Paul Oakenfold

Isle of Wight Festival 2015 Review

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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

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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. 

SW4 announce The Gallery 20th anniversary lineup

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Having been involved since its birth back in 1995, Paul Oakenfold has gone on to reach legendary status at The Gallery, following a catalogue of countless performances over the past twenty years. A truly remarkable achievement in itself, Paul has played a defining role in the nights two-decade reign. 2015 also marks twenty five years of his label Perfecto Records, a fitting addition to August’s anticipated celebrations. For over thirty years Paul has helped to elevate and shape trance into a genre we all know and love today, with The Gallery providing him the platform to do so. Leaving him out was simply not an option as we bring home a true hero for a very special summer performance.

“After having lived abroad and on the road for so many years there is always something incredibly special about coming back to my home city London. Catching up with family and old friends is always high on the agenda – as is trying to get to Stamford Bridge for a game! But what usually puts the cherry on the top is getting to play a show for my home crowd and this year there’s nowhere better to do that than for The Gallery’s 20th Birthday celebrations at the massive SW4 festival on Clapham Common. There’s a special bond that exists between me and Clapham Common. I’ve had a lot of incredible shows there and I’m sure this year is going to be another to add to that list. I literally can’t wait to be home!"  Paul Oakenfold

Historically South West Four has played host to many ‘major firsts’ and ‘must sees’ but in 2015 we welcome something truly special. Globally celebrated as one of the most defining electronic imprints of today, we are pleased to announce that Anjunabeats will present two of their greatest acts as part of the 20th Birthday celebrations. The first is one of the labels finest and most loved figures, the unmistakeable Andrew Bayer. Following a magical Easter performance as part of Above & Beyond’s album launch party at Brixton Academy, we are pleased to have secured Andrew for his next London performance. His latest EP ‘Do Androids Dream’ has reached worldwide acclaim, something we cannot wait for this August.

Joining Andrew Bayer for this landmark showcase is another of the label’s most cherished assets and one of our favourite guests at The Gallery. Over the past twelve months, Ilan Bluestone has developed a reputation of one of electronic music’s most promising acts and has been marked as Anjunabeats’ next big star Testament to his astronomical rise, Ilan has recently been called upon to re-launch the legendary Anjunabeats Worldwide series following in the footsteps of former label legends and supported by a full US tour. To say we’re excited to bring these two to Clapham Common would be an understatement. Expect the unexpected.

Following their incredible back-to-back performance as part of our 10th Anniversary celebrations back in 2013, we are pleased to welcome back Andy Moor & Lange to present their brand new project Stadium4. After the concepts sensational London debut at The Gallery in March, a summer return has always been on the cards. Individually Andy and Lange are two of trance’s most respected figures with countless championed productions and remixes to their name. In 2015 they reach dizzying new n heights as they take their tag team performance to a whole new level. With an arsenal of brand new music set to showcase on the Common, the return of these masters to present Stadium4 is simply huge. Don’t miss it.

Completing the 20th Anniversary stage is another of trance’s hottest rising stars. With an impressive diary bursting with dates covering all four corners of the globe, Ben Gold returns to South West Four as one of the futures biggest stars. A favourite at The Gallery’s Elephant & Castle home, Ben’s productions have garnered support from trance’s elite with the likes of Armin van Buuren, Paul van Dyk and Tiesto giving him their blessing. 2014 saw Ben conquer Ibiza with a string of dates and devastating performances at both Cream (Amnesia) and ASOT (Ushuaia) and with the summer on the horizon, we can expect more of the same from this promising young talent.

"There is nothing quite like the energy of playing in front of my hometown crowd and there’s no better stage to do it on than at SW4…bring it on!!"  Ben Gold

After what can only be described as an unforgettable experience at The Gallery back in March, we are pleased to welcome back Infected Mushroom who join us at South West Four for the very first time. After delivering one of 2015’s most electrifying performances to date, their return to London will see the Israeli-born, LA-based duo join the 20th anniversary celebrations as the stage’s very special guests. Internationally renowned for their leading role within the Psy trance world, the combined talents of Erez and Amit’s unique fusion of dark hypnotic sounds with complex psychedelic melodies make them one of the most exciting acts to perform on Clapham Common this summer. Don’t miss their SW4 debut on Saturday 29th August.

Sunburn Goa announce 2014 lineup

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Asia’s biggest dance music festival Sunburn Goa has announced the first phase of its 2014 line-up, showcasing a selection of the world’s best dance music acts. Returning to Vagator Goa on 27th, 28th and 29th of December the line-up will feature the likes of Knife Party, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Sasha, Sander Van Doorn, Krewella, Makj, Paul Oakenfold, Baauer & many more in what is set to be another spectacular festival of music.

With an exotic climate, stunning shorelines and affordable prices, Goa has become one of the world’s most popular holiday destinations, not only boasting an incredibly vibrant culture, but also a deep-rooted heritage in electronic music that saw Goa Trance become a globally recognised movement in the late 80s. Continuing this long tradition and rising from the ashes of Goa Trance, Sunburn are pushing boundaries to write the next chapter in Goa’s illustrious history – as Swedish House Mafia member Axwell puts it: "When I play for money I play Vegas, when I play for holidays I play Miami, when I play for love I play India”. 

Successfully attracting crowds of well over 160,000 from across the globe, Sunburn has also forged a reputation for its cutting edge music programming, with the likes of Hardwell, David Guetta, Swedish House Mafia and Tiësto all participating in recent years and its 2014 edition will play host to over 150 artists across eight stages.

Kicking off this year’s line-up are Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, the Belgian brotherly duo that have taken the EDM world by storm by recently scooping the no. 2 spot in DJ Mag’s Top 100 DJs 2014 poll. After exploding on the scene two years ago, they have consistently commanded audiences of over 20,000 at recent gigs and are sure to deliver an earth shattering set at this year’s festival. Heralded Australian duo Knife Party are also sure to delight fans with new material from their forthcoming album ‘Abandon Ship’ when they grace the stage at Sunburn, especially having developed an exciting new audio-visual performance set up that has helped them remain one of the most sought after dance music acts in the world.

Electronic music pioneer and long-time dance icon Sasha is also in line to perform at Sunburn 2014 alongside Dutch trance legend Sander van Doorn – an artist who recently joined up with Martin Garrix and DVBBS on international chart hit ‘Gold Skies’. – whilst British club icon Paul Oakenfold is next to be unveiled, fresh off the back of releasing commemorative album ‘Trance Mission’ earlier this year.

Long-time house music favourite Michael Woods will return to Goa for 2014, after previously playing Sunburn Festival in 2011, as well as 2012’s massive ‘Hangover Tour’ that took in dates across India, whilst Berlin native Oliver Dollar is also set to bring his contemporary brand of deep house to the three-day festival, after recent single ‘Pushing On’ became one of the summer anthems of 2014. US singer-songwriter Matthew Koma is another to watch this year, after lending his dynamic vocals to a number of Top 40 dance records from the likes of Zedd, Nicky Romero, Fedde le Grande, Hardwell and Tiesto over the last two years.

Electro sisters Jahan and Yasmine Yousaf of Krewella are to bring their epic live show to Goa too, blending electro-house, dubstep, drum & bass and progressive house, whilst rising star MAKJ, fresh off the back of holding down a lengthy Las Vegas residency, has announced he will make his Sunburn debut in 2014. Notable Dutch duo DubVision also promise to deliver a high-octane performance of their own, whilst Australian duo New World Sound, still riding high off the success of breakthrough anthem ‘Flutes’, are guaranteed to get the Sunburn party started.

Teen sensation Danny Avila is another hotly tipped star to join the line-up after first coming to the world’s attention following his Vicious Magazine ‘Best Newcomer DJ’ accolade in 2011 – an award he won aged just 16. Like Avila, LA native Paris Blohm has received massive support from the wider clubbing elite having caught the attention of the likes of Tiesto, Hardwell, and Sander Van Doorn, whilst at the other end of the spectrum, revered party starters Deniz Koyu, Far Too Loud and Baauer, producer of viral hit ‘Harlem Shake’, are both sure to bring their own signature brands of club energy to Goa.

Rounding off this blistering line up is a selection of India’s burgeoning young talent, with Anish Sood, Algorythm, Delhi Sultante X Begum x (Live), Dualist Inquiry Band (Live), Joshi, EZ Riser, Shaan, Reggae Rajahs and many more contributing. Sunburn revelers can also expect to find a dedicated ‘Sunburn Goa’ psy-trance stage at this year’s festival, with a whole host of activities at their disposal such as stunt biking, zorbing, volleyball and bungee jumping, with more adrenaline-fuelled surprises in store.

As plans gain momentum, Sunburn Goa 2014 is shaping up to be the festival’s biggest year to date. With the first two phases of early bird tickets selling out in a matter of hours and another phase of artists soon to be announced, this year’s Sunburn looks set to firmly establish India as a major player in global dance culture.

South West 4 – Tenth Anniversary

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Coming off the back of recent headline performances at Timewarp, We Are FSTVL, Ushuaia Ibiza Opening and the IMS Grand Finale, Sven Väth makes his hugely anticipated return to Clapham Common for South West Four’s 10th Anniversary. Such storming sets continue to seal Sven’s legacy as one of the greatest DJs to ever walk the planet. This summer his Cocoon vision will embark on its fourteenth season at Amnesia Ibiza, with guests including Ricardo Villalobos, Richie Hawtin, Loco Dice and Luciano playing across seventeen roadblock events. Sven is a truly iconic figure within the scene and on Sunday 25th August he will be sharing his godly gifts with the more than worthy South West Four crowd. This will be something very special.

Another internationally renowned DJ making their return to SW4 for the 10th Anniversary is Mr VIVa Warrior himself, Steve Lawler. Held in the highest regard by both his peers and his global spread of fans, Steve has held residencies at many of the world’s greatest clubs including Space Ibiza and The End London. He has also released music on highbrow labels such as Cocoon, Souvenir and Drumcode, as well as his own brain child VIVa MUSic. It’s through this imprint, that he has earned a reputation for breaking new talent. With new names to follow in 2013, as well as another 15 weekly parties from June at Sankeys Ibiza, the summer is set to be another stormer for Steve. With this his fourth South West Four performance, we are thrilled to welcome his pounding tribal beats back for another outrageous session of amazing music.

SAT ARTISTS ANNOUNCED: Eddie Halliwell, Paul van Dyk, Paul Oakenfold, Aly & Fila, Andy Moor B2B Lange, W&W, Super8 & Tab, Orjan Nilsen, Simon Patterson, Lee Osborne, Gorgon City, Mark Knight, Solomun, Dennis Ferrer, Fritz Kalkbrenner, Cajmere, Tocadisco, Tensnake, Tristan Ingram, Afrojack, Carl Cox & Loco Dice B2B, Marco Carola, Adam Beyer, Guti [Live], Hector, Carl Craig, Laidback Luke, Gareth Emery, Sunnery James & Ryan Marciano, Sander Van Doorn, Armin Van Buuren (UK Festival Exclusive Performance)…

SUN ARTISTS ANNOUNCED: Sven Vath, Steve Lawler, James Zabiela, Scuba, Blond:ish, Blackhall & Bookless, Jesse James & Johnny Bloomfield, Steve Aoki, Erick Morillo, Soul II Soul, Benji B & Deviation Strings, Crazy P [Live], Friction & Friends, Rustie, Bondax, RL Grime, Kove, Knife Party, Groove Armada, Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs, Pete Tong, The 2 Bears, Dusky, Eric Prydz, Boys Noize [Live], Laurent Garnier, John Digweed, Tim Green [Debut Live Show], Example, Andy C, Dillon Francis, Flosstradamus, Todd Edwards & EZ B2B, Dismantle & Roska B2B, Nicky Romero, Baauer…

 

VENUE: Clapham Common, London

DATES:  Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th August 2013

TICKETS: www.ticketmaster.co.uk/sw4

Cream Ibiza 2013 acts revealed including Calvin Harris and more!

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Cream Ibiza returns to superclub Amnesia with a roster of world-class artists set amongst some of the best production on the planet.

As one of Ibiza’s longest running and most successful parties, the line-up for this year’s season doesn’t disappoint with Cream’s heavyweight headliners Calvin Harris, Above & Beyond, Paul Van Dyk and Laidback Luke returning for the season to make Cream Ibiza the destination for clubbers on the island.

Calvin Harris

The Main Room’s ice cannons will be blasting to the sounds of one of the biggest electronic acts in the world, Above & Beyond who are back for six dates across the season. If that wasn’t enough, long-serving Cream Ibiza headliner Paul van Dyk will be returning for eight dates this summer.

Cream are also very excited to announce that the man that started it all in Ibiza, Paul Oakenfold will be taking to the Main Room decks for this year’s Opening Party. We can’t wait to see what he has in store for this very special show.

Following the success of their performances last season, we welcome back Eddie Halliwell, Gareth Emery, John O’Callaghan, Mat Zo, Giuseppe Ottaviani, Gareth Wyn and Ben Gold to do what they do best, make you wish the party would never end.

Other new faces for this season include Russian sensation Arty whose track ‘Together We Are’ can be heard in every club at the moment plus Anjuna’s Norin & Rad and BBC Radio 1’s Jordan Suckley.

The Mixmag terrace is famed for its epic soundsystem and incredible laser lightshow so it was only fair that Cream sourced a roster of incredible artists to match. This year global superstar Calvin Harris will take to the decks for 8 dates across the season whilst Laidback Luke brings his SuperYou&Me party for 4 dates.

Along with our incredible headliners we’re also bring a host of fresh faces from across the globe to the Mixmag Terrace including Swedish phenomenon Alesso and Dutch house stars Nicky Romero and Hardwell. If that wasn’t enough the man of a ‘Million Voices’ Otto Knows makes his Cream Ibiza debut along with Moda’s Tom Staar.

Cream are also pleased to announce that some of our favourite acts will be returning to the Mixmag Terrace including Dirty South, fresh off the back of his brand new album ‘Speed of Life’, after a year hiatus from Cream Ibiza we can’t wait to see him back behind the decks. Other acts returning include Michael Woods, Chris Lake and Burns.

Cream Ibiza launches the season on Thursday 13th June at Amnesia, San Rafael, and will host the closing party on Thursday 19th September.

Cream Ibiza 2013 – Listings

Thursday 13th June
Cream Ibiza Opening Party
Main Room
Paul Van Dyk
Paul Oakenfold
John O’Callaghan
+ More

Mixmag Terrace presents SuperYou&Me
Laidback Luke
Special Guest: Hardwell
Henrix
+ More

Thursday 20th  June
In association with Ibizan Heat
Main Room
Eddie Halliwell
Aly & Fila
Ben Gold

Mixmag Terrace
TBA

Thursday 27th June
Main Room
Above & Beyond
Guest TBA
Gareth Wyn
+ More

Mixmag Terrace presents SuperYou&Me
Laidback Luke
Guest TBA
Moska
+ More

Thursday 4th July
Main Room presents Politics of Dancing
Paul Van Dyk
Eddie Halliwell
John O’Callaghan
+ More

Mixmag Terrace
Calvin Harris
Michael Woods
Burns
+ More

Thursday 11th July
Main Room
AnjunaBeats Presents
Above & Beyond
Arty
Gareth Wyn
+ More

Mixmag Terrace
Calvin Harris
Nicky Romero
Burns
+ More

Thursday 18th July
Main Room
Paul Van Dyk
Eddie Halliwell
John O’Callaghan
+ More

Mixmag Terrace
Calvin Harris
Dirty South
Burns
+ More

Thursday 25th July
Main Room
Paul Van Dyk
Gareth Emery
John O’Callaghan
+ More

Mixmag Terrace
Calvin Harris
Hardwell
Burns
+ More

Thursday 1st August
Cream Ibiza Birthday
Main Room
Paul Van Dyk
Eddie Halliwell
Gareth Wyn
+ More

Mixmag Terrace
Calvin Harris
Laidback Luke
Burns
+ More

Thursday 8th August
Main Room
AnjunaBeats Presents
Above & Beyond
Arty
Gareth Wyn
+ More

Mixmag Terrace
Calvin Harris
Guest TBA
Burns
+ More

Thursday 15th August
Main Room
AnjunaBeats Presents
Above & Beyond
Mat Zo
Norin & Rad
Gareth Wyn

Mixmag Terrace
Calvin Harris
Chris Lake
Burns
+ More

Thursday 22nd August
Main Room
Above & Beyond
Gareth Emery
Gareth Wyn
+ More

Mixmag Terrace
Calvin Harris
Michael Woods
Burns
+ More

Thursday 29th August
Main Room presents Politics of Dancing
Paul Van Dyk
Eddie Halliwell
Giuseppe Ottaviani
+ More

Mixmag Terrace
Alesso

Otto Knows
Tom Staar
+ More

Thursday 5th September
Main Room
Paul Van Dyk
Gareth Emery
John O’Callaghan
+ More

Mixmag Terrace presents SuperYou&Me
Laidback Luke
Guest TBA
Deorro
+ More

Thursday 12th September
Main Room
Above & Beyond
Guest TBA
Jordan Suckley
Gareth Wyn
+ More

Mixmag Terrace
TBA

Thursday 19th September
Cream Ibiza Closing Party
Main Room presents Politics of Dancing
Paul Van Dyk
Eddie Halliwell
Aly & Fila
+ More

Mixmag Terrace presents SuperYou&Me
Laidback Luke
Guest TBA
G.T.A
+ More

Afrojack, Paul Oakenfold, Groove Armada and more added to SW4

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ANNOUNCED FOR SW4 SATURDAY

AFROJACK
PAUL OAKENFOLD · MARK KNIGHT
ORJAN NILSEN · TOCADISCO

He is a double Grammy Award winning, platinum selling producer. A chart topping, crowd slaying icon. And he is unquestionably one of the most in demand DJs on the planet. South West Four is delighted to confirm the addition of Afrojack to our 10th Anniversary lineup. Debuting on Clapham Common on Saturday 24th August, the Dutch phenomenon’s skills are some of the most sought after in the world. He has worked alongside Snoop Dogg, Lady Gaga and David Guetta, whilst his own tracks each amass millions of views on YouTube. With all this success it has allowed him to form his own imprint ‘Wall Recordings’ giving him a platform to release his own material and provide a stepping stone to upcoming artists. Our advice to you? Take this rare chance to catch Afrojack perform in the capital, his first since last summer and his only London festival performance of 2013.

Afrojack

With a career spanning three decades and showing no signs of slowing down, Paul Oakenfold is the elite statesman of British electronic music. From residencies in Las Vegas to jaw dropping spectacles on each and every continent, Oakie’s colossal fanbase travel the world to catch one of his sets. Luckily for you, we have him back at South West Four for the first time since his emotional homecoming back in 2010. Never afraid of pushing boundaries, Paul has enjoyed countless standout moments during his incredible career including help shape the infamous ‘Madchester’ scene of the late 80s, produce an album for U2 and pioneer the explosion of dance music in America. At one point Paul even lived in Clapham, making his return to South West Four for our 10th Anniversary more significant than ever.

Mark Knight makes a welcome return to South West Four in 2013. This will be his fourth performance at SW4 in the past five years in fact, with the Toolroom Records governor and Grammy nominated producer one of the first names on our 10th Anniversary hit list. In 2010 Mark hosted a Toolroom Knights stage at SW4, whilst in 2009 and 2012 he drew massive crowds to the main stage. In 2013 Mark returns to one of our indoor arenas to present some of the finest names in house music. As a DJ Mark constantly sets the pace and is recognised worldwide for his long standing residencies at cherished haunts such as Space Ibiza and Ministry of Sound. A key fixture at the festival in recent years we are delighted to welcome Mark back to South West Four.

Orjan Nilsen is a Norwegian DJ and producer who grew up well north of the polar circle, far away from most things. His cultured productions however would suggest he grew up somewhere with a far more accessible music scene. The talented young Scandinavian shot to the worlds attention in 2011 when he stormed into the DJ Mag top 100 chart at #49 and a IDMA nomination for ‘Best Breakthrough DJ’ soon followed. Since then has gone on to gain support from SW4 favourites Gareth Emery and Armin van Buuren, with the aptly named ‘Belter’ a collaboration with the latter. Known for his flawless ability to bring life to any dance floor, we welcome him to South West Four for the first time in 2013 as he plays to the biggest dance floor of them all.

Hailing from deepest, darkest Cologne, Roman Boer has been making deep and tech house for the best part of fifteen years. Better known by his stage name Tocadisco, the German maestro has remixed over one hundred artists including Laidback Luke, Steve Aoki, Moby and Tiga to name a few. You would have unquestionably heard Tocadisco’s music featured on TV ads, whilst his radio show is broadcasted to over fifty countries. His own imprint TOCA45, showcases the freshest sounding club tracks available today and with this appearance being his only London festival show this year, make sure you get to his tent with plenty of time to spare.

            ANNOUNCED FOR SW4 SUNDAY

GROOVE ARMADA
TOTALLY ENORMOUS
EXTINCT DINOSAURS
PETE TONG
THE 2 BEARS · DUSKY

Here at SW4 HQ we have had our feathers ruffled by the fact that Groove Armada are at long last making their South West Four debut. Marking this as their first London festival performance outside of Lovebox in over a decade, Andy Cato and Tom Findlay are the Cambridge-come-London brigade who have certainly seen it and done it all over the last eighteen years. In that time they have managed to run club nights, conceptualise festivals and not to mention release eight studio albums. Those LPs  have been jam-packed full of bonafide hits, like the Grammy nominated ‘Superstylin’, which was shortlisted on Mixmag’s ‘Greatest Dance Track of All Time’ poll, to the harmoniously utopian ‘At the River’ which comprehensively appears on every chill out compilation known to man. File this appearance under ‘for the history books’…

Groove Armada`

Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs (or TEED if you feel the need to abbreviate) is one of the most fascinating, over-the-top British talents to emerge in recent years. Having released an EP through Greco-Roman (partially run by Joe Goddard of Hot Chip / The 2 Bears), TEED subsequently got picked up by label giant Polydor to release his first full length album ‘Trouble’ last summer. Orlando Higginbottom, as he is known to his nearest and dearest, is an artist who’s always on point in the studio, with productions that fluctuate between jungle rhythms and dance floor anthems with pop sensibilities. His unique style has perked up the ears of club goers and producing peers alike, so join us at South West Four for his spectacular live show. Expect glitter, dancers, extravagant head-wear and of course, dinosaurs.

Pete Tong: the world’s undisputed ambassador for electronic music. It’s quite a title, but one that is whole heartily deserved. Having been broadcasting on BBC Radio 1 since 1991, he has become widely acclaimed across the world as the tastemaker for dance music. Pete fell in love with a fresh new sound coming out of USA in the late 80’s and blazed a trail championing the sound. Fast-forward 20 plus years and things have come full circle, with nothing more relevant right now than electronic music – and Pete's position as anchor for brand new USA radio station Evolution, with a show that's broadcast daily across the country is testament to that. Pete has an astounding flair to break new talent; he’s helped kick start the careers of hundreds of artists, giving them the infamous ‘Pete Tong Push’. Now in 2013, with a brand new high profile Ibizan residency soon to be announced, regular trips to the states for high profile gigs, and a global touring schedule to make your eyes water, not to mention single, remix and compilation releases abound, Pete has never been more important. A real favourite at the festival, we welcome him back to South West Four for another essential performance!

The 2 Bears comprises of Joe Goddard, one fifth of the inimitable Hot Chip and Raf Rundell, a man who has played an integral role in running London’s clubbing scene for many years. Formed in 2009, the pair shared a musical vision and decided the next logical step was to start producing tracks together. Their debut album ‘Be Strong’ came out last year on Southern Fried Records, a hugely enjoyable homage to UK garage and Detroit flavours and filled to the brim with playful melodies and love-able lyrics. With Joe back on Hot Chip duties last summer, this year marks the bears coming out of hibernation, with Clapham Common the only woods you’ll find them in London this August.

London based producers Alfie Granger-Howell and Nick Harriman are the eclectic pairing known as Dusky. The duo already have a long list of accolades to their name including their 2011 LP ‘Stick By This’ being named Pete Tongs album of the year and ‘Flo Jam’ being given the crown of iTunes Dance Single of the Year. Last year they remixed Justin Martin’s seemingly untouchable ‘Don’t Go’ and put out a buffed out version that sent blogs and forums into chaos. Needless to say it was hands down the soundtrack of the winter. With their latest offering ‘Nobody Else’ out now on Will Saul’s AUS imprint shaping up to be just as much of a hit, the future sound of London seems safe in Dusky’s more than capable hands.

UB40 to headline Wowfest and more acts added to lineup

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With a string of top ten hits to their name, UB40 head up a quite outstanding reggae line-up of living legends that already includes the likes of Finley Quaye, The Wailers, Aswad, Maxi Priest and Misty in Roots alongside another dozen acts in what promises to be the finest collection of reggae artistes anywhere in the UK this year.

UB40

And there was further excitement from the Wow camp with news of the exclusive UK appearance of Madeleine Peyroux, from USA, on Sunday on the Blue Angel Stage, for what is to be a great treat for fans of her jazz/folk bohemian style, once discovered busking in the streets of Paris with her soul shaking songs and haunting voice likened to Billie Holliday. This follows the Saturday headline appearance of The Overtones – 5 Irish/English boys updating the swing and fun of be-bop and dee-wop and bringing some good old style back into the modern UK jazz scene. The Blue Angel Stage features some exquisite Jazz acts including the recognisably Jamaican inspired lilts of jazz party trombonist Dennis Rollins in the Velocity Trio and Dominican Cameron Pierre, Dixie chicks Larkin Poe, plus The London Community Gospel Choir, with some more outstanding live appearances still to be announced, ensuring the most impressive selection of Jazz acts in the UK for 2012

And the global party that is Wowfest continues to gathers pace in the afterhours Club Nights with the addition of Roni Size alongside Smith and Mighty for superlative jungle/dubstep/drum and bass night on Friday, whilst Peter Hook, until recently of New Order fame, joins Marshall Jefferson on the ones and twos in a closing Madchester Hacienda themed after hours party on Sunday.

And with the addition of the Alabama 3, Heaven 17, 808 State, Kitten and the Hip, The Pretty Things, and The Blockheads to the Main and Global Stages, with plenty more support acts as well as headliners still to be announced, Wowfest is already shaping up to be an iconic event, with an eclectic mix of House, Reggae, Ska, Jazz, Global and Dance that is already seeing a few envious eyes cast by established festival organisers – with the emphasis firmly on quality rather than excessive quantity of fillers that can sometimes blight other festival line-ups

Tickets are on sale from the event website for a bargain early bird weekend £99 (including free travel on Southern Vectis buses) for limited period only, and many have already snapped up since the announcement of  Paul Oakenfold, Soul 11 Soul, The Beat, Norman Jay, Danny Rampling, The Selecter, Bad Manners, Neville Staple of the Specials, Bez from the Happy Mondays' acid house night, Manos De Dios, Black Roots, Talisman and host of other top names all appearing at Wowfest over the weekend – and with a lot more to come yet.

Wowfest also sees a very promising stage for newer acts evolving – The Shaved Fish stage highlights global and local up and coming bands ensuring that plenty of young unsigned and Isle of Wight talent gets to share the event with some of the classiest live performers alive today. Local and unsigned acts are invited to contact Wowfest HQ to apply for an opportunity to play – see the event website www.wowfest.co.uk for more info about opportunities to perform and get involved with Wowfest – including catering and trading concessions, volunteer stewards and other opportunities to join the festival.

And with a strong green ethos, an emphasis on veggie, locally sourced and organic food, and a tantalizing looking selection of workshops and activities for kids and families in the African Village, plus some fabulous comedy, cabaret, theatre, performance, circus and walkabout, there's plenty more going on than just the superb musical line-up to ensure a truly memorable weekend at what promises to be one of the friendliest and enjoyable weekends this summer

WOWfest is also proud to partner the following charities: Oxfam, Solar Aid, Building Schools for Africa, Sustrans, Vegfam and the IW NHS Juba project.

Tickets are available from www.wowfest.co.uk. 

South West Four 2010 Review

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SW4Saturday 28th August had finally arrived and it was the first day of the SOLD OUT South West Four weekender. Extended to a two day festival this year we were delighted to see the sun shining after a week of rain.

Pete Tong SW4We made our way to the infamous Clapham Common, home to SW4 for many a year. As we picked up our passes and walked in, we manage to catch the end of Alex Metric finishing up his live set on the main stage.
We make our way to the front of the main stage to see Radio 1 DJ Pete Tong. A regular at SW4 he was to kick things off in typical Tongy fashion, busting out massive track after track and showcasing why he is still one of the most in-demand DJ’s in the world. Dropping the massive Swedish House Mafia “One” brings the crowds running into the main stage area in their hundreds, by far one of the biggest tunes of the year.
Over to the other side of the park to catch Gareth Emery in the TimeOut Gallery Arena who is playing a nice selection of uplifting trance to an already very busy tent.   The Gallery Arena has been one of the most popular tents at SW4 and with a lineup including Judge Jules, Sander Van Doorn and Paul Oakenfold it was bound to be packed like a sardine can!
We quickly head over to the DJ Mag Bedrock Arena to see Mutant Clan (Timo Maas and Santos) who are busy on their setup of 8 CDJ’s and 2 mixers. They seem to work seamlessly together to blend track after track.
Moving onto the Toolroom Knights arena, we catch Dirty South who has had another productive year in the studio releasing the popular “Phazing” which is doing the damage around clubland. Sticking to his electro / uplifting house style he rocks the crowd in one of the tents that I quite enjoyed throughout the day. We also catch Funkagenda in the Toolroom Knights arena and he rocks the crowd with a massive set.
As the sun continues to shine on through the afternoon, the crowd was building up to its maximum 20,000 capacity. We see smiles all around us as we walk through the crowd back to the main stage to catch Laidback Luke, one of the busiest DJ’s / Producers in the business. Pumping out track after track we were very excited to see him for our first time. His style is a mix of uplifting / progressive house and electro. His blend of tracks at SW4 gathers a massive crowd in the main stage area.
Erick MorilloErick Morillo as energetic as always teases the crowd with a great intro track and then busts into his unique style of Latin / Miami style house music. It’s been a while since I last saw Erick on a big stage and he always plays with a high amount of energy, constantly dancing and grooving behind the decks. By the end of his set, there is a mass of friends and colleagues gathered on the stage partying with Mr Morillo.
As we mill about the press area we catch a glimpse of Paul Oakenfold and Tall Paul having a chat before Oakey heads off to the Gallery Arena, quite the site to see the two legends together.
Sasha takes to the decks as the crowds begin to darken as a few rain drops being to fall. With his progressive style Sasha starts off slow and slowly builds the journey up to a style that only Sasha is capable of. A couple tracks in and the rain beings to come down, however this doesn’t affect the crowd, they are more up for it than ever! A few umbrella’s go up and jackets go on, some of the crowd try and pack into the tents but the majority enjoy the rainfall which lasts only 20 or 30 minutes.
We head back to the Bedrock Arena to catch John Digweed who to my surprise is playing a rocking set to a fully packed out tent. Playing a more uplifting set than I expected I quite enjoyed seeing Digweed back here again.
With a muddy ground and nite falling, headliner on the Main Stage Armin takes to the decks to massive applause, most of the crowd have been waiting for him and they have their dancing shoes ready. Armin gets right into the stride and the hands are up in the air from the very first beat. The world’s number one DJ never disappoints and his set is typically Armin, a journey through some of the biggest trance tunes of the moment and a selection of Armin classics.
Armin Van Buuren SW4
We leave before the end of Armin’s set to avoid the mass exodus, having enjoyed quite an awesome day at SW4. With most of the day quite pleasant before the rain, a great lineup and crowd to suit, SW4 once again shows why it is one of the most popular dance music based festivals in the UK.
You can see more photos here in our Facebook album.