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…