name' will. Snoop says: “London wats craccn!?!  I’m looking forward to come to my home away from home and rock that ish like I do best. It’s going down don’t meet me there beat me there. ugot2doit”

Across the entire weekend, the Lovebox masses will be treated to an ex-clusive set from Despacio, the innovative, custom-built soundsystem brought to you by LCD Soundsystem's James Murphy and 2manydjs. This is going to be an unmissable experience.

Another Lovebox exclusive is an extra-special A/V set from the revered Bonobo. His appearance is set to be immersive and unforgettable, as is Squarepusher's – his pioneering, experimental shows have wowed crowds the world over, and now he's set to stun Lovebox following a sold out show at the Barbican and the release of his highly-anticipated sixteenth album Damogen Furies.

Lovebox founders, Groove Armada return back to Victoria Park. The leg-endary dance duo will be behind the decks in a very special setting, and are delighted to be back. "First it was an album title. Then club nights in a strip club on Tottenham Court Road. Then it became a festival when we threw an outdoor party on Clapham Common,” they say. “Finally, on Victoria Park, we found ourselves running a 65,000 person weekender. For the first time since handing over the  keys to Lovebox in 2012, we're coming back to the park. Friday 17th July, on the Elrow turntables along-side Jackmaster, Acid Mondays, PBR and others. House music GA style, a London debut of a new house album, and trademark elrow circus may-hem."

Meanwhile, acclaimed composer and experimentalist Nils Frahm will al-so be making an appearance fresh from selling out the Barbican and two nights at The Roundhouse. This will also be his only festival appearance other than Wilderness, where he’ll be warming up for the one and only Björk.

The rest of the line-up is equally as incendiary. Electro pop mavericks Hot Chip will be showcasing material from their highly anticipated sixth album “Why Make Sense?”, as well as fan favourites such as “Over and Over” and “Ready for the Floor”. The bewitching Jessie Ware will be gracing us with her elegant, heart-melting ballads, whilst Mark Ronson, fresh from conquering the charts with the epic disco grooves of “Up-town Funk”, will be making a return appearance. Hip hop heavyweights Cypress Hill will be making their Lovebox debut, performing iconic tracks from their extraordinary 20 year (and counting) career, Swedish art pop quartet Little Dragon will be bringing their brand of wonky but delirious-ly catchy art-pop to the Lovebox masses, and award-winning Australian electronic artist Flume will also be getting the crowd moving.

Elsewhere, oddball rapper Danny Brown and New York MC Action Bron-son will be representing the cream of US hip hop, while the pop contin-gent will be satisfied by the presence of the rapidly ascending Ella Eyre and Australian sensations Flight Facilities. The dance mobs meanwhile will be sated by a stellar run of acts, including wunderkind bedroom producer Kaytranada, the ever influential Annie Mac, who has just tak-en the reins from Zane Lowe at Radio 1, and house legend MK, who says "I realize that I have more friends in London than at home, so it's kinda like I'm having a Lovebox house warming party ;)”.

There is so much else besides as well, with Lovebox presenting a magnif-icent assembly of acts both on the rise and well established, from all across the musical spectrum. We have the heroic likes of Goldie, Jimmy Edgar, Kerri Chandler, Boddika, Shy FX & Stamina MC and Gilles Peter-son rubbing shoulders alongside nascent talent such as Lion Babe, Jackmaster, Little Simz, Raury, Dusky, Dornik, Novelist and Preditah, among others. There are also live collaborations between the hottest names in dance, with Joy Orbison B2B with Ben UFO, and Heidi B2B with Kim Ann Foxman.

Lovebox is thrilled to welcome 1Xtra and Radio 1 Essential Mix to the proceedings who will be hosting the hottest dance stage on Friday and Saturday respectively.  From legends to new stars this is a stage set to take Lovebox by storm.

Music aside, Secret Productions' magical extracurriculars will provide an exciting itinerary of audiovisual delights for festivalgoers to sample and experience. Chris Tofu (AKA the Shangri-La superstar) and Global Local Productions will once again preside as Master of Ceremonies at the Bandstand, whilst Little Gay Brother will be bringing a bit of Vegas glamour to Victoria Park. Meanwhile, art/ technology “data visualisers” Fish Island Labs will be getting the crowds thinking and interacting.

This year will also see elrow hit London for a special Lovebox edition of their legendary, wild, chaotic Barcelona club night that interacts with its crowds in a very unique way. Explosive DJ sets will soundtrack playtime featuring inflatables, fancy dress, arcade games and so much more. It's a complete riot of fun, confetti, and offbeat characters and Lovebox can't wait to see elrow bring some sunny Spanish vibes (with a Bollywood twist) to Victoria Park for the first time.

There’ll be more sunshine from The Corona Sunsets Stage, which will bring the sounds of the Balearics to Lovebox, heralding the setting of the sun in the time honoured fashion and heightening the energy as the night progresses into darkness. They’ll be bringing the sound of the beach to Victoria Park in a magical setting.

A new project between The Roundhouse and Secret Forum will also be making its debut at Lovebox. The Voicebox will be a celebration of the human voice, with poetry slams, storytelling, beatboxing and more. Lovebox-goers will experience a variety of orators, poets, slam champi-ons, beatboxers and more that will hypnotise you with the power of speech. The Roundhouse says "We are thrilled to be launching a new venue dedicated to upcoming spoken word artists at Lovebox this sum-mer…. !".

John Newman & Jessie Ware to headline No Tomorrow Festival

by

No Tomorrow Festival will be crowned by a set from John Newman, a Yorkshireman channeling Northern soul into modern pop. Newman’s hits include the number one single ‘Love Me Again’ and guest spots on Rudimental’s ‘Feel The Love’ and Calvin Harris’ ‘Blame’, both of which also topped the UK Singles Chart. This performance will be the first time Newman has headlined a UK festival’s main stage.  Also confirmed to headline is Jessie Ware, queen of an updated take on R&B teetering on the edge of the electronic. As well as her own Mercury Prize nominated material, Ware has appeared as a guest vocalist on tracks by the likes of Disclosure and SBKTRT. This announcement follows two sold out shows for Jessie Ware at Brixton Academy.

Elsewhere the festival’s attention turns to some of the most current and in-demand names attracting critical acclaim. Singer-songwriter James Bay features in the highest profile up-and-coming lists of the year including BBC Sound Of 2015 poll. Bay went on to win the BRITS Critics’ Choice award following in the footsteps of Adele and last year’s No Tomorrow headliner Sam Smith. DJ and house music producer Philip George brings homegrown talent to the festival. The Nottingham-based 21 year old recently made a big first impression by reaching number two in the UK Singles chart with his debut ‘Wish You Were Mine’.
 
Across No Tomorrow’s several stages the festival also boasts many more performances and a number of the finest international DJ talents. Bondax, DJ EZ, and Eton Messy will be delivering epic DJ set across the dance music spectrum. Also expect strong live performances from the enigmatic Bristol duo Blonde with full band, Grammy-nominated MNEK and Bondax guest vocalist KStewart, appearing in her own right with solo material.

Jessie Ware & Azealia Banks headline Love Saves the Day 2015

by

Saturday 23rd May

Love Saves The Day are delighted to announce their line-up for 2015. Taking center stage as Saturday's headliner will be the soulful South Londoner and 'Wildest Moments' singer-songwriter Jessie Ware. Tale Of Us, the Berlin-based musical duo who are currently re-writing the rule-book for deeply moving, emotional electronic music will also be present, whilst Fabric resident Craig Richards takes over the Futureboogie stage, alongside Brighton deep house producer Leon Vynehall, the exceptional German duo Âme, and Maxxi Soundsytem, known for his classic house vocals and catchy grooves. 

Other names on the bill for Saturday include London duo Gorgon City, fresh off the back of recent hits 'Ready For Your Love' and 'Here For You', plus Hannah Wants, a lady who has taken to the forefront of the hard-hitting bass house scene, with recent hit 'Rhymes' alongside Chris Lorenzo. Also joining the Wide Eyes stage will be Tourist, the producer who made waves with his remake of HAIM's 'The Wire' and Bristol based house and bass production duo GotSome. 

Love Saves The Day also welcomes ManMakeMusic label owner George Fitzgerald to the  Second Stage, alongside the hugely popular Newcastle-based Patrick Topping. Elsewhere festival goers will be able to catch Bristol's very own Julio Bashmore, 'Heart On Fire' singer Indiana and Crazy P, an electronic group renowned for using slinky underground disco, deep electronic throbs, shimmering pop moments. Bristol based club night-turned-label Just Jack will also be hosting their very own stage on Saturday, showcasing Dyed Soundroom, Soundstream, K15 and recent signings Will Martin and John Barera. 

Other names on Saturday's bill include: Artwork, Bodhi, Christophe, Disciples, Felix Dickinson, Kidnap Kid, Lapsley, Matt 'Jam' Lamont, Rae Morris, Session Victim, Shanti Celeste, Sly One, Tayo, TCTS, Vaults, Waifs & Strays, Work It and Woz.

Sunday 24th May…

Day two of the Festival welcomes New York rapper, singer and songwriter Azealia Banks, who catapulted to fame following her universally popular 2012 hit '212'. Also gracing Sunday's main stage will be American recording artist and one of the pioneers of hip-hop DJing, cutting, and mixing Grandmaster Flash, as well as the gorgeous R&B vocals and chilly, metallic production of Kelela. 

The CRACK Stage will host an impressive array of dance music heavyweights including the diversely eclectic Four Tet, Phantasy label owner and BBC's Radio 6 Mix Resident Erol Alkanand renowned vinyl specialist Floating Points. Daniel Avery will also bring his mind-bending, psychedelic sounds to the stage, alongside the extremely talented Ghost Culture. 

Rapper and grime artist Skepta will be present on day two of the festival, alongside drum & bass and jungle legend Shy FX. Bristolian Redlight will bring his mixture of house, breakbeats and dubstep to the Trap stage, also joined by the multi-award winning garage DJ EZ and the Black Butter crew's My Nu Leng. 

Other names on Sunday's bill include: Babyhead, Barely Legal, Champion, Dark Sky, Dazee, Dismantle, Dr. Meaker, Hodge, Joker, Jus Now, Kiko Bun, Klose One, Loyle Carner, New York Transit Authority, Newham Generals, Pinch, Rat King, Stormzy, Typesun and Wiley.

 

Unknown Croatia is now SOLD OUT

by

Unknown Croatia's first year has today been confirmed as a sell-out! Based in Rovinj, West Croatia, the music event is the first of its type to offer a well-balanced line-up of both live acts and DJs. With headline performances from the likes of The Horrors, Jessie Ware, Disclosure, Django Django, Jagwar Ma and Four Tet as well as DJ sets from Richie Hawtin, Dixon, Floating Points and Jamie XX, Unknown Croatia offers the creme de la creme in music. All this set in a stunning coastal resort nestled on the Adriatic coast complete with beach, forest, art installations and the first-ever Boiler Room Island, Unknown Croatia is set to be a very special end of the summer. www.unknowncroatia.com

Django Django

V Festival Review 2013

by

This year’s V Festival came to a close this weekend, with the event displaying perfectly how to showcase some of the biggest chart stars in the world, as well as give some exciting up and coming artists a platform to shine.

The festival kicked off on Saturday afternoon and despite the unsettled weather, a buzz filled the air and the main stage began to fill up early with people eagerly awaiting the performance of a lady that goes by the name of Beyoncé.

First up on the main stage were The Fratellis, who played a triumphant set to seal their comeback to the music business. They helped set the tone for the day and had the crowd up on their feet and singing along to popular hit Chelsea Dagger amongst others.

 After this I headed to the 4music stage, stopping along the way to grab a drink and meet a group of lads who were dressed as power rangers. Here I had a little wait before the next act, so I chatted to a pair of girls who had been watching Gabrielle Aplin serenade the crowd at the arena stage, with her “gentle tone and heart-warming lyrics.”

Finally, out came Maverick Sabre who provided the crowd with a laidback soulful sound to accompany some late afternoon sun. He was shortly followed by Of Monsters and Men who continued in the same fashion by mixing an inviting atmosphere with some uplifting melody’s to get the crowd going.

With about 40 minutes to spare before Labrinth took to the 4music stage I darted off to the arena stage where I saw Jessie Ware get lost in the moment as she delivered a faultless set. Then I was quickly back to the 4music stage to see the previously mentioned Earthquake singer bring down the house with an electric set that included hits Express Yourself and Sunshine. Not to mention some onstage flames which lit up the crowd as the sun slowly started to set.

 I, like many other people then made my way to the main stage where a huge crowd gathered to see Jessie J do her thing. Rocking her recently famous short bleached blonde hair and dressed in a unique skimpy black and white ensemble, fitting of her personality, the singer delivered the only way she knows how, with a punch. Popular tracks Price Tag, Do It Like A Dude and Domino were accompanied by fist pumping and strutting from the 25-year-old as she got the crowd in the mood for the rest of the night.

The penultimate act to grace the main stage on Saturday evening was The Script. Despite the mellow rockers trying their best to hype up the crowd, many used this time to head to the bar and stock up on as many drinks as they could carry, or stuff their face with something from one of various food vans. However the crowd did all come together to sing along to The Man Who Can’t Be Moved, whilst frontman Danny O’Donoghue took the opportunity to connect with one of his many female fans by getting hold of her phone and singing to her ex-boyfriend, ‘Am I better off dead?’

As darkness descended on the Chelmsford site, it was finally time for what most people had been waiting for. The crowd, a mixture of Single Ladies and men too, were all there waiting to see the woman they adored, and wait they did. The delay of 25 minutes consisted mostly of fans chanting ‘Beyoncé Beyoncé’, as rain started to fall on the huge crowd. Leaving some wondering whether they should be over at the 4music stage watching as one of the world’s biggest DJ’s, Steve Angello, made an awesome replacement for Beady Eye.

The former Swedish House Mafia star absolutely smashed it with an amazing laser light show alongside dropping massive hits like, Don’t You Worry Child and Save The World,to get the respectable sized crowd raving the night away.

V Festival 2013

Back at the main stage and at last the music hit. Run The World (Girls) blasted out of the speakers and the crowd went crazy as out stepped Beyoncé. Dressed in a beaded leotard and sporting a new blonde bob hairstyle, Queen Bee dazzled the masses not only with her colossal hits but with her sophisticated video interludes, leaving them in awe. With the crowd all singing along to Love On Top, Irreplaceable and Halo, Beyoncé took the opportunity to show off a number of amazing outfits which just demonstrated that she really does know how to put on a show. All this combined with her fantastic all-female band and faultless dancers left people talking about the brilliant performance well into the early hours of the morning.

Sunday morning rolled around and with the sun shining in the sky, many people emerged from their tents looking a little worse for wear after last night’s antics. This however didn’t stop the lively atmosphere and many people were quickly back on the booze, including a large group of men spending the festival dressed as women.

I started off the day at the 4music stage where Lawson quickly got the crowd going with an excellent cover of Don’t You Worry Child. I then made the long trek to the arena stage to roll back the years and have a good ole sing-song with Five. A bigger crowd than was probably expected gathered to watch the 90’s boy band relive their youth with hits Keep On Moving and Everybody Get Up.

After stopping to grab a drink and an overpriced pizza, I headed to the main stage where I caught the end of the Jason Mraz set before getting amongst the crowd for Essex’s own Olly Murs. He provided the audience with plenty of opportunities to find their dancing feet, but it seemed like most were after a more exciting sound.

Luckily this came at the 4music stage as Rudimental’s late afternoon set attracted a large and energetic audience. Songs Waiting All Night and Feel the Love got the approval of the masses as most were going for it with their drinks being sent flying.

Later the early evening mellow atmosphere was accompanied by the elegant Emeli Sandé, who graced the main stage with her delicate vocals providing the crowd with the perfect opportunity to sit and take a break from the tiring day. Beneath Your Beautiful echoed amongst the audience as many joined in with the chart hit.

Having spent a couple of hours at the main stage, I once again made the long walk to the arena stage where I watched a very enthusiastic Ellie Goulding wow the crowd with not only her excellent voice but her ability to play multiple instruments.

With night fast approaching, it was left to two huge acts to fight out for the attention of the party-goers. Calvin Harris was in charge of headlining the 4music stage whilst Kings of Leon were given the same responsibility at the main stage, I was lucky enough to catch both.

The superstar DJ attracted a huge crowd as he closed the 4music stage in spectacular fashion, with a set of immense tunes including, Drinking From The Bottle, We Found Love and new song, Under Control. Combining this with lasers and an abundance of fireworks he was able to perfectly captured the spirit of the festival.

Meanwhile at the main stage Kings of Leon were keen to prove they were back on form ahead of their new album release, and they did just that. With new single Supersoaker and with a number of festival favourites like Sex On Fire and Use Somebody they had the crowd in raptures. With everybody singing at the top of the voices to the raw and exciting sound of the American rockers, the festival came to a close for yet another year.

All in all, V Festival again did what is does best, showcasing the best chart toppers in the business,  and with its friendly vibrant atmosphere it is easy to see why the festival is so popular among a variety of age groups. The organisers yet again managed to attract some of the biggest stars in the music industry, all of whom delivered to put on one hell of a show.

So after a successful 2013, festival expectations for next year are high, and with confidence that V will deliver it will be a weekend you won’t want to be missing, I know I won’t be.