The Manchester festival continues to support emerging talent with a host of breakthrough acts confirmed for the brand new stages from Reprezent and GRM Daily
New additions [A-Z]:
BARRY FLETCHER – JONNY DUB – LAVA LA RUE -LEE FOSS – PLACES + FACES PLEASURE STATE (LIVE)
Reprezent powered by Utilita (Saturday 8th June) [A-Z]:
BENTEKI – BROWN X BLUE – C CANE – CASSKIDD – HIGH CLASS FILTER – JAMIE RODIGAN L U C Y – MELTOUT – NAINA – INTALEKT (DJ SET) – PINTY – POTÉ – PRESTIGE PAK R.A.E SHERELLE – YIZZY
GRM Daily powered by Utilita (Sunday 9th June) [A-Z]:
Cardi B. George Ezra. Solange. The Streets. Migos. Khalid. Disclosure presents. Major Lazer Soundsystem. Christine & the Queens. Eric Prydz. Nas. Chase & Status: Return II Jungle. Blossoms. Mark Ronson. Mura Masa. Kaytranada. Adam Beyer pres. Drumcode. Jungle. Loyle Carner. Mabel. Marco Carola b2b Jamie Jones. Solomun. Pusha-T. Bicep present Feel My Bicep. Andy C. Annie Mac. MK presents Area10. AJ Tracey. Fredo. Stefflon Don. Octavian. Earl Sweatshirt. Yxng Bane. Slowthai. NAO. The Martinez Brothers Cuttin Headz All Day Long. Black Coffee. Joseph Capriati. Patrick Topping. Amelie Lens. Camelphat. Maceo Plex. Fisher. Ricardo Villalobos. Peggy Gou. Denis Sulta. Hunee. Mall Grab. Daniel Avery. Todd Terje. Helena Hauff. Maribou State (DJ set). Solardo. Richy Ahmed. Skream. Alan Fitzpatrick. Maya Jane Coles. Kölsch. Moodymann. DJ Koze. George Fitzgerald. My Nu Leng. David Rodigan. sasasas. Yaeji. Ben UFO & Call Super. Gilles Peterson. Mr Eazi. Yousef. Little Simz. Sonny Fodera. Children of Zeus. Honey Dijon. Artwork. Kero Kero Bonito. Mella Dee. Krystal Klear. Jacob Banks. Lauv. JPEGMafia. Paul Woolford. Enzo Siragusa. Archie Hamilton. Ilario Alicante. Kabaka Pyramid. Joey Daniel b2b Leon. Luigi Madonna. Icarus (Live). Mormor. Cautious Clay. Themba. Col3trane. Hammer. Suspect. Cristoph. Distruction Boyz. Just Banco. Danny Howard. Jamz Supernova. Crazy P Soundsystem. Marie Davidson (Live). Prok | Fitch. Mason Maynard. Kettama. Prospa. De La Swing. Brockie b2b Randall. Channel One. Tiffany Calver. Easy Life. Rimon. Seani B. Sally C. Krysko. Cromby. Pirate Copy. Gina Breeze. Will Tramp. Greg Lord. Mason Collective. North Base. Nightlapse. James Organ. Olli Ryder & Luke Welsh. Zutekh DJs. Pete Zorba. Understate. Josh Baker. Nicola Bear. Now Wave DJs. Rich Reason
Latitude Festival have announced the line up for their 13th Edition, which takes place on Thursday 12th – Sunday 15th July 2018 in the stunning grounds of Henham Park, Suffolk. Recently awarded Best Major Festival by UK Festival Awards, Latitude returns with an all-new look for 2018 – a refreshed programme and emboldened vision retaining everything you loved about the festival, but also moving in an exciting new direction that looks to the future. Tickets are available from here.
Grammy-winning singer-songwriter of A Seat at the Table fame Solange performs her first –ever festival headline slot at Latitude in a UK exclusive. It’s been over a year since she released the critically acclaimed album that she has called “a project on identity, empowerment, independence, grief, and healing”. Since its release she has introduced the work to new audiences as dynamic and daring performance art. Bold, exciting and innovative with a creative energy like no other, Solange crosses and combines artistic genres in a way that most artists wouldn't dare and is the perfect Latitude headliner.
Latitude loves a success story, and is famed for breaking new talent and nurturing artists so it’s truly thrilling to host Alt-J as headliners once more. From performing on the Lake Stage in 2012 as an up and coming act, returning to headline the BBC Music Stage in 2013, and then closing the Friday night of Latitude’s 10th anniversary in 2015, we are delighted to welcome them “home” for what promises to be an exciting show – with the possible premiere of brand new material, this one is going to be unmissable.
Alt-J said, “We are over the moon to be returning to Latitude for a fourth time. It's a festival that's nurtured us beyond any other, taking us from the Lake Stage to the 6music Stage and then to headlining in 2015. To do so again is a huge privilege. See you in Suffolk!”
The Killers, fresh from the success of chart-topping comeback album Wonderful Wonderful, headline Latitude for the first time. Part-rock show, part-art extravaganza, The Killers, led by charismatic frontman Brandon Flowers, are sure to bring something very special to this year’s line up with much loved hits ‘The Man’, ‘When You Were Young, and of course ‘Mr Brightside’.
Latitude has never been just about the music – it’s a culturally enriching experience and this year’s comedy, theatre and arts roster is set to be the festival’s most diverse and forward-thinking yet. Two exciting comedy headliners are both performing at Latitude for the first time, award-winning stand-up and star of BBC Radio 4’s Utopia, Bridget Christie makes a rare festival appearance, while national treasure Harry Hill brings a career’s worth of comedy gold to our stage. Elsewhere on the comedy bill, catch the only comedian co-signed by Drake and Stormzy, Mo Gilligan; Tim Key's new blend of poeticals, talking, spotlights, cables, old school wistfulness, Megadate; viral-video star and news satirist Jonathan Pie; brand new BBC Radio 4 panel show Where’s the F in News; Mock The Week regular James Acaster and rising star Lauren Pattison. There’s much more still to come, so watch this spotlight!
Harry Hill said, “I like latitude, I like longitude, but which is better? There’s only one way to find out – play the comedy arena at Latitude! I can’t wait!"
Latitude has a reputation for having one of the most eclectic line ups in the UK, and 2018 is no exception: Sadler’s Wells return to Henham Park presenting dance companies still to be revealed, whilst the first shows of the theatre bill include a spectacular headline performance by an international sensation: Recirquel Contemporary Circus: Paris de Nuit will transport the audience to the roaring 30s.Other highlights include Bryony Kimmings previewing her first solo show in 10 years, I’m A Phoenix, Bitch,Lyric Hammersmith presenting How To Fail At Being Perfect, their wise and witty look at through the eyes of forever children, with an all youth cast, and Scottish Dance Theatre, who present Fleur Darkin’s Velvet Petal. Among the very first speakers in The Speakeasy, BBC3 investigative journalist Stacey Dooley will talk about her new book, On the Front Line with the Women Who Fight Back.
There’s so much happening at Latitude in 2018, some serious refuelling will be in order, and the festival is upping the grub game. Latitude will become the first major festival to do away with ‘fast food’ with the Arena now catered entirely by Street Food organised by London’s Street Feast. Explore buzzing street food arenas across the site where festivalgoers can re-fuel, wind down and eat the world without leaving Henham Park. Look out for Fundi’s mighty hand-built ovens for melty, wood-fired pizzas, then dig into crispy cornbread Arepas from Venezuelan street food heroes Petare – don’t forget to order a side of their Cassava Chips topped with fiery salsa. For a mighty, meat-free meal, say hello to Club Mexicana – their vegan To-Fish Tacos and BBQ-Pulled Jackfruit Burritos are NOT to be missed. Also new to Latitude is the Theatre of Food, a fully immersive essential for any foodie – or just your average keen eater – with wild cooking sessions, hilarious and inspiring food demos and, of course, the chance to sample the goods yourself. And if there’s a comedy set or a drum solo while it’s all happening, all the better to heighten your taste senses!
Families looking for quality time together need go no further than Latitude’s Enchanted Garden, where they’ll get the chance to make some magic of their own, including VR workshops with top industry creatives, screen printing T-shirts, trapeze and circus skills, and the brilliant Family Socials which pack weekend mornings with family-friendly comedy, live music, dance and theatre. There’s a parent pen for shattered parents who can’t keep up or yoga to unwind! Meanwhile the Kids Area has live shows including AnimAlphabet the Musical, West End Kids, and Comedy4Kids, alongside puppetry, live music, award-winning children’s authors and illustrators on hand to inspire, music tuition, bush-crafts, fun with food and the Wild Science tent. Teens who want to be among their own can head to the Inbetweeners Area with its music, digital, media and fashion workshops, the Access to Music Live Stage including industry Q&A’s, how-tos on gaming, coding and VR. Daredevils can brave the Greenpeace treetop adventures, zip wires and climbing nets. Guaranteed no teenage style will be cramped.
MUSIC
Æ MAK
Alfa Mist
Alt-J
Alvvays
Benjamin Clementine
Black Honey
Bomba Estéreo
Boy Azooga
Bruce
Clark performing Death Peak Live
Confidence Man
DJ Boring
Eclair Fifi
Fazerdaze
Fickle Friends
Gang of Youths
Hannah Peel with Tubular Brass
Hinds
Ibeyi
IDLES
Jacob Banks
Jade Bird
James
Japandroids
Jessie Ware
Jon Hopkins Live
Juanita Stein
Kalyde
La Femme
Marlon Williams
Meggie Brown
Mogwai
Naaz
Nabihah Iqbal
Object Blue
Octavian
OR:LA
Pangaea
Parquet Courts
Pip Blom
Preoccupations
Rag’n’Bone Man
Sam Fender
Sleeper
Solange
Sorry
Spinning Coin
Superorganism
The Breeders
The Charlatans
The Killers
The Vaccines
Trudy And The Romance
tUnE-yArDs
whenyoung
Wolf Alice
Yellow Days
COMEDY
Abigoliah Schamaun
Amusical
Angela Barnes
Bridget Christie
Chortle Student Comedy Awards Finalists
Chris Stokes
Chris Washington
Darren Harriott
David Morgan
David O'Doherty
Fern Brady
Glenn Moore
Gráinne Maguire
Harry Hill
Huge Davies
Jack Gleadow
James Acaster
Jarlath Regan
Jayde Adams
Joe Sutherland
Jon Pointing
Jonathan Pie
Kiri Pritchard-McLean
Lauren Pattison
Lazy Susan
Lloyd Griffith
Lolly Adefope
Lost Voice Guy
Lou Sanders
Luke Kempner
Masud Milas
Mat Ewins
Mawaan Rizwan
Mo Gilligan
Phoebe Walsh
Rhys Nicholson
Richard Todd
Sarah Keyworth
Shappi Khorsandi
Sisters
Steen Raskopoulos
Stevie Martin
Tessa Coates
Tim Key: Megadate
Where's The F In News
THEATRE
Bryony Kimmings: I'm A Phoenix, Bitch (preview)
David Rosenberg & Glenn Neath: Flight
Dom Coyote: We Can Time Travel
Femme Fatale
Highrise: Lil.Miss.Lady
Lyric Hammersmith presents How To Fail At Being Perfect
Lyric Hammersmith presents The Lost Disc
Mark And Marichka Marczyk: Balaklava Blues
Middle Child: One Life Stand
Nabokov presents Benin City: Last Night
Nele Needs A Holiday: The Musical
Push Things Forward Collective: Nabokov, Middle Child and Not Too Tame
This year’s chapter of Lovebox is set to be even more special than usual. East London’s favourite festival are celebrating their 15 year anniversary – 15 years of music, 15 years of good vibes and 15 years of love.
This landmark occasion calls for the best line-up yet, and Lovebox have delivered. Having already announced Friday’s headliner – the global phenomenon that is Frank Ocean – Lovebox unveils their second headliner, the explosive Chase & Status, and further musical programming.
FEATURING:
FRANK OCEAN (FRIDAY) CHASE & STATUS (LIVE) (SATURDAY)
WITH
JAMIE XX – JESS GLYNNE – SOLANGE – ANNIE MAC – ANDY C – MAC MILLER – RAG’N’BONE MAN – SAMPHA – KAYTRANADA – KURUPT FM – ANNE-MARIE – AJ TRACEY – RAY BLK – MIST – RAYE
KINK (LIVE) – JAZZY JEFF – RICHY AHMED – SOLARDO – JESSE ROSE – CRAIG RICHARDS – TERRY FRANCIS – HORSE MEAT DISCO – MICK JENKINS – SOULECTION – MIKE SERVITO – LEWIS BOARDMAN – DREEM TEEM – KLOSE ONE – LATE NITE TUFF GUY – WORK IT – JAZZIE B – CLUB DRIVE
XL RECORDINGS PRESENTS NEW GEN & FRIENDS
ARTIKAL – DR PACKER – ELLIE COCKS – FORT ROMEAU – SÄLEN – GW HARRISON – HAMMER – JACK SWIFT – JIMMY SWITCH – REX ORANGE COUNTY – LINDSEY MATTHEWS – WILL TAYLOR – HOT BLOOD
FRIDAY
Friday’s headliner, Frank Ocean, speaks for itself. The enigmatic singer-songwriter was catapulted to fame in 2012 with the release of his debut Channel Orange, which was greeted with universal acclaim. After four years of countless memes and think pieces about Ocean’s “disappearance”, questioning when his second album would arrive, it finally landed in 2016 in the form of a visual LP – Endless – followed by the album proper, Blonde. It was well worth the wait.
The Friday also sees one of the hottest producers on the planet, Jamie xx, open for Frank Ocean on the Main Stage. His debut album In Colour has been the soundtrack to our summer since it was released in 2015, and his new album with band The xx is an instant classic. Jamie XX says: “I'm looking forward to playing at Lovebox this year and sharing the stage with Frank Ocean who headlines directly after my set!”
Elsewhere on Friday is US rapper Mac Miller, whose latest, soul-infused album The Divine Feminine was lauded by critics upon its release, fast-rising star Rag N’ Bone Man, the runner-up in this year’s BBC Sound of 2017, and London synthpop trio Sälen.
The peerless Solange headlines the Noisey stage, fresh from the release of her landmark album A Seat At The Table. The younger Knowles sister’s third album was named by Pitchfork as their Album of the Year, and bagged her her first US No 1. February has also seen her win her first Grammy for Best R&B Performance for her stunning track ‘Cranes In The Sky’. This performance at Lovebox is set to be extra special.
Joining Solange on the Noisey stage is London’s own Sampha, whose distinctive vocals and confessional lyricism have propelled him to global fame. Initially emerging as a frequent collaborator of SBTRKT back in 2011, Sampha has collaborated with the likes of Drake, Beyoncé and the aforementioned Solange, and released his highly anticipated debut album Process in 2017.
Elsewhere on the Noisey stage is the talented super-producer Kaytranada, who we’re thrilled to welcome back to the Park to perform tracks from one of the best albums of 2016 – his debut LP 99.9%. His affiliate Mick Jenkins will also appear – the rising US hip hop artist released his dazzling debut album The Healing Component in 2016 – as well as BBC Sound of 2017 winner Ray BLK and rising star Rex Orange County.
Lovebox are thrilled to welcome fabric back for their second year in the Park as a festival exclusive. The news is all the more exciting considering the iconic’s club loss of license, which thankfully they have now won back after outcry from the global music community. London wouldn’t be the same without fabric, and we’re glad they’re back and bigger than ever. fabric say: "Lovebox gave us the perfect entry into being part of a festival last year and it left us wanting more. To be invited back to build on the foundation we made in 2016 is a prefect to develop something bigger and better than last year across the weekend. Expect something different to last year but with the same calbire of artists and our exclusive audio partner Pioneer."
fabric have programmed a fittingly explosive lineup to mark their festival return. Arguably one of the best DJs on the planet, the inimitable Seth Troxler headlines the Friday. Raised in Detroit, the house and techno master will bring a flavour of Chicago to the Park. Preceding Seth will be Bicep, playing their trademark mix of obscure anthems and club classics spanning a kaleidoscope of genres. Elsewhere, there’s experimental producer KiNK performing a live set, disco master Hammer, and fabric resident Terry Francis.
Finally, Lovebox are extremely excited to introduce a brand new structure for 2017. The Transistor stage will resemble a giant radio set, and feature explosive flame pyros throughout the day – it’s not to be missed. Taking over Transistor on the Friday are Abode, the deep house promoters running the hottest nights in London. Headlining Abode will be the reigning king of underground house, Eats Everything, who will be joined by Hot Creations rising star waFF, the dynamic Jack Swift, and B2B sets from Will Taylor and GW Harris, Ellie Cocks and Jimmy Switch, and Artikal and Lindsey Matthews.
SATURDAY
Saturday’s headliner comes in the form of one of the UK’s best live acts, and a Lovebox favourite. Chase & Status’ ferocious live sets are truly a sight to behold, whether they’re storming through classics from their 2008 debut More than Alot or the bestselling homage to 90s dance, Brand New Machine. 2015 saw the release of EP London Bars, featuring some of the UK’s finest MCs, and their much-anticipated fourth album drops this year.
Expect new material, a brand new show and extra special guests at what is set to be a masterful headlining slot – which was unveiled via a mysterious social media campaign and a billboard portraying a countdown hangman spelling out ‘Lovebox’ in London. Chase & Status say: "We’re blessed to be back headlining Lovebox again. It’s always special playing at home in London & at such an iconic festival."
Lovebox also welcomes Jess Glynne to the Park. One of the UK's most promising pop talents, she originally found fame lending her distinctive vocals to chart smashes such as Clean Bandit's 'Rather Be' and Route 94's 'My Love’. Jess introduced her own sound with the release of her 2015 debut album I Cry When I Laugh. With a follow-up scheduled for release in 2017, this year looks set to build on Jess Glynne's solid reputation as one of the best on the scene. Also on the Saturday is rising star Anne-Marie, whose infectious singles ‘Karate’ and ‘Do It Right’ have led to her being nominated for British Breakthrough Artist at the Brits.
Lovebox favourite Annie Mac will also be back in the Park, and R&B singer Raye plus rising four piece Club Drive will also perform.
Over at the Noisey stage, there’s the most fierce of UK talent, both rising and legendary. DNB icon Andy C headlines, and the RAM Records co-founder is set to destroy his slot. Andy says "First time at Lovebox! Heard some amazing things, I can’t wait to get involved!"
Joining Andy C are comedy rap crew Kurupt FM (stars of the BBC hit show People Just Do Nothing), as well as respective performances from two fast-rising grime MCs – Birmingham’s Mist and London’s AJ Tracey – both deservedly much-hyped in their own right.
For the grime fans there’s a special showcase from XL Recordings. New Gen continues the theme of fresh homegrown talent on The West Stage. This performances follows the compilation album of the same name, which features contributions from the scene's rising stars (Ray BLK, Kojey Radical).
fabric’s Saturday lineup is equally as stacked as the Friday. The legendary Ricardo Villalobos returns to London to head up the billing. Elsewhere, returning to Lovebox after last playing back in 2010, is Berlin’s Dixon (who came No 1 on Resident Advisor’s Top DJs 2016 Poll), Bunker resident Mike Servito, and fabric’s own Craig Richards.
On Saturday Transistor will host a lineup featuring some of the finest names in techno. The multi-faceted Kölsch is set to headline, and will be joined by Richy Ahmed, Jamie Jones, Jesse Rose, Solardo and Lewis Boardman.
It wouldn’t be a celebration of 15 Years of Love without some Lovebox favourites on the decks. Norman Jay MBE, Jazzie B OBE, Horse Meat Disco will all be appearing across the weekend
Dreamlike singers, hardcore emissions, electronic trances, psychedelic wipeouts, and… the one and only Zbigniew Wodecki. Everything is possible at OFF. Here's the next batch of artists that will perform at this year's festival – hold on tight!
Solange It's no wonder that she's often compared to her older sister, some even call her – without a hint of malice ? the "Beyoncé of indie music", but you just need to open your eyes and ears to understand the Solange is a mature and independent artist. After two good LPs released by Interscope, she dazzled both critics and audiences with her EP called True, produced by Dev Hynes (who co-authored multiple songs with the likes of Florence and the Machine and The Chemical Brothers) and released under Terrible Records, a record label established by Grizzly Bear's Chris Taylor. It's pop music, with clear references to the sounds of the 80s, but with its own distinct personality and quality. Join us in dancing to the beat!
Zbigniew Wodecki with Mitch & Mitch Orchestra and Choir At this year's OFF Festival, the one, the only, the legendary Zbigniew Wodecki himself will perform his iconic 1976 debut album – called Zbigniew Wodecki, of course. The titan of local venues scattered along the Vistula will be joined on stage by Mitch&Mitch, the most foreign band to ever form in Poland, whose members are hard at work making the music sound exactly as it did on the album, but better. For this special occasion an organist, a string quartet, and a two-person choir will be added to the Mitch&Mitch roster which already boasts nine members. That already tells you that they will be performing at the festival's biggest stage, as no other venue would accommodate that kind of ensemble.
Fucked Up Whoever saw the band at the 2009 festival must surely remember the limitless energy, the bear-like posture, and the falling pants of Damien Abraham, the lead vocalist of the Canadian band Fucked Up. The hardcore fete of unfettered expression was one of the best shows of the 2009 festivals. This year's performance might even surpass the last one, as Fucked Up have been touring extensively for the past four years and will bring with them a host of new songs coming from their recent album, David Comes to Life. Don't come too close, unless you're willing to get down and dirty.
Julia Holter Recording her material primarily in her bedroom and drawing inspiration from ancient Greek tragedies, this Nite Jewel collaborator has been compared by both fans and critics to Laurie Anderson, Joanna Newsom, and Kate Bush. Gigi, the third album of the LA-based artist, will be released probably before the festival and will feature a plethora of surprises.
Guardian Alien Guardian Alien is headed by drummer Greg Fox, known for his exploits with Zs, Liturgy, and his collaboration with Dan Deacon, but this polyrhythmic mixture of psychedelia, African music, and extreme metal was probably cooked up with a little help from alien forces. The band sounds like turbocharged Hawkwind – well, we can't say that it sounds like Hawkwind on speed, now can we? Listen to See the World Given to a One Love Entity, the 40-minute-long album released by Thrill Jockey and containing just a single song and you'll quickly be convinced that Guardian Alien's performance just might be one of the festival's most amazing shows.
Buke And Gase "Absolutely thrilling" – this Pitchfork claim is dead-on correct. The Brooklyn-based duo behind Buke and Gase serve an original mixture of folk sensitivity and avant-garde bravado. It's deliberate, but with more than just a touch of improvisation. Amazing, is what it is. They play unique, one-of-a-kind instruments, including a modified baritone ukulele, a gase, and foot-powered percussion instruments – and they sing beautifully, too. Get ready for their show by listening to their most recent offering, called General Dome.
John Talabot – Live Media-shy producer and DJ from Barcelona – he's not keen on interviews and in most photographs, his face is hidden under a tinfoil mask. His debut album was released by the small German record label, Permanent Vacation. As it turned out, the material on fin was so good that the hippest clubs in London and New York tried to book his appearance, while The xx invited him to tour with them. His live performances seem to completely justify the hype surrounding the secretive musician.
Shackleton One of the most original and intriguing figures of the British drum and bass scene, co-founder of the legendary, now-defunct Skull Disco label. Recorded the groundbreaking album Music of the Quiet Hour, which explored the no-man's land between minimal techno and dubstep. It's kind of hard to believe that dance music could be this dark? But we should expect nothing less from a musician who counts Can and Throbbing Gristle among his inspirations and who started his musical journey by playing in a punk band.
UL/KR The most powerful and surprising debut since Niwei. The strangest mixture of uncomfortable, dark electronics and sing-song catchiness typical of the Land of Gentleness series. The LP released last year by the duo from Gorzów was widely – and deservedly ? considered to be one of the most important releases of 2012, while the band's most recent effort – Ament – is also garnering praise from critics and fans alike. We're happy to welcome UL/KR to OFF Festival: we're sure that they're going to feel right at home.
Hera The band was founded by clarinetist and composer Waclaw Zampel, who is known for his collaborations with pre-eminent musical improvisers, including Ken Vandermark, Joe McPhee, and Miko?aj Trzaska. Although they're putting out records – like the incredible Where My Complete Beloved Is for example – live performances are their greatest strength. As the band itself stated, their "primary goal is to enter a sort of musical trance that would break down barriers between the stage and the audience and would enable spontaneous exchange."
Gowno Please, don't be discouraged by the band's name (which translates into "Shit"). Gowno is not in the nicely smelling flower business, it's in the angry, insolent punk business. The band was founded in 2009 and has since released two official LPs – To nie jest kurwa Pink Floyd (This Ain't Fucking Pink Floyd) and Black Rodeo (2012).
Hokei The band's roots can be traced to both Warsaw and Bydgoszcz. It comprises musicians from groups such as Ed Wood, Stara Rzeka, Alameda Trio, and Pictorial Candi. Hokei pays homage to kraut – and post-rock but it's also looking for its own place in the borderlands of guitar-percussion experiments. Their performance at OFF will coincide with the official release of their debut album, Zodiak.
Frozen Bird Terry's Tale, the debut album of Warsaw-based Frozen Bird quartet released last year, was a very surprising mixture filled with dreamlike electronica, infused with subtle acoustics, and wrapped in fable-like lyrics performed in three
New artists confirmed for Field Day 2013: Amateur Best/ Connan Mockasin/ Dark Dark Dark/ Egyptian Hip Hop/ John Cooper Clarke/ Kurt Vile/ Mount Kimbie/ Palma Violets/ Savages/ Seth Troxler/ Shed/ Solange/ Splashh/ Stubborn Heart/ Wild Nothing
Previously announced: Animal Collective/ Bat For Lashes/ Charlie Boyer & The Voyeurs/ Chvrches/ Daphni/ Daughter/ Disclosure/ Django Django/ Do Make Say Think/ Emeralds/ Everything Everything/ Four Tet/ Francois & The Atlas Mountains/ F**ked Up/ Ginger Baker Jazz Confusion/ Hessle Audio DJs: Ben UFO, Pangaea, Pearson Sound/ How To Dress Well/ Jacques Greene/ James Yorkston/ Julio Bashmore/ Karenn/ Mulatu Astatke/ Thomas Mapfumo/ Tim Burgess/ TNGHT/ Virals/ Vondelpark plus more artists to be announced
Last October Solange released her single ‘Losing You’ – an infectious, mid-tempo break-up anthem evocative of early 80’s R&B that became an instant viral success,with ‘Sleep in the Park’ featuring Of Montreal’s Kevin Barnes on the B-side. She thenreleased her highly anticipated seven-track EP ’True’. Headed by ‘Losing You’, it is released via Terrible, the label co-owned by Chris Taylor of Grizzly Bear and entirely co-written and produced by Solange and Field Day veteran Dev Hynes aka BloodOrange. ‘True’ has further set Solange apart – one we truly look forward to seeing at Field Day 2013.
Also confirmed is the winner of Resident Advisor’s 2012 DJ Poll, Seth Troxler, whose impressive career started in Detroit back in 2002 at the young age of 16. Since then, Seth has gone to ignite the world of house and techno with a constant barrage of vocal jams, winning over legions of fans for the singularity of his vision and inimitable bravado, which have made him one of the most captivating characters of modern dance music.
We are honoured to have performance poet John Cooper Clarke at Field Day this year. His biting, satirical verse delivered in his rapid-fire performance style hasresonated since the punk movement of the late 70s. After touring with most of punk’s seminal and ground breaking bands including the Sex Pistols, The Clash, Buzzcocks, The Fall, and Elvis Costello, to name but a few, he began to draw large crowds in his own right. Joy Division were proud to open for John on numerous occasions and New Order later supported him on their first joint Australian tour. One of Britain’s best loved and most important poets and performers, John is as vital now as he was then.
Also confirmed is Kurt Vile, who, once compared to Leonard Cohen, Tom Petty and Animal Collective in the same review brings to mind anything from Suicide to My Bloody Valentine and Nick Drake. He pieces together these disparate elements so seamlessly and unpretentiously that such reference points are rendered pointless by the singularity of his sound, reflected in his latest brilliant and critically acclaimedalbum ‘Smoke Ring For My Halo’ (Matador 2011).
Meanwhile, Virginia dream pop act Wild Nothing will bring their heavily 80’s rooted indie-pop of gentle harmonies, orchestrated synths and wandering voices that make up front man Jack Tatum’s ‘ideal world’ of pop music, portrait in their just-released, exceptional second album ‘Nocturne’.
Topping the Ones To Watch lists of 2013 are the ferocious four-piece Savages. With their highly awaited debut album still to be released in 2013, Savages' songs aim to remind us that music can still be straight to the point, efficient and exciting, while their live shows are truly electrifying. Also topping the lists for 2013 are Palma Violets,whose first single ‘Best of Friends’ was just voted NME’s song of the year and whose highly anticipated debut album ‘180’ is to be released next month. Often compared to The Libertines, 2013 will be a big year for this band and we are excited to have them at Field Day.
We are thrilled to welcome the unstoppable Mount Kimbie back to Field Day. With familiar beats underneath otherworldly productions, the electronic duo is arguably responsible for the birth of the term ‘post-dubstep’. Their debut album and live shows have garnered a cult status; recently signed to Warp, their second album isimminent. Expect a packed tent of devotees dancing to Mount Kimbie’s mesh of left field electronics, post-rock textures and bass weight – and new tracks to be aired for the first time at Field Day 2013!
Meanwhile Shed, the Berlin-based producer, and firm believer in the power of techno, will be the living example of how to reinvent oneself again and again within the boundaries of electronic music. Perfectly shown in his latest album ‘The Killer’ (2012), he melts and merges rough and demanding dance floor skeletons with shockingly detailed melodies, harmonic structures, irresistible hooks and airy arrangements, creating a never-ending climax of the groove.
Psychedelic pop artist Connan Mockasin has the kind of deliciously off-kilter and gloriously idiosyncratic worldview that rapidly proves addictive. Having toured with Charlotte Gainsbourg as her live band, as well as with Radiohead last November, and with new material planned for 2013, we can’t wait to have him on our stage.
After their debut EP ‘Some Reptiles Grew Wings’ produced by no other than Hudson Mohawke back in 2009 and two years of lying low, Egyptian Hip Hop finally released their anticipated debut album ‘Good Don’t Sleep’ last October. Be ready to be taken to a sonic world of their own, setting indie, prog-rock and 80s pop in between hypnotically pulsing rhythms and Elizabeth Fraser’s spine-tinglingly moving vocals which, at times, evoke the lush beauty of Cocteau Twins.
Also on board are Minneapolis band Dark Dark Dark. Fans of Beirut and Grizzly Bear will find plenty to appreciate in this chamber-folk quintet, with their spectral interludes, moments of muted drama, and backing vocals that sound like a Balkan choir, portrait in their beautiful new album ‘Who Needs Who’ (Supply & Demand/ Melodic, 2012).
With their just released eponymous debut, the duo Stubborn Heart emotes heartbreak over broken beats and dark, atmospheric space – a stunning and surprisingly poignant electronic soul record. Recently compared to The xx, SBTRKT and Four Tet, expect a clean, ghostly production coalescing with mournful vocals to positively ooze a bruised melancholy.
Also confirmed is Amateur Best, Joe Flory’s project that emerged from the ashes ofhis genius synth-pop proposal Primary 1, who will take us to the surreal world of his debut album/comic book ‘No Thrills’, out next month on Double Denim, featuring a collaboration with piano virtuoso Chilly Gonzales. Meanwhile, SPLASHH will showcase their myriad of floating, fuzz-laden grunge pop tunes, a result of leaving the beaches of the South Pacific behind and coming together to record in a small bedroom in Hackney.
Entering its seventh year, Field Day will be returning to the leafy green surroundings of Victoria Park with its unique formula of pioneering line-up coupled with village fete mentality, all in the heart of East London. Field Day will take place over the Bank Holiday weekend on Saturday 25th May.
Hosted by forward-thinking promoters Eat Your Own Ears, Bugged Out!, BleeD/ Lanzarote and proudly partnering with The i Paper, The Quietus, FACT Magazine, Last FM, Resident Advisor, The Line of Best Fit, Abeano, Dummy Magazine andStool Pigeon, Field Day is a festival that has become synonymous with imaginative and progressive bills hosting the likes of Franz Ferdinand, SBTRKT, Afrocubism, Grimes and Django Django last summer; 2013 is certainly shaping up to be no exception to this rule.
As with years gone by, Field Day will be providing ample entertainment for those looking for respite from the music in the Village Mentality area on The Village Green. Expect traditional side stalls inspired by country pastimes and weird and wonderful fete games, from classic tug of war, sack races and egg and spoon race to more unexpected and fantastic ones like tea bag tossing and the world famous winkle picking contest.
The excellent website Caught By The River, home to excellent writing by first class contributors on music, nature, ale and…fishing, has carved itself a unique place on the web since its beginnings in 2007 and will be hosting a fine area at Field Day 2013
The first line up announcement for the festival weekend includes legends and topical newcomers alike. Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds are set to return to the live circuit and will make Flow Festival a part of their tour schedule. Blixa Bargeld, a previous long-time member the Bad Seeds and the german industrial band Einstürzende Neubauten, will perform solo at the festival, showcasing his experimental sound excursions. The queen of unorthodox hiphop, Azealia Banks and the hotly-tipped R&B act Solange are new additions with strong contemporary resonance. Both of them will release their debut album soon. Other newly-emerged acts on the rise are a punk-influenced queer rapper Mykki Blanco, Iceland's Of Monsters and Men, forging their multi-layered brand of folk-tinged indie-pop, and Sweden's Goat, showcasing their personal sound with influences from various musical cultures. The British techno producer duo Karenn will keep the clubbers happy.
African rhythms continue to be a strong part of the Flow Festival experience, as the traditional-meets-modern sounds of Jupiter & Okwess International from Congo and the afro beat stylings of the key Ghanaian highlife artist Ebo Taylor will be heard in Suvilahti. The first Finnish artists announced for this year are the moody electronic combo Sarah Kivi & Non Orchestra and the crowd favorite and one of the recent success stories on the local scene, the R&B artist Karri Koira.
As previously, Flow will again feature a wide variety of visual arts and film on its program, which will take its shape during the spring. The tickets for Flow Festival 2013 will go on sale on Monday January 28 at Tiketti. The first tickets to go on sale are the three and four-day festival passes and the Wednesday Opening Concert tickets.
Flow Festival 2013 is organized in co-operation with: Main partner: Nokia
Partners: Brand Factory, Clear Channel, Heineken, Helsingin Sanomat/NYT, Radio Helsinki, Red Bull Music Academy, RGB, Sun Effects, Yellow Tail
Supported by: City of Helsinki Cultural Office, Ministry of Education
