Festivals

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Secret Garden Party will close it curtains for good in 2017

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The multi award-winning Secret Garden Party, the event that set the creative benchmark for festivals in the UK and around the world, announced today that this year’s event, July 20-23, will be the final instalment in its illustrious 15-year tenure as one of the most celebrated events on the summer festival calendar.

From humble beginnings as a gathering with a few hundred friends the passionately independent Secret Garden Party has grown organically over the years. Its fun-loving friendly outlook, its much-loved eccentricity, and its meticulous attention to detail has inspired and enabled a generation of creative artists, musicians and performers to develop and thrive, whilst embracing the core values of friendship, participation and ownership with its audience. It has also been a major hub for leftfield, like-minded people who were eager to ‘escape to reality’ through the counter-culture. It can be proud of a legacy that inspired so much (and so many) as well as having been the setting for such a collection of wonderful memories and lifelong friendships.

There is never a perfect time to announce this as either too early or too late would have consequences for the loyal gardeners.

Founder and Head Gardener Freddie Fellowes says:

“15 years ago I started out with a set of ideas as to what makes a good party and the most perfect venue for it. But with no set idea of what the destination was for this venture the ‘festival’ was, at that time, the perfect medium through which to explore these ideas. But rather than getting too excited and telling you about the phoenix we are going to raise from all of this, it bears explaining why we are lighting the fire.

Much has changed since our first Garden Party, when there was nothing else like it in the UK: Facebook, YouTube and Twitter had yet to be invented and no one knew what a boutique festival was, let alone Glamping.

Since then the Garden Party has defined and redefined outdoor events in the UK; we have done so as a collective of truly independent outsiders.

We have never compromised our principles and we never will. SGP has always been a beacon of what you can do within those terms and, as imitation (being the sincerest form of flattery) proves, it has set the bar for everyone else going forward.

But it is exactly because of those principles, and the love of those who have made the Garden Party what it is, that we are committing this senseless act of beauty.

What better way to honour the love that has been given to this project and wholly demonstrate this principle than finishing now? This isn’t some principled self-immolation: this is opening up it for the future. So this summer will be the almighty send-off that the Garden Party deserves and whilst that is going to cause some tears to be shed, think of it more as ‘Dylan goes electric’ than our Altamont.

Because after all you can’t be avant-garde from within an institution and lest we forget: the frontier always moves.”

 

Come join us for the grande finale!

 

V Festival 2017

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V Festival have annouced their two headlinders for this years festival and its none other then P!nk and JAY Z along with a storm of other artists to grace the festival over the weekend. 

Tickets on sale 9:00am Friday at vfestival.com and all other information regarding Tickets can be found below.

The Pretenders, The Kooks and more announced for Isle of Wight Festival 2017

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Today, The Isle of Wight Festival 2017 announces 18 new acts to be added to the bill: The Pretenders, The Kooks, Imelda May, Razorlight, Alison Moyet, Starsailor, Space, Melanie C, Scouting For Girls, Tom Chaplin, Alex Francis, Lucy Spraggan, Bang Bang Romeo, Paradisia, Wild Front, The Slow Readers Club, Showhawk Duo and Victoria.

They join headliners Arcade Fire, David Guetta, Run DMC and Rod Stewart as well as recently announced acts Rag ‘N’ Bone Man, Bastille, Kaiser Chiefs, Catfish & The Bottlemen, Zara Larsson, Clean Bandit, The Vamps and The Amazons. 

Of the exciting new additions to the bill, John Giddings says: “This makes it one of the best line-ups we have ever had.  Roll on June!”

Legendary English-American rock band The Pretenders are fronted by the unstoppable Chrissie Hynde. Originally forming in the late ‘70s, The Pretenders’ self-titled debut album soared straight to #1 on the UK chart, paving the way for an iconic career spanning almost four decades. 

Chrissie Hyde from The Pretenders said: ”I'm absolutely over the moon to be playing the Isle of Wight Festival; it is one of the most iconic festivals of our time. I'm so humbled to be playing a festival that so many legends have performed at. I cannot wait."

The Kooks will celebrate a decade together as a band with their 'Best Of' UK tour taking place this year. Their 2006 debut album ‘Inside In / Inside Out’ was recently certified five-times platinum and is still engaging new fans today. The band now have three more studio albums, a number of massive world tours, awards and critical acclaim under their belts as well as over 3 million monthly Spotify listeners, while their seminal single ‘Naive’ remains in the Spotify Top 200 playlist. 

Imelda May has become one of Ireland’s most celebrated female artists in history. Discovered by Jools Holland, who asked Imelda to support him on tour, Imelda has gone on to perform alongside legendary artists including Lou Reed, Bono and Smokey Robinson. Her previous album ‘Tribal’ debuted at #1 in Ireland and #3 in the UK. 

Razorlight’s 2006 self-titled album topped the UK Album Chart and went on to be certified multi-platinum, spawning the huge singles ‘In The Morning’, ‘Before I Fall to Pieces’ and UK #1 ‘America’. Over their 15-year career, the band have played shows alongside Queen, Oasis and The Who and have become a staple of the British indie movement.  

Alison Moyet’s career is in its fourth decade. Her earliest hits as a solo artist include ‘All Cried Out’, ‘Is This Love?’ and ‘Love Resurrection’. Moyet has released five UK Top 10 albums, including two #1s, and most recently Top 5 album ‘The Minutes’ in 2013.

Alison Moyet said: “I’m really thrilled to be invited to perform at the IOW Festival again. It really is something to play this legend of a festival that boasts such an authentic history. I am expecting grand larks.”

Britpop four-piece Starsailor have released ten Top 40 singles and two Top 10 albums since debuting in 2000. Not only have they toured the world extensively the band have also enjoyed more than their fair share of prestigious gigs, supporting the likes of The Rolling Stones, The Police, The Killers, and U2, and have sold over 3 million albums worldwide. The band are currently recording a new album to be released through Cooking Vinyl in 2017. 

James Walsh from Starsailor said: “We're really excited to be returning to the Isle of Wight festival. It's a fantastic line-up this year & we're extremely proud to be a part of it.”

Space first rose to prominence in the ‘90s for their eclectic blend of alternative rock, hip-hop and neo-psychedelia. After disbanding for 10 years, the band returned and immediately sold out their reunion show at O2 Academy Liverpool, solidifying their status as a cult band on the Liverpool music scene. Space’s new studio album, Give Me Your Future, is being released early 2017, followed by the bands Anthology Boxset release date late 2017.

Tommy Scott from Space said:  “The Isle of Wight is the most iconic festival and we are so excited to playing it this year. Best present for 2017 that we could have wished for.  Can't wait to see the fans over on the Island.”

Melanie C is an international pop icon and founding member of Spice Girls, the best-selling girl band of all time. Since Spice Girls’ disbandment in 2000, Melanie C has gone on to establish herself as a hugely successful solo artist, selling 20 million records worldwide and collaborating with Bryan Adams and TLC’s Lisa ‘Left-Eye’ Lopes. She released her latest solo album, ‘Version of Me’, in 2016. 

She said: “I’m really looking forward to playing the Isle of Wight in June.  It’s one of my favourite festivals and a great way to start the Summer.”

Scouting For Girls released four UK Top 10 singles and four UK Top 10 albums since their debut in 2007. The three-piece’s 2010 single ‘This Ain’t A Love Song’ debuted at #1 and spent a whopping 22 weeks on the UK chart. In December 2016, the band announced a ballot for their 10th anniversary show, which received 20,000 applicants for just 300 tickets.

Tom Chaplin is the frontman of anthemic, multi-million selling British band Keane, who scored 5 number one albums between 2004 and 2013.  A successful solo artist in his own right, Tom released his debut solo album ‘The Wave’ in 2016 which entered the UK Album Chart at #3. The Wave features eleven incredibly honest and ultimately uplifting songs written by Tom and produced by Matt Hales.

Up-and-coming singer-songwriter Alex Francis is gearing up to release his debut EP in 2017. The budding talent was named one of Time Out’s ‘Rising Stars’ in 2016, followed by live shows with Samm Henshaw and Luke Sital-Singh. Having already gained the support of British breakthrough James Bay, Francis is set for big things this year. 

Alex Francis said: “I’m beyond thrilled to be part of this year's Isle of Wight Festival alongside so many amazing, legendary performers. It's a real honour to be asked and I absolutely cannot wait to get on stage!"

British singer-songwriter Lucy Spraggan recently released her fourth studio album, ‘I Hope You Don’t Mind Me Writing’ in January 2017 and achieved an incredible no.12 in the Official UK Album Chart. Spraggan is that rarest of things – a genuine singer/song-writer to emerge from the TV talent show scene and was the first contestant in the show’s history to score a Top 40 single and album before the live shows even aired.  

Bang Bang Romeo are a British rock four-piece who draw influence from the likes of Jefferson Airplane, The Mamas and the Papas and Smashing Pumpkins. Described as a ‘hard edged Fleetwood Mac’, the band have been praised by BBC Radio 1’s Huw Stephens as ‘the best in new music’ and ‘one of the most exciting new bands in the country’. 

Bang Bang Romeo said: "Isle of Wight Festival will always be special for us, the place is steeped in History from Hendrix to The Rolling Stones, Bowie to Fleetwood Mac and you can feel the magic in the air around the place. It has such a feel good factor that a lot of festivals fail to grasp and forever will be important to us as the first major festival that gave us a chance to perform. It plays a leading role in the BANG BANG ROMEO story and we can't wait to be back on the Island this summer."

Paradisia are a female trio from London who combine vocals, keyboard and harp to create a unique, ‘70s-infused sound. The band have previously supported Paolo Nutini on tour and played a Hyde Park show with Bruce Springsteen, whose classic track ‘Dancing In The Dark’ they covered and released as their debut single.

Breaking indie four-piece Wild Front whose self-released tracks have already amassed an impressive 175,000 streams on Spotify. The band’s eclectic tracks – which draw influence from everything from ‘80s rock and indie folk to West Coast hip-hop – have all received huge support from BBC Radio 1 and BBC Introducing. 

Lead singer Jack Williams from Wild Front said: ’'It's one of the big ones, with a lot history, so it's a privilege to be playing.’'

The Slow Readers Club describe their sound as ‘indie-electro-doom-pop’. The band have supported James on their UK tour, including a date at London’s Forum, and recently sold out their own headline show at Manchester’s O2 Ritz two months in advance. The Manchester Evening News recently described the band as ‘one of the most exciting sounds coming out of our city’. 

The Slow Readers Club said: "We are really excited to be playing IOW festival.  This year’s lineup looks amazing. Love that it has so much history too.  We've all seen the old IOW footage from the 70s with acts like The Who, the Rolling Stones, the Doors, Hendrix and Leonard Cohen. It was so mysterious and mystical following the peace movement. Feels like the most natural and musically relevant festival to play."

Mikhail Asanovic and Jake Wright together make Showhawk Duo and have gained recognition internationally for their unique combination of classical guitar and electronic production. The duo began as buskers but quickly built a cult following, culminating in slots on Nick Grimshaw’s BBC Radio One Breakfast Show, festival appearances across Europe and a sold out UK tour. 

Showhawk Duo said: “We can't wait to bring ADM (acoustic dance music) to the Isle of Wight! We're honoured and humbled to make our debut at a festival where so many great artists have played over the years."

Victoria are an up-and-coming indie pop group, who have already garnered acclaim from the likes of Clash for their ‘crisp electronic production matched to a real pop nous.’ The group recently released their new single ‘Souvenir’ and announced a string of headline dates across the UK, including Nottingham, Manchester, Bristol, Brighton and London.

Lovebox 2017 lineup announced

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This year’s chapter of Lovebox is set to be even more special than usual. East London’s favourite festival are celebrating their 15 year anniversary – 15 years of music, 15 years of good vibes and 15 years of love.

This landmark occasion calls for the best line-up yet, and Lovebox have delivered. Having already announced Friday’s headliner – the global phenomenon that is Frank Ocean – Lovebox unveils their second headliner, the explosive Chase & Status, and further musical programming.

FEATURING:

FRANK OCEAN (FRIDAY)
CHASE & STATUS (LIVE) (SATURDAY)

WITH

JAMIE XX – JESS GLYNNE – SOLANGE – ANNIE MAC – ANDY C – MAC MILLER – RAG’N’BONE MAN – SAMPHA – KAYTRANADA – KURUPT FM – ANNE-MARIE – AJ TRACEY – RAY BLK – MIST – RAYE

JAMIE JONES – RICARDO VILLALOBOS
SETH TROXLER – DIXON – KÖLSCH (DJ SET) – BICEP

FABRIC
FESTIVAL EXCLUSIVE

KINK (LIVE) – JAZZY JEFF – RICHY AHMED – SOLARDO – JESSE ROSE – CRAIG RICHARDS – TERRY FRANCIS – HORSE MEAT DISCO – MICK JENKINS – SOULECTION – MIKE SERVITO – LEWIS BOARDMAN – DREEM TEEM – KLOSE ONE – LATE NITE TUFF GUY – WORK IT – JAZZIE B – CLUB DRIVE

XL RECORDINGS PRESENTS NEW GEN & FRIENDS

ARTIKAL – DR PACKER – ELLIE COCKS – FORT ROMEAU – SÄLEN – GW HARRISON – HAMMER – JACK SWIFT – JIMMY SWITCH – REX ORANGE COUNTY – LINDSEY MATTHEWS – WILL TAYLOR – HOT BLOOD

FRIDAY

Friday’s headliner, Frank Ocean, speaks for itself. The enigmatic singer-songwriter was catapulted to fame in 2012 with the release of his debut Channel Orange, which was greeted with universal acclaim. After four years of countless memes and think pieces about Ocean’s “disappearance”, questioning when his second album would arrive, it finally landed in 2016 in the form of a visual LP – Endless – followed by the album proper, Blonde. It was well worth the wait.

The Friday also sees one of the hottest producers on the planet, Jamie xx, open for Frank Ocean on the Main Stage. His debut album In Colour has been the soundtrack to our summer since it was released in 2015, and his new album with band The xx is an instant classic. Jamie XX says: “I'm looking forward to playing at Lovebox this year and sharing the stage with Frank Ocean who headlines directly after my set!”

Elsewhere on Friday is US rapper Mac Miller, whose latest, soul-infused album The Divine Feminine was lauded by critics upon its release, fast-rising star Rag N’ Bone Man, the runner-up in this year’s BBC Sound of 2017, and London synthpop trio Sälen.

The peerless Solange headlines the Noisey stage, fresh from the release of her landmark album A Seat At The Table. The younger Knowles sister’s third album was named by Pitchfork as their Album of the Year, and bagged her her first US No 1. February has also seen her win her first Grammy for Best R&B Performance for her stunning track ‘Cranes In The Sky’. This performance at Lovebox is set to be extra special.

Joining Solange on the Noisey stage is London’s own Sampha, whose distinctive vocals and confessional lyricism have propelled him to global fame. Initially emerging as a frequent collaborator of SBTRKT back in 2011, Sampha has collaborated with the likes of Drake, Beyoncé and the aforementioned Solange, and released his highly anticipated debut album Process in 2017.

Elsewhere on the Noisey stage is the talented super-producer Kaytranada, who we’re thrilled to welcome back to the Park to perform tracks from one of the best albums of 2016 – his debut LP 99.9%. His affiliate Mick Jenkins will also appear – the rising US hip hop artist released his dazzling debut album The Healing Component in 2016 – as well as BBC Sound of 2017 winner Ray BLK and rising star Rex Orange County.

Lovebox are thrilled to welcome fabric back for their second year in the Park as a festival exclusive. The news is all the more exciting considering the iconic’s club loss of license, which thankfully they have now won back after outcry from the global music community. London wouldn’t be the same without fabric, and we’re glad they’re back and bigger than ever. fabric say: "Lovebox gave us the perfect entry into being part of a festival last year and it left us wanting more. To be invited back to build on the foundation we made in 2016 is a prefect to develop something bigger and better than last year across the weekend. Expect something different to last year but with the same calbire of artists and our exclusive audio partner Pioneer."

fabric have programmed a fittingly explosive lineup to mark their festival return. Arguably one of the best DJs on the planet, the inimitable Seth Troxler headlines the Friday. Raised in Detroit, the house and techno master will bring a flavour of Chicago to the Park. Preceding Seth will be Bicep, playing their trademark mix of obscure anthems and club classics spanning a kaleidoscope of genres. Elsewhere, there’s experimental producer KiNK performing a live set, disco master Hammer, and fabric resident Terry Francis.

Finally, Lovebox are extremely excited to introduce a brand new structure for 2017. The Transistor stage will resemble a giant radio set, and feature explosive flame pyros throughout the day – it’s not to be missed. Taking over Transistor on the Friday are Abode, the deep house promoters running the hottest nights in London. Headlining Abode will be the reigning king of underground house, Eats Everything, who will be joined by Hot Creations rising star waFF, the dynamic Jack Swift, and B2B sets from Will Taylor and GW Harris, Ellie Cocks and Jimmy Switch, and Artikal and Lindsey Matthews.

SATURDAY

Saturday’s headliner comes in the form of one of the UK’s best live acts, and a Lovebox favourite. Chase & Status’ ferocious live sets are truly a sight to behold, whether they’re storming through classics from their 2008 debut More than Alot or the bestselling homage to 90s dance, Brand New Machine. 2015 saw the release of EP London Bars, featuring some of the UK’s finest MCs, and their much-anticipated fourth album drops this year.

Expect new material, a brand new show and extra special guests at what is set to be a masterful headlining slot – which was unveiled via a mysterious social media campaign and a billboard portraying a countdown hangman spelling out ‘Lovebox’ in London. Chase & Status say: "We’re blessed to be back headlining Lovebox again. It’s always special playing at home in London & at such an iconic festival."

Lovebox also welcomes Jess Glynne to the Park. One of the UK's most promising pop talents, she originally found fame lending her distinctive vocals to chart smashes such as Clean Bandit's 'Rather Be' and Route 94's 'My Love’. Jess introduced her own sound with the release of her 2015 debut album I Cry When I Laugh. With a follow-up scheduled for release in 2017, this year looks set to build on Jess Glynne's solid reputation as one of the best on the scene. Also on the Saturday is rising star Anne-Marie, whose infectious singles ‘Karate’ and ‘Do It Right’ have led to her being nominated for British Breakthrough Artist at the Brits.

Lovebox favourite Annie Mac will also be back in the Park, and R&B singer Raye plus rising four piece Club Drive will also perform.

Over at the Noisey stage, there’s the most fierce of UK talent, both rising and legendary. DNB icon Andy C headlines, and the RAM Records co-founder is set to destroy his slot. Andy says "First time at Lovebox! Heard some amazing things, I can’t wait to get involved!"

Joining Andy C are comedy rap crew Kurupt FM (stars of the BBC hit show People Just Do Nothing), as well as respective performances from two fast-rising grime MCs – Birmingham’s Mist and London’s AJ Tracey – both deservedly much-hyped in their own right.

For the grime fans there’s a special showcase from XL Recordings. New Gen continues the theme of fresh homegrown talent on The West Stage. This performances follows the compilation album of the same name, which features contributions from the scene's rising stars (Ray BLK, Kojey Radical).

fabric’s Saturday lineup is equally as stacked as the Friday. The legendary Ricardo Villalobos returns to London to head up the billing. Elsewhere, returning to Lovebox after last playing back in 2010, is Berlin’s Dixon (who came No 1 on Resident Advisor’s Top DJs 2016 Poll), Bunker resident Mike Servito, and fabric’s own Craig Richards.

On Saturday Transistor will host a lineup featuring some of the finest names in techno. The multi-faceted Kölsch is set to headline, and will be joined by Richy Ahmed, Jamie Jones, Jesse Rose, Solardo and Lewis Boardman.

It wouldn’t be a celebration of 15 Years of Love without some Lovebox favourites on the decks. Norman Jay MBE, Jazzie B OBE, Horse Meat Disco will all be appearing across the weekend

Sizget Festival announces more acts to its 2017 lineup

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Sziget Festival, the Island of Freedom, has a lot of to offer when it comes to music from all genres and an endless variety of music running non-stop. The 7-day festival hosts more than 500.000 Szitizens coming from more than 100 countries. This year, at the 25th Sziget, Kasabian, Major Lazer, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Flume, PJ Harvey, Alt-J, Interpol, Billy Talent, Two Door Cinema Club, Jamie Cullum, Rudimental and many more names will perform.

Sziget Festival is on the European festival radar for 25 years now, bringing music and art from all genres to the huge island. Programs never stop, one can always find music or any activity non-stop during the 7 days. There are more than 50 program venues where contemporary circus, art, dance and many more entertain the Szitizens, apart from the music acts. This time, besides the already announced names, we can find PJ Harvey, Alt-J, Rudimental live, George Ezra, White Lies and Dubioza Kolektiv on the Dan Panaitescu Main Stage. One of the favorite venue of the festival, the huge A38 tent, will host once again music for all like The Naked and Famous, Mando Diao, Anne-Marie, Andy C, Watsky, Nothing But Thieves, Léon, Bear’s Den, Chef’Special, De Staat, Valentino Khan, The Strypes, Rone and Weval among the already announced names. The electronic party central of the island, the giant tent of Arena, is happy to have Steve Aoki and Nervo this round.

All names announced so far in alphabetical order:

Alt-J
Andy C
Anne-Marie
Bad Religion
Bear's Den
Billy Talent
Cashmere Cat
Charli XCX
Chef'Special
Clean Bandit
Crystal Fighters
Danny Brown
De Staat
Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike
DJ Shadow
Dubioza Kolektiv
Flume
Fritz Kalkbrenner
George Ezra
GTA
GusGus
Interpol
Jagwar Ma
Jamie Cullum
Kasabian
Kensington
Leningrad
León
Mac Demarco
Major Lazer
Mando Diao
Maurice West
Metronomy
Nervo
Nothing but Thieves
OH Wonder
Oliver Heldens
PJ Harvey
Rone
Rudimental live
Steve Aoki
Sunnery James & Ryan Marciano
The Kills
The Naked and Famous
The Pretty Reckless
The Strypes
Tom Odell
Two Door Cinema Club
Vince Staples
W&W
Watsky
Weval
White Lies
 

Eminem set to headline Reading and Leeds 2017!

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Reading and Leeds have confirmed Eminem as the final headliner for this year’s festivals, taking place on 25 – 27 August 2017 at Richfield Avenue, Reading and Bramham Park, Leeds. Tickets are available here.
 
Consistently seen as one of the greatest rappers of all time, Eminem is not only a titan in hip-hop but in modern culture itself. One of the biggest selling artists of the 21st century, his razor-sharp wit and impeccable larger than life anthems continue to defy boundaries, with the likes of ‘Lose Yourself’, ‘My Name Is’, ’Not Afraid' and ‘The Monster’ all storming charts and record collections around the world. His return to Reading and Leeds marks an extremely rare opportunity to witness an icon in the flesh, with a set that’ll add another legendary chapter to the story of Eminem.
Melvin Benn commented: “Eminem returning to Reading and Leeds is beyond exciting. His 2013 headline performance was incredible and I can’t wait to have him back. In addition to our third and final headliner (joining Kasabian and Muse) we’ve announced over 70 additional acts to this year’s line up – it’s looking stronger than ever.”
 
‘Bad and Boujee’ hip-hop superstars Migos will return to the UK this summer, with a huge appearance lined up at Reading & Leeds. One of the most talked-about groups of the year; the trio have become global symbols of a new wave of modern rap following the release of their latest album C U L T U R E. Expect a swagger-filled performance as Migos make their way to Reading & Leeds.
South London rapper Giggs will continue his march to the top with an unparalleled set at this year’s festivals, bringing the gritty sounds of latest album Landlord to the fields, in a crowning moment for one of the genre’s most defiant voices.
One of the most hotly anticipated returns of the year, HAIM are set to land at Reading and Leeds this summer with a sun-soaked guitar-pop filled performance. Delving into classics from their 2013 debut Days Are Gone and sure-to-be hits from their upcoming new record, it’ll be unforgettable set as rock’s beloved sensations take to the Reading and Leeds stage.
 
British arena-rock kings You Me At Six will continue their rich history at Reading and Leeds, packing in anthems from their career along with the heavy kicks of latest album Night People. A band born for the biggest stages, Reading and Leeds is set to bear witness to a landmark step from a band that stand head and shoulders above the rest.
 
A standout success story of 2016, Blossoms have established themselves as national treasures with the release of their self-titled debut, storming to number 1 in the charts and leading to sold-out venues and huge stages wherever they go. Stockport’s finest are set to bring their pop-laden anthems to Reading and Leeds this summer in a performance that marks the next generation of arena-sized icons.
 
Stand-out alternative pop performances will reign supreme at Reading and Leeds this summer, with Halsey set to bring her powerful electro-tinged hits to the festivals, marking a rise that has seen her become a vital voice for an entire generation. Pop will be in abundance as the voices behind many of the biggest club anthems in the past year, Becky Hill and Charli XCX, head to Reading and Leeds, delivering in-your-face performances that blend cutting-edge electro beats with singalong favourites.
 
One of the most indisputable voices in British rock, Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes will continue their incredible rise with another festival-stealing slot at Reading and Leeds this summer. After turning the Main Stage into a crowd-surfing punk masterclass at last year’s festivals, Frank Carter arrives loaded with the runaway success of latest album Modern Ruin, packing even more stadium-sized moments into the Bank Holiday weekend.
 
Lead by the unmistakable voice of Taylor Momsen, The Pretty Reckless will return to the festivals this year, armed with heavy blues-laden anthems of latest album Who You Selling For. Joining them in triggering mass singalongs at Reading and Leeds this summer are Blush emo-soarers Moose Blood, melodic-rock five-piece Mallory Knox, and punk smashers Marmozets who are set to unveil their invigorating new era after the riotous success of debut album The Weird and Wonderful Marmozets.
 
The always-seismic presence of explosive Canadians Billy Talent will leave their mark on this year’s festivals, bringing an acclaimed live show that has seen them remain at the top of their game for nearly 25 years. Blistering punk risers Counterfeit will perform at Reading and Leeds this summer, fresh from the release of their hotly anticipated debut album Together We Are Stronger, which sees frontman Jamie Campbell Bower in full voice. They’ll be joined by London trio Puppy, who are set for a true standout moment at this year’s festivals.
 
Joining them at Reading and Leeds 2017, and set to define an entire summer with anthems are Mancunian art-rockers Everything Everything who will deliver a captivating set of electronic ground-shakers from across their stunning career. Reading hometown heroes Sundara Karma will be bringing indie tales of youthful abandon to the festivals this summer, with Oh Wonder geared to stun the Reading and Leeds crowds with tracks from their mesmerising self-titled debut album. Sheffield’s finest indie upstarts The Sherlocks will continue their journey from packed stage to packed stage with a huge set at Reading and Leeds this summer. Watford squad The Hunna will heat things up on their return to the festivals, and riotous Cabbage will deliver another onslaught that confirms why they’re seen as one of the most exciting new bands in the country. Mesmeric indie-pop groovers Fickle Friends will return to the festivals with their sun-laden anthems, with breakthrough festival moments to come when genre-morphers Inheaven, German ‘Stolen Dance’ songwriters Milky Chance, Ed Nash of Bombay Bicycle Club’s new project Toothless, and stripped-bare electro wizard Tom Misch all take to the Reading and Leeds stage across the weekend.
 
The explosion of grime and hip-hop will continue to flow through Reading and Leeds, as the festivals once again play host to legendary favourites and the ground breaking voices of the future. Brooklyn’s Flatbush Zombies channel the best of the 90’s East Coast rap era and are set to take on the festival this summer, with hits from last year’s debut album A Laced Odyssey. ‘Pow’ don Lethal Bizzle is set to send festival-goers into a rapturous spin with an explosive set of London grime, while the chilled vibes of Rejjie Snow and BBC Sound Of winner Ray BLK will be dousing the crowds with electric and soulful R&B.
 
From the down-to-earth freestyle sounds of Dave to the home grown swagger of MIST, the vibrant voices and future favourites in grime, rap and hip-hop can all be found at Reading and Leeds this summer. Avelino, Cadet, MoStack,
J Hus, Angel, Mic Righteous, Geovarn, The Manor, Young T & Bugsey and The Heatwave will all make their unforgettable appearances at the festivals over the Bank Holiday weekend.
 
Punchy and gritty in everything they do, Black Lips are set to deliver their distinct brand of punk for a stage show that has to be seen to be believed whilst folk-rock duo Bear’s Den promise panoramic-sized grooves from last year’s Red, Earth & Pouring Rain along with classic favourites from their wistful debut Islands. Ferocious live shows will also come from Tom Grennan, Shame, Phantogram, The Amazons, Louis Berry, Grouplove, King Nun, IDLES, Yonaka, Eden, Prose and Picture This, as they all leave their own stamp on the weekend.
 
The most talked-about names in current electronic dance music will be heading to Reading and Leeds this summer. International sensation Marshmello, who’s huge remixes of Jack Ü and Zedd, along with sun-kissed anthem ‘Summer’ will make for an electrifying performance. Unmissable beats and sets are also guaranteed from drum ‘n’ bass titan High Contrast, masked heavyweight Jaguar Skills, London jungle king Shy FX with Stamina MC and Katy B who’ll be delivering a storming DJ set. Dillon Francis, Sam Divine, Majestic, Claptone, CamelPhat, TOKiMONSTA, James Organ, Chris Lorenzo, Mullally, Klose One and Star.One will all bring big room DJ sets, alongside a very special performance from acclaimed Dutch trio Noisia and their Outer Edges concept show also confirmed, the latest and greatest are set to take Reading and Leeds as their own this summer.
 
These names join a stellar bill already confirmed for Reading and Leeds 2017, joining previously announced headliners Muse and Kasabian, with Major Lazer, Bastille, Two Door Cinema Club, Flume, Fatboy Slim, Wiley, At The Drive In, Architects, Korn, While She Sleeps, Tory Lanez, Glass Animals, Circa Waves, Against The Current, Danny Brown and many more set for a weekend that brings together the most exciting sounds and artists from across the musical spectrum, capturing a year in music like no other.
 
 
CONFIRMED TODAY
Angel
Avelino
Bear’s Den
Becky Hill
Billy Talent
Black Lips
Blossoms
Cabbage
Cadet
CamelPhat
Charli XCX
Chris Lorenzo
Claptone
Counterfeit
Dave
Dillon Francis
Eden
Eminem
Everything Everything
Fickle Friends
Flatbush Zombies
Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes
Geovarn
Giggs
Grouplove
HAIM
Halsey
High Contrast
IDLES
Inheaven
J Hus
Jaguar Skills
James Organ
Katy B (DJ Set)
King Nun
Klose One
Lethal Bizzle
Louis Berry
Majestic
Mallory Knox
Marmozets
Marshmello
Mic Righteous
Migos
Milky Chance
MIST
Moose Blood
MoStack
Mullally
Noisia ‘Outer Edges’
Oh Wonder
Phantogram
Picture This
Prose
Puppy
Ray BLK
Rejjie Snow
Rex Orange County
Sam Divine
Shame
Shy FX
Star.One
Sundara Karma
The Amazons
The Heatwave
The Hunna
The Manor
The Pretty Reckless
The Sherlocks
TOKiMONSTA
Tom Grennan
Tom Misch
Toothless
Yonaka
You Me At Six
Young T & Bugsey
 
PREVIOUSLY CONFIRMED
Against The Current
Andy C
Architects
At The Drive In
Bastille
Circa Waves
Danny Brown
Fatboy Slim
Flume
Glass Animals
Jimmy Eat World
Kasabian
Korn
Major Lazer
Muse
Rat Boy
The Amity Affliction
Torey Lanez
Two Door Cinema Club
While She Sleeps
Wiley

Slam Dunk Festival 2017 Annouce More Acts…

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Slam Dunk Festival line up is starting to fill up with even more acts annouced…..Now where do we start?!! 

Firstly We Are The Ocean who haved been playing the festival more times than anyone else, will say their goodbyes as they will be making these SDF dates their final ever shows.

Then there will also be an welcoming retur,n after 4 year break from the mighty Deaf Havana, plus debuting performances by Frank Iero, The Maine, Stray From The Path & Sorority Noise. 

We will also see performances from returning fan favourites Seaway, Boston Manor,  WSTR & Crime In Stereo and also a debut UK performance from Too Close to Touch. Alongside these new additions are the previously announced final Fireball UK Stage bands…our house band Zebrahead, plus classic pop punk legends The Ataris & FENIX TX…. and very finally the reunion of Madina Lake!!

Still many more bands to be announced! so dont hang around and get your ticket(s) now at http://bit.ly/SlamDunk17

 

Kaiser Chiefs, Texas, The Shires & more added to Isle of Wight Festival 2017

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Representing the Best of British are the Kaiser Chiefs, Texas, The Shires, Example + DJ Wire, Jonas Blue, Nothing But Thieves, The Sherlocks, Ward Thomas, The Undertones, The Alarm and Elle Exxe. They join David Guetta, Run DMC, Arcade Fire and Rod Stewart who top the bill over the weekend as well as George Ezra, Bastille, Jack Savoretti and Rag’n’Bone Man performing across the weekend.

Fronted by the charismatic Ricky Wilson, the Kaiser Chiefs’ are best known for anthems such as ‘Oh My God’, ‘I Predict A Riot’, ‘Everyday I Love You Less And Less’, ‘Ruby’ and ‘Never Miss A Beat’. The band have recently released their sixth studio album ‘Stay Together’ which charted in the top five in the UK Official Albums Chart.

Texas will perform at the festival for the first time following their 25th anniversary last year, which included the release of ‘Texas 25’ reaching the top five of the UK charts. Since their formation in 1986 the Glaswegian band have scored thirteen UK top ten singles, three UK number one albums and seven UK top ten albums with sales of over 35 million records with hits such as ‘Say What You Want’ and ‘Black Eyed Boy’.

Country duo The Shires is comprised of singer-songwriters Ben Earle and Crissie Rhodes. The band released their debut album ‘Brave’ in 2016, becoming the first UK country act to chart in the Top 10 of the Official UK Albums Chart. Their second album ‘My Universe’ released October of last year, became the fastest-selling UK country album in history selling 14,500 copies in the first week.

Example + DJ Wire, real name Elliot Gleave, is renowned for his monstrous DJ sets. With eight UK Top 10’s, two UK Number One’s ‘Changed The Way You Kissed Me’ and ‘Stay Awake’, Example’s huge electronic bangers have earned him millions of fans from across the globe. Example is currently working on his sixth studio album which will see him return to his unique EDM-rap cross over style.

London based electronic dance producer Jonas Blue released his first single ‘Fast Car’ in 2015, a reworking of Tracy Chapman’s 1988 hit. Adding tropical house beats to the bittersweet original, the single topped the charts in 17 different countries. In 2016 Blue released his follow up hit to his global smash, ‘Perfect Strangers’ featuring JP Cooper, the single charted at Number Two in the Official UK Singles Chart.

British Rock band The Sherlocks consist of two sets of brothers, Kieran and Brandon Crook and Andy and Josh Davidson. They were the first unsigned band since Arctic Monkeys to sell out their local venue the Sheffield Leadmill. The band have received great support from the likes of Steve Lamacq, Annie Mac & Huw Stephens and kick off their headline UK and Ireland tour next month.

Modern country duo Ward Thomas is comprised of 22 year old twin sisters Catherine and Lizzy Ward Thomas. The duo produce modern country music with a British twist and released their second album ‘Cartwheels’ which reached Number One in the Official UK Albums Chart, making them the first British country act to do so.

Formed in Northern Ireland in 1975, The Undertones became renowned for combining lyrical invention and musical flair with intelligent simplicity. Their anthemic ‘Teenage Kicks’, much loved by John Peel, was one of the most influential songs of the post-punk era. Reformed in 1999, festival goers will play their classics hits alongside new material.

Welsh alternative rock band The Alarm opened for acts such as U2 and Bob Dylan, before becoming a popular alternative rock band of the 1980s. The band have 17 Top 50 UK Singles, a host of successful albums and over five million sales worldwide. The band have recently announced dates for their UK tour in May.

Rising Scottish popstar Elle Exxe has been championed by BBC Introducing and Kiss FM, flown high in Music Week Charts and Amazing Radio charts. At the start of 2016 her single ‘Lost in L.A’ was synced to a worldwide advert for Google Music. Elle has recently played sold out shows across London and her native Scotland.

The Isle of Wight Festival takes place from 8th – 11th June at Seaclose Park, Newport. Due to popular demand, 2017 sees the return of Day Tickets in addition to Weekend Tickets.

For a VIP festival experience, exclusive glamping options are also on sale. Eve’s Tipis offer a luxury stay with a cocktail bar and hot breakfast options to kickstart your day. The much loved colourful Podpads will also be returning which include a power point to keep your phone charged throughout the weekend. Love Your Tent, Tangerine Fields and Pink Moon Camping also offer unique camping experiences for a weekend in style.

2017 will be the 16th Isle of Wight Festival since it was successfully relaunched in 2002 to become one of the most popular weekends of the summer, with a proud heritage of show-stopping headliners such as Foo Fighters, The Rolling Stones, The Killers, Paul McCartney, Coldplay, Blur and Fleetwood Mac.

 

Common People Announces Sean Paul and Pete Tong Plus Many More

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But that’s not all, The Common Stage will see sublime dancefloor duo Groove Armada hitting the decks to provide their own inimitable brand of booty shaking brilliance with appearances from Wild Beasts, Foals (DJ set), The Selecter + The Beat, Saint Etienne, Amy MacDonald, House Gospel Choir and Lucy Leave On Saturday in Oxford, while South Park’s Sunday mainstage action will see BRITs Critics’ Choice winner 2017 Rag’n’Bone Man’s staggering vocals and gospel-powered grooves, plus music from Becky Hill, The Cuban Brothers, Elvana: Elvis Fronted Nirvana and Coldredlight.

And in Southampton, The Common Stage will see BRITs Critics’ Choice winner 2013 Tom Odell’s charismatic swagger and rave legends Faithless on the ones & twos, plus there will be appearances from Loyle Carner, Becky Hill, Stefflon Don, Seán McGowan, Kassassin Street, Elvana: Elvis Fronted Nirvana and Black Kat Boppers on Saturday. And Groove Armada, Wild Beasts, British Sea Power, Amy MacDonald, Nadia Rose, Novelist, House Gospel Choir, Signals and The Novatones will appear on Sunday.

Filling your dancing boots throughout the weekend, the Uncontained Stage will be jumping with My Nu Leng & M8s and very special guest Goldie, Novelist, Redlight, GotSome and Klose One, all stepping up to the plates to drop bombs on Saturday in Oxford and Sunday in Southampton, while hands in the air behaviour will come courtesy of Moxie presents On Loop featuring sets from Joy Orbison, Midland, Kornél Kovács, Felix Dickinson and Or:la on Saturday in Southampton and Sunday in Oxford.

Discovering new music is what gets the man like da Bank out of bed in the morning, it’s the very the lifeblood of the Bestival team! So, we’ve teamed up with fellow new music evangelist and Oxford institution Nightshift once again to showcase the best new local bands alongside some of the most exciting acts around on the Uncommon Stage, including ShaoDow, Zaia, The Balkan Wanderers, Jess Hall & Barney Morse Brown, Kanadia, Vienna Ditto, Death of Hi-Fi, Leader, Young Women's Music Project, Rhymeskeemz, The Shapes, Low Island, Desert Storm, The Epstein, Little Red, The Pink Diamond Revue, Catgod and Slate Hearts.

And continuing our long and illustrious partnership with The Joiners in Southampton we are delighted to present Beans on Toast, Black Honey, Natives, Happy Accidents, Cassava, Fever, XOCKHA, Feeble Grandpa, Scarecrow Boat, Nakamarra, Gun Shy and Deltorers.

Oxford will see universal dance adventures at The Pig’s Big Record Club Stage, hosted by the Shellac Collective 78s DJs and ensuring the party always swings, there will be a host of local DJs from Southampton and Oxford across the weekend.

With amazing music keeping your feet moving throughout the bank holiday weekend, we’ll be bringing a little taste of our legendary madness and mayhem ramping up the Bestival antics to transform Common People into an amazing festival wonderland, with plenty of our off-the-wall shenanigans including boss boogying at the Disco Shed in Oxford, and the World’s Biggest Bouncy Castle in Southampton, plus both shows will have the old-time pleasures of Vintage Funfair Rides, surprising Pop-Up Performances, brass-powered Horns of Plenty in Oxford, and Saints Brass in Southampton with the savoury delights of Scrumptious Street Food, decadent drinkies from Cocktail Bars, a fantastic Kids Area with the gymnastic pageantry of Circus, Face Painting, Crazy Inflatables, and much more!

Wireless Festival 2017 lineup revealed

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2017 will see the return of Live Nation's Wireless Festival back at Finsbury Park in London.

Taking place between the 7th – 9th July, the lineup for this years festival will blow you away.

Headlining this year are global superstars Chance the Rapper, Skepta & The Weeknd

Joining them are some other mighty heavyweights including Bryson Tiller (UK Festival Exclusive), NAS (UK Festival Exclusive), G-Eazy, Rae Sremmurd, Tory Lanez, Young Thug, Sean Paul

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Here is the 2017 lineup in full!

Friday 7th July

Chance The Rapper

Bryson Tiller

G-Easy

Zara Larrson, Post Malone, Flatbush Zombies, Lil Dicky, Big Narstie, Noname, Nef the Pharoah

Saturday 8th July

Skepta

Rae Sremmurd

Young Thug, Sean Paul, Lil Yachty, Wiley, Section Boyz, Yungen, Dave, Mostack, Jez Dior, The Age of L.U.N.A, Big Tobz, Young T & Bugsey

Sunday 9th July

The Weeknd

Nas

Tory Lanez

Ty Dolla $ign, Wizkid, Lil Uzi Vert, Tyga, Desiigner, Hilltop Hoods, Mike Skinner & Murkage present Tonga, Stefflon Don, Yuna, Cadet, Aj X Deno, Abra Cadabra, Topaz Jones, 

Main stage hosted by DJ Charlsey

 

Headlining Friday is Chance The Rapper, who is rapidly establishing himself as the hottest hip-hop artist of his generation. Since the release of his first official mixtape 10 Day in 2012, he’s won three Grammy Awards, collaborated with Kanye West on the critically acclaimed Life of Pablo, and clocked over fifty-seven million streams of his debut album Coloring Book. Having recently announced his 40 date US tour, including two sold out shows at the Hollywood Bowl, this is one act not to miss at Wireless 2017.

 

 

Following a momentous performance with Boy Better Know last year, London’s very own grime luminary Skepta will return to Finsbury Park as Saturday’s headliner. Last year saw his ground-breaking album Konnichiwa receive a well-deserved Mercury Prize among countless other awards and take his music worldwide. This summer, Wireless is delighted to host Skepta performing to his home crowd.

 

Known for some of the biggest hits of the past year, two-time Grammy Award Winner The Weeknd will be closing Wireless Festival on Sunday. The performer, producer and songwriter made history in November 2016 by breaking Spotify records with single ‘Starboy’, which still hold the record for most streams in 24 hours by a single artist.

 

Bryson Tiller will be bringing crowd pleasing singles ‘Don’t’ and ‘Exchange’ to Finsbury Park for a UK Festival Exclusive at Wireless 2017, alongside the “James Dean of rap” G-Eazy. Swedish songstress Zara Larsson and the young and talented Post Malone are also set to perform on the Main Stage.

 

Already a big fan of performing at Wireless Festival, Base Defense League Big Narstie will be back with a number of bassline dropping hits. Gritty and atmospheric Flatbush Zombies, comedic rapper Lil Dicky, poetic Chicago rapper Noname and Californian rapper Nef The Pharaoh have also been added to the line up.

 

Dynamic hip-hop duo Rae Sremmurd, stereotype defying rapper Young Thug and the flame-haired Lil Yachty all join the line up for UK Festival Exclusives performances. Also performing are grime legend and godfather Wiley, ‘Temperature’ dancehall superstarSean Paul, UK rap crew Section Boyz, and Capital Xtra Show host DJ Charlsey who will open the festival on the Saturday and Sunday.

 

Underground British sensation Yungen, 18-year old rapper Dave and Mr Gangster With Banter MoStack, are set to carry out unmissable sets. Further acts to perform on the Saturday are hip-hop meets grunge rap artist Jez Dior, Walthamstow’s Big Tobz,the much talked about The Age of L.U.N.A and The Royal Foundation winners, now major label signed Young T & Bugsey.

 

Regarded as one of the best MC’s of all time and with a career spanning over 20 years which includes hits ‘One Mic’, ‘N.Y. State of Mind’ and ‘If I Ruled the World’, Nas will be making a UK Festival Exclusive appearance at Wireless on the Sunday. Also added is R&B and rap fused Tory Lanez; the Toronto born artist known for hit single ‘LUV’, renowned producer Ty Dolla $ign, and the one of a kind Tyga who will be bringing with him five studio albums that include tracks ‘Rack City’ and ‘Faded’. Nigerian singer songwriterWizKid,catchy buzz rapper Lil Uzi Vert and ‘Panda’ celebrated Desiigner will also perform.

 

Mike Skinner and Murkage present Tonga will be at Finsbury Park this July, alongside a long awaited performance from one of the biggest hip-hop successes to come out of Australia, Hilltop Hoods. London’s grime queen and an artist to watch out for this yearStefflon Don, teenage marvels AJ X DENO, and popstar Yuna will be joined by ‘Stereotype Freestyle’ rapper Cadet, grime purist Abra Cadabra, and storyteller Topaz Jones for the ultimate music experience this summer.