Plus, Norwegian newcomer and YouTube sensation, Daniel Simonsen has also been confirmed, and for the first time there’ll also be a daily slot of funny, clean comedy dedicated to children in The Social with Comedy Club 4 Kids.
Providing a sure-fire night of laughter on Saturday, audiences will be charmed by Stephen’s almost child-like joy and exuberance, and his ability to find the funny side of things in even the most unexpected places! Having entertained audiences all over the world, he has numerous TV credits under his belt, including his own TV series The Stephen K Amos Show.
Larmer Tree Festival Co-Director and comedy programmer, Julia Safe, said: “Each year it seems a daunting task to improve on the previous year’s amazing comedy line-up, but I’m very pleased to say we undoubtedly have in 2012!”
Stephen joins a stellar line-up of comedians ready to take to the mic and bring rapturous laughter to the enchanted gardens this year. Top of the bill is comedy genius, Tim Minchin, who’ll be given the great accolade of being the first comedian ever to grace the festival’s Main Stage. Rock superstar, Tim and his grand piano will be wowing audiences on Thursday night with a unique blend of musical comedy.
Heading up the ARC’s Comedy Club on Thursday evening will be Greg Davies. Possibly best known for playing the psychotic Head of Sixth Form Mr Gilbert in Channel 4’s The Inbetweeners, Greg’s also appeared on numerous TV shows. Next up it’s the multi-award winning comedian, Milton Jones, who’ll be drawing the Comedy Club to a side-splittingly funny close when he headlines Sunday. Festival-goers will have seen Milton on Mock the Week (BBC2), and more recently on Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow (BBC1). He’s also had his ninth radio series commissioned for BBC Radio 4.
Bringing their indomitable late night festival fanfare to Friday evening is the fifth and final comedy headliner, The Horne Section. Gathering together the UK’s finest jazz musicians and throwing them on stage with the world’s most exciting comics – Alex Horne has created a truly unique brand of jazz-infused comedy.
Plus, the Larmer Tree team is very pleased to welcome Comedy Club 4 Kids to the festival. Tailored for anyone over the age of eight, it features the best comedians on the circuit doing what they do best… but without the rude bits! Families can now enjoy the funniest acts, swear-free at lunchtimes in The Social.
It’s not just about the comedy, there’ll be more than 70 eclectic artists performing over the five day festival. Joining firm favouriteJools Holland, other not to be missed headliners include Paloma Faith, Amadou & Mariam, Levellers and Roots Manuva.
Tickets include all entertainment, free parking and camping for tents, caravans and campervans, so there are no additional costs. A three day ticket costs £140 per adult but festival-goers can enjoy a four or five day weekend for only an extra £25 or £50 respectively.
Tim Minchin • Greg Davies • Milton Jones • Stephen K Amos • The Horne Section • Terry Alderton • Zoe Lyons • Alun Cochrane • Carl Donnelly • Nick Helm • Roisin Conaty • Marcel Lucont • Naz Osmanoglu • Jimmy McGhie • Tom Craine • Paul McCaffrey • Daniel Simonsen • Comedy Club 4 Kids
Getting the party started on day one of the Most Beautiful Festival In The World – is the quite excellent MUMFORD & SONS who along with NOAH & THE WHALE, THE DRUMS, MYSTERY JETS and ADMIRAL FALLOWcharge the MAIN STAGE, whilst Breakthrough Star ED SHEERAN,WRETCH 32 and ETIENNE DE CRECY head up the GOLDEN VOICE ARENA. The first class electro for which RockNess is famed commences in awesome form with EATS EVERYTHING and HUDSON MOHAWKE headlining the mighty CLASH presents SUB CLUB SOUND SYSTEM, with Baron of Techno DAVE CLARKE and CLAUDE VONSTROKE assuming control of the new ARCADIA UFO presented by SOMA RECORDS. The HOWARDS END ARENA in association with SOUND CITY presents the finest new music including THEOPHILUS LONDON and STARBOY NATHAN, topped with the much lovedROCKNESS CEILIDH ALL STARS.
Day two of RockNess – NME award winning ‘Best Small Festival’ for two consecutive years running – promises to be a moment of quite simply epic proportions as two of the world’s biggest names in dance head to Scotland. With what is arguably the most spectacular show out of all the major electronic headliners right now, Californian superstar DJ and producer DEADMAU5 on the MAIN STAGE precluded by ANNIE MAC and DJ FRESHwill be truly unmissable. And in a double whammy, there is no bigger act to headline the GOLDEN VOICE ARENA on Saturday night than French electro Gods JUSTICE! Not since Daft Punk played RockNess – a moment so iconic and mind bogglingly awesome that it is now widely acknowledged as one of the most seminal moments in Scottish music history – has there been an act that so frequently tops the wishlist of fans. With an all-French support of BUSY P, JACQUES LU CONT and MADEON, the GOLDEN VOICE roof will without any shadow of doubt be blown off.
International comedy superstar TIM MINCHIN heads up a first class comedy proposition at this year’s festival and is guaranteed a full house in Saturday afternoon’s GOLDEN VOICE ARENA with fast rising Scottish star DANIEL SLOSS and a host of other supremely talented funnymen (and ladies!) on the weekend bill too. Saturday’s CLASH ARENA welcomes Special Guests THE VIEW to what is sure to be an ecstatic home crowd welcome. THE PIGEON DETECTIVES and GUILLEMOTS precede the Dundee rockers in the CLASH ARENA. And as day becomes night, the CLASH ARENA transforms into the hedonistic clubbing utopia of the SUB CLUB SOUND SYSTEM with HARRI & DOMENIC headlining alongside LEVON VINCENT, IVAN SMAGGHE and SENSU. Over on the ARCADIA UFO, in a techno treat of cosmic proportions, BEN SIMS, JAMES HOLDEN and SILICONE SOUL are joined by ANDREW WEATHERALL and SEAN JOHNSTON who present ‘A Love From Outer Space’.
New music is well represented in Saturday’s HOWARDS END ARENA with BASTILLE, SAINT SAVIOUR and others, plus fun and games from BEARDED KITTEN (who also get the RockNess Express party antics going!).
From start to finish, day three of RockNess 2012 is simply heaving with quality. Last time they played, the response was thunderous. This time they’re back and bringing the festival to an almighty close on the Sunday. Get set for the biggest finale you’ve ever seen as Scotland’s rock superstars BIFFY CLYRO bring the MAIN STAGE to a close! Joining BIFFY CLYRO on Sunday’s MAIN STAGE is ZANE LOWE whipping the crowd into a frenzy as only he does best, the brilliant FRIENDLY FIRES, and the legend that is NILE RODGERS who along with CHIC will deliver a set of back to back all time disco classics.
Sunday’s GOLDEN VOICE ARENA is a stormer as THE KNIFE, METRONOMY and ROB DA BANK get the party well and truly rocking, while the CLASH ARENA sees ASH headline with a very special 20th Anniversary set alongside RIFLES and ERRORS. Changing over into the SUB CLUB SOUND SYSTEM once dusk falls over Loch Ness, the arena goes into full effect with an exclusive 3 hour set from Detroit legend JEFF MILLS. Over on the ARCADIA UFO, MYLO brings his famed EPP Party to Dores in another amazing exclusive with YUKSEK and TIGERandWOODS joining the Skye born maestro. Sunday’s new music proposition includes FOXES, CHARLOTTE O’CONNOR and STEALING SHEEP.
Plus there’s more! As one of Scotland’s premier destinations for DJs and clubbers, RockNess is delighted to welcome back Aberdeen’s CLUB SNAFU for more exemplary beats and good times to the new intimate Kopparberg Kube. Epitomising the sublime music policy of CLUB SNAFU, the boutique space will be headlined by Hot Creation’s funk and disco groovemeisters WiLDKATS, with the outstanding BIGFOOT’S TEA PARTY back to tear up the dancefloor again after last year’s exhilarating performance. CLUB SNAFU resident (and inaugural RockNess DJ Competition Winner) FUAD is one of the most hotly tipped producers on the scene, packing out the club on a Saturday night and we’re really happy to say he too is Dores bound along with fellow CLUB SNAFU resident KRAZZY MARTIN. A key member of Aberdeen’s clubbing community, KRAZZY MARTIN has staged some of the North’s most legendary parties in recent years. So he’ll be right at home at RockNess!
It is with much excitement we can announce our friends at the sublime LUCKY ME collective will take control of the decks in the Kopparberg Kube on Sunday. Firmly at the fore of new hip hop, RnB, house and all things musically experimental, besides releasing vinyl and clothing, LUCKY ME direct in music and fashion. Founded in Glasgow by Mike Slott, Dominic Sum Flannigan, Martyn Flyn, and Ross Birchard (aka previously announced Sub Club Sound System penultimate headliner HUDSON MOHAWKE), LUCKY ME present a triple whammy of outstanding talent with S-TYPE, THE BLESSINGS and DEMA.
Endorsed by Paul Weller, cult cockney mods THE RIFLES are packing out venues across the land and scooping rave reviews as they go with their no nonsense, no frills approach. Recently released album ‘Freedom Run’, the Chingford band’s third, offers tracks that burst into life with the brightest of harmonies. Catch them at RockNess for as good a guitar pop set as you’re likely to hear in 2012.
Multi-national, multi-instrumentalist and multi-talented. GUILLEMOTS don’t do understatement. Mercury Prize and Brit nominated, their music is a lesson in modern brilliance. Ambitious arrangements, expansive beauty and some seriously large-scale emotion, the quartet make music that is, according to charismatic frontman Fyfe Dangerfield “to be heard across the night sky". And where more seductive than Loch Ness. Unmissable.
The most recent spinoff of the Wu Tang-like Odd Future collective, THE INTERNET is a hip hop soul duo consisting of female DJ, singer and producer SYD THA KYD and producer MATT MARTIANS of LA skateboarding hip hop collective OFWGKTA (Wolf Gang Kill Them All). The brilliant young duo’s skeletal beats and smoothed out cooing hit the internet a few months back and RockNess is extremely pleased to be welcoming THE INTERNET to Scotland for the first time.
Arriving with her Neon Gold Records debut ‘Youth’ late last year, the resplendent synths, industrial percussion and soaring vocals of FOXES (Louisa Rose Allen) were the talk of the town. Now the 22 year old from Southampton returns with eagerly awaited follow up EP, ‘Warrior’ on 1st July, with RockNess the perfect precursor to showcase the new material live.
The exquisite STEALING SHEEP have had an impressive rise over the last twelve months. Show stealing performances across the UK and a nod from Sir Paul McCartney has seen the all-female Liverpool trio gain a growing audience. Far from just another folk clone, the influence of 60's psychedelic rock and pop can be clearly heard across their beautifully crafted songs and unusual instrumentation.
Folky and soulful, CHARLOTTE O’CONNOR admits her musical influences are far reaching. Growing up in Blackburn with a half-Malawian/half-Indian mum and an Irish father, she was exposed to all kinds of sounds. And for that we should be thankful. Debut album ‘For Kenny’ released in March was “romantic and fun with a lot of energy” and is set to be swiftly followed up with an as yet untitled EP late summer.
Last but certainly by no means least, Inverness’ KOBI aka Steve Robertson, Gary Thain and Dave Smith have a big vision for 2012. Having spent several years honing their multifaceted, voyeuristic sound on the live circuit, which most notably included a support slot to Shaun Ryder, the recording of the trio’s debut album is soon to commence in Spain. Catch them this summer at Dores and hear the new material in full effect.
Live and Unsigned auditions started in January leading up to the National Finals at the UK’s Largest indoor music festival, Live Fest (14th July, 02 Arena). The competition will be judged by a panel of music industry gurus from National Radio 1, Kerrang, BBC Introducing, Regional Press & record labels including Radio 1’s Annie Knightingale MBE, Kerrang! Radio’s Alex Baker, former Stone Roses guitarist Aziz Ibrahim and many more to be announced!
The overall winner of Live and Unsigned 2012 will receive the exclusive opportunity to play WOWfest’s main stage on Friday 17th August. Sharing the main stage over the weekend are the likes of Norman Jay MBE, The Selecter and Aswad, with more still to be announced. In addition the winner of Live and Unsigned’s acoustic music sub category will play WOWfest’s new and local talent stage, Shaved Fish.
Only in its first year, WOWfest’s features an electric mix of House, Reggae, Ska, Jazz, World, Disco, Dance, Dubstep and Drum and Bass music including House legends Paul Oakenfold and Danny Rampling, Reggae stars UB40, Junior Marvin of Bob Marley's Wailers and Maxi Priest as well as Ska originals The Selecter and The Beat to name a few. On top of a spectacular line up the festival features Ubuntu, WOWfest’s African Village, as well as a vintage fun fair, workshops, theatre performances and afterhours comedy club and swirling burlesque.
The Live and Unsigned 2012 winner will also play Relentless Energy Drink Boardmasters, Sundown, Strawberry Fields Festival, Cloud 9 Festival, Glass Butter Beach, Bingley Music Live, Cockermouth Rock Festival, Brownstock, WOWFest, Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Just So Festival, Stockton Weekender, London Summer Jam and Lancaster Music Festival as well as receive a cash prize of £10,000.
To enter Live and Unsigned visit http://www.liveandunsigned.uk.com/enter-now
Live and Unsigned Grand Final 14th July 2012 , The O2 London
With a capacity of just 2,500 and boasting a line-up that consistently features every buzz indie band of the moment, Blissfields Festival will be Charlotte's most intimate festival performance ever, and a chance for her to showcase a raft of new material with a full band in a truly unique environment.
Having won a Classical BRIT Award for Artist of the Year, a British Comedy Award for Best Female Newcomer, a GQ Award for Woman of the Year, and following six acclaimed, top 40 albums as well as a career in television – it’s safe to say that the 26 year old Church is as big a household name as Stephen Fry or cucumber sandwiches. Organizers have said they are“delighted when Charlotte approached us to preview new material at the event. We’ve always upheld the belief that Blissfields should be a place for all kinds of music, both emerging and established, and we know she’ll put on a quality show that everybody will enjoy. We’ve already confirmed pretty much all of our bill, but found a way to make this work – and of course we’re really excited by the announcement”.
Also announced is 12 year old Lauren Thalia. A local to the festival, she stole the judge’s heart in the audition stages of the competition, and performed at the live semi-final to a television audience of 7 million people with her own version of ‘Earthquake’.
Blissfields Festivalare proud to add Charlotte and Lauren to a bill that already includesPatrick Wolf (playing a special grand piano acoustic set), The Noisettes, Guillemots,Toddla T, Spector, Toy, Theme Park, Clock Opera, Charli XCX, Bastille, King Charles, and a wealth of other acclaimed acts to it’s 12th year line-up. Full line-up below.
Arriving at the campsite on Friday we were greeted by a new look Bearded Theory, with more stages and more space across the scenic gardens of Kedlestone Hall. The festival grounds were dotted with models of giant cyborg rabbits and dancing robots and it was immediately clear, even very early in the weekend, that Bearded Theory was going to be a bigger event this year.
Throughout the weekend the dance tent was jumping with the younger and more beat minded festival goers. Serenaded by DJs including System 7, Zubzub, The Ashan Project and Banco De Gaia and entertained by some truly incredible and at times highly trippy visualisations, the dance tent was at much appreciated alternative for many at times over the weekend.
The other stages brought some of the best live acts in the world, young, old, new and established, everyone was represented at Bearded Theory 2012.
One of the first acts I came across was an old favourite of mine at the small, intimate Water's Edge stage. Over the last few years Jemma Johnson's name has become synonymous with top class festival performances. This talented young lady charms crowds wherever she goes and Bearded Theory this year was no exception. A stunning set of covers and originals that went further to cementing Jemma's place as a real rising star on the UK music scene.
Also entertaining crowds on Friday daytime was the 360 on the second stage, Tornado Town. A ska outfit who after many years of playing together appear to be gaining the recognition that they clearly deserve. A high octane, high energy, fun and skilled performance that set the crowd up perfectly for the party to come.
The first big name headliner of the weekend came in the shape of Doctor and the Medics. As the set began a cyberman took to the stage, with a mop. He then proceeded to use that mop to knock over model daleks, before picking them back up and placing them where they had previously been. An odd introduction, but somehow one you couldn't take your eyes off. Then the Doctor and his trusty Medics took to the stage, looking just as fabulous as they ever did. Dressed in a full length faux fur coat, the Doctor led his band through a series of rock and roll covers that had every crowd member bouncing along. Finishing, as expected, with their smash hit Spirit in the Sky, Doctor and the Medics did exactly what was expected of them, and they did it with style.
Everyone knows the feeling, you're watching a band who you've heard of, then they play a song you love and you have that "oh they did this song" moment. I have never had that sensation as many times as when watching Terrorvision on Friday night. I have always been a fan of Terrorvision, but I never realised how much. A full set of top class tunes back to back, performed with aplomb by their incredibly charismatic frontman Tony Wright made this the stand out set of the day and one of the best of the weekend. After breaking up for a number of years early in the millennium and going through a few reshuffles, Terrorvision are back and are firing on all cylinders.
The came the much anticipated headliner, the "one way or the other" performance. Unfortunately for all in attendance, it went the other. When the Levellers fiddle player gained an injury Adam Ant heroically stepped in to save the day. He then proceeded to produce one of the worst performances of the weekend. Perhaps hindered by taking to the stage after Terrovision's sublime performance, Adam's vocals seemed constantly flat and his performance and times touched on desperate. I am not one to revel in disparaging comments and I shall not change that now. To me I feel the performance can be summed up in one moment. Twenty minutes into the set, a man dressed in full Adam Ant costume and make up walked sullenly away from the arena and did not return.
For those who didn't want to stay for Adam Ant's performance, a phenomenal performance was happening at Tornado Town. Karl Phillips and the Midnight Ramblers bring something very different to the stage. A mix of rock, hip hop, dubstep and various other styles fronted by Karl's full throttle rap style. A man who does not mind offending a few people, Karl is an outspoken, brash and cocky individual, but that works perfectly with the style of the band. After a lot of unsurity at the beginning of the set, the band won over the crowd within a few songs and by the end of the performance the packed out tent was begging for more.
Saturday started slowly with a plethora of fairly generic, fairly average acts. There came a point where doubts started to fester about whether the momentum of Friday night would be lost. And then Cara Dillon happened. I have been a big Cara Dillon fan since the first folk festival I saw her at some years ago now and she is still going from strength to strength in terms of performance. The purest voice that has ever existed in music, Cara's first note brought silence across Kedlestone Hall, a respectful and awe-filled silence that remained for her whole set. With her very talented band, who had their own moments with some foot tapping jigs and reels. With possibly the best performance of the weekend, Cara Dillon single handedly changed the complexion of Saturday and from that point onwards it was one of the best festival days I have ever seen.
The soft, flowing folk sounds of Cara Dillon were echoed through the next two main stage acts. Show of Hands brought a beautiful set of strings and vocal harmonies, even with the unpleasantly grey weather that was a feature of the festival, the band still warmed the hearts of all festival goers with their mesmerising songs. Following Show of Hands was the legends that are The Popes. Folk standards, their own classic tunes, a smörgåsbord of folk instruments and an infectious charm and energy helped The Popes end a stunning three act line up and set the stage perfectly for the night's festivities.
Highlights from the other stages on Saturday came in the shape of power folksters Pronghorn, who whirled the crowd into a frenzy and ended their set with half of the audience on stage. Also outstanding were the Boot Hill All Stars, who presented some very original covers ranging from metal to pop, their versions of them ranged from folk, to punk, to ska. An effotrlessly entertaining performance and a chance for a good dance for all in attendance. 3 Daft Monkeys are the reason for Bearded Theory's existence, so their placement on the smaller Water's Edge stage was probably their choice. The intimate setting was perfect for the leftfield folk band but the volume issues that came with the stage were clearly an issue to the audience. Shouts of "turn it up" were heard throughout the set. Regardless of this, it was still a lovely performance.
Taking the crowd home through the rest of Saturday on the main stage were Dr. Feelgood and the Damned. Two classic acts, neither of which have lost a step. If anything it's possible that Dr. Feelgood have gained one. A virtuosic performance from the musicians, an unsurprisingly charismatic and energetic set, true wonder in musical form. The Damned were clearly highly anticipated by the packed out crowd, but unlike Adam Ant the night before, they did not disappoint. A stunning set of classic tunes to close out a spectacular day of live music.
Sunday's at festivals are traditionally a slower day, designed for those with two day hangovers. Bearded Theory understood this and built the day's music accordingly. Starting off the day in the Tornado Tent were Wheatus. Everybody went, because it was Wheatus, nobody was expecting to be amazed and nobody was, but a solid set from a band that are a cause of nostalgia for many.
The day stayed pretty chilled until the arrival of the Urban Voodoo Machine. Truly one of the most insane bands I have ever seen, in one of the most beautiful ways. With a beautiful young burlesque styled lady playing a tuba, a giant green drummer (playing one of two drum kits, the other was often played by another member to great effect) and a spectacularly dark front man, the band put on the live performance of the weekend. Stepping close to cabaret at times, but always keeping the quality of their music up, Urban Voodoo Machine were my personal find of the festival. Having not heard them before, I shall be attending many more of their shows in the future.
One of my favourite bands in the world played the main stage on Sunday. To many, Chumbawamba are famous for only one song, to those who know them better, they are one of the best folk bands on the planet. Chumbawamba produced their trademark minimalist performance. Many of their tracks are entirely a capella, or using small amounts of percussion. The sparse and slight use of a trumpet is a beautiful touch, adding to the flowing harmonies of the five voices that at times sound like 20. Political statement, social commentary and rebellion has always been close to the band's heart and their songs continue to reflect this, in their words "because they still have to." The stand out performance of Sunday and many who turned up expecting to hear Tubthumping, which they didn't, became Chumbawamba fans on the spot.
Then came the close down for the evening, in the shape of three performances which managed to be both full of energy and wonderfully chilled out at the same time. Ska legends The Selector came first, all the classic tracks of the 2-Tone days sounded as good now as they did then, a great performance. Following on were the unpigeonholeable band that is Kissmet. Mixing bangra, hip hop, rock, folk, ska and many more styles than I can mention, Kissmet were possibly the most intriguing band of the weekend. The mixtures didn't always work, but even when they didn't, they still kind of did. Then came the official end to the weekend, in the shape of Reggae dance act Dreadzone. Just the most blissfully chilled out way to end a festival weekend, they sent everyone off with massive smiles on their faces, tunes in their hearts and high expectations already forming for next year's festival.
The first festival on the official calender, Bearded Theory has to set the tone for the year. Based on this weekend's events, it's going to be a real challenge for anyone to wrestle the Best Independent Festival honours away from the Bearded crew this year. A spectacular beginning to the summer, even with all the rain.
Rob da Bank says: “The first time I met Flo she was whirling around like a spinning top to a Paul Simon track at a party I was DJing at. I hadn't even heard her open her mouth but she had this alluring vibe already. Once I heard her scratchy demo I was sold and when she did her first radio session for me at Radio 1 I couldn’t believe this flame-haired eccentric young lady had such a stunning voice. Her shows for us at Bestival and Camp Bestival over the last few years have always been highlights for many and I’m glad we can finally seal the deal with a headline show on the Friday of Bestival and with The xx on before her this promises to go down in the Best of Bestival yearbook!”
A longstanding Bestival buddy, Florence Welch and her trusty Machine have wowed Bestivalites across the years. From her mesmerising performance in the Club Dada tent to a handful of those in the know, to her all-conquering main stage set in 2009, her epic vocals, quirky melodies and self-contained musical world have created some utterly jaw-dropping moments that will live long in Bestival lore. Her second album ‘Ceremonials’, released at the end of last year, has cemented her reputation as one of the biggest stars on the planet and gained her accolades by the bucket-load, so we really are honoured to have her back with us again!
Florence Welch says: “This year we are headlining the one and only Bestival on the main stage on the Friday night after the amazing The xx, we hope we'll find you there in the wilderness with us! Lots of love, Florence + The Machine.”
To celebrate the fact that Florence + the Machine will be headlining on Friday night, they have put together a spectacular video message for us rejoicing in our Wildlife theme, which you can check out on our website, www.bestival.net!
Never ones to do things by halves, we’re also over the moon to announce that Swedish indie-pop doyens Miike Snow will be getting on the ferry across the Solent to join us at Bestival. Lauded for their eponymous debut album that brought them to worldwide attention, the band’s recent sophomore outing, ‘Happy To You’, has upped the infectious factor, as they effortlessly cross genres with their uniquely orchatronic sound. Their live show is a theatrical joy and one not to be missed and we can’t wait to see them!
The band told us: “We of Miike Snow are very happy to be playing Bestival this year, on the fantastical Isle Of Wight. We are looking forward to making sure everyone has a delightful time, and visiting Shanklin Chine. See you all very soon.”
Don’t forget about the recently announced Bestival Blocos either and our, frankly, off the hook carnival-esque Wildlife parade. More info on that can be found here.
We will be announcing our Friday night headliner on Monday 21st May, so keep your eyes peeled for the details and in the meantime make sure you keep on checking in at www.bestival.net, and our Facebook page and Twitter for all the latest behaviour.
All The Acts Announced So far:
Live Performances From: Stevie Wonder / Florence + The Machine / New Order / The xx / Sigur Rós / Friendly Fires / Nero / 2manydjs – Live / Soulwax / Justice / Two Door Cinema Club / Hot Chip / Miike Snow / Bat For Lashes / Emeli Sandé / Orbital / Frank Ocean / SBTRKT / Warpaint / De La Soul / Roots Manuva / Major Lazer / Sister Sledge / Gary Numan / The Horrors / Spiritualized / Death In Vegas / Doom / Ben Howard / Michael Kiwanuka / Sub Focus / Azealia Banks / Alabama Shakes / Kevin Saunderson Feat. Inner City Live / John Foxx And The Maths / Gallows / Rizzle Kicks / Buraka Som Sistema / Sage Francis / Grimes / Bellowhead / Earth Wind & Fire Experience Feat Al Mckay / Django Django / Little Dragon / Gold Panda / Adam Ant & The Good, The Mad And The Lovely Posse / The Cuban Brothers / Top Cat Featuring Sir Coxsone Outernational / Chairlift / Iceage / Ren Harvieu / John Talabot / Lianne La Havas / Delilah / First Aid Kit / Gesaffelstein / Daughter / Zulu Winter / Ane Brun / Friends / Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs / King Khan And The Shrines / The Japanese Popstars / Chas & Dave / Dub Pistols / Factory Floor / Charli XCX / Errors / Lucy Rose / Skepta / Alunageorge / Sunless 97 / Congo Natty / King Krule / Toy / Kindness / Dirty Beaches / Drums Of Death / Jessie Ware / Jeffrey Lewis & The Junkyard / General Levy / Slagsmålsklubben / Jaipur Kawa Brass Band / Field Music / Jinja Safari / Kawa Circus / B.Dolan's Church Of Love & Ruin / 02:54 / Evian Christ / Frankie Rose / Porcelain Raft / Milagres / Three Bonzos & A Piano / Prince Fatty / Liz Green / Trailer Trash Tracys / Forest Swords / Willis Earl Beal / Murkage / Alt-J / The Staves / Skinny Lister / Josh Kumra / Ryan Keen / Stay+ / Jamie N Commons / Nina Nesbitt / Bigkids / Gabrielle Aplin / Kwes / Diagrams / Fiction / Turbowolf / Mary Epworth / Wet Nuns / Misty's Big Adventure / This Is The Kit / Stealing Sheep / Clock Opera / Young British Artists / Patterns / Ghost Outfit / L.A. Salami / To Kill A King / Dingus Khan / Crowns / Emily Barker & The Red Clay Halo / Parma Violets / Gorgeous George / Subgiant / Heath:Ward / Laurel Collective /Jake Bugg /Ahab / Gecko / Model Society / Tom Williams And The Boat / The Other Tribe / Daytona Lights / Biederbeck / Valentine Gray / Charley Macaulay / Sky Sphere / Blackhouse Crow / The Lovely Eggs / St Spirit / Charming / Alonestar / Shepherds / Cherishport / Seán Mcgowan / A Way Of Life / This Way Up / The Widowmaker
DJs Sets From Rob da Bank and Friends: Annie Mac Presents / Skream & Benga / Four Tet B2B Caribou / The 2 Bears / David Rodigan MBE Presents Ram Jam / Jamie xx / Dirtybird Showcase Feat. Claude Vonstroke, Justin Martin & Eats Everything / François K / Moodymann / Gilles Peterson / Redlight / DJ Yoda / Maya Jane Coles / Brodinski / Scuba / Kavinsky / Julio Bashmore / LTJ Bukem /Shy FX / Plastician / Matador / Greg Wilson / Adamski / Doctor P / The Nextmen / MC Wrec / Pearson Sound / Borgore / Flux Pavilion / Mark Jones (BTTP) / Max Cooper / Gemini / Krystal Klear / Pangaea / Reggae Roast / Billy Daniel Bunter / Pariah / Trolley Snatcha / Krafty Kuts / Warm & Electric Minds / Scratch Perverts / Koan Sound / Camo & Krooked / Giles Smith & James Priestley (Secretsundaze) / Mosca / Numbers Showcase: Oneman B2B Jackmaster, Deadboy, Spencer, Redinho / B Traits / Dismantle / Killaflaw / Gutterslut / Ben UFO / Melé / PBR Streetgang / Jaguar Skills & His Amazing Friends / Drums Of Death / Blawan / Frank Tope / Leo Zero / Evian Christ / Girl Unit / Zomboy / Luv*Jam / Dr Alex Paterson / Chris Coco / Pete Gooding / Phil Mison / Duff Disco / Sonnyji Presents Bang Bhang / Danny Whitehead / Mixmaster Morris / Rev Milo Speedwagon / Graeme Fisher (Balearic) / DJ Cable / Foamo / Shepdog / The Shellac Collective / Flying White Dots / DJ Charge / Hip Hop Karaoke / DJ@War / Pathaan / Mojo Filter / Fear Of Theydon / Tythe / Sink The Pink / George B / Kaf-Tan / Ben Hoo
Mr Motivator
Brainfeeder Presents Thundercat, The Gaslamp Killer, Teebs, Lapalux, Jeremiah Jae, DJ Kutmah
Set in the spacious grounds of Croft Farm, the lakes and Malvern Hills provided an idyllic and breathtaking back drop. The lake also provided a second purpose of being used for water sports for those who dared to brave the cold waters.
With the last few weeks of torrential rain across the UK, a very muddy and messy festival was expected, fortunately the weather held out for the entire weekend, with even a break in the clouds to allow summers rays to shine down.
The atmosphere of the festival was something I’ve not experienced before; friendly would be an understatement to describe the festival goers, staff and numerous dogs.
The Garden Tent, The Roots and The Blossom Stage all had their own unique blend of styling, atmosphere and music. The children’s area was a hit for both children and parents, with music sessions, arts & crafts, horse rides and entertainers, such as the two stilt walkers who seemed to amuse more than just the children.
Gloucestershire’s biggest band in history EMF took the stage on Saturday evening for their first gig of the year; they delighted festival goers both old and young by performing Schubert Dip, their acclaimed multi-million selling debut album, in its entirety.
Straight after EMF’s electric performance, Reef performed pretty much instantly keeping the crowd dancing and singing along to their best known hits "Place Your Hands", "Come Back Brighter" and "Consideration" The bands vivacious energy kept on right up until the end of their set.
Among those two, festival folks were also able to indulge in music from the likes of Top Loader, 3 Daft Monkeys, Miles and Erica of The Wonder Stuff , Avert Francis and Chesney Hawkes.
In spite of still being a small event, the organisers managed to pack a huge amount of festivities into the two days. This was “the one and only” way to start the summer festival season.
The Dance Arena line up is nearing completion, with Saturday night to be headlined by tech house starlet JAMES ZABIELA whose turntable skills and pioneering use of loops and effects have made him one of the most sought after producer-DJs in the business, with the likes of Royksopp and Ladytron calling upon his remixing services. The legendary Sasha, who signed him to his Excession agency, refers to him as the guvnor. Given the stratospheric trajectory of his career and his superhuman ability on the decks, its not hard to see why.
Hell be joined in the Dance Arena on the Saturday by one of the busiest and most influential producers in electronic music, Joshua Harvey, akaHERVE. A mainstay on the UK festival scene in recent years, his sets make for the ultimate rave: with big bass lines aplenty the Jersey Live audience can expect an explosion of electro, dubstep, fidget-house, drum & bass and grime. Having remixed Bloc Party and Calvin Harris amongst innumerous other indie and dance acts, hes a producer with a big reputation and the talent to back it up. The masked man of mystery JAGUAR SKILLS makes a welcome return to Jersey Live, having performed at the festival in 2010. One of the most exciting scratch and mash-up DJs around, Jag is yet to reveal his true identity to the public, but were happy for him to let the music do the talking.
Since becoming the youngest ever DJs to record a live Essential Mix for Radio One, JAYMO & ANDY GEORGE have gone from strength to strength, regularly co-hosting with the likes of Annie Mac and Zane Lowe and enjoying huge success with their infamous Moda parties, taking place in clubs, warehouses, theatres and even boats across the globe. Their sets are a mash-up of electro, techno, disco and indie, and will be a welcome addition to the Dance Arena bill. Confirmed for the Sunday in the Dance Arena is Ram Records much-lauded drum & bass duo DELTA HEAVY. With radio airplay and DJN support from such diverse DJs as Zane Lowe, Huw Stephens, Andy C and Friction, its clear that their cross-over appeal is set to make them ones to watch. Completing the first wave of Dance Arena announcements is FEED ME. Signed to Deadmau5s Mau5trap label, the British electro-house/dubstep producer has remixed Muse, Chase & Status and Gorillaz, and with a debut album due out this year, hes set for very big things indeed.
Also joining our second wave of announcements are a number of acts that will be performing on the Main Stage, JT Stage and Tease Stage over the weekend, starting with BBC Sound of 2012-listed indie outfit FRIENDS, described by the Guardian as Brooklyns sassiest girl-fronted group and whose third single Mind Control was recently named as Huw Stephens Hottest Record in the World on Radio One. Manchester reggae-funk party-starters THE JANICE GRAHAM BAND perform twice over the weekend, and come with the approval of none other than Stone Roses bassist Mani, who describes them as so unique in an age where its so easy to copy what has gone before. Scottish afrobeat quartet BWANI JUNCTION appear on the JT stage at the festival, after having earned themselves a legion of fans headlining the BBC Introducing Stage at T in the Park in 2011. Their compatriot NINA NESBITT will perform on the Tease Stage, having enjoyed a meteoric rise to become one of the most talked-about new acoustic indie-folk artists of 2012. The precociously talented 17 year-old has collaborated extensively with her other half, Ed Sheeran and is on the cusp of joining him on the British musical A-list. The final artist to be announced is another much talked-about and super-talented youngster JAKE BUGG. Since appearing on the BBC Introducing Stage at Glastonbury last year, the 18 year-old singer-songwriter has enjoyed extensive Radio One airplay and been signed to recording giants Universal, and with artists such as Donovan and Johnny Cash influencing his country-tinged folk music, hes sure to be one of the highlights of this years festival.
The festival boasts five stages in total: The Main Stage, where the big guns go head to head; The Dance Arena, which will host some of the worlds hottest DJs and producers. Previous artists have included Calvin Harris, Annie Mac, Mr Oizo and Boys Noize; The Tease Stage is a themed stage featuring a mix of local and international artists, as well as a fancy dress stall (very much recommended to all that visit it) and games galore; The JT Stage hosts an array of local and international artists, and provides a more chilled-out area to recharge your batteries before heading out for more Main Stage action; The Hospitality Stage is available to Hospitality ticket-holders (see below for details) and features exclusive DJ sets throughout the weekend.
With plenty of bars, an entire food village, arts and crafts stalls and its own funfair, yet a capacity of just 10,000 daily, Jersey Live has all the action of a major festival but all the friendliness and intimacy that its boutique status would suggest.
Jersey Live is heading towards a decade of unforgettable parties, and with many more acts to be announced soon, this one might just top the lot.
The ‘LolliBop Live’ stage will play host to some of the hottest names in kids entertainment with musical performances from the likes of the Zing Zilla's,JassaAluwahlia (Art Attack) and The Mr Men & Little Miss Party Roadshow. TV favourites Dick and Dom will also take to the stage to entertain crowds with their unique blend of music and games.
Celebrating its first year in the West End, Shrek the Musical will also make a special appearance with a performance from the award-winning show (Sunday 19 only).
In the Lollipaladium, see the story of The Gruffalo brought to life on the stage with plenty of audience interaction. CBeebiesfavourite, Mister Maker will be on hand to demonstrate his unique arts and crafts skills. Mister Maker is a real life character who gets inspiration to make art from everything around him. Packed full of stimulating ideas, set in his own fantasy art world, prepare to expect the unexpected!
Other headline attractions include yoga sessions with Waybuloo, workshops by Horrible Histories, Roald Dahl Museum and Storytelling Centre, performances by 8ft Titan the Robot, an Alice In Wonderland tea partyand a chance to meet ‘Tiny’, a 125 million years young dinosaur.
The brand new life-size Transformers Optimus Prime Truck will also be at the three day event, giving fans the chance to get up and personal with this movie legend.
Pint sized guests (and grown ups) will notice a few more additions to the 2012 event.
The ‘LolliBop Kitchen‘ is an exciting new area, where LolliBoppers will have the chance to learn new skills from live demonstrations and interactive workshops, featuring popular blogger My Daddy Cooks.
A new ’Tween Town‘ area will feature a number of activities for older kids including street dance, hula-hooping, magic and beat-boxing workshops, plus an older arts and crafts tent and a brand new laser room!
Halfords will create a bespoke Bike City at LolliBop, which will include a Wacky Races obstacle course for under 5’s, where children can be the first to try out a brand new range of Balance and Apollo kids bikes. For older kids, highlights include a BMX stunt display and demo area.
Other new areas include: ‘LolliBop Animal Curiosities’, which features animals including a polar bear, a dinosaur and gorillas! ‘The Disco Shed‘ which will have mini boppers (and parents!) dancing the day away and ‘The Village Green‘ – the perfect spot to chill out and enjoy some street theatre.
Back by popular demand, the Science Museum are preparing for a triumphant return to Regent’s Park with an expanded area and dedicated Science Zone.
For pre-schoolers, the ‘3ft &Under’ area is also back. Confirmed activities include a mini disco, tiny play, little arts, baby ballet, yoga, teddy bears picnic and sing and sign. There will be two boob and botty boudoirs this year, and covered buggy parks and lollishade areas are also being created.
Old favourites, including ‘LolliSports‘, ‘Imagination Stations‘, ‘Itsy Bitsy Strictly‘ and ‘The Enchanted Forest‘ will all also return for 2012.
And if that wasn’t enough, there are plenty of arts and craft activities, face painting and workshops, including circus skills.
A wide selection of food and drink stalls are on offer to provide a welcome rest.
All of the activities, stages and events are included in the entry ticket price, which starts at £22 per person.For more information, including a full programme of events, visit www.lollibopfestival.com
Reviewing their list of accolades, it’s easy to see why they are such an inspired choice. Selling millions of records worldwide, plus a penchant for causing controversy, means their seminal anthems strike a chord with fans and critics alike. The influential ‘Rolling Stones’ magazine, ranked Public Enemy #44 in their ‘100 greatest artists of all time’, whilst their rampant tracks have influenced and inspired generations. ‘Bring The Noise’ is just one example, whilst ‘Fight The Power’ took the #1 spot in VH1’s ‘100 greatest hip hop songs.’ It’s these thought provoking titles which deem Public Enemy kings amongst men. To make this SW4 exclusive even more mouth watering, 2012 represents the 25th Anniversary since Public Enemy’s debut album ‘Yo! Bum Rush the Show’ shocked the world and provided the first step on their road to superstardom. As the self proclaimed prophets of rage, notorious for upsetting middle America, their media and government, it’s time to BRING THE NOISE to SW4.
In addition to the announcement of Public Enemy as our Sunday live headliner, we can also reveal some very special guests playing across the weekend…
On the Saturday the sunshine sounds of Erick Morillo will light up his Subliminal arena. Having already announced that Erick will headline the stage in his only UK festival performance of 2012 and first London show in seventeen months, we can now reveal he will be bringing something extra special to SW4. In its UK debut, Erick returns for a second stint – along with cohorts Harry ‘Choo Choo’ Romero and Jose Nunez. The talented trio have named themselves ‘Sympho Nympho’, a project that has got everyone talking. With all three having previously worked together under the ‘Ministers De La Funk’ pseudonym, an affinity within the DJ booth equates to one hell of a show. Guaranteed to have maximum impact, Erick, Harry and Jose will play off against each other with dramatic delays and rocking reverbs. A sure fire hit at Subliminal in Ibiza this summer, three is definitely the magic number. Each having crafted their own legacy within the scene, together they look set to be a dominant force. A privilege to host their UK debut in another UK festival exclusive, SW4 is delighted to welcome Sympho Nympho.
A-Trak is another Saturday addition, his wizardry unmatched by any other. Proved by a technical trophy cabinet, boasting the DMC, ITF and Vestax crowns, A-Trak is the only artist to hold all three of these ‘majors’. Add to this five DMC world championships, the first triumph whilst only fifteen years young, a record perhaps never to be broken, A-Trak’s perplexing performances is underpinned by these award winning repertoires. Hence the Subliminal arena will be perfect for his sublime skills, the foundation for fusing an array of electronic genres. Wowing not just within the live domain, a production prowess earmarks A-Trak as the top dog. For example remixing Martin Solveig’s ‘The Night Out’, adding a gurgling bass line and rasping synth – peak time personified! Not forgetting some sweet ‘Duck Sauce’, the brilliant collaboration with Armand van Helden. ‘Barbra Streisand’ stormed the charts, whilst ‘Big Bad Wolf’ was awarded ‘Best Underground Track’ at this year’s IDMA awards. Don’t miss one of dance music’s most talented purveyors.
In West Philadelphia born and raised, on the playground is where he spent most of his days! Still residing in Philly, Diplo bears some resemblance to the Fresh Prince. A charismatic and open minded ethos has helped him develop an eclectic and loyal fan base, as has his ability to fuse genres. His seminal ‘Mad Decent’ label, Major Lazer project with Switch and collaborations with Beyonce, M.I.A., No Doubt, Busta Rhymes, Tiesto and Usher are evidence of this and has acted as the perfect platform to gain worldwide exposure. Expect a SW4 Sunday display of electronic madness, flirting with urban, dub, D&B and dancehall, in that trademark Diplo style.
Finally on the Sunday dynamic Italian duo Crookers. To serve up Mama’s groundbreaking recipe for mayhem, incorporating all styles into one chunky package. A sought after sound, Crookers have produced acclaimed remixes for Timbaland, Chromeo, Moby, Robbie Williams and The Chemical Brothers amongst others. Not forgetting the unashamedly catchy remix of Kid Kudi’s ‘Day ‘N’ Nite’, which stormed to No.2 in the UK charts. A warping bass line and soulful under current, ensure this is a track to grace any festival setting. Crookers’ fractious blend of street, rap, house and fidget is one of the great wonders of DJ land. A skill not taught at any academy, it is eminent in their pulsating studio work. Latest offering ‘That Laughing Track’ is custom made for SW4’s lasers and lights. Haunting vocals give it an unconventional sound, but one which will blow the roof off SW4 such are its genre defying properties. Crookers; here to steal the SW4 show.
As indicated by the oversized clock which always adorns Flavor Flav, it’s time for South West Four 2012. The road to Clapham is well and truly mapped out, with these line-up additions. The most diverse and delectable line-up this summer, SW4 is here to stake its claim for another year. Get ready…
