Madness

Example, Basement Jaxx and more lead Rockness 2013 lineup announcement

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RockNess 2013 launches today with an announcement of quality and depth, and in keeping with the eclectic signature synonymous with the festival, a tantalising flavour of 2013’s hottest rising stars.

First up, with a knack for dispensing ridiculously catchy chart toppers, EXAMPLE’s live shows, complete Examplewith full band, are back-to-back, energy packed affairs. Drawing on a four album strong catalogue, including multiple number one successes, it’ll be a hits-a-thon come June with the likes of ‘Kickstarts,‘Changed the Way You Kissed Me’, ‘Won’t Go Quietly’ and ’Stay Awake’.  EXAMPLE’s brand of dance-rap, flavoured with input from the likes of Benga, Calvin, Skream, Zane Lowe and Blur’s Graham Coxon, will be the RockNess soundtrack impossible not to bounce to with reckless abandon.

Few live acts shout “party” more than chief shindig instigators BASEMENT JAXX, and we are delighted to announce the ringleaders are back and heading to Dores this June. Last time the unstoppable duo and their merry band of singers, dancers and MCs landed at Dores, the brilliantly wild, main stage pandemonium never moved below fourth gear. Now the JAXX experience is returning, and with new material recently being teased across airwaves, igniting strong rumours of a new album, it’ll soon be party time again.

Having now attained national treasure status, MADNESS bring their inimitable nutty magic to The Highlands. ‘One Step Beyond’, ‘House of Fun’, ‘Baggy Trousers’, ‘Our House’, ‘It Must Be Love’… in now signature RockNess style, this promises to be the festival’s mass sing-along moment of 2013.

Predicted to “help usher in a new era for guitar music” with a sound described as “fantastic, exhilarating and exciting”, THE VACCINES are fast track sealing their status as rock ‘n’ roll icons. Debut demo “If You Wanna” exploded as Zane Lowe’s ‘Hottest Record in the World’ in 2010, and an instant sell out UK tour played to rapturous media acclaim, and audiences including Alex Kapranos, Marcus Mumford and members of White Lies and The Maccabees.  Second album ‘Come of Age’ rocketed straight into number one in September 2012, certifying gold status less than 3 weeks after release, and this summer, in what will be an electrifying assault, THE VACCINES will play RockNess.

Bombay Bicycle ClubWinners of the Best New Band award at 2010’s NME Awards, and Ivor Novello-nominated for second album ‘Flaws’ in 2011, BOMBAY BICYCLE CLUB have arrived proper style with third album ‘A Different Kind of Fix’, a lesson in how to work a groove to glorious genre slicing effect. Witness the remarkable evolution this June,

Extolling the finest virtues of a modern day troubadour, singer songwriter BEN HOWARD is one of the brightest talents to emerge in recent times. The lush musicianship of debut album ‘Every Kingdom’ oozes quality, earning him a Mercury Prize nomination in 2012, and recent follow up EP ‘The Burgh Island’ continues his ascent. Relentless gigging has honed BEN HOWARD’s live shows like few others. Soulful, emotive and one of many unmissables set for RockNess 2013.

Since bagging the BRIT Awards’ Critics Choice in 2010, ELLIE GOULDING has shape shifted from the sparkly pop of debut album ‘Lights’ to the more bombastic but equally magical follow up of ‘Halycon’, released late 2012. Live, her sound, and especially her voice – folky, primal, soaring when it needs to – stands GOULDING apart as an original. Pop music in sublime effect.

THE MACCABEES posses the kind of heroic force that heavy touring has beefed them up for. Gutsy and honest, the band’s latest album ‘Given to the Wild’ was Mercury nominated in 2012. Check them out and see why for yourself.

Next up, RockNess is absolutely delighted to announce the stunning sound of JESSIE WARE will be gracing Dores.  Since emerging on to the scene in 2010, the London songstress has been laying impressive foundations with a sound that oozes soulful quality, reminiscent of the 80’s most seductive divas.  Guest production duties assumed by the likes of Julio Bashmore, SBTRKT and Joker edge her gorgeous sound on the credibility stakes too. JESSIE WARE.  Here, now, and utterly authentic.

Jessie Ware

CAMERA OBSCURA epitomise the spirit of indie. Coming on to the scene around the same time as the likes of Belle & Sebastian (debut album ‘Biggest Bluest Hi Fi’ was produced by Stuart Murdoch), the Glaswegian band’s output has never strayed far from their intoxicating brand of golden pop, building up a loyal cult following in the process.

Last but by no means least, as one of the original torchbearers to break through for the nu folk / acoustic movement of the noughties, NEWTON FAUKLNER’s distinct sound was prophetically ahead of its time.  Since then the dreadlocked one has refused the temptation to kowtow to any fleeting trends, sticking to what he does best – essentially tight, rhythmic guitars, nimble finger picking, uncommon tunings and inventive chord changes. NEWTON FAULKNER is not just an artist but an entertainer definitely worth checking out live.

With heaps more exciting announcements and arena details coming soon, including line ups for the mighty SUB CLUB SOUND SYSTEM and SOMA RECORDS, the countdown has officially commenced!

Speaking about this year’s launch announcement, Festival Director Jim King said ”I'm delighted to announce the first names we're bringing to the party at Loch Ness this summer. We've been working hard behind the scenes to bring you an eclectic line up of the highest calibre acts for which RockNess is synonymous. To top it all, we’ve reduced the price of our Weekend Camping tickets by £20 so you can join us at RockNess for less than most other major UK festivals at an amazing value price of £139. We’ve introduced a new Inverness Discount ticket, which is inclusive of all fees to support local businesses in Inverness if you buy over the counter; more details can be found on our website.

If you haven't joined us at RockNess before, I promise you it is the best way to kickstart your summer, a completely electric atmosphere, partying in what is probably the most beautiful festival site in the world. If you have been to RockNess before then as always I’d like to thank you for your continued support in making it the best festival in Scotland.  We've got many more bands and DJ's still to announce, plus another very special headliner, so stay tuned…!”

Want to see how much fun RockNess really is? Check out the video from last year!  

http://vimeo.com/54136241

The Beach Boys, Madness and more for Henley Festival

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The eclectic line up sees appearances from legendary band The Beach Boys who begin the festivities on Wednesday 10th July, British icons Madness on Friday 12th July and a very special James Bond Themed Gala Evening on Saturday 13th July: Shaken & Stirred.  The Music of James Bond. Carrying on the compelling entertainment, the captivating chanteuse, Paloma Faith will close the show on Sunday 14th July. Tickets go on sale to Friends of the festival* from www.henley-festival.co.uk at 10am on Monday 25th February and on general sale soon.

With just 5,000 tickets available each night, this chic black tie only event is an intimate and magical experience, set on the serene banks of the River Thames. With appearances from some of the biggest names in music, food, street theatre, dance, art, culture and comedy, this quintessentially British festival has a rich 31-year legacy for you to be a part of. Taking place over five spectacular nights, the Henley Festival is THE only event to see and be seen at this summer. More will be revealed in the coming weeks…

Recognised nationally and internationally as one of the summer's great British events, all net profits go to the Henley Festival’scharitable projects. 

Gill Mitchell, CEO of The Henley Festival said: “Many people do not realise that we are a charity and always have been. Over the last 30 years, the Henley Festival has donated more than £2m to music and art projects in the Thames Valley. With this in mind, it gives us great pleasure, to announce such an exciting and diverse musical line up for this year’s Henley Festival.  We are extremely proud to be playing host to some of the most globally recognised artists at our summer party and look forward to seeing you there.”

THE BEACH BOYS – WEDNESDAY 10TH JULY

Headlining the opening night of this incredible series of shows on Wednesday 10th July are The Beach Boys.  Having performed more concerts than any major rock band in history, The Beach Boys now bring their one-of-a-kind concert presence, spirit and performance to the Henley Festival this July.  

Combining the pure talent of Mike Love, Bruce Johnston, Christian Love, Randell Kirsch, Tim Bonhomme, John Cowsill and Scott Totten, the band’s inimitable style continues to inspire the world…be sure not to miss this highly anticipated performance onWednesday 10th July.

Tickets start from £80 and are available from www.henley-festival.co.uk

Mike Love said: "We are very excited about performing at this year's Henley Festival and playing literally on the River Thames.  It is always a special gift to get the opportunity to play for our English fans."  

THURSDAY 11TH JULY

Details will be announced shortly. 

MADNESS – FRIDAY 12TH JULY

Madness have endeared the nation for decades and are currently promoting their 10th studio album Oui Oui, Si Si, Ja Ja, Da Da.  As icons of the music industry, whose songs have left a firm mark on British pop culture, the band now bring their live show to the banks of the River Thames on Friday 12th July.  

With a legacy that has been celebrated by the country, Madness will showcase their distinctive sound at the vibrant Henley Festivalthis summer.  Join Madness on Friday evening for a show that sparkles with the spirit of British life.  

Tickets start from £90 and are available from www.henley-festival.co.uk

Madness said: "Our singer Suggs got the wrong date and turned up on stage a year early, luckily Sting didn't mind too much, we'll all be there this year, we'll be expecting you." 

Madness

SHAKEN & STIRRED. THE MUSIC OF JAMES BOND – SATURDAY 13TH JULY 

What better way to celebrate the historic 50-year milestone of 007 than at a very special James Bond Themed Gala Evening. Now a British institution, Ian Fleming’s suave spy first appeared in Casino Royale and most recently in the award winning Skyfall. Now in homage to the great man, the Henley Festival will celebrate with a bold, blockbuster variety show featuring West End singers, James Bond style stunts, a guest star presenter, professional dancers from BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, plus surprise guests, to be announced in the coming weeks.

Bond films have consistently delivered memorable and award winning sound tracks and these stirring melodies will be at the heart of the grand Shaken & Stirred.  The Music of James Bond evening, with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at the heart of proceedings performing classic tracks from an array of Bond films; such as Diamonds Are Forever, Goldfinger, Live and Let Die,Skyfall, and many more.

Spanning 50 years, the Bond films and their soundtracks go hand in hand, so have your martini shaken, not stirred and expect the unexpected on Saturday 13th July.

Tickets start from £65 and are available from www.henley-festival.co.uk

Sir Roger Moore said: “James Bond has played a major part of my life and I can't imagine a more appropriately British location for a celebration of Ian Fleming's remarkable character. Have a wonderful evening and good luck!”

PALOMA FAITH – SUNDAY 14TH JULY

Closing five original evenings of music and entertainment on Sunday 14th July will be 2013 BRIT Award nominee Paloma Faith, who is set to bring a touch of majestic theatrics to Henley.  So much more than a music festival, the Henley Festival welcomes so much more than a pop artist, whose vocals offer bluesy power and reveal husky emotion. The stage is where she truly comes alive; making Paloma Faith the perfect match for the decadent Henley Festival, so prepare to be dazzled as you relax by the river.

As Paloma serenades spectators, the festival will culminate in a spectacular firework display, lighting up the skies over the Thames.  

Tickets start from £55 and are available from www.henley-festival.co.uk

Paloma Faith said: "I'm really happy to be playing at the Henley Festival this year.  Performing live is what I love the most!"

Blending sophistication and glamour, the unique Henley Festival opens its doors to a world of the greatest performances and entertainment. Indulge your senses with the best food and music, accompanied by a selection of witty comedy shows and quirky street theatre, all in one very stylish location. Sample the culinary expertise of the famous Albert & Michel Roux Jr, surrounded by the sharpest and most elegant festivalgoers around.

House of Fun Weekender

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25th-27th November 2011
 
Madness said of the event. “Life is a series of beautiful moments, this weekend is a moment in time where you can, we hope take some beautiful moments home with you. Please endeavour to introduce yourself to as many as possible, make new friends, dance, sing, laugh, give support, create joy, be decent, spread the love and most of all enjoy yourselves as much as you think is possible, you know it makes sense”
 
Madness
 
With their tenth album currently in the works, Madness will be playing a career-spanning extravaganza over the weekend, with a few extra-special surprises up their sleeves.
 
The weekend will be packed with top class performances from the likes of the mighty los hermanos Cubanos, The Cuban Brothers, DJ Jerry Dammers, beatbox superstar Beardyman and a set from eclectic powerhouse DJ Andrew Weatherall. Heavyweights The Whip will bring the party, and Norman Jay MBE will be providing yet another classic set. Mr Scruff will grace us with more than three hours of freestyle beats,whilst Squeaky Hill, Marc Roberts and Toddla T & MC Serocee will provide the bass driven rhythms. Check out some arcade-electro rhymes from Dan Le Sac vs Scroobius Pip, and digital-ska maestros Man Like Me.
 
We have a wealth of comedy acts on show, who will provide side-splitting entertainment just for your pleasure! The amazing talent we have for you includes Bob Mills, Junior Simpson, Nick Wilty, Al Barrie, Kevin McCarthy and Ben Norris with 8-piece horn and percussion ensemble, Brassroots, Wagontails. As if our stellar musical line-up wasn’t enough, we’re also treating you to some of the best comedians around!
 
The amazing ex-Housemartins and Beautiful South singer Paul Heaton will be one to see, along with Marcus Birdman, Gordon Southern, Michael Smiley and incredible improv-rapping with Abandoman. Halifax Hospital Radio’s very own Barry Peters will make a special appearance, with zoot suited soul flavours from The Milk, electro-swingers The Correspondents and Radio 1’s leftfield master Rob da Bank. Don’t miss DJs,Justin Robertson & Greg Wilson or Brit-Rock Poppers Missing Andy. Watch legendary darts players Wayne Mardle & Peter Manley for something a little bit different, or check out late night treats from Marc Roberts and a ninja-mash-up from Jaguar Skills. DJ sets from Don Letts and erstwhile Specials kingpin Jerry Dammers are sure to get you dancing.
 
Future garage don Doorly will be unmissable, along with Marc Roberts and Craig Charles’ Funk and Soul Show. We are in for a treat from El Thommo in the form of Lee Thompson’s Ska Orchestra and the Irish Bar will host odd-ball merriment from Squeaky Hill and sing-along japes with Rockaoke all weekend long. You can score a strike with the Bowling Disco plus there will be a very special Madness Pool Competition.
 
To book the House of Fun Weekender, or for more information, call 0845 070 4730 or visit www.butlins.com/madness (The maximum call charge is 2p per minute from a BT landline. Calls from other networks may vary)