Soul II Soul

Lounge on the Farm 2013 Review

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LOTF is your typical local festival and the title of the festival explains it all, you lounge on Merton farm and enjoy great music!  So much so, there were sofas dotted around the farm for festival fans to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.  As well as this, a variety of street food stalls from Indian, Mexican, Thai and even local Merton burgers from the farm were available.  Not only was there music to enjoy over five stages, there was also a family funfair and craft stalls where  sewing classes and craft classes were available should you wish to partake.

To kick Friday off, the line-up included, amongst others Coco and The Butterfields, who gave a quirky performance with their mix of hip-hop and folk sound; Beans on Toast, who sings about sex, drugs and politics… nevertheless, you cannot ignore the man’s witty song writing abilities which had the crowd both laughing and singing along at the same time and Lucy Rose who gave a chilled out performance, which captivated the audience and certainly had everyone excited for Friday’s headliner.

Whilst waiting for Seasick Steve to arrive on stage the crowd were surprised suddenly by a flash mob style brass band who started playing amongst them.  The band played contemporary hits, with their own twist.  They made several appearances over the weekend popping up all over the festival in various places to play their set to the festival go-ers.

Seasick Steve @ Lounge on the Farm

Seasick Steve was the first headliner to perform on the main stage at LOFT.  Performing with his many customised guitars and accompanied by his drummer, he gave an intimate and relaxed performance.  His set included hits ‘Self-Sufficient Man’, ‘Don’t Know Why She Loves Me But She Do’ and ‘Started Out With Nothin’, which rounded off a great first day on the main stage.

However the festival still carried on until the early hours of the morning, so I checked out DJ legend David Rodigan’s performance in the Hoe Down tent.  The tent was packed with people of all ages raving out to Rodigan’s selection of Reggae and Dancehall hits.

Saturday arrived and with it euphoric indie band, Eliza and The Bear, Tribes who rocked out the main stage, Willy Moon who gave a classy performance, which involved his hit ‘Yeah Yeah’, which most people would recognise from the Apple iPod advert.  By the time Man Like Me took to the stage, the heavens opened and Lounge on the Farm was flooded with torrential down pour and thunderstorms.  However this didn’t stop the crowd enjoying Man like Me’s energetic performance.

Although the wellies had to come out, by the time Jessie Ware graced the stage the rain eventually stopped, which topped off her performance.  The up and coming star sang all her hits from her debut album ‘Devotion’ including ‘Wildest Moments’, ‘Imagine It Was Us’ and ‘If You’re Never Gonna Move’.  Ware mentioned that LOTF was the first festival that she has headlined, with this in mind, I though she gave an excellent performance and was one of the highlights of the whole weekend.

Lounge on the Farm

After Jessie Ware’s performance and for a change of scenery I checked out the Boom and Bang Circus feat. Kitty Bang Bang.  The show consisted of eccentric and show-stopping acts, including burlesque dancing, comedy acts and fire-eaters to name a few.  It certainly was a different style of entertainment to see at a festival, but nevertheless extremely entertaining.

The last day of the festival arrived all too quickly and I must admit, I was a little sad by this point but excited at the same time as the last day consisted of a few musical legends.  The day’s line-up included indie/rock band Siblings, Art Ferguson’s Big Blues Band, who gave an amazing show that had the crowd dancing merrily, Reggae legends, Aswad who gave a jammin’ performance and Dub Pistols, a lively show that had the crowd jumping and dancing throughout their entire set.

Soul II Soul feat. Caron Wheeler closed the festival.  Despite the late start, the group gave a performance worthy of their closing spot and rounded off the end of the festival nicely.  Their set including their renowned hits ‘Keep on Movin’ and ‘Back to Life’ which had the older members of crowd dancing and singing along to their heart’s content.

It was hard to fault LOTF, it has the whole package for a small festival.  I particularly liked the real local festival vibe, which some big festivals sometimes lack due to their size and the size of the attending crowd.  Despite this year’s headliners not being as ‘renowned’ as the festival’s past headliners (Ellie Goulding, Emelie Sande, The Streets), I still feel the headliners this year gave top-notch performances all round and were worthy of their spots.  The only criticism I could possibly give the festival, is the distance between the main stage and the crowd was unnecessarily wide, so much so Jessie Ware and Seasick Steve to name a few even complained at how far away they were from the crowd.  This almost defeated the point of the intimate feel small festivals are meant to give, so let’s hope this is an improvement that is made for LOTF 2014!

For images of Lounge on the Farm 2013 please click here.

Wychwood, Beer, Cheer and Bubbles.

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This is the 9th Wychwood festival to take place, which is a tragedy for me as it means I have missed 8 years of this fun filled, family friendly, yet modest event, that gently launches you into the summer festival period.  Set in the grounds of Cheltenham race course and overlooked by the Cotswold Hills, this venue is used to horseplay of a four-legged nature, but with neigh a nag in sight, Prestbury Park comes alive with a wide spectrum of characters.

The first days sound track set the pace for what would shape up to be quite the eclectic mix.  Early evening The Beat proved how they secured their rightful place high up the Ska tree. With Rankin Roger & Son getting the crowd stomping to the ever popular Ska beats. Toploader followed with their breezy, sing a long songs, that keep the crowd on a high.  Friday night headliners Soul II Soul with their blend of R&B, Soul and Electronica, surprised many who thought them a one song band (Back to life). With each song played you couldn’t help regret not paying more attention 25 years ago. But better late than never!! They exit the stage, leaving the crowd craving for more.

Saturday sees the music shift to a broader range. Unfortunately the delectable Kate Nash pulls out poorly. The Wedding Present are a crowd pleaser as they work through some of their phenomenal body of work. A French twist next from festival favourites The Caravan Palace, who’s zany Gypsy Jazz, Electro swing, is a sight and sound to behold, a big band wall of music fronted by the mesmerising stage presence that is Zoé Colotis a must see. The night’s headliners are 80’s Electro New Wave sensation The Human League and with a catalogue of hits, the crowd were on their feet from the opening “Mirror Man” to the ever popular “Don’t You Want Me” ending another great night with “Together in Electric Dreams”. The set and backdrop pay homage to the futuristic approach of the 80’s, that seem just as futuristic and relevant today, Little wonder so many artists since, have voiced this Flamboyant and eccentric group as an influence.

Sunday becomes a field of laughter with the humorous yet skilful take on classical and popular songs by the Ukele Orchestra of Great Britain.  Smiles a plenty but with admiration from this musically talented troop.  The laughter continues as Bill Bailey and his side splitting comedy take over.  Nobody being prepared for the music, jokes and insanity of this middle-aged madman. This massive force could have easily have been the finale for the main stage, but the organisers decided to bring the evening to a close by treating an appreciative crowd to the Dub Powerhouse that is Dreadzone.  This reggae tinged set was the perfect end to a fabulous weekend, having the crowd bounce and groove out the evening.

 A couple of standout performances on the smaller but no lesser stages included Becky Rose, with her one gal, synth based beats and Craig Charles funk and soul show, where the crowd were whipped up in to a frenzy to match that of the energetic, multi-talented showman.

When the main attractions have finished and the majority of the crowd have turned in for the night, one stage is determined to party on regardless. As I approach the big top tent with strobes escaping from the entrance I can’t help but think that there is something missing?   Upon entry I am handed a pair of wireless headphones and as I walk on through to a sea of crazy revellers it is apparent that I have entered a nut house.  This is the silent disco, a room full of clubbers and two DJ’s but no music through the loud speakers.  I put the headphones on and find myself instantly condemned to the madhouse as I flick between the two DJ’s and adjust my dancing style accordingly.

Music for all genres means that young or old you will at some point find your dancing shoes and at the very least discover new and exciting sounds.  There are over 100 workshops to choose from, complimented with cuisine from the four corners of the world.

A lasting memory of the festival will be that of a  man releasing  another wave of bubbles they glisten like the northern lights as they pass over the light filled stage.  Wychwood really captures the essence of what a festival is about with a great energy and atmosphere.

 

South West 4 – Tenth Anniversary

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

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

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

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

 

VENUE: Clapham Common, London

DATES:  Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th August 2013

TICKETS: www.ticketmaster.co.uk/sw4

South West Four add Erick Morillo, Soul II Soul and more

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For almost two decades Erick Morillo has been one of the most in demand DJs and producers on the planet. The Columbian-come-American’s career began in the early 90’s and since then he has gone on to play every principal city on the map, including major residencies in Ibiza for the past fifteen years. In 1997 he launched his own label ‘Subliminal Records’ and has since been able to propel the imprint to international prominence. In 2012 the status that Morillo holds in his homeland was exemplified further when a street was named after him in Union City. We’ve been lucky for Erick to play SW4 several times, in fact he was our first ever headliner back in 2004. We are delighted to have this living legend back for our 10th Anniversary…It just wouldn’t be the same without him.

Erick Morillo

"If anyone knows how hard it is to maintain a brand, party and event, it’s me. So congratulations to SW4 on their Tenth Anniversary! I always love coming to London to play SW4 in the summertime. The heavens opened on us last year, but it was still an amazing party and vibe. Let's pray for some summer loving this year!" Erick Morillo

Following in the footsteps of other seminal bands to play South West Four over the years such as Public Enemy and Salt N Pepa, our 10th Anniversary welcomes true London musical royalty. Celebrating their 25th Anniversary in their home city at SW4, we are delighted to showcase Soul II Soul featuring the magnificent Caron Wheeler. Reviewing their list of accolades, it’s easy to see why Jazzie B’s band is such an inspired choice. Having won two Grammy Awards and sold millions of records worldwide, Jazzie also has been given keys to an incredible seven cities in the US, including LA and New York. In America there’s even a Soul II Soul day, whilst back in Blighty Jazzie has been awarded an OBE for his services to music. Having formed in 1988, they burst on to the scene soon after with their massive hit singles ‘Keep on Movin’ and ‘Back to Life’, with the latter being featured in the Opening Ceremony of the 2012 London Olympics. This year we celebrate 25 years of Soul II Soul at our 10th Anniversary, making our already stellar line up even more mouth watering.

“Looking forward to playing south of the river to a quality crowd! A happy face, a thumpin' bass, for a loving race :-)” Jazzie B (Soul II Soul) 

Benji B & Deviation Strings is up there amongst the most interesting collaborations of the past decade. Led by multi-instrumentalist and composer Grant Windsor, the sixteen piece orchestra will take to the South West Four main stage to perform specially arranged scores accompanied by Benji B on the decks. This live performance is taking electronic music to the next level as the orchestra and Benji beautifully blend together tracks, as the instruments add another dramatic dimension to create a sound of epic proportions. The Radio1 DJs’ own Deviation nights have grown to become one of the most important and well-respected brands in British nightlife, with a simple manifesto of “good sound, good music, good people and no compromise”. Quite simply this is an incredible SW4 spectacle not to be missed.

UK disco darlings Crazy P have been making some of the most important and relevant beats for the best part of fifteen years. With one of the best live shows in dance music, their roots are planted firmly in the late 90’s club scene. Their performance is a blistering exhibition of raw energy, infecting the crowd with their disco stylings. Often imitated but never duplicated, their extensive catalogue harks back memories of a more groovy, funk-laden era and 2013 sees a new album on the horizon. Make sure you catch their full live show at South West Four this year, as we party in true style. Time to get into boogie mode.

Crazy P

SW4 favourite Friction is a DJ and producer that holds extremely high esteem in the drum & bass world. Described by Pete Tong as “one of the big dogs”, he holds court in the D&B Hall of Fame thanks to his inauguration at the 2011 Drum & Bass Arena Awards. He has released music on the genre’s most respected labels including Hospital and Metalheadz and in 2004 founded Shogun Audio which pushed his name into the limelight. Since then he has gone on to become the new face of Radio 1’s flagship drum & bass show, a slot that was previously occupied by none other than Fabio & Grooverider. Having destroyed the RAM Records Arena at SW4 2012, Friction takes to the main stage this year alongside three very special guests; P Money, Scrufizzer and Linguistics.

Russell Whyte’s jittery, caffeine injected, upbeat style of music is without doubt the sound of the underground right now. Rustie’s in your face, anything goes, yet sometimes brash approach of mixing hip-hop and pop, with dubstep and trap is what’s making Rustie so in demand. In 2010 he signed to Warp Records, who released his now classic debut album ‘Glass Swords’ in 2011. In 2013 his thunderous new offering ‘Slasherr’ is causing a storm worldwide through Glasgow based label Numbers. Take note SW4, because this young Scot has only just got started.

Lancaster’s finest Bondax descend onto the Clapham Common threshold this year for their first ever South West Four appearance. Expect soulful, smooth bass and glorious sounding synths combined with R&B flavours, to make an irresistible cocktail that melts in your ears. Each listen to one of their tracks reveals a new aura of sophistication, whilst their latest offering ‘Gold’ puts Bondax on the very top of the new British talent coming through the ranks in 2013.

Los Angeles born RL Grime is in his own words “reshaping electronic production”. His melodically influenced flavour is connecting the roots of southern hip hop with the new age of electronic dance music. His alter-ego Clockwork has gained him the respect of several big name DJs, whilst his RL Grime project is shaping up to be no different. His track ‘Trap On Acid’ gained support from Diplo and A-Trak, as well as Flosstradamus and Baauer, who will both join him at South West Four this year. RL Grime’s trap ideals are dictating our understanding of what its means to be a 21st century producer, as he holds status as one of the hottest properties on the planet.

Sussex born Kove has been causing a stir in the bass world over the past twelve months. Ram Records head honcho and SW4 resident Andy C picked up his track ‘Iodine’ in 2012 which quickly became a staple in the sets of many of the scene’s biggest names. Since then, Kove has recently signed exclusively with Chase & Status’ MTA Records and is increasingly in demand as a DJ throughout Europe. Making his debut appearance at SW4, this hotly tipped youngster will go on great things, we are certain of that.

ALSO ADDED TO SW4 SATURDAY!

GORGON CITY

The stage is set for Gorgon City to take over the world. Off the back of their first EP ‘Real’ they have already gained the support of Diplo, Annie Mac and Rinse FM. The title track featuring the soulful Yasmin has even been getting daytime play on Radio1, whilst ‘Thor’ is an equally devastating affair. Individually, Foamo and RackNRuin who make up Gorgon City are both well respected producers and DJs in their own right and their distinct stylings can be heard throughout their own studio efforts. Inspired by a vast selection of music genres, growing up in north London has clearly influenced the pair with their sound an amalgamation of house, garage and deep bass. Their first EP was released by the irrepressible Black Butter Records, home of the chart topping Rudimental and with new music in the pipeline, the future is certainly bright for Gorgon City.

Jessie Ware to headline Lounge on the Farm

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The next wave of exciting acts has today been announced for Lounge on the Farm Festival, taking place on 26th-28th July at Merton Farm in Kent.

Leading the way is pop-songstress Jessie Ware, who will join main stage headlinersSeasick Steve and Soul II Soul at the top of the bill. Expect ethereal, sultry vocals and her own brand of down-tempo elecronica, as South London’s finest export treats festival-goers to a headline performance to remember.

Jessie Ware

London indie-ska boys, Man Like Me, will also be ditching London for the fresh Canterbury air and will join Jessie on the burgeoning bill. Grit-glam boys Tribes, are also confirmedalong with rising hip-hop star, Willy Moon, Kent based Broken Hands and the hotly tipped Blaenavon.

Over on the ‘FarmFolk’ stage, things are just as exciting with the arrival of Ethan Johns, headlining Saturday night. Known for his work producing Kings of Leon, Tom Jones, Laura Marling, don’t miss the chance to see this musical troubadour in action. Singer-songwriterDuke Special and Farewell JR will also take to the ‘FarmFolk’ stage.

Elsewhere on the bill, Lounge on the Farm favourites Scratch Perverts – DJs Tony Vegas, Prime Cuts and Plus One have also been confirmed. Expect a roof-raising, fist-pumping set as the break-beat legends give it some serious welly.

Over on The Farmhouse Lounge on the Farm are really mixing it up with Hidden Orchestra. This quartet from Edinburgh make music that incorporates and redefines elements of jazz, classical, rock, hip hop and electronic to form a deeply original and cohesive whole. Prepare to be amazed!

Soul II Soul to headline feel good Friday at Wychwood Festival

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Also added to the line-up today is the latest addition from London promoters' Smashing Blouse with Mausi, arguably one of the most hyped acts of this year. Lo'Jo are confirmed for Saturday's stellar programme bringing their dub reggae, African and Arabic influenced sounds, whilst Sunday welcomes the return of electro-dub pioneers Dreadzone to close the festival in monumental style. Plus Cambridge singer songwriter Sivu offers up his dreamy acoustics and electronic touches. Wychwood is proud to partner with phenomenal organisation, World Vision who will be bringing the incredible Paul Ewing to Saturday's Big Top, Britain's much-loved ska and reggae outfit The Dualers to Sunday's Mainstage and Downtown Abbey's Elizabeth McGovern's sensational, Sadie and the Hotheads. Taking place at Cheltenham Race Course from 31st May – 2nd June, weekend and day tickets are now on sale with Under 10s going for free. Full tickets details and much more information is available via the official Wychwood website.

 
Dreadzone
 
Wychwood Festival is thrilled to announce the launch of 'Feel Good Friday', extending the opening hours of Friday's unmissable entertainment offering a full day of programming with people able to pitch up from 10AM and see bands from Midday. To celebrate, Wychwood Festival welcomes Soul II Soul to headline Friday's stellar line-up bringing the ultimate party classics that will raise the metaphorical festival roof and have the entire crowds dancing throughout the night. Toploader will warm up the festival crowds with huge hits that span from Dancing In The Moonlight to Achilles Heel and promising a serious amount of feel good fun. Mausi are the final Friday act to be announced from the Smashing Blouse collective with material that has been tipped to top the charts this year. Transporting festival-goers into a summer paradise with the hugely successful single Solthat achieved fantastic support from BBC Radio 1 and over 200,000 video hits online, if there is a band to see this summer, Mausi is it.

Saturday's programme unveils Lo'Jo who are back after a four year hiatus with their joyful and poignant bar-room poetry and dub reggae, African influenced records. Wychwood's final day will close with the critically acclaimed and hugely popular Dreadzone whose pioneering electro-dub is the perfect way to bring to an end a phenomenal weekend of entertainment and long lasting memories. Cambridge singer songwriter Sivu is also confirmed for Sunday as part of Smashing Blouse's programme bringing his strange world and strange songs to a captivating audience. 

Wychwood Festival is honoured to announce this year's partnerships with World Vision, a relief, development and advocacy organisation dedicated to working with children, families and communities to overcome poverty and injustice. World Vision confirm Paul Ewing to perform on Saturday whose previous accolades include playing the same stadiums as Lady Gaga and working alongside musical legends such as Stevie Wonder. The Dualers are confirmed for Sunday's offering with their reputation of a great festival band firmly set in stone, bringing their ska and reggae sounds to a wanting Wychwood crowd. Sadie and the Hotheads make for the final World Vision act confirmed to date and is fronted by Downtown Abbey actress, Golden Globe and Oscar nominee Elizabeth McGovern who are known for their strong country music influence and surprising fusion of Spanish guitar and melodic piano chords. 

Wychwood Festival also unveils some of the most exciting local talent to emerge on to today's festival circuit who will perform on the very popular Pomme Stage. Friday sees acoustic-folk-blue artistJake Watson, Welcome To Marathon, Lady Jane & The Black Shadows, Nina Condron and the immensely popular live act Thrill Collins who Wychwood are proud to announce as their house band with their infectious sense of humour and captivating performances. Stressechoes are confirmed for Saturday alongside storyteller Andy Oliveri, Wallsall-born singer-songwriter Joe Summers, David Richards and Emily Lynn. Sunday's Pomme Stage includes Swift Manouver, alternative acoustic outfit KSH & The Going Goods, Cheltenham's Thomas Muddle and finallyLexx Keabe & Rich Howie.

 

Bryan Adams & Jamiroquai to headline Magic Summer Live!

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In what will be their only UK performance this year, Jamiroquai will be taking to the stage on Saturday 13 July and Canadian rock legend Bryan Adams will be performing at the festival on Sunday 14 July. Joining this stellar line up will be James Morrison, Joss Stone, Squeeze, Level 42, Soul II Soul, The Overtones and Kim Wilde.Tickets are on sale Friday 15 March at 8am, available at www.magicsummerlive.co.uk

Bryan Adams, Sunday’s headliner, has sold over 65 million records, toured over six continents and has achieved no.1 status in over 40 countries around the world. Adams’ song writing talent has scaled generations, with hits including “Summer Of ‘69”, “Heaven”, “Please Forgive Me”, and “(Everything I Do) I Do It For You”, which spent 16 weeks at the top of the UK single charts.

Having sold more than 25 million albums worldwide Jamiroquai are one of the UK’s biggest musical exports. The band will take to the Magic Summer Live stage for their only UK performance this year on Saturday 13 July. What marks the 20th anniversary of Emergency On Planet Earth, Jamiroquai will bring their special blend of pop, rock and funky soul to Stoke Park for what is bound to be a very memorable performance. With a career lasting 20 years, Jamiroquai will be taking to the main stage and performing hits including “Virtual Insanity”, “Cosmic Girl”, “Love Foolosophy” and  “Canned Heat”.

Jamiroquai

Neil Fox, Magic 105.4 Breakfast presenter, says: “This is going to be an amazing weekend. Some of my favourite acts who are all fantastic live, playing at a beautiful new location for Magic Summer Live. Roll on Summer!”

British soul sensation Joss Stone and “Back To Life (However Do You Want Me)” hit makers and two time Grammy award winning Soul II Soul have both been confirmed to perform at the festival on Saturday 13 July. Joining the line-up on Sunday 14 July will be BRIT Award winning singer/songwriter James Morrison, British new wave pop music icons Squeeze, rock & jazz-funk stars Level 42 and the UK’s hottest vocal harmony group The Overtones. Magic 105.4 presenter Kim Wilde will also be joining the Sunday line up and will be performing hits including “Kids in America” and “You Keep Me Hanging On”. Many more artists to be announced soon.

What is already sure to be a highlight of the summer for all the family, Magic Summer Live will host a spectacular array of activities and entertainment on site at Guildford’s Stoke Park. In addition to the Main Stage, the ‘West End’ Stage will showcase performances from some of the best-loved musicals and shows, with details to be announced soon. Organisers are keen to ensure that local businesses and talent alike are well served by the event and the festival will showcase some of the best local talent Guildford has to offer. An initiative is currently being put into place to involve as many Guildford local / independent businesses to trade on the site as possible. More information will be made available soon.

Seasick Steve, Soul II Soul and more for Lounge on the Farm Festival

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SEASICK STEVE // SOUL II SOUL // DAVID RODIGAN // MARSHALL JEFFERSON // SIMONE FELICE // DJ FORMAT // DJ ALFREDO // INLAND KNIGHTS // LUCY ROSE // DUB PISTOLS // ASWAD // BOBBY LANGLEY // JON DASILVA // NO ARTIFICIAL COLOURS // EASTEND DUBS // RAE MORRIS // MARIKA HACKMAN // TREETOP FLYERS // STEPHEN K AMOS // TOM LAW // BEN SPALDING // CHARLIE LAKIN // MK

The 8th instalment of Lounge on the Farm promises to be even more deliciously scrumptious than ever before. Heading it up will be a truly diverse and jaw-dropping line up of legends including Seasick Steve, supported by Lucy Rose, Soul II Soul with full band, and Caron Wheeler flying in from the States especially for us.

Seasick Steve

Lounge on the Farm’s very own ‘house band’, The Dub Pistols, are back and so is one of the UK’s top reggae bands Aswad, giving Soul II Soul a warm up guaranteed to have feet stomping.

We’ve let you in on the secrets of two of our days on the Main Stage, with more exciting main stage announcements to follow!

The FarmFolk is playing host to the harmonious sounds of Simone Felice, Treetop Flyers and Marika Hackman. The London House super-brand Connected make the trip down south to the Farm for 2013. Their Saturday night do features American super-producer MK and young upstarts No Artificial Colours. Meanwhile, South London party-starters Get Low make their third appearance, bringing everyone’s favourite rave pensioner David Rodigan, The Heatwave and much more!

On The Farmhouse stage we’ll have the best of bands and DJs – first announcements include DJ Format, DJ Alfredo (Cafe del Mar) and band Police Dog Hogan, made famous by member and columnist Tim Dowling of the Guardian.

Lounge has always been about more than just the music, and you don’t have to spend all your time dancing in a field. It’s everything else that makes Lounge so special – places you can escape to and blow your mind on the magical mayhem that is all around.

LOTF’s most comfy and kooky hang out, The Playhouse, will once again welcome the weird, the wonderful, the surreal and the downright absurd. From sunrise until the early hours, revellers will find themselves immersed in a unique brand of high octane, leftfield entertainment. Expect to see side splitting stand-up, variety performances, circus, contemporary burlesque, captivating spoken word, and wild, dark and heartfelt music from the best-loved musicians of the cabaret scene.

All this will be hosted by The Boom Bang Club, with comedy from TV favourites Stephen K Amos and Tony Law, and late night soirees from Patty Plinko and Tankus the Henge. We’re also proud to announce that Roots Manuva and Rob da Bank favourite Kate Tempest will head up Spoken Word curated by Tongue Fu, one of London’s liveliest spoken word nights. It’s poetry, but not as you know it.

Kids won’t be disappointed either, with The Science Museum, Shlomo Beatbox Adventure, Chatback Kids Comedy Club, NCT Sensory Room, Bushcraft and headliner to be announced later!

Lounge on the Farm was the first festival in the world to put food in the limelight alongside the music. This is grass-roots and personal cooking of an exceptional standard, proudly championing seasonal, local produce and low food miles. Expect lovingly crafted and carefully refined recipes demonstrated by a host of critically acclaimed chefs in our Kitchen Theatre.

With the site revamped and redressed, expect to get a little lost in its newly discovered nooks and crannies, all the better for escaping into. We’ve got a Victorian funfair in association with The Dreamland Trust; a Spa and Create area in amongst The Orchards where you can have a Swedish massage or learn a new skill depending on your mood; and secret restaurants far from the madding crowd. Last year’s big hitter, the Roller Disco, is back along with Lounge favourite The Groovy Movie Solar Cinema, Auntie Nora’s Jumble Sale, Vintage Market, and much, much more besides!

The Big Feastival – A Festival With A Heart

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THE FIRST WAVE OF MUSIC REVEALED:

FRIDAY: SOUL II SOUL FEATURING CARON WHEELER /

NEW YOUNG PONY CLUB / NORMAN JAY GOOD TIMES /

DANNY RAMPLING

SATURDAY: THE CHARLATANS / THE MYSTERY JETS /

KURRAN & THE WOLFNOTES

SUNDAY: ATHLETE

MANY MORE EXCITING LIVE ACTS TO BE ANNOUNCED…WATCH THIS SPACE

FANTASTIC FOOD:

LOCANDA LOCATELLI / THE PROVIDORES / WAHACA / FIFTEEN / CANTEEN / BARBACOA / BENARES / REDHOOK /

VINOTECA / CAFE SPICE NAMASTE / GBK /

GIANT ROBOT PRESENT THE VIP BAR

PLUS MORE TO BE ANNOUNCED

www.thebigfeastival.co.uk / www.facebook.com/thebigfeastival / @thebigfeastival / #bigfeastival

The Big Feastival is a sensational new three day event on the festival calendar combining mouth-watering food from some of the country’s top chefs with a top drawer selection of the finest live music acts around. The Big Feastival takes place on Clapham Common on the 1st, 2nd and 3rd July, and is the first festival of its kind bringing the best things in life – friends, families, great food and drink and amazing live music – together in one place over one fantastic weekend.

The Big Feastival is a festival with a heart, raising funds for The Prince’s Trust and The Jamie Oliver Foundation to help change the lives of disadvantaged young people. Proving food is the new rock ‘n’ roll The Big Feastival combines London’s finest gourmet experience with the look of an urban village fete and a music festival vibe, creating an extra special big day out for the entire family with food included in the ticket price and best of all kids can go free.

The Big Feastival has a stellar music line up from the hottest pop stars around to some of the most loved bands of the last 20 years entertaining the masses all weekend long. Amongst the first wave of acts announced for Friday July 1st are the majestic Soul II Soul who have reunited with acclaimed vocalist Caron Wheeler and are currently recording material for a brand new album, new wave electro-pop sensations New Young Pony Club, national treasure Norman Jay, who will be on hand to curate The Good Times Bandstand and Shoom legend Danny Rampling. Saturday’s musical entertainment is headed up by one of the UKs most loved bands, The Charlatans, who will be wowing the crowds with an almost unending stream of classic hits, plus there will be Eel Pie Island residents Mystery Jets whose quirky pop will entrance one and all and Kurran and the Wolfnotes who will be adding cutting edge alt-folk action to proceedings. The first name out of the hat for Sunday is Ivor Novello Award Winning indie rockers and South London’s finest Athlete, whose uplifting life-affirming music has made them one of the UKs most successful platinum-selling artists. There is still a wealth of amazing bands and DJs to be announced in the coming weeks, so keep your eyes peeled and keep checking www.thebigfeastival.co.uk for the most up to the minute information.

Jamie Oliver commented: “The Big Feastival is something unique that we’ve wanted to try for a while. A really good festival for everyone with great music AND great food, all for charity. You can buy a music ticket to see the bands, and just enjoy all the extra free entertainment too. But the really great deal is the music and food standard ticket, with five meals from any of our fantastic restaurants included too – and I don’t just mean little mouthfuls, I mean good portions. Kids under 12 go free as well and there’s loads to entertain them like a funfair and brilliant kitchen garden.”

Charlatans Lead Singer Tim Burgess Said: ‘You can’t really argue with Shakespeare and he said that music is the food of love, so there’s always been a link between the two. Festivals were often known for their dodgy burger vans and some gigs were a bit ‘chicken in a basket’, so it’s good to redress the balance and have great bands and fantastic food in the same place.’

Commenting on his involvement with Big Feastival Norman Jay (MBE) said: ‘I’m really honoured to be involved with such a prestigious and worthy event for The Princes Trust and Jamie Oliver Foundation, Good food….. Good music……Good Times!!’

With what will be an unrivalled selection of delicious food on offer, The Big Feastival has a committee of top chefs – who have come together to celebrate all that is good about food in a rock ‘n’ roll environment. Committee members include one of the UK’s finest Italian Chefs and Michelin Star recipient Giorgio Locatelli, former Masterchef winner and Wahaca co-founder Thomasina Miers, The Providores and Tapa Room and Kopapa co-owner Peter Gordon, owner of Milk & Honey, the original secretive speakeasy in Soho, Jonathan Downey and founder of Fifteen Jamie Oliver. Other restaurants supplying sublime sustenance across the weekend will include Benares, Redhook, Vinoteca, Cafe Spice Namaste, Canteen, Barbacoa and Giant Robot who will present the VIP bar, with lots more restaurants still to be announced.

Wahaca Co-Founder & Prince’s Trust Supporter Thomasina Miers Said: ‘The Big Feastival appealed to us from the start as it is all about getting people into cooking, particularly with the emphasis of the charities that we are supporting this year. The Prince’s Trust is one of Wahaca’s main charities it supports so it was an ideal fit for us. I know that our chefs are going to have an amazing time too – it’s going to be so much fun! I can’t think of anything better than being outside in the summer enjoying good food whilst listening to great music!’

Peter Gordon commented: ‘The Big Feastival will be a brilliant weekend of delicious eclectic flavours, sights and sounds. The restaurants are gearing up to feed everyone the most brilliant food and help raise as much as we can. It’s going to be a laugh!’

There’s plenty more incredible attractions and delicious food on offer throughout the weekend from the likes of The British Cheese Board and The People’s Supermarket, plus there will be myriad demonstrations and masterclasses from a wealth of experts including Sophie Grigson, Recipease, Jo Pratt and Rachel Allen, so watch this space for more information.

With a whole host of chefs who will be contributing to One Big Menu that will serve up the most exquisite cuisine available at any festival all summer long, even more music acts and more attractions to be announced make sure you visit www.thebigfeastival.co.uk and follow www.facebook.com/thebigfeastival and @thebigfeastival for more information and don’t forget to tag your tweets #bigfeastival.

Ticket Information:

Ticketline – 0844 888 9991

http://www.ticketline.co.uk/

Friday 1st July: 14:00 – 22:30

Saturday 2nd July: 12:00 – 22:30

Sunday 3rd July: 10:00 – 20:00

Early Bird – £50

Music + Festival Entertainment

Adults – £75

Music + Festival Entertainment + Food (5 Feastival ‘scoffs’)

VIP Tickets (18+) £125

Music + festival entertainment + 5 Feastival scoffs + VIP bar by Giant Robot with unlimited beer wine and soft drinks + non-stop fantastic food

FAMILY (2 adults, 2 children 12-17) – £175

Music + Festival Entertainment + Food (A family receives 16 scoffs between them)

Child Tickets (Aged 12-17*) – £25

Music + Festival Entertainment + Food (3 scoffs)

Child Tickets (Aged 11 And Under) – Free Entry!

*the age you will be on the day of the event

Editors Notes:

The Prince’s Trust

Youth charity The Prince’s Trust helps change young lives. It gives practical and financial support, developing key workplace skills such as confidence and motivation. Every year, The Prince’s Trust supports more than 40,000 disadvantaged 14- to 30-year-olds who have struggled at school, have been in care, are long-term unemployed or have been in trouble with the law. One of the charity’s key programmes is ‘Get into’ – short vocational courses that develop young people’s skills in a specific sector such as cooking or hospitality. Last year, more than three in four young people supported by The Prince’s Trust moved into work, education or training.

The Jamie Oliver Foundation

The Jamie Oliver Foundation’s mission is to educate and empower as many people as possible to love and enjoy good food. This means learning how to cook, understanding where food comes from, and recognizing the power it can have on our health, happiness, and even finances. It does this through teaching, training and employment, and also by making good clear information available to as many people as possible. There are four activities within the Jamie Oliver Foundation: Fifteen Apprentice Programme. Jamie’s School Dinners. Jamie’s Ministry of Food. Jamie’s Food Revolution