Over the years the stage has seen debut performances from Pulled Apart By Horses (who will make their Main Stage debut this year), Two Door Cinema Club (NME/Radio 1 Stage second headliner 2012) and Don Broco, who move onto the Festival Republic Stage this year after their amazing performance in 2011 on the BBC Introducing Stage.
The bands that play are chosen through a combination of the BBC’s countrywide Introducing shows, Leeds promoters Futuresound, festival promoters Festival Republic and Martin House’s Centre Stage competition.
These new acts join Foo Fighters, The Cure, Kasabian, The Black Keys, Paramore, Florence + the Machine, Kaiser Chiefs, Bombay Bicycle Club, The Vaccines, Justice, The Maccabees, At The Drive-In and many more.
The Reading & Leeds Festival is held on 24th – 26th August 2012 at Little John’s Farm in Reading and Bramham Park in Leeds. The full line-up and further information can be found at www.readingfestival.com / www.leedsfestival.com
Winners of the Futuresound competition and opening the NME/Radio1 Stage on Saturday at Reading and Sunday at Leeds will be Post War Glamour Girls postwarglamourgirls.com.
Alternative Stage
Added to the comedy line-up is Adam Hills who has achieved international acclaim as one of the world’s best stand up comics. Combining positive uplifting comedy and rampant spontaneity has seen him receive a swag of awards, glowing reviews and a legion of fans around the planet.
Once again, Transgressive and friends take over the Alternative Stage two nights at Leeds Festival. They will curate, DJ and host the stage’s late-night entertainment on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th August. Amongst the line-up this year are live performances from Disclosure, Summer Camp and Ghostpoet, plus sets from hotly tipped up-and-comers such as Theme Park, AlunaGeorge and Outfit.
Outfit * Summer Camp * Disclosure * Theme Park * AlunaGeorge * Ghostpoet Metronomy DJ set * Transgressive DJ’s * Gaggle DJ’s (ALL LEEDS ONLY)
With exclusive appearances from THE CURE, KASABIAN and FOO FIGHTERS on the Main Stage and hundreds of other artists set to appear, this is the only place for music fans to spend the August Bank Holiday weekend.
Other acts confirmed to appear include PARAMORE, FLORENCE AND THE MACHINE, THE BLACK KEYS, THE MACCABEES, JUSTICE, AT THE DRIVE IN, METRONOMY, LESS THAN JAKE and SOCIAL DISTORTION with many more names yet to be announced over seven stages.
The festival takes place at Little John’s Farm in Reading and Bramham Park in Leeds where 160,000 music fans spend the best weekend of the year listening to the greatest line-up of rock, indie, metal, punk and dance music.
Did You Know:
There is a competition running online atwww.readingfestival.com and www.leedsfestival.com where you can win the chance to become the Lord or Lady Mayor of the festival. Your ticket will be upgraded to VIP; you can watch your favourite band from the side of the stage, have a backstage slap up lunch and much, much more.
Reading & Leeds actively operate and promote deposit schemes for cups and water bottles, facilitating the collection of recyclable waste and ensuring we achieve the highest rate of recycling. A 10p deposit is taken for each cup which is refundable if the cup is taken back to the refund points.
When the bands stop the fun doesn’t – at Reading & Leeds films are show in the cinema tent till late and there is dancing in the Silent Arena at both sites where you can disco dance till dawn, plus late night entertainment to be announced at the Alternative Stage in Leeds including DJ’s, interactive films and much more.
Vodafone customers can ensure their mobile phone is charged throughout the festival weekend by leaving it at the Vodafone VIP Recharge Truck. Vodafone only customers can also enjoy an unrivalled view of all the performances on the Main Stage by visiting the Vodafone VIP viewing platform.
Relentless will bring the new look Energy Sessions Arena, sponsored by Relentless Energy Drink, to the campsite at Leeds each night from 10pm to 3am – a massive outdoor stage playing host to an array of not-to-be-missed DJ talent and delivering a unique experience for festival-goers.
2012 is the tenth year the Festival has been at Bramham Park in Leeds, but Bramham Park has been open to the public for sixty years this year.
Jägermeister will be turning up to Leeds with their massive three story specially converted ex-military 25 tonne Ice Truck. The Ice Truck will be situated in the main arena and comes complete with a serving bar, dispensing Ice Cold Jäger shots from tap machines that chill the Jägermeister to zero degrees.
River Island will be getting involved at Reading this year with a festival ‘Swap Shop’ – exchange your dirty festival clothes for some brand spanking new River Island kit, safe in the knowledge that you’re doing your bit for charity. River Island will clean your dirty kit and donate it to Breakthrough Breast Cancer. Check the festival website for details.
Everybody who buys a weekend ticket gets a free burger and beer on the Friday, Saturday and Sunday of the festival, with vegetarian and soft drink options if preferred. Don’t just stick to that though, this year there will be all the usual foody options available but also the likes of tapas, a full carvery and even ostrich!
Reading & Leeds Festival is partnering with goCarShare. It's built around Facebook and connects festival-goers, so you can see if you have any friends or friends of friends, heading the same way. There is priority parking right by one of the site entrances for the first 200 cars to sign up, which means no time wasted looking for a space and a short walk to the campsite. All occupants of the car, passengers and driver, will be in with a chance to win a pair of tickets for either Reading or Leeds 2013. The goCarShare team will even wash your car for you! Full details and T&C’s on the Reading & Leeds websites.
Band News:
Azealia Banks released an eagerly awaited new track ‘Jumanji’ last week, taken from her debut album 'Broke With Expensive Taste’ due later this summer and Reading & Leeds are one of the only festivals to catch her at.
Iceland’s Of Monsters And Men have never been to Reading & Leeds. They’ve said “We're really excited. We've never played a UK festival, BUT we have played in London. We expect sun but also a lot of rain. We're not afraid to get muddy!”
The Joy Formidable make their only UK appearance of the summer at the festival. They have just completed work on their second album with legendary producer Andy Wallace (Nirvana, Jeff Buckley Rage Against The Machine), the follow up to their debut ‘The Big Roar’. No doubt fans will get their first preview of the new tracks at Reading & Leeds.
The Black Keys release a new single ‘Dead and Gone’ this month, taken from their hugely successful album ‘El Camino’. Released to widespread critical acclaim in December, ‘El Camino’ debuted at # 2 on the Billboard Top 200 and has already been certified Platinum in Australia, Canada and New Zealand, and Gold in France, Ireland, the UK and US.
Will Rees from the Mystery Jets was asked recently what he was looking forward to this summer – “Leeds (Festival). They’ve got dodgems.” Whereas Ryan Jarman from The Cribs said “Reading is always my favourite ‘cos that’s the one I always used to go to when I was growing up, even when Leeds started. I’ve been there every year since 1997.”
Next weekend Foo Fighters will appear on the series finale of ‘Saturday Night Live’ in the US, hosted by none other than Mick Jagger.
TICKETING INFO
Weekend tickets £197.50 plus applicable booking fees
Day tickets Fri, Sat, Sun £85.00 plus applicable booking fees
Early entry permits £15.00
Campervan permits £60.00
Lockers £15.00
Reading car parking £5.00
Weekend ticket prices include camping
Sunday Day Tickets at Reading Festival are now sold out.
Friday 24th August at Reading Festival / Saturday 25th August at Leeds Festival
THE MACCABEES’ third album ‘Given To The Wild’ was released earlier this year to massive critical acclaim and soared into the UK charts at Number Four. The South London five-piece are enjoying a hugely successful year so far, and with a sold out Brixton Academy under their belts The Maccabees are further cementing their status as one of the most exciting British bands of our time. We welcome them for their first headline appearance on the NME/Radio 1 Stage.
FOSTER THE PEOPLE have garnered a huge amount of critical acclaim and public adoration on both sides of the Atlantic since the release of their debut album ‘Torches’. With last year’s feel-good hit of the summer ‘Pumped Up Kicks’, word of their music spread in a manner that was shockingly quick, even in the age of endless internet churn with everyone agreeing on one thing: this was a band on the cusp of an undeniable breakthrough and Foster The People show no sign of slowing down.
Band of the people, THE COURTEENERS, head to Reading & Leeds Festival ahead of the release of their third studio album, the follow up to 2010’s ‘Falcon’. With the Manchester four-piece eager to road test new material, head honcho Liam Fray recently declared their new sound as “industrial Motown”. An incredible live band, this could be one of the years most talked about performances.
Hot on the heels of his eighth album ‘A + E’, erstwhile Blur guitarist GRAHAM COXON returns to solo business with a hotly anticipated appearance on the NME / Radio 1 stage. The critics have been positively slavering over this latest outing and will undoubtedly see this appearance over-subscribed.
With the follow up to 2009’s critically acclaimed ‘Manners’ under construction, we welcome PASSIONPIT to this year’s Reading & Leeds Festival. Hailing from Massachusetts, expect a blend of new electro dance tunes and old favourites.
Alternative rock band, THEBLACKOUT are Sean Smith, Gavin Butler, Matthew Davies, James Davies , Rhys Lewis and Gareth Lawrence. With a new album scheduled for release in August, these very special shows at Reading & Leeds will give fans a unique preview.
Always a favourite at festivals THEHIVES are sure to get things jumping with their infectious, thrilling garage rock hits. With new single ‘Go Right Ahead’, a sax-laden, glam-rock stomp hitting the airways now and previewing new album ‘Lex Hives’ due in the summer, Howlin’ Pelle Almqvist, Nicholaus Arson, Chris Dangerous, Dr. Matt Destruction, and Vigilante Carlstroem will bring the sound of the summer to the NME/Radio 1 Stage.
This year sees SPECTOR graduate from their BBC Introducing Stage debut at last year’s festival with a well merited position on this year’s NME/Radio 1 stage. Nominated for the BBC Sound Of 2012 the band, fronted by one Fred Macpherson, were formed in 2010 and have released a trilogy of singles through Luv Luv Luv. With a debut album slated for later in the year this East London based five-piece bring their melancholic widescreen pop to the stage at Reading & Leeds.
Following inclusion on the BBC’s Sound Of Poll, Brooklyn’s FRIENDS are taking 2012 by storm. Armed with one of the singles of the year, ‘I’m His Girl’, and the captivating follow up ‘Friend Crush’, expect these shows to be the talk of both sites come the August Bank Holiday weekend.
With debut album ‘Breakfast’ unleashed last month, CHIDDY BANG are ready to step into the limelight. You’ll have heard their MGMT sampling breakthrough track ‘Opposite Of Adults’, and with time spent touring with Tinie Tempah, are sure to be ready to deliver one of the shows of the year.
www.chiddybang.net
Brooklyn’s HERE WE GO MAGIC make their first foray to Reading & Leeds this year. The band who came to the attention of Nigel Godrich with their 2010 album ‘Pigeons’ have just released the fruits of those joint labours – ‘A Different Ship’ which had Spin Magazine saying “…this is the sort of music that would happen if Paul Simon had made ‘Dark Side Of The Moon’. Yes it’s that good”. Get there early and see what the fuss is all about.
Saturday 25th August at Reading Festival / Sunday 26th August at Leeds Festival
Hailing from El Paso, Texas AT THE DRIVE-IN came, conquered and released three albums: ‘Acrobatic Tenement’, ‘In/Casino/Out’, the EP ‘Vaya’, and their ultimate swansong ‘The Relationship of Command’ which is now cited in dispatches as one the most important albums of its genre. Then they split. Now it looks like the many who were never able to see this incendiary live act back in the day will have their dreams fulfilled with this NME/Radio1 stage headline show. This band are name checked and revered by fellow musicians and fans alike and this, their ONLY UK FESTIVAL APPEARANCE will definitely be unmissable.
On the eve of their fifth album ‘In The Belly Of The Brazen Bull’ THE CRIBS make a return to the scene of one (or two) of their best ever shows. Recently reverting back to their near legendary three-piece status the band continues to evoke passion amongst their fiercely dedicated and ever growing fanbase. The Jarmans – brothers Gary, Ryan and Ross have always been fiercely independent, proud of their DIY ethos and from their early days adept at writing great songs leaving a catalogue of classic punk rock brilliance, battle scars and memories. The Cribs will once again be thrilling, spilling, entertaining and engaging.
MASTODON have never really done anything the ‘conventional’ way. The Atlanta-based band formulated their own brand of highly-skilled hard rock over a decade ago when others were rehashing 80’s metal, and went on to mastermind a string of complex concept albums. With new album ‘The Hunter’ hitting the Top 10 in the US last year the band are picking up more and more fans – head-banging will be compulsory at this scorching show.
Canadian punks BILLY TALENT come to Reading & Leeds Festival with expectations for their upcoming fourth album riding high. The band, led by vocalist Ben Kowalewicz had been playing together for almost a decade before a name change lead to a record deal and their debut eponymous album was released in 2003. “A sh*t-hot, world-dominating hard-rock band has grown out of these four former Mississauga teenagers' shared high-school dreams of … well … growing into a sh*t-hot, world-dominating hard-rock band” is how they describe themselves. Check it out for yourself at the NME/Radio 1 Stage.
MIIKE SNOW are back and return with their new album ‘Happy To You’ later this month. The hugely talented Stockholm-based three-piece have previously dabbled in the DJ scene and in punk bands, alongside electro and new wave, which lead to writing and production stints with the likes of Madonna and Britney Spears. Now ready to step out of the studio again, these shows are a must see for all music fans.
Anticipation is high for the return of SANTIGOLD and her new album ‘Master of My Make-Believe’ and this show will be the perfect opportunity to see this high-rising artist. Last year’s collaboration ‘Go’ with Karen O of the Yeah, Yeah, Yeahs was described as a "brittle and brilliant brawler of a track" by the NME and ‘Disparate Youth’ the first track released from the new album is also picking up plaudits. Citing Aretha Franklin, Devo, James Brown and Siouxsie and the Banshees as influences, this is an eclectic and exciting singer not to be missed.
Set to tear up the festival season this summer, DRY THE RIVER are one of the most talked about artists of the year. With three years and over 250 shows already under their belts, they released their debut album ‘Shallow Bed’ to rave reviews last month, with NME declaring they’ve made an “accomplished, luxuriant, expertly crafted” record. Get down to the front early for these sets.
Glasgow’s TWIN ATLANTIC follow a successful 2011 with the release of their Gil Norton produced ‘Free’ album. The quartet cut their collective teeth with slots supporting the likes of Gaslight Anthem, Angels And Airwaves and Taking Back Sunday and as singer Sam McTrusty says “…we’re giving people something to believe in again.” Catch them and believe too…
www.free.twinatlantic.com
Formed by ex. Gallows frontman Frank Carter and ex. Hope Conspiracy and Suicide File guitarist Jim Carroll, PURE LOVE’s debut single ‘Bury My Bones’ has just been previewed on BBC Radio 1. Currently working on their debut album due later this year with producer Gil Norton (Foo Fighters, Pixies), Carter commented "Rock might not have been as popular in recent years, but that's definitely going to change because we haven't released our album yet. I want to make music that's timeless and classic."
www.therealpurelove.com
Sunday 26th August at Reading Festival / Friday 24th August at Leeds Festival
Ed Banger’s JUSTICE make electronic music that everyone can rock to. With riffs now as heavy as their beats, the Grammy-nominated Parisian pair head for Reading & Leeds armed with new album ‘Audio, Video, Disco’. The record has established them as an international force who are equally at home blaring from a dance club sound system or performing in an arena. Expect a powerful and mesmerising headline performance from a truly unique group.
Since releasing their debut album ‘Tourist History’ in March 2010, TWO DOOR CINEMA CLUB have rapidly become one of the biggest new success stories in UK music. After selling out headline tours in the UK, US, Europe, Australia, Asia, Japan and South America, playing two successive sold out nights at Shepherds Bush Empire and selling out Brixton Academy in under four hours, the band have deservedly earned both a devoted word-of-mouth live following and huge critical acclaim. The Times have called them “the band of the moment” and NME declared that they have “quietly become one of the UK’s best loved bands".
The release of THE HORRORS’ third album ‘Skying’ saw the band’s already impeccable credentials soar even higher. The record was celebrated across the board by fans new and old as their finest yet and recently won the NME ‘Album of the Year’ accolade. Not that their debut ‘Strange House’ and follow up ‘Primary Colours’ hadn’t already cemented their reputation as one of the most original and ground breaking groups around. Both dense and expansive, insidiously poppy and stubbornly arty, The Horrors are one of the bands you must see at the festival.
SBTRKT returns to Reading & Leeds Festival after last year's triumphant DJ set on the Dance Stage at both sites and live performance on the Alternative Stage in Leeds. This time round, fans will be treated to his famous live show at both sites. His self-titled debut album propelled towards the top of DJ’s playlists around the world with his combination of funk, soul, synths and bass. Fresh from releasing single ‘Hold On’ with Sampha, SBTRKT now has his sights firmly set on the August Bank Holiday weekend.
The legendary vocalist fronting the MARK LANEGAN BAND has sung with some of the greatest bands of the last two decades. Lanegan formed the Screaming Trees in the 80’s and made some of the finest albums of the grunge scene. He’s worked with the coolest names around since and his distinct baritone voice has been described as "as scratchy as a three-day beard yet as supple and pliable as moccasin leather”.
Having wowed the Main Stage last year, THE JOY FORMIDABLE return at the personal request of Foo Fighters to play a very special set. Currently mixing their second album in New York with Andy Wallace, the trio made waves on both sides of the Atlantic with their debut album ‘The Big Roar’ in 2011, NME declaring that ‘its big but it’s certainly clever’ and Rolling Stone thrilling to ‘multi orgasmic crescendoes’. Having recently sold out New York’s Terminal 5, this return to UK shores promises to be a perfect preview of the band’s second album, due later in the year.
Having evolved from various outfits, Camden-based quartet TRIBES came to the fore at the start of 2011 and has seen the band accrue plenty of support both in print and on the airwaves. The band’s debut album ‘Baby’ was unleashed earlier this year reaching Top 30 status en route, further embellishing the plaudits already bestowed upon them. If last year’s appearance is anything to go by the tent will be filled to the gills for those to see on of the UK’s finest live acts of recent years.
www.tribesband.com
On its release earlier this year, the self-titled debut album from DJANGO DJANGO was succinctly hailed thus: "It's a dream of the psychedelic tropics, a heady explosion of colours, an album that takes what it means to be in an indie band and gives it a good shake…" This art pop quartet first emerged back in 2009 doing things their way whilst releasing selected tracks, mainlining into the nation's psyche and producing what has been one of the year's highlights.
Young Minneapolis five-piece HOWLER marked their arrival on this side of the Atlantic last year in a barrage of hysteria. Having rapidly signed to Rough Trade Records, they consequently released the ‘This One’s Different’ EP and supported The Vaccines on their Autumn UK tour. Earlier this year saw the arrival of their debut album ‘America Give Up’ with the band showing few signs of slowing up. This summer’s shows mark their debut at Reading & Leeds and will see further clamoring down the front as they play their biggest shows to date.
OF MONSTERS AND MEN’s debut album ‘My Head Is An Animal’ went to Number One on its release in Iceland from where the band hail. Describing themselves as “an amiable group of day dreamers who craft folkie pop songs” they turned into local heroes after winning a yearly battle of the bands competition. This will be one of the first chances to see this highly tipped six-piece.
Friday 24th August at Reading Festival / Saturday 25th August at Leeds Festival
SOCIAL DISTORTION have officially done one of the most un-punk things possible: they’ve failed to burn-out. Having survived various line-up changes, the odd hiatus and the demise of the Los Angeles hardcore scene that saw their arrival, Mike Ness and the band are now in their fourth decade of existence. With their trademark sound, an all but-perfected mix of punk, bluesy rock ‘n’ roll and outlaw country, they subsequently paved the way for plenty of like-minded individuals and artists whilst becoming one of the most influential bands of their generation(s). This summer’s headline appearance on the Lock Up Stage will provide one of the highlights of the entire festival. www.socialdistortion.com
Formed way back in 1988 Pittsburgh’s ANTI-FLAG have forged a reputation for activism and are no strangers to throwing their name behind various causes over the years, be it the recent Occupy Wall Street Movement, Greenpeace, Anti-War campaigns or human rights. Their recent ‘General Strike’ album is equal parts reggae and hardcore, modern folk punk and traditional Clash influenced dance punk. It sees a band content in their musical environment with arguably their most aggressive album to date. Renowned for their ferocious live shows, they bring the punk rock ethos to the festival.
Arriving this summer with a reputation for their intense live shows EVERY TIME I DIE have never been an easy act to categorise. Emerging from the late ‘90’s hardcore scene, over the past decade they’ve continued to evolve and push the boundaries of heavy music. Their sixth and most recent album ‘Ex Lives’ is testament to that trajectory with the most forward–thinking album of their career, this is an act that promises much.
New Jersey’s BOUNCING SOULS’ origins lay in the D.I.Y ethos with their self-financed early releases before making a name for themselves opening for the likes of NOFX and The Mighty Mighty Bosstones. The band release their ninth full-length album ‘Comet’ this summer, of which guitarist Pete Steinkopf commented “I haven’t been this excited about anything since I discovered beer” – we’re excited too! The album and these performances will be another solid milestone in the band's celebrated career.
Forerunners of the US indie rock scene since their inception, New Jersey’s SAVES THE DAY have influenced a new school of emo/punk bands along the way with their own post–punk energetic live shows. The band have recently released the long anticipated third album in a trilogy with ‘Daybreak’ and as singer/guitarist Chris Conley said on it’s release last year ; “Daybreak is both an ending and a new beginning, we are here together and we can make it through.” Hiatus over, the quartet return to these shores having already played the UK with a short burst of shows late last year.
With a seemingly relentless touring schedule post-hardcore outfit TOUCHE AMORE have built up a reputation for their fiercely passionate live performances. As one reviewer was moved to put in print “…(their set), is an unrelenting barrage of furious, brutal and deeply impassioned intensity… astonishing from beginning to end.” One of the best live acts around today, be prepared to be part of a sweaty, heaving mass of limbs.
www.touchamure.com
Taking their name from a famous stock sound effect used in films A WILHELM SCREAM bring their own brand of melodic post-hardcore to this year’s weekend. No bandwagon jumpers, the five-piece have in lieu of their cause earned the invitation to support like-minded artists such as Pennywise, Rise Against and Less Than Jake and continued to headline in the US and further afield in Europe and Australasia.
Having just released their fourth album ‘Zoo’ five-piece hardcore outfit CEREMONY continue their ascendancy having confirmed their reputation as one of the most compelling, unusual and progressive hardcore bands of recent years. Hailing from San Francisco’s Bay Area, the band have consistently explored, delved and forged their own way; as one magazine put it “One of the most exhilarating and uncompromising bands in hardcore punk today.”
2011 saw the release of RANDOM HAND’s third LP ‘Seething Is Believing’ and their 1000th show. Regarded by many as their finest album to date, they have spent the last few years tearing full throttle through the UK scene with their ferocious in your face ska-punk-metal mash up and continue to fly the flag. As the band proclaim “do not adjust your seat belt, the ride’s not over yet!”.
From the squats of New York City comes STAR FUCKING HIPSTERS, armed with their latest album ‘From the Dumpster to the Grave’. The record explores several genres including punk, ska, hip-hop, metal and folk, all wrapped in a hardcore shell. Including some of the crunchiest guitars ever recorded, expect an explosion of sound at both sites.
www.facebook.com/starf.ckinghipsters
Following the release of last year’s ‘Moscow Penny Ante’ album, DEAD TO ME are heading to Reading & Leeds Festival ready to thrill. A band so immersed in style and culture that they’ve always seemed almost as much like an art collective as a rock and roll outfit. The most recent record revisits and updates their classic sound that first caught everyone’s attention on 2006’s ‘Cuban Ballerina’, but in their own words “it’s more dynamic, more pummelling and more downright awesome than ever before”.
www.deadtomesf.com
PETTYBONE, the international four-piece from London, will be bringing an aural attack to this year’s festival courtesy of four girls whose message is as important as the music. Despite only releasing their debut album last year, they have already recorded a live session at Maida Vale for the BBC Radio 1 Punk Show with Mike Davies and undertaken their first international tour. Having this under their belt in such a short time, it seems like it’s time to sit up and pay attention to the noise that Pettybone are creating.
Sunday 26th August at Reading Festival / Friday 24th August at Leeds Festival
Starting out as a power pop outfit with heavy punk leanings, LESS THAN JAKE seamlessly transformed into a ska-inspired punk band complete with horn section and have extensively travelled the world’s stages. Influenced by the East Bay pop/punk scene that spawned the likes of Green Day and Screeching Weasel, the band have successfully traversed hurdles along the way, still progressing musically and will be a fitting finale to the day. Engaging, progressive and socially relevant, unfiltered and over-amplified they bring the curtain down on what is a stellar Lock Up line-up.
ME FIRST AND THE GIMME GIMMES are an all-star-punk-rock supergroup-cover-band fronted by NOFX’s Fat Mike that exploded on the scene in the 90’s. They have recorded albums of show tunes, R&B jams, classics from the 50’s and 60’s, pop hits, cheesy mum-favorites, country songs and in 2011 a slew of songs by Australians for their 2011 EP entitled ‘Go Down Under’ and their last release ‘Sing In Japanese’ saw them, er, sing in Japanese! Go party …
When GALLOWS returned with new vocalist Wade MacNeil fans breathed a sigh of relief that the extraordinary band they adored were as good as ever and had retained the intense energy the group had become infamous for. The band, originally from Watford, had gone through an amicable split with original vocalist Frank Carter in the summer of 2011 after a whirlwind few years of magazine covers and record company battles but emerged triumphant with expectations high. The Lock Up Stage is their natural home, watch them own it.
The legendary TURBONEGRO bring their unique Death Punk to the festival with no doubt all guns blazing. With new vocalist The Duke of Nothing, the band have been praised for playing the most up-to-date form of punk, and refusing to be categorised. Their music is an anarchic blend of humour, shock and sexuality. The ultimate party experience and most fun you can have at a festival with your clothes on – do not miss the mighty Turbonegro.
With influences ranging from American punk bands Bad Brains and Black Flag to legendary jazz musicians John Coltrane and Miles Davis, TRASH TALK carry the DIY spirit of punk and mesh it with hardcore to create a powerful unique sound. Based in Sacramento, California – any trip to these shores are greeted with excitement by their dedicated fans. These shows will be no exception.
When GOOD RIDDANCE announced their reformation after five years away, countless fans jumped for joy having thought they’d never see these hardcore punks again. The band grew out of California’s vibrant surfing and skateboarding culture and were influenced by such bands as Black Flag, The Adolescents, TSOL and Bad Religion as well as East Coast bands like Sick Of It All and the Cro Mags. They released seven albums and an EP before splitting, but are back to play the classics just for the joy of it – catch them whilst you can.
London-based reggae & dub upstarts THE SKINTS mix Jamaican styles with pop hooks, grimey raps, filthy bass-lines and a punk rock work ethic to create a sound familiar to newcomers, yet unique below the surface. Their new album ‘Part & Parcel’ was produced by Prince Fatty and is a sun-drenched carnival of a record, guaranteed to start the dancing.
Jimmy Stadt, who fronts POLAR BEAR CLUB alongside guitarists Chris Browne and Nate Morris, bassist Erik Henning, and drummer Tyler Mahurin arrive at Reading & Leeds Festival on the back of the release of their third album ‘Clash Battle Guilt Pride’. Their post hardcore/punk anthems have built them a dedicated following, as have tours with The Gaslight Anthem, A Wilhelm Scream and Cancer Bats.
Long Island’s hardcore metal group, THIS IS HELL described their latest album ‘Black Mass’ as the “heaviest and thrashiest songs we've written and recorded” and who are we to argue. The band have built a formidable reputation as a fearsome live act since the release of their debut ‘Sundowning’, picking up fans on both sides of the Atlantic and this will be a sensational show not to be missed.
THE FLATLINERS come from Canada to Reading & Leeds Festival having spent the last seven years honing their epic sonic sound. Their 2010 album ‘Cavalcade’ was hailed as a breakthrough mixing thefury of ‘90’s skate punk with the nuanced, intelligent songwriting of classic post-punk. The album featured fellow festival performers including Big Mike (NOFX), Cancer Bats and A Wilhelm Scream amongst others and their presence will only up the energy for this set.
Melodic-punks APOLOGIES, I HAVE NONE have recently received rave reviews for their debut album ‘London’. Having started as a two-piece drum and guitar band, Dan Bond and Josh Mckenzie were then joined by PJ Shepherd on bass and Joe Watson and have been playing passionate, energetic punk rock ever since. A perfect way to kick things off on the Lock Up Stage this year.
Saturday 25th August at Reading Festival / Sunday 26th August at Leeds Festival
MODESTEP combine elements of dubstep with the power of hardcore rock acts which the band grew up on. Brothers Tony and Josh, with Matt and Nick, are renowned for their explosive live show which combines drums, guitars, synths, pianos, vocals, percussion, DJing and visuals. In their own words “we appeal to everyone, and we write what we love. We have never made records for anybody except us. We love what we do and will never change it.”
Debuting in 2008 as the first external artist to feature on deadmau5’s internationally revered mau5trap label, FEED ME didn’t so much step on to the scene as stomp, and his unique brand of hard-hitting, bass heavy electronica with a grin quickly caught the imagination of listeners worldwide. Since then, his rise has continued apace. He continues to tour far and wide, from Alexandra Palace to I Love Techno, and with plenty still up his sleeve there is no sign of him slowing down any time soon. 2012 looks set to be the biggest year yet for Feed Me.
For those unaware, GRIMES is the inventive work of Claire Boucher, a project that has gained notoriety since its inception back in early 2010. With the release of her new album ‘Visions’, via 4AD, earlier this year she has quickly become one of the most talked about artists around. The album incorporates influences as wide as Enya, TLC and Aphex Twin, whilst drawing from genre’s like New Jack Swing, industrial and glitch resulting in a record that is both otherworldly and futuristic. 2012 is the year of Grimes.
THE JAPANESE POPSTARS are purveyors of raucous, foot-stomping, energetic electronic dance music. Having racked up the air miles in 2011, the Northern Irish duo have blown away crowds at major festivals with their coruscating live show. They also released their critically acclaimed album ‘Controlling Your Allegiance’ featuring a host of legendary guests including Robert Smith (The Cure), Green Velvet, Jon Spencer, Lisa Hannigan, Tom Smith (Editors), Morgan Kibby (M83) and James Vincent McMorrow.
Backed by supporters including Ed Sheeran, Zane Lowe, Mistajam and Huw Stephens, CLEMENT MARFO & THE FRONTLINE’s scintillating crossover sound is poised to soundtrack the summer. Named as one of MTV’s Brand New for 2012 tips and one of T4’s Rising Stars of 2012, they’re the sound of the city streets, the sound of aspirational youth rising above societal problems, the sound of a multi-cultural community uniting rather than dividing.
East Londoner JAGGA is a singer, songwriter and producer whose previous collaborations have included working with Magnetic Man. Expect catchy choruses, infectious beats, heavy bass and enough bleeps to take over the dance floor at this very special DJ set. The energy, vibrancy and feel good factor of Jagga can’t be denied, be sure to get down the front early for this set.
Once known as one of jungle’s biggest stars as part of the True Playaz crew, ZINC will be behind the decks for a set like no other at this year’s Reading & Leeds Festival. After more than a decade of dominating the D&B scene, he set up his own label Bingo Beats and began to diversify into UK garage, realising and producing including the seminal ‘138 Trek’. Expect house, electro, funky and more from this true legend of the dance scene.
Saturday 25th August at Reading Festival / Sunday 26th August at Leeds Festival
Cardiff-based LOS CAMPESINOS! make their Main Stage debut when they open proceedings in Leeds on Sunday and Reading on Saturday. Since having last played the NME/Radio 1 Stage in 2010 the band have added a further album ‘Hello Sadness’ to their catalogue (“Los Campesinos! could well be a British The National..” hailed the NME) and cemented their position as one of the UK’s best-loved indie bands. Get there early and be party to a thrilling live act.
Over the years, READING & LEEDS FESTIVAL has seen some of the most memorable musical moments in history. 2012 will be no exception and we are very proud to announce three exclusive Main Stage headliners coming to entertain the 160,000 fanatical music enthusiasts who make this the most thrilling festival on earth. If you want to see every band that matters then Reading & Leeds Festival at Little John’s Farm in Reading and Bramham Park in Leeds is the only place to be this August Bank Holiday Weekend.
The greatest rock band in the world right now, and masters of whipping crowds into a frenzy, FOO FIGHTERS will kick off proceedings in Leeds on Friday and close the show in Reading on Sunday, playing their only UK shows this year. THE CURE have an unrivalled catalogue of both commercially and critically acclaimed hits and this is a long awaited return for this hugely influential and important band. They play Leeds on Saturday and Reading on Friday, their only UK shows this year. The biggest and most exciting UK band to have emerged in the last decade, KASABIAN make their first headline appearance at the festival on Sunday at Leeds and Saturday at Reading. Their epic and anthemic tunes will fill the fields at these, their only festival shows in England and Wales in 2012.
The NME/Radio 1 Stage always proves hugely popular and with THE MACCABEES, AT THE DRIVE-IN and JUSTICE lined up for 2012 it’s sure to be busier than ever. METRONOMY will top the bill on the Dance Stage bringing their blistering live show to the festival.
Many more names are still to be announced on these stages as well as the full line-up for the NME/Radio 1 Stage, Lock-Up Stage, Dance Stage, Festival Republic Stage, BBC Introducing Stage and the Alternative Stage. This is definitely the finest line-up you’ll find at any festival this summer with over 200 acts appearing at the most incredible event. Get your tent packed!
THIS YEAR’S HEADLINERS
THE CURE TO HEADLINE
ONLY UK APPEARANCES OF 2012
Friday 24th August at Reading Festival
Saturday 25th August at Leeds Festival
THE CURE are arguably the biggest alternative rock band of the last thirty years with a stellar catalogue of critically and commercially successful albums and a worldwide fan base. Hugely influential, the group have earned their iconic status with countless hit singles, legendary live performances and their unique sound blending moody atmospheric songs with sparkling pop sensibilities. Incredibly the band have only appeared at the Reading Festival once before, in 1979 around the release of their debut album ‘Three Imaginary Boys’, so this is a long overdue return and both sites are sure to embrace this classic act.
ONLY FESTIVAL APPEARANCES IN ENGLAND AND WALES OF 2012
Saturday 25th August at Reading Festival
Sunday 26th August at Leeds Festival
In their own words, KASABIAN were “built to headline festivals”. Since the release of their debut self-titled album in 2004, the Leicester group have swept all before them. With a string of festival anthems including ‘Fire’, ‘Club Foot’ and ‘Empire’, KASABIAN can rightly claim to be one of the UK’s biggest bands. Their latest album ‘Velociraptor’ continued this huge success, debuting at Number One in the UK, and confirmed their place at the top table of modern rock ‘n’ roll legends. A group which encapsulates the heady spirit of festival season, these shows will be a summer highlight for rock fans everywhere. KASABIAN are guitarist Sergio Pizzorno, singer Tom Meighan, bassist Chris Edwards and drummer Ian Matthews.
Having recently picked up five Grammy Awards, a Brit Award for ‘Best International Group’ and NME Award for ‘Best International Band’, and having seen last year’s ‘Wasting Light’ debut at Number One in 12 countries, FOO FIGHTERS return to headline Reading & Leeds Festival as the undisputed biggest rock band in the world today. Since first appearing at Reading in 1995 and ascending to headlining the Reading & Leeds Main Stages in 2002 and 2005, FOO FIGHTERS have never received anything short of a spectacular welcome from the crowds at Reading & Leeds.
In the tradition of their historic 2008 Wembley Stadium doubleheader and last year’s Milton Keynes weekender FOO FIGHTERS are poised to make this year’s Reading & Leeds a legendary event and a true must see for every music fan in the UK.
Friday 24th August at Reading Festival / Saturday 25th August at Leeds Festival
Grammy-nominated and multi-million selling three-piece PARAMORE are confirmed to perform their ONLY UK FESTIVAL APPEARANCE at Reading & Leeds Festival 2012. This will be the band’s first UK show since their sold out tour at the end of 2010 which culminated in two nights at London’s O2. In the two years since their last visit, the band have toured across the globe, from South East Asia, Europe, and South America, to the US, Australia and Japan and we welcome them back to the festival with open arms. Taylor, Jeremy and Hayley are currently in the US working on the follow-up to their chart topping platinum third album ‘Brand New Eyes’.
Saturday 25th August at Reading Festival / Sunday 26th August at Leeds Festival
With over 1.5 million sales of her second album ‘Ceremonials’, a Number One in the UK and Top Ten in the US, two NME Awards for ‘Best Solo Singer’ and ‘Best Track’ FLORENCE AND THE MACHINE have been riding the crest of the wave since picking up the ‘Critics’ Choice Award’ in 2009 at the Brits. The band have toured all over the world and are currently on a UK arena tour which will see them play to over 100,000 devotees. Florence first appeared at Reading & Leeds on the Festival Republic Stage and now this second from top of the bill placing continues the meteoric rise of this fantastic new British superstar.
Sunday 26th August at Reading Festival / Friday 24th August at Leeds Festival
Having recently headlined three shows at Alexandra Palace in London and sold over 1 million copies of their latest album ‘El Camino’, THE BLACK KEYS can safely take the title of band of the year. The group released their breakthrough album ‘Brothers’ in 2010 to widespread praise, debuting at Number Two in the US en route to winning three Grammy Awards and an MTV Video Music Award. As drummer Patrick Charney has said of the band’s recent success, “We’ve taken the long road to get where we are. We’ve experienced everything from driving a thousand miles to play for no-one to winning Grammys” and of the new album, “I think where this record is going to shine for me is playing the songs live.” Six albums and counting leaves The Black Keys with a remarkable cache of songs from which to select and this set will be a feast to delight in at their ONLY UK FESTIVAL APPEARANCE.
Friday 24th August at Reading Festival / Saturday 25th August at Leeds Festival
North London’s BOMBAY BICYCLE CLUB have sold in excess of 350,000 albums and have performed to more than 150,000 people to date and have a headline appearance at their ‘local’ Alexandra Palace coming up soon. This year also saw them nominated for no less than three NME Awards which when added to an Ivor Novello nomination, two Top 10 albums and the NME’s ‘Best New Band’ Award in 2010, has seen this low-key quartet soar. Last year’s ‘A Different Kind Of Fix’ has just been certified Gold in the UK and we expect new and old favourites to be aired at both sites ensuring an ever burgeoning and loyal following.
There aren’t many bands who reach their third album ‘Sinners Never Sleep’ while still only aged between 21 and 22. Fewer still have sold out two nights at Brixton Academy, two nights at Hammersmith Apollo, or have played to a total of 65,000 people on their many UK tours. That YOU ME AT SIX are also playing the Main Stage at Reading & Leeds Festival is yet another huge accomplishment. Since the release of their debut album ‘Take Off Your Clothes’ they have been at the forefront of British rock music and have made many fans along the way. Expect a lively crowd!
Fiercely uncompromising duo Ethan Kath and Alice Glass aka CRYSTAL CASTLES have created a stir from their inception with shows that enthrall and excite an impassioned cult following. Two eponymously titled albums, and an inspired collaboration with Robert Smith from headliners The Cure in 2010 have cast them to an audience across the world which has seen a staggering 50 million plays and counting on Myspace and LastFM. This year heralds the arrival of their third as yet untitled album, and this is a chance to catch a band that will inevitably put on one of the most talked about shows of the weekend.
Tom DeLonge from Blink-182 references ANGELS AND AIRWAVES as his "art project" and with the release of the double album ‘LOVE Part One & Two’ accompanied with a full length science fiction film scored by the band this is certainly no ordinary hiatus from the day job. The band comprises of Matt Wachter on bass (formerly of Thirty Seconds to Mars), guitarist David Kennedy (ex. Box Car Racer) and Ilan Rubin (formerly Lostprophets and NIN) on drums – truly a supergroup for a super weekend.
With an eagerly awaited sixth album coming this year, COHEED AND CAMBRIA have been described as “mix(ing) up the standard pop-punk scheme with creative and original riffs”. The band have picked up fans world-wide with their unique blend of progressive rock and hardcore, having toured extensively since forming in 1995 and have earned a formidable live reputation – check them out.
Not many bands can really live up to the title ‘hardcore punks’, but Toronto’s CANCER BATS are the real deal. With a new album ‘Dead Set On Living’ coming later this Spring, which vocalist Liam Cormier has hinted at being a slight departure from previous releases, the four-piece can only pick up more fans along the way and will definitely win over the Reading & Leeds audience this year.
DEAF HAVANA formed in Kings Lynn in Norfolk but have taken influences from all over the world to create their own new British rock sound. Their debut album ‘Meet Me Halfway, At Least’ earned great reviews in the rock press, described in one mag as “(they) blend the best elements of screamo with ballsy southern licks all placed lovingly on a bed of chugging riffs” and the follow up ‘Fools and Worthless Liars’ elevated them higher with a number one record on the BBC Rock Chart. Sure to wake up the festival in style.
Saturday 25th August at Reading Festival / Sunday 26th August at Leeds Festival
Armed with a debut single and immediate acclaim at the tail end of 2010, THE VACCINES certainly hit the ground running and tore into 2011 with gusto. On its release the band’s debut album ‘What Did You Expect From The Vaccines?’ pocketed further plaudits both critically and commercially achieving sales in excess of 250,000 in the UK. The band have an enviable reputation for their live shows and having hailed that “The Vaccines do it better than any British band have done in years” – they picked up the ‘Best New Band’ accolade at this year’s NME Awards. This summer you can see why when they make their debut on the Main Stage.
2012 has already proven to be a fantastic year for ENTER SHIKARI with their fourth album ‘A Flash Flood of Colour’ crashing into the Top Five in January with stunning reviews. Known for their fiercely independent stance, the band have stuck to their own ideals since they formed in St. Albans in 2003 taking their unique mesh of hardcore punk and breakbeat techno round the country with relentless gigging. This has given them a fearsome reputation as one of the most exciting live bands around and if previous appearances here are anything to go with, the crowd will go absolutely crazy. Get ready to mosh!
With James Mercer at the helm, Grammy-nominated THE SHINS set sail for Reading & Leeds Festival in support of their new album ‘Port Of Morrow’. The first new material in four years sees the band establish themselves as one of the most inspiring acts of our times. Mojo declared “the intermesh of emotion and technique is a rare trick to pull in pop, yet The Shins have just made it look easy”. With over one million records sold worldwide, The Shins’ melody, charm and infectiousness can’t be denied.
You’d have to have spent 2011 in hibernation to be unaware of the hysteria and hype currently surrounding ODD FUTURE. The Los Angeles rap collective are one of the most talked about acts in recent times. With their crude sense of humour and confrontational subject matter, the buzz surrounding them continues to grow ahead of the release of forthcoming album ‘OF Tapes Vol 2’. One of the most unique and intriguing acts to emerge in a long time; this spectacle is not to be missed.
Hailing from West London and three albums down the line, MYSTERY JETS have accrued success in abundance with their own quirky pop sound. Their imminent fourth album ‘Radlands’ saw the band relocate to Austin, Texas for the recording, the first time the band have recorded outside of the capital. A fervent fanbase will be down the front for classic songs from the new and previous albums.
Since the release of their debut almost four years ago, Brighton-based duo BLOOD RED SHOES have embarked on a gruelling, unrelenting tour schedule to all four corners of the world. The release of their recent third album ‘In Time To Voices” comes of age musically from their punk rock roots moving into an altogether more ambitious three dimensional sound that includes some of their most bold and defiant tracks to date. An electrifying live prospect making their debut on the Main Stage, make it a date.
Sunday 26th August at Reading Festival / Friday 24th August at Leeds Festival
No strangers to Reading & Leeds Festival, KAISER CHIEFS returned from a two-year hiatus last year with the release of their fifth album ‘The Future is Medieval’. The band have a career spanning selection of hits which they can call upon, be it the effervescence of debut ‘Oh My God’, the generation jumping ‘Ruby’ or the anthemic enormity of live classics ‘The Angry Mob’ and ‘Modern Way’. Kaiser Chiefs have wowed crowds worldwide, gained a phenomenal reputation for their live shows led by singer Ricky Wilson’s ebullient persona and along the way evolved into one of the UK’s most successful and favourite bands of the past decade.
Hailing from Bridgend in Wales, BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE have become one of Britain’s biggest metal bands over the last few years. With three amazing albums behind them (the latest being 2010’s ‘Fever’ with a new one promised soon) and massive success both here and in the US they have picked up awards and plaudits for their modern take on traditional rock. Always popular at the festival expect a packed crowd for the new kings of heavy.
ALL TIME LOW never fail to get the crowd bouncing, and their vibrant pop punk will liven up any audience and this festival will be no exception. The four-piece from Baltimore formed in 2003 and have released four albums to increasing acclaim. Their hilarious video for last year’s cracking hit ‘I Feel Like Dancin’ has notched over 3.5 million hits on YouTube and their fans will pack out both sites this summer.
All the way from New Jersey, THE GASLIGHT ANTHEM come to the Reading & Leeds Festival Main Stage with expectations for their new album ‘Handwritten’ riding high. They have won over fans worldwide with their anthemic tunes and energetic live shows where they take the spirit of The Clash/The Replacements and their most famous fan Bruce Springsteen and make a modern sound unmistakingly their own. Look out for arms in the air …
www.gaslightanthem.com
EAGLES OF DEATH METAL have attracted a cult following over the years with three dark and heavy albums and very sexy live shows! With a cast list that reads like a who’s who of rock with members culled from QOTSA, Foo Fighters and the likes of Mark Lanegan contributing, the band are mysterious, menacing and magnificent.
Incessant touring has seen this quartet from Southampton hone their live performance to great acclaim. Having released their debut album in 2009 BAND OF SKULLS surfed a wave of feverish approval following their inclusion on the ‘Twilight: New Moon Soundtrack’ and with the attention afforded to them in far-away places, the UK eventually caught up. This year’s ‘Sweet Sour’ album has again caught the critics’ imagination and with recent support slots with The Black Keys already taken care of they’re set to unleash their fresh arsenal of songs.
Fuelled by a love of classic rock, punk and post-hardcore bands, Leeds quartet PULLED APART BY HORSES quickly gained a reputation for their live shows which more often than not resulted in blood-letting and generally chaotic scenes, their shows are no less entertaining now. With a second album ‘Tough Love’ out now, PABH have been no less enthusiastically embraced and see a repertoire including dueling Thin Lizzy-style guitars, dark melodies reminiscent of Queens Of The Stone Age and the explosiveness of early hardcore that retains the defiance that has ridden with them from their early days. Miss at your peril!
Friday 24th August at Reading Festival / Saturday 25th August at Leeds Festival
THE MACCABEES’ third album ‘Given To The Wild’ was released earlier this year to massive critical acclaim and soared into the UK charts at Number Four. The South London five-piece are enjoying a hugely successful year so far, and with a sold out Brixton Academy under their belts The Maccabees are further cementing their status as one of the most exciting British bands of our time. We welcome them for their first headline appearance on the NME/Radio 1 Stage.
FOSTER THE PEOPLE have garnered a huge amount of critical acclaim and public adoration on both sides of the Atlantic since the release of their debut album ‘Torches’. With last year’s feel-good hit of the summer ‘Pumped Up Kicks’, word of their music spread in a manner that was shockingly quick, even in the age of endless internet churn with everyone agreeing on one thing: this was a band on the cusp of an undeniable breakthrough and Foster The People show no sign of slowing down.
Band of the people, THE COURTEENERS, head to Reading & Leeds Festival ahead of the release of their third studio album, the follow up to 2010’s ‘Falcon’. With the Manchester four-piece eager to road test new material, head honcho Liam Fray recently declared their new sound as “industrial Motown”. An incredible live band, this could be one of the years most talked about performances.
Saturday 25TH August at Reading Festival / Sunday 26th August at Leeds Festival
Hailing from El Paso, Texas AT THE DRIVE-IN came, conquered and released three albums: ‘Acrobatic Tenement’, ‘In/Casino/Out’, the EP ‘Vaya’, and their ultimate swansong ‘The Relationship of Command’ which is now cited in dispatches as one the most important albums of its genre. Then they split. Now it looks like the many who were never able to see this incendiary live act back in the day will have their dreams fulfilled with this NME/Radio1 stage headline show. This band are name checked and revered by fellow musicians and fans alike and this, their ONLY UK FESTIVAL APPEARANCE will definitely be unmissable.
On the eve of their fifth album ‘In The Belly Of The Brazen Bull’ THE CRIBS make a return to the scene of one (or two) of their best ever shows. Recently reverting back to their near legendary three-piece status the band continues to evoke passion amongst their fiercely dedicated and ever growing fanbase. The Jarmans – brothers Gary, Ryan and Ross have always been fiercely independent, proud of their DIY ethos and from their early days adept at writing great songs leaving a catalogue of classic punk rock brilliance, battle scars and memories. The Cribs will once again be thrilling, spilling, entertaining and engaging.
Canadian punks BILLY TALENT come to Reading & Leeds Festival with expectations for their upcoming fourth album riding high. The band, led by vocalist Ben Kowalewicz had been playing together for almost a decade before a name change lead to a record deal and their debut eponymous album was released in 2003. “A sh*t-hot, world-dominating hard-rock band has grown out of these four former Mississauga teenagers' shared high-school dreams of … well … growing into a sh*t-hot, world-dominating hard-rock band” is how they describe themselves. Check it out for yourself at the NME/Radio 1 Stage.
MIIKE SNOW are back and return with their new album ‘Happy To You’ later this month. The hugely talented Stockholm-based three-piece have previously dabbled in the DJ scene and in punk bands, alongside electro and new wave, which lead to writing and production stints with the likes of Madonna and Britney Spears. Now ready to step out of the studio again, these shows are a must see for all music fans.
Sunday 26th August at Reading Festival / Friday 24th August at Leeds Festival
Ed Banger’s JUSTICE make electronic music that everyone can rock to. With riffs now as heavy as their beats, the Grammy-nominated Parisian pair head for Reading & Leeds armed with new album ‘Audio, Video, Disco’. The record has established them as an international force who are equally at home blaring from a dance club sound system or performing in an arena. Expect a powerful and mesmerising headline performance from a truly unique group.
Since releasing their debut album ‘Tourist History’ in March 2010, TWO DOOR CINEMA CLUB have rapidly become one of the biggest new success stories in UK music. After selling out headline tours in the UK, US, Europe, Australia, Asia, Japan and South America, playing two successive sold out nights at Shepherds Bush Empire and selling out Brixton Academy in under four hours, the band have deservedly earned both a devoted word-of-mouth live following and huge critical acclaim. The Times have called them “the band of the moment” and NME declared that they have “quietly become one of the UK’s best loved bands".
The release of THE HORRORS’ third album ‘Skying’ saw the band’s already impeccable credentials soar even higher. The record was celebrated across the board by fans new and old as their finest yet and recently won the NME ‘Album of the Year’ accolade. Not that their debut ‘Strange House’ and follow up ‘Primary Colours’ hadn’t already cemented their reputation as one of the most original and ground breaking groups around. Both dense and expansive, insidiously poppy and stubbornly arty, The Horrors are one of the bands you must see at the festival.
SBTRKT returns to Reading & Leeds Festival after last year's triumphant DJ set on the Dance Stage, this time round, fans will be treated to his famous live show. His self-titled, Mercury nominated debut album propelled towards the top of DJ’s playlists around the world with his combination of funk, soul, synths and bass. Fresh from releasing single ‘Hold On’ with Sampha, SBTRKT now has his sights firmly set on the August Bank Holiday weekend.
Saturday 25TH August at Reading Festival / Sunday 26th August at Leeds Festival
After ranking high on several Best Of 2011 lists with their Mercury-nominated album ‘The English Riviera’ and playing to a sold out Royal Albert Hall in October, METRONOMY now turn their attention to 2012 with a headline set on the Dance Stage. Expect a belting, unashamed summer pop set which is sure to propel the quartet to new heights.
KATY B stops off at Reading & Leeds Festival having captured the sound, spirit and energy of British youth culture with 2011’s Mercury nominated debut album ‘On A Mission’. Having just won ‘Best Dancefloor Anthem’ for ‘Broken Record’ at the recent NME Awards, Katy has captured the hearts of many, setting her apart from her peers and firmly gaining her status as one of the UK’s biggest breakthrough acts of recent years.
www.katyonamission.com
Having recently completed a stint on the sold out NME Awards tour, 2012 is shaping up to be a huge year for AZEALIA BANKS. The controversial ‘212’ is fast approaching four million views on YouTube, whilst Azealia recently topped NME’s cool list for 2012 and featured in the Top Three in the BBC Sound Of 2012 poll. With her recently announced debut album ‘Broke With Expensive Taste’ due out in September, Reading & Leeds audiences will be treated to a very special preview come August.
www.azealiabanks.com
Known for his lightening DJ mash ups, JAGUAR SKILLS is one of the most in demand names on the circuit. Praise has been forthcoming from Trevor Nelson who declared he is “the greatest mash-up DJ right now, no one does it better” while Mark Ronson stated “Jaguar Skills, like myself, is a proper ninja! He’s dope!!!” Expect an aural assault of every tempo, from dubstep to drum ‘n’ bass, and everything in-between.
Weekend tickets £197.50 plus applicable booking fees ● Day tickets Fri, Sat, Sun £85.00 plus applicable booking fees ● Early entry permits £15.00 ● Campervan permits £60.00 ● Lockers £15.00 ● Reading car parking £5.00 ● Weekend ticket prices include camping
Online/Telephone from Monday 12th March 7.15pm:
Tickets are strictly limited to a maximum of four per person/address/payment card for those booking by telephone or online and two per person/address/payment card for personal callers to walk in stores.
Friday 26th August at Reading Festival / Saturday 27th August at Leeds Festival
THE HORRORS will take to the Festival Republic Stage as our headliners for what is sure to be two very special shows. After forming in the summer of 2005, the band quickly gained notoriety around London for their look, sound and brief but frantic live shows. Mixing shoegazing, post-punk and goth influences, expect The Horrorsto deliver one of those iconic Festival Republic Stage moments.
With a long awaited new album ready to drop on 20th June, DIGITALISM are all set to perform at this year’s Reading & Leeds Festival. The German duo make electronic music that everyone can rock to. Over the past few years, they have been the go-to men for indie remixes, having reworked the Klaxons, Futureheads and Cut Copy. With the new album featuring a track co-written with The Strokes front man Julian Casablancas, the record is sure to drag the indie kids back to their electronic party.
Five years on from his acclaimed debut album, TOM VEK is back. Vek spontaneously released his first album just as the digital age was dawning, then disappeared. Now he returns with his second album ‘Leisure Seizure’, released on 6th June on Island Records. An artist with a unique and singular vision, these sets are not to be missed.
Genre hopping four piece, WHITE DENIM, head to the Festival Republic Stage off the back of their critically acclaimed new album, ‘D’. Fiercely experimental and talented, The Guardian were moved to say “they cram more radical change into single songs than many bands managed in entire lifespans”.
One of the most talked about artists of 2011, ANNA CALVI is set for her first visit to Reading & Leeds. After a nomination in the BBC Sounds poll in January, Anna has since released her debut album through Domino Records, with The Evening Standard declaring that “her raw talent is undeniable: 2011 is Calvi’s for the taking”.
www.annacalvi.com
THE ANTLERS is Peter Silberman, Darby Cicci and Michael Lerner. With a new expansive sound on recent album ‘Burst Apart’, released via our Alternative Stage friends Transgressive Records, the plaudits are piling up and The Antlers look set to become one of the names of the festival.
FOSTER THE PEOPLE are “a band with greatness absolutely within their grasp” according to The Sunday Times. The three piece, who recently played their first UK shows, are now readying their debut album ‘Torches’ which is due out later this month.
New York punks CEREBRAL BALLZY have a reputation for being one of the most exciting bands on the circuit. With a sound compared to the likes of Black Flag, Minor Threat and early Beastie Boys this is a group that never disappoints live.
DRY THE RIVER are one of the one’s to watch at this year’s festival. After building momentum in 2010, 2011 has seen the band play rapturously received shows at the SXSW Festival in Austin, Texas (hailed by NME as one of the highlights of the week) and begin recording debut album, due for release later this year, with Peter Katis (The National, Interpol).
Knoxville’s ROYAL BANGS released their debut album in 2008 through Audio Eye Records, an independent label founded by Patrick Carney of The Black Keys. Trading instruments and production duties, band members Chris Rusk, Ryan Schaefer and Sam Stratton are now back with new album ‘Flux Outside’.
Exeter’s THE COMPUTERS released their debut full length album ‘This Is The Computers’ last month. There is no ambiguity or airs of pretension here. The Computers play sartorially-snappy supersonic rhythm and blues with larynx-shredding vocals. Rock Sound summed it up by declaring their sound as “50’s fuelled riffery and scream along gang vocals with an intensity that would make Chuck Berry roll in his grave”.
ISLET are liquid, rotating between instruments, singing, howling. Drum-duo breakdowns, splashes of guitar, searing organs. Playing music for the joy of the moment. Their second mini-album, ‘Wimmy’ was released in October 2010 and was recorded and mixed themselves in Cardiff, and affirms Islet to be one of the most exciting new bands that the UK has seen for a long time.
On a break from Queens of the Stone Age, Michael Shuman joined forces with long time friends Tyler Parkford and Zach Dawes to create MINI MANSIONS. Josh Homme describes the band’s sound as “genuinely psychedelic with huge hooks… after listening to Mini Mansions just once, you won’t be able to get it out of your head”. Be sure to get in the arena early to witness these sets.
Hailing from the blistering valley of Los Angeles and touted as rock’s new generation is CHERRI BOMB, a badass all girl rock band who have already shared the stage with such bands as Filter, the super group Camp Freddy and toured with the Smashing Pumpkins.
Saturday 27th August at Reading Festival / Sunday 28th August at Leeds Festival
After drawing one of the weekend’s biggest crowds last year, THE MIDNIGHT BEAST return as our Festival Republic Stage headliners. The internet sensations sent YouTube into meltdown last year with their cover of Ke$ha’s ‘Tik Tok’. If you haven’t seen them live yet, think of them as a musical version of the characters of The Inbetweeners, and be sure to catch them this summer at Reading & Leeds Festival.
NYC’s RIVAL SCHOOLS will remind us just what we’ve been missing when they return to the UK this summer. Since reforming in 2008 after nearly eight years away the band has been touring the US and Europe relentlessly, including a UK co-headline tour with…The Trail Of Dead. The pioneers of Post-Hardcore will certainly appeal to a whole new generation of fans now they’ve released their much anticipated third album ‘Pedals’.
Known for their unrelenting tours that has seen them play over 300 gigs since the start of 2009 Belfast’s finest AND SO I WATCH YOU FROM AFAR (ASIWYFA to their fans) are still going strong. From appearances at festivals around the world to a support slot for rock supergroup ‘Them Crooked Vultures’, we can look forward to the instrumental quartet’s subtle rhythms on the Festival Republic Stage
www.myspace.com/andsoiwatchyoufromafar
Since Forming in 2007 Chicago’s five-piece Indie rockers SMITH WESTERNS have managed to tour both the USand Europe while supporting the likes of MGMT, Florence and The Machine and Passion Pit, now they arrive at this year’s Reading & Leedssure to perform a storming set.
www.smithwesternsmusic.com
From being awarded with the critically acclaimed Australian Music Award to a personal request to support Foo Fighters, Australian four-piece CLOUD CONTROL are now set to unleash their collection of quirky, harmonic psyche-pop at this year’s Reading & Leeds Festival. Drowned In Sound declared “They have made a tremendously enjoyable album”. A tremendously enjoyable set is nigh.
www.cloudcontrolband.com
Recently signing to Lily Allen’s Sony imprint label ITNO, new rising talents in the shape of Brian Oblivion and Madeline Follin make up the mystery and intrigue that lies behind CULTS. The duo have enjoyed huge critical acclaim for their eponymous album released this summer and have quickly gained the tag as a band not to miss live … so don’t!
www.cults.bandcamp.com
MARIARCHI EL BRONX, the Alter ego of LA rockersThe Bronx have released material under both identities previously and have recently announced a tour with Foo Fighters later in the year. The band always receive a rapturous response to their Mariachi-style performances and we expect nothing less this year.
www.mariachielbronx.com
Hannah Hooper and Christian Zucconi are the inspirations behind GROUPLOVE. After a US tour opening for Florence and the Machine and a debut album to be released later this year, we can certainly expect greater things to come from these US indie rockers, including a thrilling set at this year’s Reading & Leeds Festival.
www.grouplovemusic.com
Camden’s TRIBES described by fanboys The Mystery Jets as “The future of rock’n roll”; a sentiment chimed by everyone from NME to Radio 1’s Huw Stephens. Their debut EP ‘We Were Children’ also gained Zane Lowe’s coveted ‘Hottest Record in the World’ status. The 4 piece will be coming straight back at us with their debut album later this year not to mention a rip-roaring set on the Festival Republic Stage.
www.myspace.com/tribesband
BIG DEAL were recently the NME Radar band of the week and they described them as “Armed with just an acoustic and electric guitar, the set-up may be sparse, but its bittersweet soundtrack certainly packs a punch”. This London duo are building a reputation as ones to watch so don’t miss their Big Star/Velvets/ woozy, sexy pop classicism inspired sound.
www.myspace.com/weareabigdeal
YOUNG THE GIANT completed their first UK tour in 2010 now the Californian quintet’s return to the UK is imminent as they prepare for a full-on set at this year’s Reading & Leeds Festival. Thanks to early radio support across the UK including Radio 1 and NME radio the band certainly have fans, including Morrissey who stated recently “I will be kneeling with gratitude on a hardwood floor for many years tocome”
www.youngthegiant.com
Compared to The White Stripes and Cat Power, Brooklyn’s Blues rock partnership, Jessica Larrabee and Andy Laplant are the talented duo behind SHE KEEPS BEES. Their fiery, soulful sounds are sure to keep us wanting more when they perform.
www.shekeepsbees.com
Sunday 28th August at Reading Festival / Friday 26th August at Leeds Festival
We are proud to welcome the quintessential rock star PETER DOHERTY as a Festival Republic Stage headliner. After last year’s incredible performances with The Libertines, one of the best British songwriters of our generation returns in what is sure to be one of the highlights of the weekend.
www.albionrooms.com
BROTHER arrive as one of THE most talked about bands of 2011. With their Stephen Street produced debut album ‘Famous First Words’ out on 1st August, these shows are guaranteed to be the talk of both sites come the end of the weekend. Brother, with their classic British rock’n’roll sound and swaggering confidence, are quickly creeping into the nation’s consciousness.
www.acidlove.net
ED SHEERAN created a name for himself when he came to attention after posting a video through SB.tv displaying his diverse style. After extensive gigging, performing songs from his early EPs and albums he recently signed a well-deserved record deal with Atlantic. His talent is truly phenomenal.
www.edsheeran.com
THE TWILIGHT SINGERS arrive at Reading & Leeds on the back of the band’s critically acclaimed new album ‘Dynamite Steps’. Clearly the next chapter in an already long and stellar career for lead singer Greg Dulli, Dynamite Steps has been one of the best-reviewed albums of his lengthy career on both sides of the Atlantic and he will no doubt convert yet more disciples to his broad church. www.thetwilightsingers.com
We welcome COCKNBULLKID, aka, 25 year old Hackney resident Anita Blay. Having released her debut single back in 2008, she has been earning accolades ever since and in possession of one the most interesting, credible pop record of the year in ‘Adulthood’ which has seen her reach out to more fans worldwide.
www.cocknbullkid.com
Rising stars TWIN ATLANTIC released their debut album ‘Free’ earlier this year. The Glasgow rockers won rave reviews for the record, and with anthems from the Lostprophets and My Chemical Romance school of rock, be sure to get down the front for these sets.
Formed in 2006 Dublin’s FIGHT LIKE APES (FLA) have since toured the UK with The Ting Tings, The Prodigy and Kasabian. Their 2010 release ‘The Body of Christ and the Legs of Tina Turner’ won the Irish album of the year and they claim their influences to include B-movies, computer games, kung-fu and wrestling – don’t miss their ‘trademark twin-synth attack’.
www.fightlikeapesmusic.com
One of the UK’s brightest talents, BENJAMIN FRANCIS LEFTWICH, released his debut EP ‘A Million Miles Out’ at the end of 2010 and quickly garnered praise across the board. Radio 1 DJ’s Zane Lowe and Fearne Cotton were vocal supporters, whilst Jo Whiley made ‘Atlas Hands’ one of her tracks of 2010. With his debut album out next month, be sure to catch this very special act this August.
Currently on tour with Gomez, LITTLE COMETS have been creating a buzz in all the right places since their intriguingly titled debut album ‘In Search of Elusive Little Comets’ was released in the New Year. The Guardian were moved to say “they’re your new favourite hip-hoppy, pop-rocking, uni gate-crashing, social networking band”.
Hailing from Manchester DUTCH UNCLES met at primary school and released their debut album ‘Cadenza’ for Memphis Industries earlier this year. Described by the band as “definitely pop music but hopefully with a little bit more for the listener to scratch beneath the surface” the group have mixed pop and indie and added something very special to the mix.
From the horse’s mouth – ‘NIGHTBOX believe the invention of the drum kit has improved humanity’s standard of living more dramatically than penicillin, sliced bread, and the wheel combined. The five band members have dedicated their life’s work to the primal bliss that rhythm brings, and their labours have consistently borne joyous, funky fruit’. Get your dancing shoes ready for these Canadian boys.
www.nightbox.ca
Sinister speed-punks FLATS yank together the spirit of every raucous punk band that’s come before them but give it their own inedible and thrilling spin. Their live reputation has been earned by continual visceral live shows and they are sure to wake up the day.
ROMANCE are a three-piece post punk group from London. After forming in 2008, the band are starting to make waves in all the right places. With influences such as Bauhaus and Siouxsie And The Banshees, they create a fresh reworking of the seventies Goth sound. See for yourself over the weekend.
www.istheromance.com
TICKETING INFO
Weekend tickets £192.50 plus booking fees • Day tickets Fri, Sat, Sun £82.50 plus booking fee • Early entry permits £15 • Weekend ticket prices include camping.
Tickets are strictly limited to a maximum of four per household for those booking by telephone or online and two per person for personal callers to walk in stores.
These join the previously announced MARK THOMAS, RUSSELL KANE, TIM MINCHIN, HENRY ROLLINS and LEE NELSON to this ever popular stage.
Just some of the artists confirmed for this year’s festival include: MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE, THE STROKES, PULP, MUSE, BEADY EYE, JANE’S ADDICTION, 2 MANY DJ’S, THE STREETS, UNKLE Sounds, SIMIAN MOBILE DISCO, MIGHTY MIGHTY BOSSTONES and DESCENDENTS.
Reading & Leeds Festivals take place on Friday 26th to Sunday 28th August at Little John’s Farm in Reading and Bramham Park in Leeds.
Many more names are still to be announced for this stage as well as the full line-up for the Festival Republic Stage and BBC Introducing Stage.
ON THE ALTERNATIVE STAGE
According to MARK WATSON, he is a comedian, author, sports pundit and husband. He was born in 1980 and according to life expectancy for his socio-economic group and Body Mass Index, will die in 2056. According to the Evening Standard he is “A scholar, a gentleman and a brilliant stand-up”. Known for his appearances on countless TV and radio shows, he is also a writer and has won many awards for his hilarious shows.
POPCORN COMEDY is a comedy show created by Jon Petrie and Holly Walsh in January 2009. It presents some of the strongest, sharpest and funniest videos online. The show also features the country’s best comedians as they showcase their own short comedy films. Previous live performers have included Peter Serafinowicz,Tim Key, Adam Buxton, Josie Long, Robert Popper, David Cross and Graham Linehan.Popcorn Comedy is a Time Out ‘Critic’s Choice’ and has featured on the Culture Show (BBC2).
SAUL WILLIAMS is an American poet, writer, actor and musician known for his blend of poetry and alternative hip hop. He has collaborated with some of the coolest musicians on the planet, appeared in lots of films and released several albums and books. His latest record release ‘Volcanic Sunlight’ has found him more fans as will this exciting appearance.
RUBBERBANDITS are the award winning comedy hip-hop duo of Blind Boy Boat Club and Mr.Chrome from Limerick, Ireland. A cult hit with millions of You Tube followers this anarchic pair have broken into the mainstream at home and walked off with the Best Irish Act at the entertainment.ie Awards and an IFTA (Irish Film and Television Awards) earlier this year. With prank phone calls, songs and riotous live shows Rubberbandits have emerged as the country’s surrealists beyond compare. Comedic genius or verbal diarrhoea. Decide for yourselves.
LATE NIGHT GIMP FIGHT are David Moon, Lee Griffiths, Matt Ralph, Paul Biggin and Richard Campbell. The most talked about new sketch group around will wear you down and make you laugh at the most ridiculous things. It may leave you feeling violated, but in a good way! We challenge anyone not to let out a chuckle with these five lads, check them out at this year’s Reading & Leeds Festivals.
One of comedy’s most acclaimed rising stars, SEANN WALSH has garnered multiple awards and nominations, and has appeared on ‘Mock the Week’ (BBC2), ‘Grouchy Young Men’ (Comedy Central) and ‘Russell Howard’s Good News’ (BBC3). Described by Time Out as “This generation’s Dylan Moran, with the looks, gags and charm to become something quite special” and “near-impeccable” by Chortle, these shows are not to be missed.
ANDREW O’NEILL is a unique entertainer. A celebrated stand up, he is also an out and proud metalhead and an amateur occultist. He also has a steampunk band called The Men That Will Not Be Blamed For Nothing – a true original talent and one we welcome to Leeds wholeheartedly. Having gained rave reviews for his tours to date this is a performance you do not want to miss.
“As he goes about his life AL PITCHER sees a lot of ordinary things – but he rarely sees them in an ordinary way” was how one critic appraised his show. With a CV stretching back over a decade Pitcher has found his ground and Time Out described him as “sitting in the improvising, rambling freewheeling camp as inhabited by the likes of Ross Noble and Eddie Izzard”. Al will be performing at both Reading and Leeds this summer but be warned, he’ll have you crying with tears of laughter.
A relative newcomer, JOSH WIDDICOMBE hit the stage in 2008 and has since made a remarkable impact on the comedy circuit and is held in high regard having appeared at most of London’s comedy venues. Alongside his stand up Josh has written for the likes of TV’s ‘Mock The Week’ and ‘8 Out of 10 Cats’ whilst also drawing plaudits for his sketch show Superclump at the Edinburgh Festival in 2009 and last year winning The Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year award.
www.joshwiddicombe.co.uk (Leeds Saturday)
A Canadian by birth CRAIG CAMPBELL now resides in the UK where he has appeared on numerous TV shows including amongst others ‘Russell Howard’s Good News’, ‘Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow’ and ‘Dave’s One Night Stand’. Having toured last year as support for Frankie Boyle on his sold out UK tour, Campbell is currently performing his debut stand-up tour before making another debut at this year’s Leeds Festival.
Not many people can claim to have been on The Inbetweeners and CBBC’s ‘Big Babies’ (for which he also sang the theme tune) but DOC BROWN is not your usual artist. A comedian and ex. rapper who’s recent shows have told of ‘A humbling and hilarious hip-hop salute to nearly making it’, Doc has been winning accolades for his live performances since he left the music industry and moved to comedy full time.
Since winning The Chortle Student Comedian Award in 2007, TOM DEACON became the face of the BBC ‘s ‘5:19’ youth show, he has also taken part as a member of Edinburgh’s longest running group comedy show The Comedy Zone. With relentless gigging and solo shows under his belt Deacon also has his own show on Radio 1 on Sunday nights. An impressive CV for a bright new star.
STEVE HUGHES is a wiry rocker with a mass of hair and beard, so should feel at home at Reading this year. In the 1980s and early 90s, Steve was a heavy metal drummer in bands such as Slaughter Lord, Mortal Sin and Primordial. After laying down the sticks, he made a name for himself in comedy. In Australia he has been a presenter on MTV and has performed on shows including ‘The Live Floor Show’ and ‘The World Stands Up’ on these shores. Thought provoking to the end, he isn’t afraid to air his views on anything and everything.
Winner of the FHM Search For A Stand-up competition, MARLON DAVIS, is a young comedian, improviser and actor who embraces his work with energy and charisma. Marlon’s act is inspired from his upbringing, looking at urban Britain and tackling its social issues with skilful characterisations. With a ‘Brown Eyed Boy’ series on MTV under his belt, big things are expected.
One of the world’s best human beat boxers, THE PETEBOX is heading to Reading and Leeds. His incredible performances are more similar to that of a full band as he builds each layer of his tracks live using a loop pedal to form fully crafted songs. These skills have won him a Channel 4 Talent Award, and also saw him crowned Radio 1’s beat boxing champion in 2005. Expect drum & bass, jazz, house, garage and rock and get ready for the journey of a lifetime with The Petebox.
Described as part Ziggy Stardust, part Victoria Wood, BRIGITTE APHRODITE, arrives at Reading & Leeds as one of the most talked about new artists of the year. Brigitte released her debut single ‘I Dream Myself Awake’ in April on Kate Nash’s new Have 10p label and hit the road with Nash to rave reviews earlier this year. Having bowled over unsuspecting audiences throughout, these shows are not to be missed.
For the fifth year running, TRANSGRESSIVE RECORDS - possibly the coolest record label, live promotions, publishing and management outfit in the country – and friends take over the Alternative Stage at Leeds Festival. As ever, they will be providing live performances from tomorrow’s musical heroes, plus unique visuals and special guest DJ’s. And to mark the big Five Years, Transgressive’s involvement has increased to curating not just their traditional ‘closing party’ slot on Sunday evening – but now Saturday night too. Promising their most eclectic and biggest line-up so far, further details will be unveiled in due course. Past artists to have made an early live appearance at the Transgressive take-over at the Alternative Stage include Noah & The Whale, Laura Marling, Two Door Cinema Club, Pulled Apart by Horses, Warpaint and Everything Everything.
Chortle described STEPHEN GRANT (MC) as having “The kind of comedy vision that can see round corners”- he’s certainly one of the UK’s funniest, hardest working and most respected comedians. The resident and award winning compere at the Komedia Krater Comedy Club in Brighton has performed all over the world as well as working on TV and radio.
GOLDIEROCKS is Sam Hall; DJ, presenter and party planner du-jour. Renowned for her energised DJ appearances, invading parties and aftershows all over the world – at some point in time, Sam’s probably hijacked your fave electro/indie haunt. Sure to pack the tent with her provocative sense of ‘style, finesse and foresight’. Listen to her create the ultimate Electro-Rock N Roll Disco.
No matter what your mood, you really can’t help but warm to rising star DAVE TWENTYMAN (MC). He recently won the St Helens Comedian Of The Year competition and was promptly tipped to follow the success of fellow St Helens comic Johnny Vegas.Naturally funny & quick on his feet, he holds the room in the palm of his hands & keeps the laughter flowing.
www.dave-twentyman.co.uk(Leeds Sunday)
TICKETING INFO
Weekend tickets £192.50 plus booking fees • Day tickets Fri, Sat, Sun £82.50 plus booking fee • Early entry permits £15 • Weekend ticket prices include camping.
Tickets are strictly limited to a maximum of four per household for those booking by telephone or online and two per person for personal callers to walk in stores.
Selected HMV stores, see websites for store listings.
Reading tickets can be bought at face value, in person when paid for in cash at the Reading Arts & Venues Box Office, The Hexagon.
Leeds tickets can be bought at face value, in person when paid for in cash at Leeds Visitor Centre. Also in person from Crash Records and Jumbo Records subject to booking fees.
Please note that picture ID/proof of address will be required at the time of booking. Tickets are subject to availability. Limit of 2 per household/person for personal callers.
Children under 13 (12 and under) are admitted free but MUST be accompanied by a ticket holding adult. Please note there is no separate children’s area at this event.
Mike Davies, presenter of The Punk Rock Show on Radio 1 and curator of the stage commented “2011 is the year that Punk Rock broke out… again. There are so many great groups around and I truly believe that we have managed to get 24 of the best bands possible to play on the Lock Up Stage. It’s guaranteed to be the best weekend of the summer.”
The Reading & Leeds Festival take place on Europe’s biggest dual site, Little John’s Farm in Reading and Bramham Park in Leeds. Held Friday 26th August – Sunday 28th August 2011, this is the most exciting weekend of music and fun held anywhere in the world.
Many more names are still to be announced as well as the full line-up for the Festival Republic Stage, BBC Introducing Stage and The Alternative Stage.
LOCK UP STAGE
Saturday 27th August at Reading Festival / Sunday 28th August at Leeds Festival
Since forming 21 years ago, THE MIGHTY MIGHTY BOSSTONES have toured the world and taken their self-created ska-core sound to millions of fans. Arguably the founding fathers of this scene, they’ve continued to entertain countless fans with their high-energy live shows fronted by the inimitable Dicky Barrett.
Formed in North London, KING BLUES have long held the baton fusing ska, folk and punk rock. Armed with a formidable live reputation and a political backdrop the band have gone from strength to strength. The recent release of their third album ‘Punk and Poetry’ described by one magazine as the “searing soundtrack to revolution summer 2011” enhances that reputation further.
THE BRONX bring their Los Angeles hardcore punk to this year’s Reading & Leeds Festival. Having formed back in the early noughties and with a penchant for eponymously naming their albums – they’ve released three, as well as the mariachi album ‘El Bronx’ this quintet return with their own sense of excitement to the stage.
2010 saw CAPDOWN reform having split two years earlier. Their return to the hardcore punk scene is a positive one and has seen no let-up in their political polemic which has seen releases on numerous independent labels over the past decade. Catch this acclaimed live outfit now in case they really call it day!
Hard to pigeonhole, New York’s LEFTOVER CRACK bring their amalgam of Ska, hardcore punk and the well documented anti -bigotry / religion / police and government stance to this year’s Lock Up stage.
Originally formed as a side project to Figure Four, Canada’s COMEBACK KID’s popularity was fuelled initially by the band’s word of mouth reputation on the hardcore scene’s bush telegraph. This soon enough saw them recognised in their own right as an exciting addition to the hardcore scene.
Another reformation, BOYSETSFIRE announced their plans at the tail end of last year having called it a day back in 2007. This post hardcore five-piece tear it up tough with a political slant that will be a highlight on this stage this summer.
The band describe STREET DOGS as having started as little more than a “poker night” for musicians, with piles of chips traded in for stacks of amps instead. However, these talented Boston musicians, fronted by ex-Dropkick Murphy’s vocalist Mike McColgan’s soon made the step up to the respected recording and touring outfit the now are. Thrilling punk rock from the experts.
Off the back of a Canadian tour with label mates NOFX,Wyoming’s very own TEENAGE BOTTLEROCKET bring their young punk attitudes to the Lock Up stage at this year’s Reading & Leeds Festival.
Recently signing a new record deal with SideOneDummy Records, home of Anti- Flag and The Gaslight Anthem, Pennsylvania’s four-piece rockers TITLE FIGHT areall set to embark on a tour of Europe so will certainly be well prepared for a full on hard-hitting set on the Lock Up stage this summer.
SHARKS are one of the names to drop on the punk scene. Having played shows with the likes of Gallows and Lostprophets amongst others, recent EP’s showcased a band that are all about their music. Expect these shows to continue the buzz that has them marked as one’s to watch.
Sunday 28th August at Reading Festival / Friday 26th August at Leeds Festival
If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, the DESCENDENTS must go to sleep with flushed cheeks every night of the week. Few bands can claim to have influenced and inspired so many artists in their time. They took punk and pop into the mosh-pit in 1978 and have continued to fuse catchy melodies with raw energy ever since. These Californian legends will close the night in style.
A little bit of Dublin, via Los Angeles comes to Reading & Leeds courtesy of FLOGGING MOLLY. Traditional Celtic instruments like violin, mandolin and accordion blend seamlessly with grinding guitars and pounding drums to make the ultimate party sound. Fronted by Dave King the seven-piece have taken their musical passion around the world and know how to fire up a festival crowd.
After an eight year break, Southern California’s FACE TO FACE return next month with their eighth studio album ‘Laugh Now, Laugh Later’, released via Antagonist Records / Century Media. Regarded as one of the seminal and most influential punk rock bands of recent times, Face To Face are a sure fire hit for this year, get there early to make sure you see this set.
Post hardcore legends HOT WATER MUSIC arrive at Reading & Leeds Festival ready to deliver a whirlwind live performance. Formed in 1994 by singers / guitarists Chuck Ragan and Chris Wolland, bassist Jason Black and drummer George Rebelo, the band have gone on to inspire a generation of music fans. Be sure to witness a huge and lively crowd for these sets.
www.hotwatermusicdotcom.wordpress.com
The tale of BEDOUIN SOUNDCLASH has been filled with step after step of something special — from live shows that are as emotionally incendiary as they are monstrously entertaining to albums that have stoked the hearts and minds of thousands. These Canadians released their latest album ‘Light The Hoizon’ last year and are sure to perform tracks from it as well as their extensive back catalogue.
Formed in 2010 by Jim Lindberg, for 20 years the frontman of influential Californian punk band Pennywise, THE BLACK PACIFIC play their first eagerly-awaited Reading & Leeds Festival this summer in support of their eponymous debut album.
www.theblackpacific.com
With a demo tape that ended up on many critics’ Top 10 lists, Pennsylvanian rockers THE MENZINGERS are destined to be huge and have spent the past year building support with the likes of The Gaslight Anthem, NOFX and Anti-Flag.
Currently on a whirlwind tour of the US, Brighton hardcore punks YOUR DEMISE return to the UK to blow us away with songs from ‘The Kids We Used To Be…’, their second album for legendary rock label Visible Noise.
Featuring members of Gallows, Haunts and Cry For Silence, much-touted Watford-based supergroup SPY CATCHER release their debut album ‘Honesty’ this summer and are sure to justify their hype at Reading & Leeds.
Fans of south London ska-punks MOUTHWASH will be salivating at the prospect of their festival appearances, as the band return triumphant from their first headline tour and slots with The Skints and The King Blues.
Friday 26th August at Reading Festival / Saturday 27th August at Leeds Festival
Bringing a worldwide exclusive show to this year’s Reading & Leeds Festival, our co-headliner on The Dance Stage is UNKLE Sounds. The ever-evolving James Lavelle will debut UNKLE Sounds, an audio-visual DJ show pushing original tracks from UNKLE’s career plus select UNKLE remixes of other artists and remixes of UNKLE tracks on to the dance floor. With set and production design by long time UNKLE collaborators, Warren Du Preez and Nick Thornton Jones, the show will bring UNKLE’s illustrious music and visual history into the future. With exclusive audio and visuals being prepared for these shows, they are not to be missed.
We are not exaggerating when we say our co-headliners on The Dance Stage, SIMIAN MOBILE DISCO, are one of the most successful electronic music acts around today. Early singles such as ‘The Mighty Atom’, ‘The Count’ and ‘Kitsuné hit ‘Hustler’ led to a 2007 debut album ‘Attack Decay Sustain Release’ on Wichita Recordings. The record was their breakthrough. Perhaps more importantly, it also gave birth to what would become one of electronic music’s most talked-about live shows, a celebrated DJing career and respect among their peers for a dedication to an analogue production aesthetic. These days, the live show is as forward-thinking as ever with an added component of video gradually being added to enhance and expand the experience. In other words, SMD are busy. Long may they remain so.
SUB FOCUS (LIVE) – the alias of DJ and producer Nick Douwma – is one of the biggest names in drum and bass and a pioneer in breaking down genre barriers within dance music. Rising from bedroom producer to major player in just a few years, Sub Focus has collaborated with the likes of Deadmau5, Dizzee Rascal and The Prodigy, with his stunning recent single ‘Splash’featuring vocals by Coco Sumner. Having joined Pendulum on tour last year to rave reviews, expect dancefloor hysteria as he brings his raucous melting pot of electronic beats to the Dance Stage at Reading & Leeds.
Producers Dan Stephens and Joe Ray are NERO (DJ set). Before setting the dubstep world alight (which resulted in a BBC Sound of 2011 nomination), NERO made drum ‘n’ bass for the masses. Having first come to widespread attention with a remix of The Streets ‘Blinded By The Lights’, they’ve subsequently remixed tunes for La Roux, N*E*R*D, Daft Punk and Beyoncé amongst others. The duo’s third single, ‘Guilt’, made its premiere when Zane Lowe selected it as his Hottest Record In The World, and will be included on the debut album which will drop early August.
SBTRKT (DJ set) is the elusive London based producer making some of the freshest beats around, and he’s heading for the decks at Reading & Leeds. He’s got the airwaves in a stir with Mary Anne Hobbs declaring ‘when people ask you who’s your top tip for next year, this guy might be it’. Recently SBTRKT has wrapped up remixes for Basement Jaxx, Jack Penate, Portico Quartet and These New Puritans. With solo releases forthcoming on the Young Turks, Brainmath and Ramp Recordings stables, look out for ltd release 12”s, a new album and further remixes from one of the hottest new UK producers.
Already a massive name on the underground rap scene, 2010 saw Dagenham’s DEVLIN emerge as one of the UK’s most exciting crossover artists. Blending playful storytelling with social realism and ‘the biggest vocabulary in grime’, Devlin’s meteoric rise from parties and open mics to three million YouTube hits, a five-label bidding war and a deal with Island Records has seen him dubbed ‘the Eminem of Essex’. Weaned on rap, inspired by garage, schooled by grime but with a scabrous wit and sound all his own, Devlin will be tearing up the Dance Stage this summer at Reading & Leeds.
Tipped by the Guardian as “one of this summer’s most irresistible festival bands”, CRYSTAL FIGHTERS are a thrilling addition to the Dance Stage. Their Basque-by-way-of-Hackney vibes are a jubilant collision of old-world musicianship and future electronics, utilising traditional wooden percussion and pipe whistles alongside raved-up synths and bass-driven computer-funk. The band have been honoured twice with a Radio 1 Record of the Week, whilst the energy and intensity of their live shows is legendary – “the single most exciting show in dance music” says Mixmag. Expect their gloriously euphoric sound to be the talk of Reading & Leeds.
UK post-dubstep duo MOUNT KIMBIE are one of the hottest acts of the moment, their debut album ‘Crooks and Lovers’appeared in over thirty ‘Best of 2010’ lists including Pitchfork, NME and Mixmag. Their minimal ambient soundscapes defy genre pigeonholing, featuring delicate loops, sampling and field recordings to hypnotic and haunting effect. With countless sold-out shows worldwide, their appearance on the Dance Stage at Reading & Leeds could be the best chance to catch them this summer.
Reading’s very own anarcho-electro heroes DOES IT OFFEND YOU, YEAH? return with the promise of another incendiary performance on the Dance Stage. Having severed ties with major labels to stay true to their experimental rave-rock roots, the band’s first album for Cooking Vinyl, ‘Don’t Say We Didn’t Warn You’, was released in March and was a Top 3 UK dance chart smash. While their resolutely indie approach has earned transatlantic success and a touring spot with Linkin Park, a loyal UK fanbase will ensure a frenzied reception at both Reading & Leeds this summer.
COLD CAVE are back with a new album, ‘Cherish The Light Years’, and are heading to Reading & Leeds Festival. The record sees the band move in a new direction whilst still retaining the pulsing synthesizers, huge beats and post-punk sounds of their 2009 debut, ‘Love Comes Close’.Guest appearances arrive from the likes of Nick Zinner (Yeah Yeah Yeahs) and members of hardcore bands Glassjaw, Hatebreed and Moss Icon amongst others. The album delivers in all the right places and these shows are sure to do the same.
D/R/U/G/S is the project of one Callum Wright, who crafts some of the most euphoric, radical new music around. Early tracks quickly found their way onto the blogs and soon were being written about by NME, The Fader, Q, Dummy and XLR8R and played by Rob da Bank and Steve Lamacq on radio. This attention sent him on the road, and since starting out he has played around the UK and Europe, going down a storm at In The City, where he was given the title Most Buzzed About Act. In the live arena, Callum cements his reputation as one of the most exciting new musicians around.
Friday 26th August at Reading Festival / Saturday 27th August at Leeds Festival
Since emerging from the hyperbole last summer Southern US four-piece MONA have certainly caused a rumpus, be it the buzz of their first couple of low key releases, their (early) appearance on Later…With Jools or the London debut at Rough Trade East, the band certainly know how to get attention. Having won MTV’s Brand New For 2011 seeing off competition from Jessie J, The Vaccines and Jamie Woon, the imminent release of the much anticipated self titled debut album in May, gigs with both Kings of Leon and Morrissey and a first showing at Reading & Leeds, 2011 is shaping up to be a fantastic year for the band which has already seen The Guardian heralding them as “…very much rock ’n’ roll’s great white hopes.”
Expectations run high for MILES KANE playing his debut solo appearance at the festivals this year. The ex. Rascal and part time Last Shadow Puppets man has stepped out as a solo artist and releases his album ‘Colour of The Trap’ in May 2011. Described as ‘half boy- next-door, half charisma-firework’ Kane has instantly lovable star quality. The single ‘Inhaler’ dominated the airwaves at the end of 2010 and so far this year he has toured with Beady Eye as well as played his own shows. Look out for the darker corners of vintage pop, psych and blue-eyed soul sounds.
Sunderland’s FRANKIE & THE HEARTSTRINGS come armed with their acclaimed debut album ‘Hunger’ when they hit Reading & Leeds Festival this summer. The band have drawn comparisons to the likes of Dexy’s Midnight Runners and Orange Juice amongst others and built a reputation for their live shows and in particular the exuberant antics of frontman Frankie Francis. Primed with a clutch of brilliant singles and an ever growing fanclub, Frankie & The Heartstrings look set to be one of the weekend’s highlights having evolved into one of the country’s best loved bands.
www.frankieandtheheartstrings.com
Hailed by The Observer as “surely the best live band in Britain”, Yorkshire’s PULLED APART BY HORSES come highly recommended. Long recognised as a phenomenal live experience since their inception back in 2007, the quartet released their debut album last year and is a fitting accompaniment to the band’s incendiary live shows which more often than not witness much carnage both musically and physically. Catch Pulled Apart By Horses and you’ll see a band excel in their natural habitat with a whirlwind of noise and acrobatics!
Saturday 27th August at Reading Festival / Sunday 28th August at Leeds Festival
Not your conventional outfit, EDWARD SHARPE & THE MAGNETIC ZEROS fronted by Alex Ebert – who in turn becomes his childhood alter ego whenever the group perform – started playing together about two years ago and their shows have borne out scenes of euphoric joy as the group by turns bring their rousing, wildly adventurous, almost choral psychedelic folk rock to the live arena. With excitement building Stateside and debut album scheduled for later this year, catch this unique and incredible group when they play this year’s Reading & Leeds Festival.
The release of YUCK’s debut eponymous album this year continued the rise and widespread acclaim for this London based band. Formed from the ashes of Cajun Dance Party, they’ve taken the spirit of Sonic Youth, Dinosaur Jnr, Teenage Fanclub and Pavement amongst others and created their own fresh sound. Having been featured in the BBC Sound of 2011 poll, everybody is invited to check out one of the best and brightest new bands around, not to mention one of the most mercurial and unpredictable.
California’s FUNERAL PARTY bring their punk-disco to Reading & Leeds Festival. Their kick-ass single ‘New York City Moves to the Sound of LA’ infected the airways on its release and the album ‘Golden Age of Nowhere’ which “shakes your hips as well as grabs your balls” followed earlier this year picking up more fans along the way. Expect frenetic dancing and moshing to infectious tunes.
Sunday 28th August at Reading Festival / Friday 26th August at Leeds Festival
With the release of their debut album ‘Crazy For You’ last summer, BEST COAST were hailed by many as ones to watch - with the album figuring highly in many end of year polls . The NME were gushing in their praise when they said “Best Coast have shot straight to the top of the pile for two reasons; great songs and immense charm” before handing the Los Angeles trio their favourite new band of 2010 gong. This summer marks a Reading & Leeds debut for Best Coast when they arrive with their infectious lo-fi summer soundtrack including the online hit single ‘Boyfriend’ to the NME/Radio 1 stage.
Led by the legendary Pink Eyes/Damian Abraham, FUCKED UP bring their hardcore punk all the way from Toronto to get things going in the NME/Radio 1 tent this year. With a history of raucous and rocking live shows the band have won over lots of fans in the UK. New album ‘David Comes To Life’ is a rock-opera (honestly!) which promises blistering melodic rock ‘n’ roll, crossed with all manner of psychic weirdness.
DANANANANAYKROYD bring ‘Fight Pop’ (their description!) to the Reading & Leeds Festivals this year. Since releasing their first records in 2006 they have picked up support and fans around the world for their ‘part craft pop, part noise, all energy’ sound. The Glasgow six-piece have a new album ‘There Is A Way’ due later this summer which is sure to find yet more fans drawn to this exciting live act.
www.dananananaykroyd.co.uk
TICKETING INFO
Weekend tickets £192.50 plus booking fees • Day tickets Fri, Sat, Sun £82.50 plus booking fee • Early entry permits £15 • Weekend ticket prices include camping.
Tickets are strictly limited to a maximum of four per household for those booking by telephone or online and two per person for personal callers to walk in stores.
One of the most innovative bands of our times, the Grammy nominated New Yorkers have often been cited as a key influence in the post-hardcore genre. After the release of their debut EP ‘Kiss Kiss Bang Bang’ in 1997, the first full length album ‘Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Silence’ followed in 2000 and brought the band out of Long Island and into the hands of a dedicated grass roots following. After almost a decade of silence, the band released ‘Our Color Green (The Singles)’ on New Year’s Day and the five-track EP should serve as a reminder that Glassjaw are as essential as ever.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.glassjaw.com
Glassjaw join previously announced headline acts Muse, My Chemical Romance, The Strokes and Pulp on this year’s line-up and will perform on the NME / Radio 1 Stage on Saturday 27th August in Reading, and Sunday 28th August in Leeds. With many more acts to be announced the Reading & Leeds Festival is shaping up to be the finest line-up you’ll find at any festival this summer.
