Wilkinson

Sundown Festival 2020 lineup announced

by

Sundown Festival is storming into 2020, announcing its first names for what promises to be the festival’s biggest year yet. Heading back to Norfolk Showground in Norwich across three days this September and following a mammoth 2019, this year’s event looks set to close the summer in style, with camping, weekend and day tickets on sale this Friday.

Known as one of the world’s biggest party starters, the unstoppable Sean Paul is one of two headliners to be announced for Sundown 2020. Arguably the most iconic dancehall artist of all time, the crossover superstar will be treating Norwich to an unforgettable headline set, with the arena set to shake to the likes of ‘Get Busy’, ‘Temperature’, ‘Breathe’ and legendary features including ‘Rockabye’, ‘Cheap Thrills’, ‘Boasty’ and many more. Needless to say, this is going to be one of the biggest moments of the summer.

One of the leading voices in confessional hip hop, award-winning UK rapper-turned-superstar Loyle Carner is guaranteed to bring an electrifying headline set to Sundown Festival. With expert craftsmanship and remarkable lyrical resonance, not to mention hits for days across his two studio albums, Carner has become one of the hottest festival bookings of the past few years, with his headline performance looking set to be nothing short of spectacular.

Bringing her smooth reinvention of turn-of-the-century Soul, R&B and British pop music, Sundown Festival is delighted to welcome Raye to the Main Stage in 2020. Forging her path in the UK pop scene, the soon-to-be superstar will treat fans to hits including ‘You Don’t Know Me’, ‘Decline’ and countless others. Also joining the Main Stage line up will be superstar in waiting Becky Hill, whose recent smash ‘Wish You Well’ has stormed into the charts, ready to go off when Sundown comes around this September.

Joining these pop sensations at Sundown Festival will be Fredo and Bugzy Malone who took 2019 by storm with an expert mix of vital and refreshing cuts, with the latter setting pulses racing after his recent collaboration with Aitch, while Fredo and Dave’s ‘Funky Friday’ defined summer 2019. Famed for master lyricism, their infectious jams will be perfect at this summer’s closing extravaganza. Meanwhile, Jay1 and Jaykae will be bringing Midlands-infused grime to the masses, and the main stage will be hosted by KISS all weekend.

BBC Sound Of winner Ray BLK will also appear on Sundown’s main stage, and dance legend Example will return to Sundown with unforgettable classics ‘Changed The Way You Kissed Me’ ‘Kickstarts’ and more, a firm favourite of the festival. The Manor and Wilkinson will also bless the main stage with their presence, with more names to be announced.

In addition to a huge Main Stage lineup, Sundown Festival will continue to provide a haven of genre-defying performances from the very best in drum and bass, house and techno.

The Friday Campers Party will feature Holy Goof, Hybrid Minds and Young T & Bugsey. Taking over the Castle Stage, Defected will be in attendance with the full crew plus special guests Sam Divine, Low Steppa, Ferreck Dawn, Endor and Jess Bays.

Building on previous collaborations at the festival, renowned bass leaders UKF will see the iconic Shy Fx, party starters My Nu Leng, dubstep legend Flux Pavillion, Notion, Bou
and Harriet Jaxxon take to the stage for what promises to be a legendary takeover.

Solardo will be bringing Higher to Sundown for the first time in 2020, with a series of even more infectious sets. Joined by rising stars including Eli Brown, Franky Wah, Latmun
and SOSA, it looks set to be truly unforgettable.

Also making an appearance at Sundown 2020, Hospitality will unleash revered DNB acts including Camo & Krooked, S.P.Y, Kings of the Rollers & Inja, Metrik, Randall, Nu:Logic (Nu:Tone & Logistics), Etherwood, T>I B2B Saxxon, Daxta MC, Carasel and Dynamite MC. Needless to say, it’s going to pop off.

Back for a fourth year due to unparalleled popular demand and fresh after their stunning new look in 2019, the Mystree stage welcomes Weiss, LeftWing: Kody, Majestic, Nathan Dawe, Martin Ikin, Artful Dodger, producer extraordinaire Conducta, Sammy Verji,  Illyus & Barrientos, George Mensah and Harry Pearce to the stage this summer, which will no doubt be huge.

Sundown Festival 2020

SW4 Phase 2 lineup announced

by

Phase 2 Line Up

Saturday
TCHAMI X MALAA (NO REDEMPTION)
(A-Z)
ALISON WONDERLAND – AMINE EDGE & DANCE
ARMAND VAN HELDEN – ELI & FUR – MADAM X
MASON COLLECTIVE – NINA LAS VEGAS

+ VERY SPECIAL GUEST: BASEMENT JAXX (DJ SET)
Sunday
WILKINSON LIVE presents ALL FOR YOU (UK EXCLUSIVE)
(A-Z)
ALIX PEREZ b2b SPECTRASOUL – BLACK SUN EMPIRE
CASISDEAD – DEVLIN – FRICTION PRESENTS CONNECTIONS
MS DYNAMITE LIVE – SWITCH: HYPE & HAZARD
+ VERY SPECIAL GUEST: SHY FX PRESENTS CUL.TURE
Joining the August Bank Holiday festival line up will be, ‘Pardon My French’ duo Tchami & Malaa who will be bringing their gospel-based ‘No Redemption’ concept to South London for a performance on Saturday. They’ll be joined by a host of the biggest talent in electronic music, including US-trap mogul Alison Wonderland, Amine Edge & Dance, and legendary house figure, Armand Van Helden. With the likes ofEli & Fur, Madam X, Mason Collective, and Nina Las Vegas also added to the opening day of the 2019 festival, Saturday will also feature very special guests Basement Jaxx, with the legendary group following up their scintillating 2018 performance at the same event.

Sunday will mark a UK exclusive; Drum & Bass maestro Wilkinson will deliver his ‘All For You’ project to the Clapham site, an innovative live concept designed to showcase the producer’s most thunderous tones in. With a very special b2b between Alix Perez and Spectrasoul also bringing vibrancy to the final day of the 2019 event, the duo will also be joined by the likes of Black Sun Empire, masked UK hip hop enigma Casisdead, rapper Devlin, and a special live performance from the Mercury Prize winning pop queen, Ms Dynamite across the course of Sunday. Friction will be bringing his ‘Connections’ brand to the party people of Clapham following his recent album release of the same name, Hype & Hazard are also sure to get crowds jumping in preparation for the hotly awaited Shy FX presents Cul.Ture set; a fitting finale for Sunday’s bass-heavy sounds

Wilkinson and more added to SW4 2017

by

Adding to the bank holiday festivities is a further twenty world-renowned acts, each regarded as an innovator within their specific genre. Hence continuing our wide ranging remit for 2017 which has resulted in phenomenal ticket sales to date. So drumroll please as South West Four proudly presents the next artists to join London’s biggest dance music festival…

MORE SATURDAY ACTS ANNOUNCED!

WILKINSON (LIVE)

After blasting to fame in 2012 with sensational track ‘Afterglow’, this home grown talent has crafted releases now considered amongst the best of contemporary dance music. His exhilarating LIVE shows have seen Wilkinson wow festivals from UK to the USA. Plus with hype for new album ‘Hypnotic’ beginning to swell, a UK Tour about to commence and selling out Camden’s prestigious venue ‘The Roundhouse’ weeks in advance, we can’t wait for Wilkinson to kill it at SW4!

PLUS DJ SETS FROM (A-Z)
CAMELPHAT, CLAPTONE, GOLDIE VS MY NU LENG, HYPE B2B HAZARD, JULIO BASHMORE, KC LIGHTS, KUNGS, SASASAS

CAMELPHAT
An unprecedented twelve months has seen Camelphat capture the hearts of revellers around the world with charismatic productions and invigorating showcases. As proved by new release ‘The System’ achieving Top 10 status in Beatport’s ‘Deep House’ chart and EP ‘Deets’ commended by industry champions such as Pete Tong. Expect these guys to fire things up on the Common.
 
CLAPTONE
Returning for a third time, this mysterious enigma prepares for another aural assault at SW4. That jazzy re-work of ‘Liquid Spirit’ was labeled last year’s feel good anthem, with widespread acclaim catapulting Claptione into the elite of electronic music. Since then a capacity show at London’s illustrious Electric Brixton, regular performances at Ministry of Sound plus Amnesia Ibiza amongst others and the burgeoning popularity of Claptone’s raucous parties under ‘The Masquerade’ banner – deem this a flagship inclusion for 2017 .
 
GOLDIE VS MY NU LENG
With a career spanning over two decades Goldie is regarded a true legend. His OBE recognition is instrumental in inspiring not only aspiring artists but industry peers too! Fitting then this household name makes a SW4 debut on Saturday, for one of the Capital’s most anticipated festival appearances this summer. But don’t forget the best things come in pairs!
 
So to form an ear splitting ensemble, Goldie is joined by My Nu Leng – current trailblazers in bass music for a B2B of epic proportions! The Bristol based duo may be relative newcomers but are cherished within the scene for production skills second-to-none and an incomparable sound. Earning regular airtime on BBC Radio 1 and 1Xtra, this exposure has led to global recognition in record time.
 
HYPE B2B HAZARD
Known for CDJ wizardry and a jaw dropping dexterity behind the decks, DJ Hype is amongst the most respected ever ambassadors for D&B. His trend setting label ‘Playaz’ has gone from strength to strength with a standout residency at Fabric, crowned by a jump-up style and technical ability which mystifies the dance floor.
 
Joining our main man will be the protégé himself! In just a few years, Hazard has knocked out anthems aplenty and is now recognized as an outstanding producer. A force to be reckoned with, this exclusive London back to back a proud addition to this year’s roster.
 
JULIO BASHMORE
Julio’s distinctive sound dictates he always stands tall from the crowd, taking influence from icons such as Daft Punk and Cassius. Managing to hone his sound down the years to produce some of the most accomplished house music tracks of recent times. Pushing a unique sound to earn endorsements from Annie Mac and Carl Cox, as well as headline shows throughout Europe on a regular basis. So onwards and upwards as Julio joins an array of the scene’s stalwarts to make his long awaited SW4 debut on Saturday 26th August.
 
KC LIGHTS
In 2015, KC Lights illuminated the house music genre as ‘No No No’ became the definitive Ibiza anthem of that year. The smash hit soared to No.3 and No.10 respectively in the dance charts for Radio 1 and Shazam, leading to Annie Mac proclaiming ‘Yes Yes Yes’ for inclusion in her namesake compilation ‘AM Presents…’ A career defining moment then, which has continued to grow with frequent collaborations and performances alongside heavyweights MK, Rudimental, Danny Howard and Hannah Wants. We are super stoked for this Glaswegian producer to bring his melodic and fresh beats to South West Four!
 
KUNGS
The last twelve months has been a whirlwind for the fledgling producer, as Kungs continues to forge a unique and distinct niche. His remix of ‘This Girl’ erupted into the charts, claiming top spots in Germany, France, Russia, Switzerland and receiving prestigious ‘Platinum’ status in both Britain and Australia. At just twenty years old, this young age belies a tour itinerary which has included playing alongside David Guetta, NERVO and Robin Schulz. Plus with the excitement which surrounded debut album ‘Layers’ still very much lingering, Kungs at SW4 will be class.
 
NETSKY
Adored by fans worldwide, Netsky’s talents both in the studio and whilst performing knows no limits. From humble beginnings to selling out stadium sized shows in all four continents, Netsky has become a mainstay at South West Four. Recently announcing his own stage at ‘Tomorrowland’ and selling out a series of tours with both his live and DJ concepts, the man from Antwerp has never seen so many accolades! A favourite with the Clapham Common faithful we can’t wait to welcome him back.
 
SASASAS
What do you get when combining six of the slickest MCs and DJs in Drum and Bass? Think a sonic boom of energy and explosion of intense sound, an unrivaled experience that’s not to be missed! The collective consisting of Harry Shotta, Stormin’, Shabba D, Skibadee, Macky Gee and DJ Phantasy have already performed a host of recent sell out shows and specifically chose SW4 as next on the hit list. An ever-growing fan base and unbelievable buzz meant we had no option but to duly accept.

SW4 LINE UP SO FAR 
 
SATURDAY 26TH AUGUST
 
PENDULUM (LIVE)
ERIC PRYDZ
SIGMA LIVE
WILKINSON LIVE
DUKE DUMONT
(A-Z)
CAMELPHAT
CLAPTONE
HANNAH WANTS
HYPE B2B HAZARD
JULIO BASHMORE
KC LIGHTS
KUNGS
MK
MAYA JANE COLES VS HEIDI
MISTAJAM
PATRICK TOPPING
SAM FELDT (LIVE)
SASASAS
SONNY FODERA VS LOW STEPPA
 
SUNDAY 27TH AUGUST
 
DEADMAU5
KNIFE PARTY
MARCO CAROLA
(A-Z)
DUSKY LIVE
GARETH EMERY
MATADOR LIVE
NICKY ROMERO
PAN-POT
THE MARTINEZ BROTHERS
ZINC VS CHRIS LORENZO

The first Boundary Festival crossed some serious borders. Review 2016.

by

Pushing the parameters of what is jovially known amongst us music journalists as ‘festival season’ lies Boundary Brighton. Boasting an impressive line-up for its inaugural year, this one-day dance music extravaganza definitely made its mark. Exhibiting an impressive list of DJ’s and acts across four stages, the festival collaborated with clubs and venues across Brighton alongside party innovators Elrow, music publication Mixmag and the infamous LWE to curate something pretty brilliant to witness.

 

 

The main stage combined one of Brighton’s most beloved venues, Concorde, with the go-to publication for all things clubbing and dance music; Mixmag. Artists such as Bondax and Groove Armada (DJ set) took to the stage, as well as the energetic Gentleman's Dub Club, a delightful surprise, whose combination of ska and dubstep, suited appearance and Yorkshire accents over reggae vocals, brought an incredible live show. A DJ set by Wilkinson closed the stage down with an immense stamina and an energetic collection of tunes.  

 

 

Notorious party-starters Elrow teamed up with Brighton’s The Arch – formerly known as Digital – to create a colourful psychedelic stage. If you haven't yet heard of Elrow, that's about to change, as the Barcelonian party enthusiasts have been putting on nights left right and centre; most notably the Ibiza classic Space. The Vibrant tent hosted the likes of Solardo, Seth Troxler, and Richy Ahmed all cocooned in a tent trying to be Woodstock, yet sounding pretty far from it.

 

One of London’s biggest underground events organisers LWE teamed up with Brighton club Patterns; still relatively new on the club scene since the death of Audio not too long ago (may it rest in peace) and I must say, whoever had the idea to build a fake London Warehouse as the set up for an inside stage was a genius. Entering the ‘building’ transported you into a club-like arena, where the likes of Jackmaster, Joy Orbison wowed the crowd, as well as sets from Patterns residents themselves. Last but not least, Boundary also set it’s very own bandstand. The smallest stage but still able to attract a crowd, the masked man Jaguar Skills played a hit-heavy set, albeit sounding a little rusty.

 

The man of the hour award definitely goes to Craig David and his new DJ project TS5. After the build up of one of the biggest revivals in garage history, Craig David’s comeback is definitely going strong. Though rumours of TS5 being a little rusty are still floating around, by the time the headliner hit the stage you could tell he’s cleaned up his act and his setlist was selectively fine tuned to please everyone from the 90’s kids in the crowd to old school garage fanatics. Being a fan as I am, I must say I’m probably a little biased but listening to Fill Me In and Seven Days live was enough to complete my summer of festivalling and if the attitude of my fellow punters in that crowd was anything to go by, I’m guessing they’d agree with me.

 

Craig David/ TS5 headlining the main stage.

 

This being said you can tell Boundary is still finding its feet. Though it’s had some great ideas and, in my opinion, had a pretty successful launch, it could do with a few tweaks. There’s no specific wristband system so punters are let in with no chance of re-entry if they leave, which would be fine if it didn’t make for a very confusing entry, there are no maps or clear labels as to which stage is which and punters have to check paper set times to make sure they catch who they want to see, It’s also pretty small. Though it held a 20,000 capacity, the festival site felt similar to a village fete making the four stages feel pretty squashed together. Nevertheless, in a way, this worked as a positive, as it promised big, energetic yet friendly crowds for each stage.

 

 

The acts themselves put on a great show, but with the renowned names on the bill and the brand of Brighton nightlife surpassing the name of the festival itself, this is hardly surprising. Though despite each stage’s own collaboration, all the music did feel a bit samey, samey. DJ’s and dance music aren’t always all too different and you come to appreciate the skills of each act you see, as well as their ability to captivate a crowd, but maybe next year it would be good to focus on a specific subgenre for each stage instead of mixing it up across the board. Do this, and Boundary could quite possibly become the next dance/club pilgrimage of the summer.

 
All images provided by www.visionseven.co.uk for Boundary Brighton.

Sundown Festival 2016 – Review. One of the biggest Sundowns yet

by

A Great British downpour lashed over festival goers as ponchos and true grit became standard for the first day of Sundown Festival.

“It's raining so hard my fingers are wrinkly,” bewailed one glitter-sodden music fan who said it looked like she had sat in the bath for an hour.

Yes. The rain was bad.

But remarkably the ground stayed mostly mud-free and the musical maelstrom kept the crowd in good spirits as three stages blasted out a mix of urban, pop and dance.

Kicking off proceedings on the main stage were Cambridge rapper Big Heath and Norfolk neo soul artist Mullally who stepped in at the last minute to replace Emmi.

Skipping on to the stage afterwards was a total style switch with trio MO who DJ Mistajam has described as the only girl group you need worry about.

They were followed by the earthy, jazz infused voice of  Espa, then Kiko Bunn, who brought a good times, deep dance reggae sunshine vibe to the day.

Next up the ever youthful Ms Dynamite, whose energy shone as strongly as when she first topped  the charts in 2003 ,with her hit single signature tune which heard the crowd sing in unison – Miss Dynamite-ee-ee!

Becky Hill stood out for her effortless performance show-casing her mind blowingly powerful voice, especially during Wilkinson's anthem Afterglow.

She is a truly likable artist with a great energy and simplicity of style.

Kano showed why his fifth album Made In The Manor has become a high seller with an edgy performance that ripped up the crowd followed by the unmistakable grin and good times set of tunes from original UK rapper Dizzee Rascal.

Jess Glynne stormed the stage with a set that engrossed the sodden masses encompassing her five number one UK singles and showing why she is a rising star on the other side of the pond as well as in the UK where she is preparing for a 10 date arena tour in the Autumn.

Duo Chase and Status closed the night with a show stopper of lights and kicking drum n bass as part of their summer of festival headlining while also producing their much anticipated third album.

By Sunday ,the Norfolk Showground venue, filled with 40,000 fans, had transformed thanks to some of the last of this summer's  rays rolling through the clouds.

BB Diamond broke the musical ice on main stage with an easy set of dance tunes followed by an absolute whirlwind of energy that is Imani Williams.

This 16 year old  is going places with her passion, unmistakable voice and style.

Signed to Sigala's label it is clear to see why he has snapped her up with her timed to perfection dance moves and big voice.

Next up was rapper Yungen who is among a new wave of rap/grime acts sweeping the British music scene.

He was followed by girl trio Stooshe whose high energy was a big hit with fans.

Anne Marie brought her big vocals to the stage where she compellingly lost herself in the moment and was enthralling to watch.

DJ Sigala followed with a big impact live set embracing a Caribbean theme with a guest slot by Imani followed by Krept & Konan who powered in, packing a mighty grime punch with lyrics that screamed pure London boy genius.

A turn around style switch followed, thanks to X factor contestant Fleur East who was a massive hit with the crowd. Think Beyonce and Tina Turner, blend them up and you get some kind of idea of her style, and panache. She was a joy to photograph with a star quality performance.

Next up was Years and Years – watching singer Olly Alexander is like seeing somebody emotionally throw their entire life and a handful of glitter into every word. Riveting.

Closing the festival was American star Jason Derulo who left the crowd in no doubt about why he is such a hugely successful global act.

This man can sing, he can dance and with a big beaming smile his performance was incredible to watch – not least when he picked out a girl from the screaming crowd and brought her up to dance on stage

A great performer with slick backing dancers and musicians to boot.

Over in the red and blue tents weekend highlights were David Rodiggan, who smashes it every time he takes to the stage, Jaguar Skills and his Asian babe dancers, Dimension, Red Light,  Goldie and Wilkinson with thanks to stage hosting by Ministry of Sound, Defected In The House, UKF and the drum n bass arena.

Laurence Bagnall, one of the festival organsiers said: “This has been one of the biggest Sundowns yet.

“The weather failed to dampen the good vibes, the sun came out for some of the biggest acts and with no incidents to report the festival would like to thank everybody for their ongoing support.”

See you in 2017!

 

 

Sundown Festival 2016 Preview

by

The countdown is on to Sundown Festival 2016 in what is becoming renowned as the music happening to see out the last rays of the summer season.

With a third stage added at the Norwich venue for this year, there are more acts, more music and more choice.

An easy vibe, friendly crowd and variety are key in this urban, dance, pop and drum n bass mix and this year is no exception.

Warming up on Friday night is the big top campers party with Radio 1 DJ Danny Howard, best known for presenting his show Dance Anthems, which kicks off proceedings with stomping tunes until the small hours.

The festival proper begins on Saturday with a headliner classic of  Chase & Status after main players including chart topper Jess Glynne, UK rapper Kano, British rap favourite Dizzee Rascal, future pop sensation Becky Hill and respected British rapper and politically motivated icon Ms Dynamite, 

The Defected in the House stage includes Sonny Fodera, Sam Divine and DISKT while over in the UKF stage are mash up legend Jaguar Skills, reggae DJ pioneer David Rodigan, My Nu Leng and MC Dread.

Sunday fires off in all directions in the musical maelstrom that is Sundown with a main stage headliner of Jason Derulo. He takes to the stage after acts including Years and Years, grime duo Krept and Kronan, breakthorugh X factor star Fleur East and Sigala Live.

Over at the second tent the stage is set today by global dance brand Ministry of Sound with headliner Amine Edge and Dance, Redlight, Blonde and Low Steppa among the acts.

The third tent on Sunday becomes the drum n bass arena with crowd pleaser Wilkinson, Friction, the ever popular Goldie, Warning favourite Hazard, Dimension, Dillinja and Culture Shock.

Alongside it all throw in some fairground rides, stalls and a crowd that never feels overwhelmingly large making it both a perfect season closer for die hard festival fans or the ideal place for teenagers to cut their teeth in a safe and manageable sized festival world.

Either way, enjoy. The line up is randomly eclectic – but is sure to keep those dancing feet happy all weekend.

TICKETS: Sundown Festival 2016 is from Friday September 2 to Sunday 4. Tickets start at £46.75 for a day pass up to £121 for a weekend pass with camping at the Norfolk Showground venue. 

Lineup announced for Boundary Brighton music festival

by
New South Coast music festival, Boundary Brighton, announce a stella cast for their debut event atStanmer Park on Saturday 17th September 2016. Bringing four stages of music, vintage fair and delectable street-food delights to the beautiful seaside location.
 
Offering Brighton a heady close to summer and welcoming students back to their stomping-ground, Boundary festival will see the hottest local talent alongside dance music legends with electrifying sets from Seth Troxler, Joy Orbison, Wilkinson, Bondax, Jungle, Snake Hips, Toddla T, Tom Trago, Submotion Orchestra, Congo Natty ft. Congo Dubz, Gentleman's Dub Club and more…
 
Bringing creative flair to Stanmer Park, bespoke arenas will add to the boutique feel at Boundary Brighton. Mixmag partner with Concorde 2 to build a stage with a beautiful façade and a personal feel not normally found on a main stage, promising plenty of hands-in-the-air moments and high levels of production.
 
Renowned immersive party brand elrow joins forces with The Arch to bring the sounds of Barcelona and Ibiza mixed with a large dose of insanity, outrageous performers and confetti filled air. Explosions of colour and sound will create a kaleidoscopic assault on the senses.
 
London's biggest underground event organisers, LWE, have made a habit of unearthing off-locations and transforming them into amazing places for parties. They'll be teaming up with Brighton's Patterns to bring an infusion of techno and house in an immersive venue.
 
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the festival, Boundary Brighton's very own Victorian Bandstand will be punching above its weight, bringing a really different flavour to the festival, with a fun line up that will keep you smiling and dancing all day.
 
 
LINEUP:
 
SETH TROXLER
WILKINSON
JOY ORBISON
BONDAX
JUNGLE (DJ SET)
SNAKE HIPS 
TODDLA T
TOM TRAGO
GENTLEMAN'S DUB CLUB
SUBMOTION ORCHESTRA
CONGO NATTY – FT. CONGO DUBZ
SOLARDO
MEHTOLA 
BOB KERR & HIS WHOPEE BAND
JEM STONE'S VILLAGE DISCO
MR BONGO SOUND SYSTEM 
CHARLES GREEN 

Jason Derulo, Years & Years, Dizzee Rascal and more for Sundown 2016

by

Sundown Festival returns to Norfolk Showground in Norwich for a fourth year with a huge line-up of the biggest and best names in contemporary music. Delivering a mix of the most sought after names from all corners of the pop, urban and dance music landscape, Sundown brings together everything that is vital in music right now for an amazing live music experience. This year the festival expands even further adding a third stage and collaborating with some of the most revered brands in underground music.

In five years Jason Derulo has risen to one of the best-selling, radio-dominating pop and urban artists of the day, selling over 50 million singles worldwide and racking up over two billion views on YouTube and one billion plays on Spotify. Headlining on the Sunday, fans can expect a huge show featuring the likes of ‘Talk Dirty’, ‘Wiggle’, ‘Trumpets’, ‘Whatcha Say’ and many more. With one huge headliner still to be announced this promises to be the biggest year for Sundown yet.

With five UK number 1 singles to her name including her collaboration with Clean Bandit on huge Grammy Award winning hit ‘Rather Be’, Jess Glynne is one of the UK’s brightest stars. She will undoubtedly have the Sundown crowd singing along to a hit laden set whilst London hip hop and grime hero Dizzee Rascal will bring his signature party sound to the Showground. 

Years & Years were the big crossover success story of 2015 and their up- tempo brand of synth-pop spawned huge chart hits such as ‘King’ and ‘Desire’ and in Olly Alexander the band have a genuine, bona-fide pop star. Also performing will be Fleur Eastwho has become a household name since competing on X-Factor and released one of the biggest tracks of 2015 in ‘Sax’. 

A world famous name in house music Defected Records will host the second stage on the Saturday with renowned party startersSam Devine, Sonny Fodera and DJ S.K.T. Get ready to raise those hands and party as one of the world’s most loved house music parties keeps the Sundown masses dancing all night long. 

Undeniable masters of bass UKF are the Hosts for Stage 3 and proudly present a dual headline show featuring Jaguar Skillsshowcasing why he is the ultimate DJ ninja and the legendary David Rodigan MBE bringing the sound of dancehall and reggae to the East Coast. Fast rising Black Butter up and comers My Nu Leng will keep it deep and on point. 

Dance music royalty Ministry Of Sound will be presenting the second stage on the Sunday with heavy bass courtesy of French production duo Amine Edge and DANCE, genre blurring Bristolian and Lobster Boy head honcho Redlight and serious bass head Low Steppa all taking to the decks.

The legendary Drum and Bass Arena celebrate a huge 20 years in the game this year and will host chart topper Wilkinsonwhose anthem ‘Afterglow’ was an instant classic, Radio 1’s d&b don and Shogun Audio boss Friction and the classic jungle sounds of DJ Hazard.

Saturday 3rd September

Main Stage 

Headliner TBA

Jess Glynne 

Dizzee Rascal

Stage 2 – Defected 

Sam Divine 

Sonny Fodera 

DJ S.K.T 

Stage 3 – UKF 

David Rodigan & Jaguar Skills

My Nu Leng 

Sunday 4th September

Main Stage 

Jason Derulo 

Years & Years 

Fleur East 

Stage 2 – Ministry of Sound 

Amine Edge & Dance 

Redlight 

Low Steppa 

Stage 3 – Drum & Bass Arena

Wilkinson 

Friction 

DJ Hazard 

MADE Birmingham 2015 Review

by

Whilst many of the big festivals were coping with mud over the weekend we were thankful that our Brummie feet were firmly on solid ground as we arrived for MADE. With a line up that boasts heavyweight names such as MK, Heidi, Claude Von Stroke, Julio Bashmore and David Rodigan, as well as prominent local acts Tom Shorterz and Adam Shelton, there was plenty for everyone in this urban playground.

MADE is a mini Metropolitan festival that brought ravers from all corners into the heart of Birmingham city. Now in its second year, the site had been expanded to include six stages set across the Digbeth triangle and the Rainbow complex. In keeping with the creative melting pot of the area, that ethos was very much evident in the site production from the epic wall mural by Newso & Gent48, live graffiti art and illustrative signage.

First up was veteran DJ and reggae selector David ‘Ram Jam’ Rodigan on the Heavyweight Bass Champion stage, a boxing ring with caliber of booming bass and DnB acts to match. 40 years in the business and David still knows how to rock a crowd. He invited all the ‘young tongue shooters to take a trip to Jamaica’ with him as he spun tunes from reggae, dance hall and DnB. He bounced around with the energy of a teenager, puffing out his chest and rewinding the decks, it was a pure joy to watch.

Next up was Norman Jay MBE playing from a fire exit high above the car park. The Bloc Party stage set up wasn’t a massive success and it was a shame to see Normal play to smaller numbers than expected. The VIP terrace above the Warehouse offered the best views over the main stage and revellers danced with the inflatables in the hazy afternoon sun. We stopped for some much needed respite with a delicious gourmet pizza from Baked-in Brick.

Back on the Heavyweight stage was beat-box extraordinaire Beardyman and friends for the ‘Bass Battle Off’. DJs Pete Graham, Marc Spence and Santero went back to back with only 7 minutes to impress the audience. We darted round the site, catching glimpses of sets from Korupt FM, Stanton Warriors, and Blonde who performed live as confetti cannons launched multi coloured flakes into the sky of the main arena. Julio Bashmore and Dusky were the stars of the Underground stage as they played to hyped punters in dark sweat-box of a room.

A packed out crowed gathered at the main stage anticipation for the headline act.  It seemed as if most people had come to see MK (Marc Kinchen) as the other stages emptied out. As his first record dropped confetti cannons boomed, followed by smoke jets and fire streams lighting up the crowd. His set was bursting with techno and club classics including remixes of Rudimental’s ‘Powerless’, Bakermat’s ‘Teach me’, Dumont’s ‘The giver’ to the crowd pleasing anthemic sing-a-long moment ‘My head is a jungle’. MK dived into the crowd at the end of his set and was hoisted up on to shoulders for the fireworks finale whilst Low steppa took up the mantle.

We caught up with Pete Jordan festival organiser about the challenges of delivering 11,000 capacity inner-city festival. “Digbeth is a unbelievable place and we had the opportunity to go bigger. We have had a phenomenal amount of support from the council, police and emergency services.”

“Having the indoor and outdoor spaces created a different vibe and we tried to put a bit of personality into each individual stage. Delivering bass music in a conceptual form such as a boxing ring makes people experience the music in different way. To see some of these stages really come off makes me really proud.”

It was clear the festival was a big hit with the punters too. Carly Banks from Staffs said “I have literally had the best day/night of my life!!! so unexpected and so worth it!!!!!”

Despite the terrible weather on Sunday they still had good numbers through the door for Made by Day. The organisers worked quickly to relocate as much of it indoors at the rainbow complex. There was a great selection of food available from gourmet burgers, pizzas, Caribbean, North African, Thai from Digbeth Dining Club regulars, as well as comedy, music and retro gaming from Dead Pixels.

Made my day was a great success and provided thousands with the best in bass and dance to party through day and night. We’re already looking forward to what 2016 has to offer.

 

See the full image set here https://www.flickr.com/photos/summerfestivalguide/sets/72157656009069788

 

 

 

 

 

 

NASS Festival 2015 – Our Festival Round Up

by

With this years NASS festival now being over a week ago, for many people the infamous ‘festival depression’ is slowly starting to sink in with many already looking forward to the next dose of the drum and bass festival next year.  We here at Summer Festival Guide had the chance to attend the festival for the second year running, documenting the event through images and words. Attempting to compare the two trips to the festival is almost indescribable, with team NASS stepping up their game so much this year there NASS 2015 will definitely be one of the main highlights of our festival season.

 

 

Opening the weekend up on the Friday’s main stage, We Are The Ocean (3.5) started of on a mellow tone trying their best to get the drum and bass lovers to swap their addictions for beats and drops for guitar and drum solos. Managing to draw a few in for the crowd favourite ‘Young Heart’ the band performed a strong set to a very inactive crowd. Moving forward, Modestep (5) got the crowd going from the first tones presented to them. With ‘Sunlight’ and ‘Freedom’ sending the participants into a frenzie, the NASS three day party was well and truly underway. Being one of the controversial headliners, Enter Shikari (4) drew in a medium sizes crowd for their set, however this didn’t stop the band giving it their all to win over the few still sitting at the back of the field. Clearly catering their setlist towards the festivals drum and bass roots, the band moved away from their rock genes with focusing on the more electronic tracks in the bands backlog with ‘Anaesthetist’ generating the most crowd participation.

With ‘The Slammer’ possibly being considered as the outcast stage from the others with the acts originating in the rock genre, many of the bands received a less than deserved minimal crowd. Saturday’s line up including Shvpes, Heck and The One Hundred with each of them putting on a strong set despite the almost empty tent. Many of the bands involved on the stage except the headline act for each day experienced the lacking crowd, and with that we sympathise as had it been any other festival each of them would have had a good sized crowd which the more than deserve with their individual talents.

The Summer Festival Guide favourite Wilkinson (5) returned to NASS Festival for yet another performance at the festival. Playing the crowd favourites ‘Too Close’ and ‘Dirty Love’ to close the set, the crowd reaction alone can easily prove why the festival promoters keep bringing back Wilkinson, with the guaranteed party that he puts on the table for all festival goers. Heading over to Lower Than Atlantis (3.5), the comparison between the two is non existent. Despite having a good sized crowd gathering for their set, the band played a setlist which was far too short for a headlining set, containing only seven songs the band performed an average set which could easily be improved if the sound quality within was controlled. Rebel Sound (4.5) being the side project of Chase and Status left many wondering what the hour would hold with this being their first festival headlining performance. Producing their own remixes on the crowd favourite ‘Stay With Me’ by Sam Smith and a lighting show brighter than any other, Rebel Sound will never be forgotten in the history of NASS.

With the closing day of NASS almost being a complete wash out, many of the festival goes seeked refuge within the covered Southbank and The Slammer stages. Giving everyone a dose of much needed pop punk, ROAM (3.5) brought their usual high energy to the stage hoping to lift everyone's spirits, earning a lot of bobbing heads and even their mini mosh pits. Hactivist (4) also managed to almost fill the tent with their rock infused version of the ever so popular Jay-Z track ‘Paris’. Closing the weekend, the chilled out Public Enemy (3.5) managed to secure a crowd despite many waiting for the highly anticipated set from popular DJ Hannah Wants. With a stage show based performance, the act was one that many would agree should not have closed the festival main stage with the major comparison to the popular Rebel Sound and the crowd pleasing performance that they delivered.

 

Agreeing that this is the best line up NASS have produced, with a few lineup changes in terms of the closing set at this years event, the festival would be one that more than many would not forget, however ending the festival on a mellow note on the main stage could have improved the overall weekend. Bring on NASS Festival 2016!