Frank Turner

Over 160 acts announced for Boomtown 2017

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Boomtown have just announced their first wave of acts for Chapter 9, showcasing the festival’s signature mix of expansive genres, with unique acts spearheading a vast roster of talent. Joining previously announced 2 Tone ska legends The Specials are; hip hop pioneers Cypress Hill, world infused London M.I.A., multi award winning Arrested Development, reggae superstar Toots and the Maytals, 90s legends Chaka Demus & Pliers, sounds from cult classic film with The Original Blues Brothers Band, folk-punk star Frank Turner, Bob Marley’s eldest son and founding member of the ‘Melody Makers’ Ziggy Marley and folk-rock act Newton Faulkner.

 

The 60,000 capacity Hampshire festival is the only fully immersive music and theatrical festival in the UK and have followed up their storyline trailer for 2017 by announcing over 160 artists spanning a huge variety of genres, including reggae, folk, jazz, world, dub, dancehall, ska, house, techno, garage and a whole lot more…

 

The world's biggest reggae stage, the Lion’s Den will again host some of the largest names in reggae, dancehall and hip hop. Long coveted ska legends The Specials lead the line up, alongside multi-platinum progenitors Cypress Hill, the unique sounds of M.I.A. blending world music with hip hop for an electrically conscious set. Returning to Boomtown for the first time since 2010 Toots & The Maytals will be bringing Jamaican spirit to the Lion’s Den stage and debut appearance by Ziggy Marley sees him following in the footsteps of many of his family members by making the Lion’s Den his home… Keeping things in the family with the Bonner Brothers, in the world of reggae music few families rival these brothers’ success featuring; Richie Spice, Spanner Banner, Snatcha Lion, Sheperd Bonner & Pliers, the latter of which will be bringing along his legendary sparring partner Chaka Demus! From stalwart legends to the new wave of roots reggae coming out of Jamaica, often referred to as 'the reggae revival' The Lion’s Den will be welcoming Raging Fyah, Jah9, Iba Mahr, Runkus alongside the scene's leading figure, Protoje.

 

"We've known about playing Boomtown for some time & it's been really difficult to keep it secret. Everybody has been saying 'it would be great if you played Boomtown' & all we could say is 'yeah'. Well, we are playing Boomtown …..YEAH!!!" The Specials

 

Moving on to the Town Centre stage, which pulls in genre leaders from across all the main stages into one melting-pot; Hampshire superstar, Frank Turner, will be back on home soil after his North American tour to rouse the audience with his anthemic folk-punk. Arrested Development’s alternative hip hop will again be welcomed back; there will be sunny Californian ska punk from Sublime with Rome, chest thumping gospel and uplifting sing along tunes from The Original Blues Brothers Band. Electronic dancehall infused metal band Skindred are set to whip the crowd into a frenzy, while Reel Big Fish will be throwing back some iconic ska-punk, along with the carefree, jam-centric good times from Slightly Stoopid, And lastly, but not least, one of the first ever bands to grace Boomtown’s Town Centre stage back in 2009, the much loved and admired The Wurzels will undoubtedly be a crowd pleaser among the Boomtown faithful.

 

One of the festival’s most visually stunning immersive street sets, The Wild West transports attendees back into a Western filled with saloons and cowboys, hosting some of the most internationally renowned folk and world at The Old Mines stage. Alabama 3 fuse country with house and spoken word, while Newton Faulkner’s percussive songwriting takes folk rock to a different level. Irish folk group Kíla leave spines tingling with seamless instrumentation and Congolese group Mbongwana Star bring Afro-house to the stage mixing percussion with bass.



Back for it’s second year, The Windmill, set in tranquil and exploratory Whistlers Green, harks back to the very first UK music festivals with a largely jazz line up consisting of some of the country's most respected new forward thinking jazz trailblazers such as: Mercury nominees GoGo Penguin, Portico Quartet, Soweto Kinch, and The Comet Is Coming; Mobo Winners Sons Of Kemet and the simply not to be missed all-female septet Nérija. And topping this soulful and thought provoking stage will be the dub poetry of Benjamin Zephaniah & the Revolutionary Minds.

 

The vibrant carnival district of Barrio Loco invites attendees to lose their inhibitions in a playground of festivity. Scene shapers Ben UFO & Mr Scruff & Joy Orbison will be playing an epic five and half hour collaborative set, in a one-off outing exclusive to Boomtown’s flagship house and techno venue Vamos. The celebration of dance culture doesn’t stop there and will also be welcoming founding father of Detroit techno Carl Craig, along with one of the UK’s greatest ever techno producers, who’s been crafting classic tracks for over two decades, Dave Clarke. As well as minimal house supplied by German duo Booka Shade performing live, and fellow German, Berlin based electro producer Boys Noize heading up the jam packed line-up which also includes the House Gospel Choir, Dusky, Monki, Solardo, and many more.

 

Over in Barrio Loco’s other main venue, Poco Loco, versatility and quality are the order of the day, with newcomer Loyle Carner’s ‘sensitive and eloquent’ hip hop with grime rapper A J Tracey providing a seamless flow over trap music. Other headliners include Chali 2na & Krafty Kuts, High Focus Records’; Ocean Wisdom and The Four Owls, plus more to be announced.

 

The awe inspiring Sector 6 stage will again be captivating the crowds with its stunning architecture and pyrotechnic displays alongside a fresh new soundtrack including; genre hopping bass loving Shy FX, Radio 1 resident Toddla T spreading feelgood carnival vibes, and Shogun Audio will be bringing the underground sounds of Bristol bass scene for a four hour takeover. More acts for Sector 6 still to be announced.

 

Newly upgraded multimedia hub of Bang Hai Tower, the festival’s biggest and most ambitious stage to date, will welcome dubstep originator, Rusko, self-formed and unequivocally adept garage supergroup TQD (Royal T, DJ Q & Flava D) going B2B with the formidable Bristolians My Nu Leng and Dread MC in a never before seen world exclusive and Exit Records will be hosting the cream of electronic music courtesy of the label takeover featuring D-Bridge, Skeptical, Alix Perez, Fracture and SP:MC. More acts to be announced.

 

This first headliners release covers just a few of the acts that can be found on eight of Boomtown’s 25 main stages. Full district announcements are still to come and will be released throughout February and March.

 

LINE UP SO FAR: (More to be released…)

 

Lion’s Den

Agent Sasco & Dub Akom Band / Big Youth & U-Roy / The Bonner Brothers (Richie Spice, Spanner Banner, Snatcha Lion, Sheperd Bonner feat. Chaka Demus + Pliers) / Cypress Hill / Earl Gateshead with Dawn Penn & Soom T / Gentleman’s Dub Club feat. Taiwan MC, Parly B & Eva Lazarus / Iba Mahr & Harar Band / Jah9 / Lutan Fyah / M.I.A. / Mr Vegas / Protoje / Raging Fyah / Runkus & The Old Skool Bond / Solo Banton & Horseman with The Upper Cut Band / The Specials / Stand High Patrol & Pupajim / Suns Of Dub feat. Randy Valentine / Stick Figure / Toots & The Maytals / Ziggy Marley

 

Town Centre

Arrested Development / Eskorzo / Frank Turner / Hepcat / Hoffmaestro / The Original Blues Brothers Band / Reel Big Fish / Sam & The Womp / The Showhawk Duo / Ska’N’Ska / Skindred / Slightly Stoopid / Smokey Joe & The Kid feat. Mystro / Sublime With Rome / Sugarhill Gang with Grandmaster Melle Mel & Scorpio’s Furious 5 / Wax Tailor / The Wurzels

 

Old Mines

Alabama 3 / Beans On Toast / The Breath / Bukahara / Chris Wood / Eliza Carthy & The Wayward Band / The Furrow Collective / Heymoonshaker / Kumbia Queers / Lakuta / Mad Dog Mcrea / Mbongwana Star / Newton Faulkner / Kila / Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band / The Showhawk Duo / 47 Soul

 

The Windmill

Benjamin Zephaniah & the Revolutionary Minds / Brinsley (Aswad) Forde MBE / The Comet Is Coming / Dub FX / GoGo Penguin / Jesse Royal / Nerija / Nomade Orquestra / Portico Quartet / Mike Love / SK Shlomo / Sons Of Kemet / Soweto Kinch / United Vibrations / Wrongtom meets The Ragga Twins

 

Old Town

Crash Nomada / Los Colorados / UFOSlavians

 

Rusty Spurs

Jim Jones & The Righteous Mind

 

Hidden Woods

Nattali Rize / Nice Up! Takeover / Reggae Roast ft Brother Culture / Randy Valentine

 

Psychedelic Forest

Astrix / Ace Ventura / Berg / GAUDI / Juno Reactor / Ott & The All-Seeing I

 

Devil Kicks Dancehall

The Dreadnoughts / King Prawn / Legendary Shack Shakers / Planet Smashers

 

Chinatown Courtyard

The Dualers

 

Poco Loco

AJ Tracey / Chali 2na & Krafty Kuts / Dea Players Vs Problem Child / Donae'O / Elf Kid / Loyle Carner / MC Taiwan / Ocean Wisdom / The Four Owls

 

Vamos

Ben UFO & Mr Scruff & Joy Orbison / Boddika / Booka Shade / Boys Noize / Carl Craig / Dave Clarke / Dusky / House Gospel Choir / Monki / Solardo

 

Bang Hai Tower

Black Sun Empire / Break / Exit Records Takeover / Kill Box / My Nu Leng B2B TQD / Optiv & BTK / Phace / Redlight / Rusko / S.P.Y / The Prototypes

 

Sector 6

Butterz takeover (Elijah & Skilliam, Swindle & DJ Champion & MC Serious) / DJ Luck & MC Neat / Heartless Crew / Holy Goof / Mefjus B2B Emperor / Shogun Audio Takeover / Shy FX / The Heatwave / Toddla T

 

Robotika

Aphrodite / Caspa / Deekline B2B Ed Solo / Dub Phizix & Strategy / Freestylers / Gutterfunk Takeover (Dj Die, Addison Groove, Dismantle), Loefah / Mampi Swift / Randall / Ray Keith / Schlachthofbronx / Star.One / Storm / Utah Saints

 

Nas, Frank Turner and more added to Reading and Leeds Festival

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Reading & Leeds has added even more names to the Bank Holiday weekend mecca of music, with over 70 names announced today across 6 phenomenal stages. 
 
Leading the additions is New York hip-hop royalty Nas, who’ll be bringing his untouchable catalogue of defining anthems to Reading & Leeds this summer in a UK Festival Exclusive. Responsible for one of the most acclaimed and influential albums of all time; Illmatic, his heavy-hitting rhymes have kept him at the top for over 25 years. His set on the BBC Radio 1/NME Stage this summer is sure to be a welcomed reminder as to why he remains a true pioneer of hip-hop.
 
 
After breaking the record for consecutive appearances at Reading & Leeds last year with his ninth straight set, festival hero Frank Turner is set to make it a decade of singalongs and heart-on-your-sleeve performances as he takes to the stage this summer. His catalogue of distinctively British anthems has seen the troubadour stand as a true Reading & Leeds icon. Celebrating his tenth appearance in a row, Frank will open the Main Stage with a truly unique set this summer.
 
Frank Turner commented:
“I'm very happy to be making my tenth annual return to Reading and Leeds Festival this summer. That's the record, by miles, and I'm proud of it. They've always been supportive of my career, loyal to me, and I'm more than happy to repay that in kind. It's the best festival in the UK.”
 
Revered grime kingpin Kano cemented his reputation with his comeback album Made In The Manor; a collection of his classic rhymes and British flow, which he’ll be bringing to an electric headline set on the BBC 1Xtra Stage this year. Reading & Leeds have a strong history of musical icons taking the stages by storm and this year is no exception. Pop-punk trailblazers Good Charlotte will be returning to headline the intimate Lock Up Stage with track after track of euphoric classics in another UK Festival Exclusive. Coheed And Cambria are set for a mammoth return to the festivals on the Main Stage whilstMastodon bring their heavy tectonic rhythms to The Pit with a hugely anticipated headline performance.
 
On their return to Reading & Leeds, Good Charlotte said:
"For us there's no better way to celebrate the GC comeback than to come do it at Reading and Leeds. Everyone's favourite festival. It will be a highlight for sure.” 
 
Bringing together genres, generations and game-changers across the site, Reading & Leeds is delighted to reveal more top-calibre names taking to the stage for true festival moments this summer.
 
BBC RADIO 1/NME STAGE
 
With huge headline performances set from the already announced Jack Ü, Two Door Cinema Club and The 1975, new additions today include another UK Festival Exclusive from Australian rock morphers Tonight Alive; fresh from releasing their soundscape-filled third LP Limitless earlier in the year. Further additions include Mancunion buzz-rockers Spring King, the swirling pop dreams of Sunset Sons, translucent movers Haelos and the roaring heavy punch ofBlack Foxxes, who are all set to make the BBC Radio 1/NME Stage a roaring coliseum of altering and exciting game-changing soundtracks. 
 
Jenna McDougall of Tonight Alive said of their UK Festival Exclusive performance:
"We're over the moon to be returning to our favourite rock festival this year! We're coming back for our second round of Reading and Leeds, introducing the 'Limitless’ era.”
 
Black Foxxes commented:
“Reading and Leeds were always big festivals for us and we can’t believe we’ve gone from opening the smallest tent to the second stage in a year! Words can’t describe how stoked we are!!”
 
Tarek Musa of Spring King said:
"We’re ready for another wild year at Reading and Leeds Festival! It’s gonna be immense to play alongside some of our favourite bands!"
 
Sunset Sons who’ll be returning this year, commented:
"Reading and Leeds was our first taste of an iconic UK festival. We will always love playing it and are stoked to be back this year!"
 
Haelos said:
"Reading and Leeds were the first festivals we all went to as teenagers… Feels good to be playing this year."
 
FESTIVAL REPUBLIC STAGE
 
Previously announced headliners Maximo Park will take to the Festival Republic Stage this year where they’ll be joined in topping the stage by Australian euphoric dreamers The Temper Trap who’ll be ushering in the next phase of their acclaimed career with third LP Thick As Thieves due to land this summer. Also headlining the stage is Gaslight Anthem frontman Brian Fallon And The Crowes who’ll be bringing his emotionally charged debut solo releasePainkillers to the festivals, as an exciting new chapter for an American cult hero begins at Reading & Leeds. Sungazing, psychedelica, pin-up BØRNS will bring his Electro Love to Reading & Leeds this summer, whilst the hotly tipped Americana-soaked Clean Cut Kid will touch down for a hotly anticipated set. Heroes for the Leeds heavy scene will be aplenty with Eagulls and Pulled Apart by Horses destined to tear down the tent, with the enigmatic and unpredictable sound of Ezra Furman also set to bring his universally acclaimed catalogue of tracks to the Festival Republic Stage. 
 
Reading & Leeds is once again leading the way in fresh new music and the headliners of tomorrow before anyone else, with further names announced for the Festival Republic Stage today including VANT, The Magic Gang, Blaenavon, The Hunna, LANY, The Sherlocks, Rationale, Beach Baby,Transviolet, Isaac Gracie, Lewis Del Mar, Otherkin, Anteros, The Beach, The Vyrll Society, Area 52 and Tibet. 
 
Speaking about his headline slot, Brian Fallon said:
"Very excited and honoured to be apart of Reading and Leeds this year in celebration of my first solo album.  See you all there! Stay in love with everything!”
 
Leeds locals Pulled Apart By Horses said:
"We're pretty god damn excited about coming back this year. We're geared up with new album material to play and can't think of a better place to road-test it than at Leeds and Reading Festival!"
 
Blaenavon are looking forward to the weekend, saying:
"Reading and Leeds were the festivals we grew up with. I remember seeing At The Drive-In in 2012 and having my face utterly melted. We've only played Leeds before, so we're very stoked to have a proper go at both this year – the Festival Republic tent is probably our favourite stage as well. We'll have some new music out too, so it'll be wicked to try it out in a proper, frenzied festival scenario: abject dirt."
 
Eagulls commented:
"Us Eagulls love fests and Reading and Leeds. To us, it’s got to be up there as one of the most important fests. "
 
Gus from The Magic Gang commented:
"We’re so excited to play Reading and Leeds Festival for the first time, we can’t wait.”
 
VANT said:
"We can't wait for Reading and Leeds Festival 2016. We all went as kids and dreamed of playing it one day. It's such an honour to be there again this year on a bigger stage. See you in the pit!"
 
Rising pop movers Transviolet said:
"This year's line up is insane! So unreal to be a part of this!"
 
The Sherlocks said:
"Big love for Reading and Leeds! We hope that the tents are pegged down properly because we are going to blow the roof off! We'd urge everyone to get down extra early, last year the tents were rammed, this year it is going to be absolute carnage!!! We'd hate for anyone to miss our set, it's going off!"
 
THE PIT/LOCK-UP STAGE
 
With an incredible array of names from across the rock world, The Pit/Lock-Up Stage is the go-to home of all things heavy. Alongside Good Charlottereturning for a incredibly special headline set and stone drivers Mastodon topping the bill, Californian rock pioneers Thrice will return with a hotly anticipated set filled with classics and fresh cuts alike. Hacktivist will be bringing an unparalleled live experience to the stage this summer, whilst the anthemic refrains ofNothing More and the grunge kicks of Milk Teeth are destined to steal the stage with some truly breathtaking performances. 
 
In a seismic coming together of rock icons, supergroup Giraffe Tongue Orchestra will make a landmark appearance at the festivals as members of Alice in Chains, Mastodon, Dillinger Escape Plan, Dethklok and The Mars Volta combine for an unmissable performance. Further additions include the potent and brash rhymes of MGK, Heck, ROAM, Beach Slang, SWMRS, Superheaven, Big Spring and Waterparks as The Pit/Lock-Up Stage takes it to another level this summer.
 
Thrice drummer Riley Breckenridge said:
“It’s always an honor to be a part of a festival as steeped in tradition as Reading and Leeds. We’ve had some memorable shows in front of some incredible (and massive) crowds at both sites over the span of our career, and we can’t wait to get over there and do it all over again.”
 
Heck’s Matt Reynolds said:
"Reading and Leeds fest is like the holy grail of the festival circuit to us. It's a festival we've grown up going to every year and last time we played was probably one of our favourite shows to date. To be asked back to wreak our awful racket once again is an absolute honour."
 
Hacktivist co-frontman Ben Marvin commented:
"We're so hyped about playing again this year! It’s our third time playing but this time we have our debut album out so it's gonna be the most rowdy yet. See you in the pit."
 
Matt Roskilly of ROAM says:
"It really is a huge honour to be invited to play Reading and Leeds festivals this year. I've attended Reading festival for the last 5 years and it has always been mine and my friends favourite festival every time. Having the chance to play a stage, where over the years I have witnessed some of my favourite bands play is beyond exciting. This is a huge deal for me and the band, and is definitely one to cross off of the bucket list!"
 
Superheaven said:
"It's been a dream of ours to play this festival for some time now. It's exciting to get the opportunity to play."
 
Waterparks said:
“These festivals have been on my bucket list for years and it’s surreal that we actually get to be a part of it. See y’all there.”
 
 
BBC 1XTRA STAGE
 
Bringing together the hottest names from both sides of the atlantic, the BBC 1Xtra Stage is set for its biggest lineup to date, with Kano, Travi$ Scott and G-Eazy headlining across the weekend. New additions today include teenage slacker-rap sensation Yung Lean who has taken the world by storm with his unique flow and style, underground US wordsmith Hoodie Allen, the soulful tones of Maverick Sabre and the in-demand producer responsible for the most played and revered hip-hop tracks of recent times after working with Drake, Kanye West, Future and many more; Metro Boomin. 
 
Recently named in Forbes’ ‘30 Under 30’, the influential tales and torments of Little Simz will take to the BBC 1Xtra Stage stage, whilst the unmistakable rise of grime continues with Fekky, Geko and Manchester’s finest Bugzy Malone all dropping in across the weekend for quick-fire and relentless rhymes. Critically acclaimed US star Logic will be bringing his very own slant to proceedings alongside appearances over the weekend from K.Flay, Franko Fraizeand Radio 1’s Clara Amfo; making it a huge hip-hop superstar take over on the BBC 1Xtra Stage at Reading & Leeds this year.
 
Franko Fraize said:
"Absolutely buzzin’ to be part of Reading and Leeds this year! I've always had a proper good do as a punter so I'm proper excited to be the other side now and be the one bringing the party!" 
 
BBC RADIO 1 DANCE STAGE
 
Already soaked with unmistakable dance royalty, the BBC Radio 1 Dance Stage will be full of electronic boundary-pushers throughout the weekend, with new additions today including PC Music titan SOPHIE; whose superactive original sound has seen PC Music rise from bedroom concern to global festival stages. Fellow PC Music stalwart Danny L Harle will also bring the tectonic beats this summer, with the deep blues and soul of Brighton’s Rag’n’Bone Manalso destined to serenade the stage with his gritty blue-eyed charm. Dark bass honcho Friction will take to the decks over the bank holiday weekend, with further drum and bass takedowns set from Fred V & Grafix and Delta Heavy. 
 
After recently supporting The 1975 on their world tour, the hotly tipped electro-soul soother The Japanese House will mesmerise Reading & Leeds with her emotional masterclass. The Girl Is Mine chart supremos 99 Souls are set to bring the sunshine across the weekend, with experimental-house heavyweightRedlight and neo-soul groovers Lion Babe bringing their own refreshing beats that are sure to get the masses moving at Reading & Leeds 2016. With further performances from Zac Samuel, Tkay Maidza, Hermitude, Lemaitre, Low Steppa, Draper and James Organ over the weekend, the electronic souls and sounds are set to ring out from the BBC Radio 1 Dance Stage this year.  
 
Chart supremos 99 Souls said:
"Can't wait to be back at Reading and Leeds… If you look at the vids on our social media, Reading was our craziest crowd of 2015… We're hoping to do an even bigger set and have an even bigger reaction this year!"
 
Draper says:
"Reading and Leeds is going to be awesome and an amazing opportunity to perform what I've been working so hard on! Can't wait!"
 
Redlight commented:
"Love playing at Reading and Leeds. Always a sick one. Can't wait to come and have a party…"
 
Lemaitre says:
"Excited to play our first festivals in the UK at these two legendary festivals alongside some of our favourite artists." 
 
Rag’n’Bone Man commented:
"I'm really excited to play Reading and Leeds. I actually always wanted to go as a punter but never got the chance, now I get to go as a performer, it's gonna be a banger!"
 
On joining the line up Tkay Maidza said:
"Reading and Leeds is one of my bucket list festivals that I wanted to play before I had even released a song. It's also the first festival I'll play in the UK so I'm super excited!"
 
Friction says:
"Reading and Leeds! As well as historically being one of the greatest festivals on the planet, it has a vibe like no other. So pleased to be back again for this year!"
 
Low Steppa commented:
"Can't wait to take my sound to Reading and Leeds festival! Been looking forward to this for ages!”
 
Drum and bass titan Delta Heavy says:
"We're really looking forward to playing at Reading and Leeds for the first time this year.  Having been to Reading many times over the years as punters it's exciting to be able to come back and play as artists on the Radio 1 Dance Stage."
 
With over 70 names added today, Reading & Leeds 2016 boasts the biggest names, sounds and festival moments for another unmissable year. With 5 Headliners Across 3 Days, over 28 UK + European Festival Exclusives and an untouchable blend of musical legends and future stars announced so far,Reading & Leeds has it all for the defining festival weekend.
 
 
ANNOUNCED TODAY
Nas (UK Festival Exclusive)
Frank Turner
Kano
Good Charlotte (UK Festival Exclusive)
Coheed and Cambria
Mastodon
Tonight Alive (UK Festival Exclusive)
Spring King
Sunset Sons
Haelos
Black Foxxes
The Temper Trap
Brian Fallon And The Crowes
BØRNS
Eagulls
Clean Cut Kid
Pulled Apart By Horses
Ezra Furman
VANT
The Magic Gang
Blaenavon
The Hunna
LANY
The Sherlocks
Rationale
Beach Baby
Transviolet
Isaac Gracie
Lewis Del Mar
Otherkin
Anteros
The Beach
The Vryll Society
Area 52
Tibet
Thrice
Hacktivist
Nothing More
Milk Teeth
Giraffe Tongue Orchestra
MGK
Heck
ROAM
Beach Slang
SWMRS
Superheaven
Big Spring
Waterparks
Yung Lean
Hoodie Allen
Maverick Sabre
Metro Boomin
Little Simz
Fekky
Geko
Bugzy Malone
Logic
K.Flay
Franko Fraize
Clara Amfo
SOPHIE
Danny L Harle
Rag’n’Bone Man
Friction
Fred V & Grafix
Delta Heavy
The Japanese House
99 Souls
Redlight
Lion Babe
Zac Samuel
Tkay Maidza
Hermitude
Lemaitre
Low Steppa
Draper
James Organ
 
 
PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED
Biffy Clyro (Co-headline) (UK Festival Exclusive)
Fall Out Boy (Co-headline) (UK Festival Exclusive)
Red Hot Chili Peppers (Headline)
Foals (Co-Headline)
Disclosure (Co-Headline)
Imagine Dragons (European Festival Exclusive)
Jack Ü                  
Two Door Cinema Club                 
The 1975
Courteeners                     
Boy Better Know 
Chvrches 
The Vaccines (UK Festival Exclusive)
A$AP Rocky (UK Festival Exclusive)
HAIM (UK Festival Exclusive)
Jack Garratt
The Wombats
Twenty One Pilots (UK Festival Exclusive)                                                       
Crystal Castles (UK Festival Exclusive)    
Fetty Wap (UK Festival Exclusive)                     
Eagles Of Death Metal (UK Festival Exclusive)
Slaves  
Parkway Drive (UK Festival Exclusive)
Nothing But Thieves     
The Internet (UK Festival Exclusive)
Rat Boy
Hinds
Lower Than Atlantis (UK Festival Exclusive)
Asking Alexandria (UK Festival Exclusive)
The Dillinger Escape Plan (UK Festival Exclusive)
Travi$ Scott (UK Festival Exclusive)
G-Eazy (UK Festival Exclusive)
Skindred        
Five Finger Death Punch (UK Festival Exclusive)                     
Sleeping With Sirens (UK Festival Exclusive)
The Neighbourhood (UK Festival Exclusive)
Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes         
State Champs
Savages
Die Antwoord (UK Festival Exclusive)
Cage The Elephant (UK Festival Exclusive)
Krept & Konan
Sigma
Half Moon Run
Basement
Blossoms
Mura Masa
Giggs
Netsky
Highly Suspect (UK Festival Exclusive)
Sundara Karma
AlunaGeorge
Duke Dumont
David Rodigan MBE
Disciples                              
My Nu Leng B2B Oneman + Dread MC (Reading) / Oneman B2B My Nu Leng + Dread MC (Leeds)                          
MistaJam
Philip George                    
Riton                    
Birdy Nam Nam                               
Oliver Heldens   
DJ EZ
Hannah Wants
Crossfaith
Kurupt FM Presents: Champagne Steam Rooms
Cassetteboy vs DJ Rubbish
The King Blues
Kvelertak
FVK                                                          
Modern Baseball
Dead!         
Creeper             
Citizen                                      
Maxïmo Park
Raleigh Ritchie                                                                                                     
INHEAVEN                        
Banners                                                                                                                     
Tuff Love                                              
Seratones       
Anderson .Paak & The Free Nationals                         
Section Boyz                     
Protoje                                                              
Lady Leshurr
DJ Semtex (Reading)
Yungen    
Jauz  

Franz Ferdinand and Sparks to play a joint set at Benicassim 2015

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Soon to be taking the stage at benicassim in 2015 is the newly configured FFS, and by that I don’t mean for fucks sake! A seemingly different pairing, Franz Ferdinand and Sparks have united to create a sort-of super group, and to top it off a collective album produced by non other than John Congleton. Ron Mael (Sparks’ keyboardist) has said the album sounds like ‘the wreckage of a train crash between the bands’. Woah, well if that’s anything to go by we’re sure their set won’t be anything less than mind blowing, and we can’t wait to see what’s in store.

But that’s not the only wonders Benicassim has to offer, with it’s coming of age this year and to celebrate the big 2-1 they’ve added some amazing bands to the bill. Headliners include britpop legends Blur and drum and bass kings The Prodigy, plus with new acts just announced theres something for everyone who wants to have fun in the sun.

On the cusp of releasing his 6th studio album Frank Turner and the Sleeping Souls promises to wow us all, there’s monumental post-rock from Godspeed You! Black Emperor, raucous rock ’n’ roll from The Cribs, epic Muse-like soundscapes from Spain’s Vetusta Morla, Reverend & The Makers bring their great street songs. There’s going to be huge techno sessions from Tiga and Evan Baggs and a dash of French house from Madeon. Exciting young pups Palma Violets and Swim Deep join the bill too, whilst representing Ireland are The Riptide Movement, Hamsandwich, and Gavin James.

All these and more added to a bill that already includes the massive names above as well as Crystal Fighters, Jamie T, Kaiser Chiefs, Mark Ronson, Public Enemy, Stromae and that’s not even the half of it yet. With a few more names to be added to the bill, this is sure to be a week not to forget.

Kendal Calling 2014 Review

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 “Make sure you pack your sun cream…it’s going to be a scorcher next weekend!”

These words did not end up ringing wholly true. In fact, this was one of the wettest, muddiest festivals I have ever experienced…and I've been to at least 20. If you are going to have your festival in the Lake District, who knows what weather you are going to get, but this was a Northern festival, with proper double-hard Northern people who were ready for anything.

…then this little guy turned up and showed us all how it was done…

Mud monster

We arrived early on Thursday, this being the first year to allow entry the day before the main festival.
After finally getting up our beast of a tent, we caught the first half of Craig Charles’ 
thumping set in the Glow tent, before some Yorkshire Ska in Chai Wallah, courtesy of The Talks.

Friday started out in the real ale tent, and not even for beer (this time!), but instead to avoid the first
heavy downpour of the weekend. Samba bands were a feature across the site, and kept everyone
entertained until the stages started. By the early afternoon the rain had stopped, giving way to sack
races and plenty of activities to keep families busy in the Ladybird Kids area. Teenagers got their dancing shoes dirty early on at the Jägermeister stage and in the House Party tent. The first big crowd
of the day was for The Dub Pistols, a band who just seem to be made for festivals, getting everyone
stomping those wet weather blues away.

There was disappointment for some as the next act Ella Eyre was unable to attend due to illness, but fear not…The Sunshine Underground served up an extremely last minute indie dance set that kept everyone happy while they refuelled in anticipation of De La Soul…

Unfortunately, owing to an accident on the M6, their set was cut short, but the enthusiasm they provided more than made up for it. 
“Me, myself and I” put lots of smiles on faces. With as many years of experience as they have they worked the crowd as you would expect.

Just enough time to grab some food. There was plenty on offer, ranging from exotic burgers
(Llama; wild boar and wagyu beef) to delicious momos from the Tibetan Kitchen (my photographer is now completely hooked on these badboys).

Suede headlined Friday night and began with a quiet opener “The Next life” from their first album.
They had won the crowd over by the third song “Trash”, followed by “Animal Nitrate” giving
everyone a chance to sing, and Brett Anderson to strut his stuff like the mid 90’s were here again.
Mid set we were given a new song “Tightrope” which the crowd were not really sure about, and
their set finished with “Beautiful Ones”.They closed the main stage with an encore of
“She’s in Fashion”, and a wonderful rendition of “Stay Together”.

Suede

After hours there was plenty to do with particular highlights being the Britpop set in the Tim Peaks Diner and the jazzy breaks of Mr Scruff.

 

As morning broke on Saturday, the site was turning to a liquid red thanks to the Cumbrian mud and morning rain. That didn’t stop large numbers of aliens, and sci-fi characters emerging from their tents to lighten up the gloom. The Glow Tent hosted a mass moonwalk to the song “Billie Jean”, as hundreds of MJ’s strutted their stuff.

Mid-afternoon, as the sun peeked out, Newton Faulkner played to a background of bubbles drifting across the field, “Teardrop”, and Justin Timberlake’s “Like I love you baby” bringing the crowds in. Athlete continued the summer vibe, and the sunglasses were out by the time Razorlight took to the stage. Sporting a lovely beard (trust me, I know about beards!) Johnny Borrell and the boys played a high energy, hit filled set.

Then, it was ALL about Madchester, with bucket hats and Lennon glasses being the necessary uniform. The Happy Mondays began with Bez informing us of his political intentions, which is either genius, or the most bonkers thing you’ve ever heard. The majority of this crowd would definitely vote for him. Shaun planned to keep it a PG performance, and entertained the crowd by never being quite sure which songs were coming next. Rowetta looked fantastic in her cowboy hat and tassels, and people were literally climbing the trees to get a good view. The sound was great and the whole arena was rocking to party classics from “Loose Fit”, to “24 Hour Party People”.

The Happy Mondays

Frank Turner started his set with a smaller crowd, hampered by the rain, but that crowd grew and got to enjoy a very special headline slot. This being his third time at the festival, he’s
definitely earned his Kendal stripes, and when he announced how honoured he was to play, you really knew he meant it. His band, The Sleeping Souls, threw themselves around the stage and really stepped up the volume, with stomping tunes like “Photosynthesis” getting the crowd all clapping and singing along. He dedicated his new song “Angel Islington” to all the Northerners. Despite a re-tune mid song and a broken string, nothing could faze Frank tonight!

Frank Turner

Sunday, originally predicted to be the best day for weather, was the worst, with frequent showers turning the main arena into a mud bath. Children and adults kept their spirits up by sliding down the hillside, and one of the great moments of the weekend was the chap in neon and a flat cap, cruising round a pool of mud in his electric wheelchair, chasing people. The Lancashire Hotpots played at lunchtime and won the award for most costume changes, and as they said, it was like a Lady Gaga gig! Conga lines, beach balls and songs including “We Love the North”, and “Chippy tea”, were just what was needed to keep everyone from flagging.

Reel Big Fish were the afternoon high point, Masters of styles they gave us the Ska Punk we all expected, but also a touch of Disco, and even a bit of Square-dancing. With choreographed kicks they finished with “Take on Me”, and as the dancing increased, the mud was flying. Tom Odell didn’t go in for quite the same level of onstage action, but instead let his music do the talking. It only took him to point to the girls at the front to get them all screaming, as he hammered away at the piano. A new song “Jealousy” from his upcoming album was particularly well received.

Miles Kane was taking no prisoners with a straight up rock and roll show. Dressed in a psychedelic shirt, his strutted around owing the stage, scissor kicking as he went. By the time he played “Don’t Forget Who You Are”, he had the audience joining in from the front to all the way up the hill.

Miles Kane

The final act on the main stage was Example, the biggest crowd of the weekend, and everyone wanted to be at the front. The sound from the stage was massive, with filthy bass lines shaking the sodden ground. Dressed in black he electrified the entire field, with lasers and a completely awesome neon drum kit. “One more day (Stay with me)” “Changed the way you kiss me” and “Kickstarts” were by far the biggest sing-a-longs of the weekend. As the set finished with air cannons
and ticker tape, the epic firework display was a worthy end to a sometimes challenging but ultimately celebratory weekend.

Example

After the main events, we headed back to Tim Peaks Diner for some energetic table dancing and a storming funk and soul set from Tim Burgess.
Just time to pop back to the real ale tent, this time for a well-deserved pint, we’d all survived!

 

Words by Reuben Crowther
Photographs by Andy Sawyer

Standon Calling Review 2014

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Standon Calling – The Best Bits

1. THE MUSIC 

This small festival situated in Hertfordshire had a line-up rivaling that of larger festivals. Running from the 1st – 3rd of August, Standon Calling offered music to suit all ages and tastes. Headliners Frank Turner and the Sleeping Souls, Public Enemy and Maximo Park ensured evening on the main stage ended on a high. Other highlights included Beans On Toast’s performance amongst the crowd, Amber Run inviting members of the audience dressed as a Taco and Paddington Bear to join them during their set and Charli XCX igniting the Big Top with her latest single ‘Boom Clap’. Other standout performances came from Clean Bandit, The Cuban Brothers, Grandmaster Flash and personal favourite Saint Raymond. Unfortunately the highly anticipated Ella Eyre could not attend due to illness. 

 

2. DOGS

Its the first time I’ve been to a festival where dogs are allowed in, its literally the best thing ever. I made some lovely canine friends and owners, who are surprisingly happy to have a million people a day ask to stroke their dog! There was even a dog show which drew in a massive crowd including categories; Best Trick, Waggiest Tail and Owner most like their Dog. Attractions like this are what separates this festival from others and provided light entertainment on Sunday afternoon. Amidst the chaos in the ring, Nigel was the standout dog. 

3. THEME

‘Lost in Latin America’ was this years theme. The attention to detail across the festival blew me away; there was not a single area that hadn’t been decorated, even behind the bar the theme continued. The cowsheds which held the afterpartys had hidden rooms, which had been fantastically decorated, including a Day of the Dead shrine.

4. JOSE CUERVO

Standon Calling offered a brilliant selection of stalls across the festival. The ‘Jose Cuervo’ bar ran margarita making competitions over the 3 days, giving partakers the chance to win a £500 bar tab for making the quickest drink. I gave it ago on Sunday, and managed it in 19 seconds, I was the current champion, only to return in half an hour to see someone had smashed my time and completed the challenge in 13 seconds! Absolutely gutted, but it was so much fun and it attracted a crowd full of competitive spirit! (You also got to keep the drink you made, bonus!)

5. SWIMMING POOL

What more could you ask for? The swimming pool is something that definitely stands out at Standon Calling; they are the only UK festival offering this experience! Suitable for children and adults alike, music by poolside DJ’s provided a relaxing retreat from the bustling crowds. 

6. FOOD

Standon Calling also offered a great selection of food, excellently priced. Barnaby Sykes – Pie Maker was a personal highlight, selling pie, chips, gravy, peas and a drink for £9, satisfying you for the entire day. The pulled pork burrito by Luardos was also delicious and worth the long queue. 

7. FANCY DRESS

The theme provided excellent inspiration for fancy dressers, there really was a top notch effort by all, everyone looked amazing and it added to the atmosphere of the weekend. Costumes ranged from Sally the Llama to bottles of tequila. There was a fancy dress competition for both adults and children on the main stage, with the winners chosen by the crowd. 

8. ENTERTAINMENT

During breaks in the music, there was always something else on offer to keep you entertained. Mexican wrestling was very unexpected but so entertaining, with the wrestlers taking on different characters within the ring giving the crowd someone to cheer or boo. Trapeze lessons were also available, for either £8 for a solo swing, or £35 to swing and be caught by a professional. Crowds watched below as the festival goers took the leap of faith!

Festival goers were able to buy tickets for 2015 at a hugely discounted price, and although this offer has now ended, I would definitely pay full price to return next year, it has been a highlight of my summer. 

Photos by Mickey Cole 

Y Not Festival 2014 Review

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One of the UK's fastest-growing festivals, Derbyshire's Y Not returned for its ninth outing and delivered a weekend chocked full of 'I was there' moments; be it the triumphant closure of Dizzee Rascal's compelling Saturday night headliner set, the smooth hip-hop of American trio De La Soul or the rousing, foot-stomping bangers that pumped out of the Saloon Bar all weekend long, there was something for every music lover, young and old, at this year's gathering. 

For me, it began on Friday with exciting Birmingham band Superfood. Scores of teens flooded the main stage front to see the intriguing four-piece, who proceeded to belt out guitar-led anthems that were shouty, loud and fun. A band who'd been on my radar for a while, exceeded my expectations and kicked off the festival nicely. Intermittent rain showers were just a preview of the weather to come, but still it led me to the Saloon Bar in the middle of the site, to check out Three Minute Heist. 

The Saloon Bar is a perfect replica of an American Western bar, with only the stench of Somersby cider and cans of Tuborg giving away the fact we were at a festival in the middle of the Derbyshire countryside in 2014! Nevertheless, that didn't stop the aforementioned quartet bringing their brand of country blues and sing-a-longs along to transport us back a century. The packed out venue was rocking, especially so with closer 'Johnny B. Goode'.

After checking out the finest reggae and drum 'n' bass tents Y Not has to offer, it was off to the wetter Main Stage to check out London's very own Spector. Lead singer Fred Macpherson's powerful and unique vocals managed to keep his band alive, as they put in a so-so performance of their back catalogue 'Chevy Thunder' and fresh cuts from an upcoming new record, that managed to keep the crowd bobbing along to their bouncy pop-rock.

The first of the weekend's big boys then took to the Main Stage; Johnny Borrell leading his Razorlight bandmates out almost a decade after headlining a stage at Glastonbury. They reeled through a Greatest Hits set in which you could sense their class, but it was all pretty unexciting. Borrell was never the greatest of stage presences, and whilst his ambition was there, his band never quite reached their fullest of potential with either their career or this subbing set. 

A headline set by Reel Big Fish is a must-see. The pop-punk band are an assured live act, and got the Quarry crowd up off their feet for a good chunk of the gig. Live brass bands are always a plus, and the band had their crowd in the palm of their hand, with circle pits forming as far as the eye could see, a packed crowd revelled in the moment in what was surely one of the most memorable Quarry sets. Finishing with their famed cover of a-ha's 'Take on Me', was predictable, yet incredible.

A quick dash back over to the Main Stage, saw White Lies begin. Despite their tunes lacking the considerable 'oomph' of their fellow headliners, the indie-rockers kept sections of the crowd entertained, with an enjoyable if forgettable set. 

My Saturday began over at the Quarry, to check out up-and-coming rap/pop artist Ady Suleiman. Describing him as a 'better' Ed Sheeran might be a step too far (and I'm not a fan of Sheeran!), but Suleiman was the perfect hangover cure for many, as he and his band rattled through their half-an-hour set, leaving you wanting far, far more. If there could be any criticism, it would be that his lyrics could develop moreso, hearing song after song about the generic 'lost woman' does tire after a bit, but this is a man to watch out for. Equally experiemental beatboxer Shlomo was another top pick. Using his loop machine, he treated us to stories of how he discovered his talent, a great cover of 'No Diggity' and a pulsating climax.

One of the most anticipated artists of 2013 were Brummie's Swim Deep. Scintiallating cuts of sun-laden summery tunes were released periodically by them throughout the year, before the release of debut album, 'Where The Heaven We Are' disappointed many, myself included. This set though, reignited some hope within me, that they can reach the heights promised by songs like 'Honey' and 'King City', as they impressed hugely in 'Arcade Fire'-esque blue facepaint. The all-important second record could make or break them.

Scots The Fratellis, know all about that, debut album 'Costello Music', providing them with a springboard into British music, before their follow-up 'Here We Stand' flopping, and the inevitable hiatus following. But they brought back memories of their 2006 breakthrough with hit after hit. Even the songs that weren't ingrained into our brains, were pretty good, bouncy tracks. However, throughout the set, bottles and cans of beer littered the stage, leading to frontman Jon Fratelli to warn 'one more of that and that's your lot'. It ceased the flow, but still was an unsavoury incident, and not the last of it at all…

The man most of the 12,000 festival-goers had flocked to see, Dizzee Rascal took to the stage a little after his 10pm start time, but delivered in a massive way. His set was eclectic and his famed live show, was a tour de force in pure entertainment. All he needed was his DJ, a couple of hype men and the stage was set for a victorious performance. His collaborations with other artists, opener 'Here 2 China' with Calvin Harris, 'Heavy', from Chase & Status and the excellent 'Dirtee Love' with Florence + the Machine, reminded you of the quality of Dizzee's back catalogue, but his standalone hits, 'Holiday', 'Bassline Junkie' and the sheer power of 'Bonkers', makes you wonder how long it will be before Dizzee headlines ascends to headliner status at one of the UK's greatest and biggest festivals.

With the crowd size having thinned out following Mr Rascal's Saturday night slot, I thought it best to check out the finer sights of Y Not on Sunday…the funfair! With a cheap roller disco, a cracking dodgems and a postponed paint fight, Sunday was a riotous day, with the sun finally coming out to dry the festival site considerably by the evening. It boosted the fatigued amongst the Y Not crowd, and was grand preparation for a fantastic end to the festival.

Derby band Joint Honours managed to fill the Allotment stage to the max, bringing some poppy, guitar-driven tunes to the fore and getting the crowd going hugely for late afternoon on a Sunday. One of my favourite bands of the minute, Palma Violets did not disappoint on the Main Stage. The powerful rock band, were uber-confident and strutting around the stage for an extended 45-minute set. 'Best Friends' has to be the biggie, but I cannot wait for their second album to drop so they can expand their ambitious sound and step up to the next level.

A switch in sound, to the hip-hop stylings of legends De La Soul. Hit after hit followed as the trio participated in some hilarious crowd participation, promoting inter-crowd rivalries, before daring the very same idiotic people who had pelted bottles at the Fratellis the previous day to try the same with them, but letting them know how stupid they were, provoking yet more acclaim. Their set was a perfect exercise in getting a field full of weary bodies to dance to some classic tunes for one last hour.

There was only one man who could close such a festival, take to the stage Y Not three-timer, Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls. Frank's last outing in these parts came in 2009, a well-overdue return saw him rise to headliner status. The cult rocker entertained in huge doses, as he reeled through tracks from 2013's 'Tape Deck Heart', his fifth studio album, as well as crowd favourites 'I Still Believe' and 'Wessex Boy'. The riotous fireworks that marked the end of his hour and the end of the Y Not weekend were special and poignant.

Here was an artist and a festival that have never been better, Y Not will celebrate its tenth birthday next August and whilst it is hard to see just how it will be able to cram more goodness into one weekend, you can bet that organisers will try their hardest to make 2015 bigger and better than this stellar weekend!

Sonisphere 2014 Saturday brings a mix of acts to Knebworth

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Sonisphere wasn't shy to mix up the line up they had in store today. Starting with Ale Storm from 11.35am, an early start for an incredible turn out. Many pirate dance moves later "Lets drink a lot of drink." Shouts LEAD. Followed by sound checks in Japanese ready for Baby Metal to hit the stage for their first UK tour, the performance surly had a complete different feel compared to what is usually played. Baby Metal kicked off there set with a star war themed visuals with a narrator telling a fictional story about the band. Next up was Chas and Dave, then Ghost with Antherax and Frank Turner following behind. Although Frank Turner claimed "This music is what I fucking come from" after him mentioning he grew up listening to Iron Maiden. None of these bands even touch on a similar genre type but I guess the one thing they all have in common was there invitation to perform here. So, was this the weirdest binary of sets Sonisphere has ever had?

Photo courtesy of Sonisphere

Tom Odell, Frank Turner & John Newman to headline Wakestock Festival 2014

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This unique festival now in it’s 14th year is an established event on the Wakeboarding circuit with contenders travelling from around the world to compete in the pretty tourist village of Abersoc, a haven for the sailing and surfing community on the North Wales coastline. Growing in popularity over the years and attracting a youthful and increasingly diverse crowd of stylish music lovers, the festival now encompasses some of the best new music talent from the UK and beyond with an exciting mix of stars from the indie, folk and electronic club scenes. 

This year WAKESTOCK GŴYL Y MOR (Festival of the sea) 2014 will hit the shores of Cardigan Bay from the 11th – 13th July, with a thrilling line up of festival headliners; TOM ODELL, FRANK TURNER & THE SLEEPING SOULS and JOHN NEWMAN. 

The partying crowds will also enjoy not only the best of British music, but a bounty of great comedy, poetry, arts and hospitality with a range of food and drink from across Wales. This year guests can also look forward to a daytime programme filled with entertainment and activities for the whole family including workshops, amazing art installations, a fantastic fairground and a celebration of Welsh music, art and culture. 

The festival takes place over three different sites in close proximity. The music festival site is set in a stunning location with camping, glamping and Tipees available, whilst the pretty Pwllheli Marina and heavenly Abersoch Beach play host to the Wakeboarding and Watersports activities.

Festival Organiser Stuart Galbraith says;  

‘’Wakestock is 14 years old this year and we’re super proud of its history and the various line-ups we have brought to North Wales. We’ve been busy thinking of ways to evolve the festival this year and so alongside our usual star names from the world of music and fantastic sporting action we have also decided we want to widen our reach and encourage the whole of the Llyn Peninsula to take ownership of the event and get involved. Our first step is the addition of Gŵyl y Mor to the top line festival name as a celebration of our unique geography on one of Wales’s most beautiful coastlines. We’ve got fresh new artwork and we have lots of exciting plans in the pipeline so keep checking our website and social media for news and more. On a wider note Wakestock Gŵyl y Mor is not just the Llyn Peninsula’s festival but a festival for the whole of North Wales to enjoy.  We can’t wait for the summer already’’

FRIDAY NIGHT HEADLINER: TOM ODELL Last year Tom’s critically acclaimed debut number 1 album, Long Way Down went gold, he won the BRITs Critics' Choice Award in early 2013, with two Brit award nominations for the Best British Breakthrough Act and Best British Male Solo Artist. 

SATURDAY NIGHT HEADLINER: FRANK TURNER, the former punk rock front man, who started out in the dirtiest, smallest clubs, relentlessly touring, is now filling arenas following the success of ‘Tape Deck Heart’, his album release late last year… which captured not just the mood of a generation, but the moods of at least three generations with his emotive, heart on sleeve lyrics and devil may care approach to love, loss and waking up still at the party from the night before.  

SUNDAY NIGHT HEADLINER: JOHN NEWMAN is high on a wave of euphoria himself right with two No 1 singles, a number 1 album, collaborations with fellow chart toppers Rudimental and two Brit awards nominations. His sound blends the raw feel of Sixties soul with the thick pulse of modern pop and the energy of piano-driven house music. 

Clean Bandit, Duke Dumont, Razorlight, Gorgon City and Frightened Rabbit will also be performing on the main stages across the three, day event with more great acts and some very special guests still to be announced. 

Aloe Blacc, Imelda May and more join OnBlackheath lineup

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This years newest festival OnBlackheath announces another batch of artists that will perform over the weekend of the 13th and 14th September which include chart topping 

soul sensation Aloe Blacc, hip-hop electro Young Fathers and Hot Chip’s Joe Goddard performing a DJ set. Plus a very special guest announcement will be 

coming soon. Irish rockabilly queen Imelda May, festival favourites Levellers, indie rockers Athlete and hotly tipped Brit folk rockers Slow Club have been added to the bill and joining Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls on the Sunday.

Introducing OnBlackheath featuring Massive Attack and Frank Turner

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The Summer Festival Guide is excited to reveal yet another new festival to London's summer season.  OnBlackheath in partnership with John Lewis is a brand new festival with a difference.  

An eclectic music line-up, immersive food experience, farmers market and much more will be on offer. OnBlackheath will be taking place over the weekend of Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 September 2014 on the historic green space of London’s Blackheath Common SE3. Headlining the event, and what will be both their ONLY London festival shows this year, iconic music pioneers Massive Attack (Saturday) and punk folk rocker Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls (Sunday). All other Main Stage artists are due to be announced shortly, with the second stage being curated by national radio DJ Gilles Peterson on the Saturday and independent label Heavenly Recordings on the Sunday.

If that wasn’t enough to whet your appetite OnBlackheath are delighted to announce the unique addition of our special food stage host, pop-up chef and The Sunday Times Cook, Gizzi Erskine. ‘Gizzi’s Chef’s Club’ which will offer festival visitors a chance to sample the dishes demonstrated on the main food stage. The stage will provide an interactive experience for festivalgoers where 8 chefs a day will showcase their latest cooking skills and trends with fresh, sustainable and local produce. The chef line up will include Michelin starred chefs Simon Hulstone (The Elephant) & Richard Bainbridge (Morston Hall) and top chef Neil Rankin (Smokehouse).

Throughout the weekend festivalgoers will get the chance to see more world-class artists perform, with the addition of the second stage. National radio DJ Gilles Peterson will be bringing an array of live music and DJ sets to his Worldwide Stage on Saturday 13 September with the likes of Hiatus Kaiyote, BadBadNotGood, Swindle Live, Ibibio Sound Machine, Zara McFarlane, Anushka with DJ slots to be announced soon.

Leading independent label Heavenly Recordings will curate the second stage Heavenly & Friends on the Sunday with artists including Radiophonic Workshop, Stealing Sheep, Charlie Boyer and the Voyeurs, The Wytches, Kid Wave and a DJ set from Don Letts.