Back in the Future

Back in the Future

If there’s one thing that perfectly captures summertime, it’s festivals – and 2020 will be no exception with Back In The Future, a new two day festival weekend bringing summer vibes and carnival culture to Malta on August 29th and 30th. Malta is being described as the new Ibiza and with 300 days of sun per … Read more

Sundown Festival 2016 – Review. One of the biggest Sundowns yet

A Great British downpour lashed over festival goers as ponchos and true grit became standard for the first day of Sundown Festival.

“It's raining so hard my fingers are wrinkly,” bewailed one glitter-sodden music fan who said it looked like she had sat in the bath for an hour.

Yes. The rain was bad.

But remarkably the ground stayed mostly mud-free and the musical maelstrom kept the crowd in good spirits as three stages blasted out a mix of urban, pop and dance.

Kicking off proceedings on the main stage were Cambridge rapper Big Heath and Norfolk neo soul artist Mullally who stepped in at the last minute to replace Emmi.

Skipping on to the stage afterwards was a total style switch with trio MO who DJ Mistajam has described as the only girl group you need worry about.

They were followed by the earthy, jazz infused voice of  Espa, then Kiko Bunn, who brought a good times, deep dance reggae sunshine vibe to the day.

Next up the ever youthful Ms Dynamite, whose energy shone as strongly as when she first topped  the charts in 2003 ,with her hit single signature tune which heard the crowd sing in unison – Miss Dynamite-ee-ee!

Becky Hill stood out for her effortless performance show-casing her mind blowingly powerful voice, especially during Wilkinson's anthem Afterglow.

She is a truly likable artist with a great energy and simplicity of style.

Kano showed why his fifth album Made In The Manor has become a high seller with an edgy performance that ripped up the crowd followed by the unmistakable grin and good times set of tunes from original UK rapper Dizzee Rascal.

Jess Glynne stormed the stage with a set that engrossed the sodden masses encompassing her five number one UK singles and showing why she is a rising star on the other side of the pond as well as in the UK where she is preparing for a 10 date arena tour in the Autumn.

Duo Chase and Status closed the night with a show stopper of lights and kicking drum n bass as part of their summer of festival headlining while also producing their much anticipated third album.

By Sunday ,the Norfolk Showground venue, filled with 40,000 fans, had transformed thanks to some of the last of this summer's  rays rolling through the clouds.

BB Diamond broke the musical ice on main stage with an easy set of dance tunes followed by an absolute whirlwind of energy that is Imani Williams.

This 16 year old  is going places with her passion, unmistakable voice and style.

Signed to Sigala's label it is clear to see why he has snapped her up with her timed to perfection dance moves and big voice.

Next up was rapper Yungen who is among a new wave of rap/grime acts sweeping the British music scene.

He was followed by girl trio Stooshe whose high energy was a big hit with fans.

Anne Marie brought her big vocals to the stage where she compellingly lost herself in the moment and was enthralling to watch.

DJ Sigala followed with a big impact live set embracing a Caribbean theme with a guest slot by Imani followed by Krept & Konan who powered in, packing a mighty grime punch with lyrics that screamed pure London boy genius.

A turn around style switch followed, thanks to X factor contestant Fleur East who was a massive hit with the crowd. Think Beyonce and Tina Turner, blend them up and you get some kind of idea of her style, and panache. She was a joy to photograph with a star quality performance.

Next up was Years and Years – watching singer Olly Alexander is like seeing somebody emotionally throw their entire life and a handful of glitter into every word. Riveting.

Closing the festival was American star Jason Derulo who left the crowd in no doubt about why he is such a hugely successful global act.

This man can sing, he can dance and with a big beaming smile his performance was incredible to watch – not least when he picked out a girl from the screaming crowd and brought her up to dance on stage

A great performer with slick backing dancers and musicians to boot.

Over in the red and blue tents weekend highlights were David Rodiggan, who smashes it every time he takes to the stage, Jaguar Skills and his Asian babe dancers, Dimension, Red Light,  Goldie and Wilkinson with thanks to stage hosting by Ministry of Sound, Defected In The House, UKF and the drum n bass arena.

Laurence Bagnall, one of the festival organsiers said: “This has been one of the biggest Sundowns yet.

“The weather failed to dampen the good vibes, the sun came out for some of the biggest acts and with no incidents to report the festival would like to thank everybody for their ongoing support.”

See you in 2017!

 

 

Sundown Festival 2016 Preview

The countdown is on to Sundown Festival 2016 in what is becoming renowned as the music happening to see out the last rays of the summer season.

With a third stage added at the Norwich venue for this year, there are more acts, more music and more choice.

An easy vibe, friendly crowd and variety are key in this urban, dance, pop and drum n bass mix and this year is no exception.

Warming up on Friday night is the big top campers party with Radio 1 DJ Danny Howard, best known for presenting his show Dance Anthems, which kicks off proceedings with stomping tunes until the small hours.

The festival proper begins on Saturday with a headliner classic of  Chase & Status after main players including chart topper Jess Glynne, UK rapper Kano, British rap favourite Dizzee Rascal, future pop sensation Becky Hill and respected British rapper and politically motivated icon Ms Dynamite

The Defected in the House stage includes Sonny Fodera, Sam Divine and DISKT while over in the UKF stage are mash up legend Jaguar Skills, reggae DJ pioneer David Rodigan, My Nu Leng and MC Dread.

Sunday fires off in all directions in the musical maelstrom that is Sundown with a main stage headliner of Jason Derulo. He takes to the stage after acts including Years and Years, grime duo Krept and Kronan, breakthorugh X factor star Fleur East and Sigala Live.

Over at the second tent the stage is set today by global dance brand Ministry of Sound with headliner Amine Edge and Dance, Redlight, Blonde and Low Steppa among the acts.

The third tent on Sunday becomes the drum n bass arena with crowd pleaser Wilkinson, Friction, the ever popular Goldie, Warning favourite Hazard, Dimension, Dillinja and Culture Shock.

Alongside it all throw in some fairground rides, stalls and a crowd that never feels overwhelmingly large making it both a perfect season closer for die hard festival fans or the ideal place for teenagers to cut their teeth in a safe and manageable sized festival world.

Either way, enjoy. The line up is randomly eclectic – but is sure to keep those dancing feet happy all weekend.

TICKETS: Sundown Festival 2016 is from Friday September 2 to Sunday 4. Tickets start at £46.75 for a day pass up to £121 for a weekend pass with camping at the Norfolk Showground venue. 

Loads more acts announced for Sundown Festival 2016

With headliners Chase & Status and Jason Derulo already announced alongside a supporting cast including the arena conquering Years & Years, pop princess Jess Glynne, UK rap stars Krept & Konan and grime don Kano already announced, Sundown Festival is announcing even more names for its biggest year yet.

Joining the huge main stage lineup is one singer who is no stranger to big crowds. Having paid her dues on the road as a singer for Sundown favourites Rudimental, Anne Marie is going it alone and is taking the pop world by storm. Switching from heartfelt ballads to party bangers seamlessly its no wonder she topped MTV’s prestigious Brand New list. She’ll be joined by none other than undisputed legend of UK R&B and rap, Ms Dynamite who since bursting onto the charts in 2002 with hits like ‘Dy-na-mi-tee’ has carved a career that younger artists would kill for. 

Having expanded to three stages this year, the second and third stages will be hosted by some of the biggest brands in the dance and club worlds with Defected, UKF, Ministry Of Sound and Drum & Bass Arena all hosting their own huge lineups at the festival. Joining the party are grime ‘Golden Boy’ Elf Kid, house master Lee Walker, pioneering DJ and producer Matt ‘Jam’ Lamont, Audio Rehab boss Mark Radford, bass duo Diskord and an amazing Dillinja set.

Everyone packing their tent and making a weekend of it will be treated to a very special opening party on the Friday night from one of the most high profile DJs in the country today, Radio 1’s Danny Howard.  

With the festival going from strength to strength, tickets are going fast for the best closing party of the festival season! Returning to Norwich for the fourth year running, Sundown Festival is the definitive closing party of the festival season. What better excuse for one more dance in the sun at the end of a busy summer?

Boomtown District lineups for 2016

We have the lineup's announced for the following area's at this years Boomtown!

  • Chinatown
  • Sector 6
  • Psychedelic
  • Barrio Loco
  • Wild West
  • Mayfair
  • Old Town
  • DSTRKT 5

Chinatown

BoomTown’s seventh district announcement enters ChinaTown, the festival’s centre of technology and trade. Have your senses stimulated from all angles, with intense aromas, neon lights and detailed shop facades creating a vibe of mystery, mayhem and music.

Full ChinaTown Line-Up:

MadnessFun Lovin’ Criminals, Mad Caddies, Asian Dub Foundation, The Selecter, Bad Manners, Neville Staple Band, The Slackers, Melbourne Ska Orchestra and Chainska Brassika

Leftover Crack, Senser, Street Dogs, Big D and the Kids Table, Jaya The Cat,

Talco, Inner Terrestrials, Culture Shock, Sonic Boom Six, The King Blues, Mischief Brew, Banane Metalik, The Peacocks, The Brains, The Filaments, New Town Kings, Chewing On Tinfoil, Wonk Unit, The Bar Stool Preachers, Vanilla Pod, Faintest Idea, Firepit Collective, Smokey Bastard, Ruby Throat, Dogshite, In Evil Hour, Casual Nausea, Rags Rudi, Intercity Crazy Train, Skaciety, Last Gang In Town Soundsystem

Ska Vengers, Will & The People, The Riffs, Spred The Dubs, By The Rivers, Buster Shuffle, Caravãna Sun, Goldmaster Allstars, The JB Conspiracy, Land Of The Giants, Bombskare, Magnus Major, China Shop Bull, Wombo Orchestra, Cut Capers, Mad Apple Circus, The Meow Meows, Counting Coins, Smiley & The Underclass, The Majestic (Ska Set), Count Skylarkin', Karl Phillips and the NGF Rejects, The Stiff Joints, The Activators, Cartoon Violence, Millie Manders, THE TiPS, Dizney Rascal, Last Edition

Days N Daze, The Lagan, Ratbag, Lenny Lashley’s Gang of One, The Roughneck Riot, Matilda’s Scoundrels, Cistem Failure, 2 Peas in a Pod, Hello Mabel, Ed Ache, Joe Yorke, Mercurius Rising, EFA Supertramp

Sector 6

Every revolution needs an HQ, and BoomTown Chapter 8’s uprising will be bubbling away in the brand new Sector 6! Located in the heart of the district is a power station commandeered by masked revolutionaries, leading their charge to a bass-heavy spectrum of garage, grime, bassline and dubstep.

Full Sector 6 Line-Up:

AC Slater, Barely Legal, Boom Sound Takeover: Big.Bad.Soundsystem / Fleck / Gardna / Jinx in Dub / Kreed / Parly B, Chris Lorenzo, Deadbeat UK, Deep Medi Takeover: Mala / Gorgon Sound / Commodo / Gantz / Rider Shafique / Sun of Selah, Diemantle, DJ Die, DJ Zinc, Foundation: Sticky b2b Scott Garcia & Lady Chann, GotSome, Hybrid Theory, Juma MC, Kry Wolf, Madam X, Melé, MJ Cole, Ms. Dynamite, Newham Generals, Om Unit, So Solid Crew: Lisa Maffia / Romeo / Mega / Asher D, Special Request (XL Recordings), Truth, Wonka-Vision, Zed Bias Soundsystem & MC Trigga

Psychedelic Stage

BoomTown’s fifth line-up announcement for Chapter 8 takes a trip into its Psychedelic world. Supported by three of the UK’s top Psy promoters, IllumiNaughtyTribe of Frog and Elixir of Life, its three stages are spread across the city and unite crews, artists and party people from all over the international Psychedelic Trance, Progressive Techno and Hi-Tech community.  

Full Psychedelic Line-Up:

Hallucinogen / Hilight Tribe / Neelix / Shpongle – Simon Posford DJ set / GMS / Skazi / 1200 Micrograms / Orb Sound System / Ozric Tentacles /

JOOF / Alok / GAUDI / Dino Psaras / Tsuyoshi Suzuki / Hypnocoustics / Parasense / Hedflux / Monk3ylogic / Dirty Saffi / Nick Sentience / Liquid Ross / Driss / Nigel Shiva Valley / Tortured Brain / Logica / DJ Moon / Mack / Nikki S / Shakti / ThallOm / Lemon Tree

Brainiac / K.i.M / Sinerider / M-Theory / Illegal Machines / Illegal Sensations / Filterheads / Neuroplasm / Big Scary Monsters / Ben Coda / Continem / CIMI / Divination / Occular / AudioFire / James West / Aardvark / Subliminal

System/ Spinney Lainey / Svess /Xymox / Pieman/ Geo/ Psychosonic / Dr G

Loose Connection / Apollyon / Skyhighatrist / Act One / Refried Dreams / Cheryl Catawumpas / Krosis/Final Form / N.Vader / Life Path 9 / Allycat / Cybernetic Ghost / Stalic Overdose / F'da F'da

Barrio Loco

BoomTown’s Chapter 8 line-up announcement schedule reaches the festival’s Latin quarter, Barrio Loco. A neighbourhood that rarely sleeps, its revolutionary spirit and carnival atmosphere run deep through its streets! The infamous Bassline Circus brings their 360° outdoor show 'Athletes of the Night', and in addition to the district’s bass-heavy hub Poco Loco an all-new stage plays host to a bill of house and techno trailblazers.

Full Barrio Loco Line-up:

Alfresco Disco, Billy Kenny, B.Traits, Dead Players, Derrick Carter, Derrick May, Devvo, DJ Craze, DJ Format & Abdominal, Dr Syntax & Pete Cannon, DRS (Live), Flux DJs, Foreign Beggars, Friend Within, Gardna, Jackmaster, Jenna & the G's, JFB, Jman, Jus Now, Levelz, Mouse Outfit, Mr Woodnote & Lil Rhys, Nightmares On Wax, Octave One (Live), Pharaohe Monch – Live Band, Red Eye HiFi with Kathika, Fox, Shadow Child, Shapes DJs, Skream, Sparkz & Kiva, Reeps One – Live AV Show, Submotion Orchestra, Swindle (Live), White Bully (Live), Will Clarke

Wild West District

Yeehaa! BoomTown’s Chapter 8 district announcements reach the Wild West, a raucous ex-prospecting settlement populated by cowboys, showgirls, bounty hunters and bandits, and ruled by the no-nonsense Sheriff. Away from the district’s dusty trails and ramshackle saloons, three main stages dosey-doe day and night to a rootin’ tootin’ line-up of Folk, Bluegrass, Ska and World music.

Full Wild West Line-up

Imelda May, Afro Celt Sound System, Ojos de Brujo, Nahko & Medicine For The People, Seth Lakeman, Lau, Joe Driscoll & Sekou Kouyate, Steve N Seagulls, Larry & His Flask, Shooglenifty, Raghu Dixit, Dhol Foundation, Beans On Toast, Mokoomba, The Brother Moves On, Afriquoi, Ferocious Dog, Skinny Lister, The Turbans, 3 Daft Monkeys, Fitty Gomash, Pronghorn,

The Boot Hill All Stars, Johnny Cage & Voodoo Groove, Skimmity Hitchers, Gaz Brookfield & Ben Wain, Sam Green and The Midnight Heist, The Hot Sprockets, Louis Barabbas & The Bedlam 6, Seven Little Sisters, The White City Shakers, Severed Limb, Screamin Miss Jackson & The Slap ya Mamma Big Band, Funke & The Two Tone Baby, Showhawk Duo, Cat Ratchers, Dead Plants, JC's Hopeless Sinners, Trailer Trash Orchestra, The Back Wood Redeemers, Wessex Pistols, Buffalo Skinners, Captain Cactus & The Screaming Harlots, Gin Bowlers, Dana Immanuel & The Stolen Band, Curst Sons, Dusk at Dawns, Dead Plants, The Inbredz, The Scribes, Afro Cluster, Junior Bill & The Scallies, The Future Dub Project, Crinkle Cuts, Euphony, The Piratones, Pachango, Iguanas, Key Lime Pi, Josephine & The Artizans, Eat The Evidence, Vegetable Collective, Feel Good Culture, Easy Stride Band, MoCara, The Barefoot Bandit, Zegema Beach, King Solomon Band, Lily Mi, Sam Evans Band, Henge, The Maitree Express, Feelgood Experiment, Selby And The Dharma Blitz, Fast Decline, Echo Town, Primo Nelson

Mayfair District

Fresh off the back of BoomTown’s first major headliner release and OldTown district announcement, the festival has unleashed the full bill for its Mayfair district; a playground for the upper echelons of BoomTown society, where bankers, socialites, aristocrats and secret societies rub shoulders. The well-heeled theatrical high-jinx of Mayfair plays out whilst housing the biggest electro-swing and vintage remix line up in the world.

Full Mayfair Line-up

Parov Stelar, Molotov Jukebox, The Correspondents (Live Band), Smokey Joe & The Kid feat. Mystro, Electric Swing Circus, Dutty Moonshine Big Band, The Carny Villains, The Sweet Life Society, Big Swing Sound feat. Hypeman Sage, Eugene The Cat, Sound Nomaden, Swingbot, Savages y Suefo, Pep’s Show Boys & Sebastian Röser ft. Rosantique, DJ Chris Tofu, Renegade Brass Band, Brass Funkeys, Temple Funk Collective, LLareggub Brass Band, The Zen Hussies, Gypsies Of Bohemia, Unexpected Guests feat. Professor Elemental, Jenova Collective, DJ Louie Prima, Chicken Brothers, Madame Electrifie, CatJam, The Church, Daytoner, Little Violet, Louis Barabbas & The Bedlam 6, Wombo Orchestra, Barbarella's Bang Bang, Manieres des Bohemiens, Mr Tea & The Minions, Swingers, Immigrant Swing, Rum Buffalo, World's Tallest DJ, The Rumpsteppers, BMVT, Jass B'Stards, Madame Barducci and The Goudzy Guitar, The Imperial Works, Antelope, Chameleon Mime, DJ Eliazar, Swing Dance Classes

Old Town District

Following BoomTown’s massive first major line-up release, the festival kicks off five weeks of artist announcements for the nine districts that make up the weird, wild and wonderful fabric of the city. First up it’s the ancient pirate port of OldTown, the festival’s longest standing district that plays host to The Jolly Dodger, a 90-ft pirate ship and the OldTown main stage.

Full OldTown Line-up

Babylon Circus / Los de Abajo /Bohemian Betyars / Les Yeux d'la Tête /Fat Bastard Gang Band / N.O.H.A. / Projekt Rakija / The Destroyers / Days N Daze / Mischief Brew / The Turbans / The Baghdaddies / Veeblefetzer / Balkan Hotsteppers / Mondo Cane / The Zen Hussies / Zorita  / Transylvania / Gypsy Unit / Ushti Baba / Tantz / The Great Malarkey / Wombo Orchestra / Gypsies Of Bohemia / Hallouminati / Barbarella's Bang Bang / Poor Old Dogs / Mr Tea & The Minions / Gadje Scum / Manushka / Biere de Luxe / Klonk

DSTRK 5 Lineup

Full DSTRKT 5 Line-Up:

Towering over D5 is the incredible nine-storey Bang Hai Palace, a flame-throwing heavy bass mecca and the city’s most striking skyline spectacle.

RAM Records Showcase: Calyx & Teebee / Audio / Teddy Killerz, Roni Size & Krust present Full Cycle, Dub Phizix, Calibre, Critical Sound: Mefjus / Ivy Lab / Kasra / Emperor / Enei / Sam Binga / Foreign Concept, My Nu Leng, TQD (Royal T, DJ Q, Flava D), DJ Hype & Hazard present 20 Years of Playaz, Born On Road (Aries, Kelvin 373, Stivs, Gold Dubs), Taiki & Nulight, MCs: DRS, Dynamite MC, Strategy, 2Shy, Skibadee, LX One, Carasel, Dread MC Angerfist, Dr Peacock, Guigoo, Radium, Vandal, Counterstrike, Cause4Concern, Cooh, Machine Code, The Outside Agency, Pattern J, The Speed Freak, Pisko, Djipe, PRSPCT Takeover: Fragz / Dolphin / Sinister Souls, Therapy Sessions Takeover: Hallucinator / Fortitude / Robyn Chaos, Block Dodger, Al Twisted, Mandidextrous, Dataklysm, DJ Michael Barrymore, Irritant Sounds, Subliminal Audio, DNA, Requiem Soundsystem

The Upbeats, Koan Sound, Stanton Warriors, Krafty Kuts, Altern8, Plump DJs, A.Skillz, The Heatwave, The Nextmen, Chimpo, Mella Dee, Slipmatt, Inspected Records: Billain / Culprate / Monuman (Emperor) / Sorrow / Inspector Dubplate, Shades of Rhythm, The Squire of Gothos, Itchy & Skratchy DJs

IGORRR, Bong-Ra, Ruby My Dear, 0=0, B Key, Smyla, Ghost, Dr. Bastardo, Pants and Socks, Dave Skywalker, Jungle Syndicate, Amen-Tal

Ms Dynamite and more added to Wychwood Festival lineup

The 12th annual Wychwood Festival has announced another wave of acts to play in 2016. Brighton promoters Smashing Blouse once again take control of The Big Top, using their musical savvy to book the best of established and up and coming acts including Ms .Dynamite, Hunter & The Bear, Cash + David, The Ooks Of Hazard, Rag n' Bone and Anteros, with plenty more to come. Set on the glorious Cheltenham Racecourse beneath the idyllic Prestbury Hills, Wychwood is incredible value for money and offers an amazing array of events for all the family. Day tickets have just gone on sale with adult tickets starting at just at £45 and discounted prices for children. Wychwood takes place 3rd – 5th June. For tickets and further information visit wychwoodfestival.com.

A pioneer and legend on the urban music scene, Ms. Dynamite is as relevant now as she's ever been and set to delight Wychwood revellers with her enigmatic blend of r&b, grime and electronic music. The Londoner has been wowing crowds for years and Wychwood will be no different thanks to her high energy performances. A perfect addition to the line-up.

Smashing Blouse curate the Big Top once again in 2016. The Brighton tastemakers pride themselves on booking not only established acts but the most diverse and exciting names around, making Wychwood the ideal place to dicsover your new favourite band. This year they have a plethora of up and coming bands from around the globe, including visceral rockers Hunter & The Bear, electro-pop duo Cash + David, the excellently named LA based ukulele troupe Ooks Of Hazard, Australian upstarts Rag n' Bone and synth pop stunners Anteros, all set to keep crowds dancing all day long.

Over the past 11 years Wychwood Festival has cemented itself as one of the country's favourite family friendly weekends. Welcoming all generations, the festival curates a packed programme year on year with timeless greats, upcoming music, literature, comedy, children's entertainment, food and drink and more.

Wychwood continues to offer great value for money – adult weekend tickets are priced at just £135, concessions at £110, 10-15 year olds at £65, 5-9 year olds at £25 and under 5 year olds go free with an adult. Day tickets are also now on sale, starting at £45 for an adult ticket. Full ticket price breakdown can be found below and as always with Wychwood Festival tickets, all are inclusive, with no additional booking fees and no hidden extras to pay on site.

WYCHWOOD FESTIVAL 2016 PROGRAMME
MUSIC

Peter Hook & The Light / Bill Bailey
Ms. Dynamite / Kate Rusby / From The Jam / Craig Charles / Matt Berry & The Maypoles
Hunter & The Bear / Cash + David / Ooks Of Hazard / Rag n' Bone / Anteros

Wireless Festival 2015 full lineup complete with Charli XCX, Jess Glyne and more

After last year’s hugely successful three-day run, Wireless will return to Finsbury Park for the weekend of 3rd – 5th July to celebrate the festival’s 10th birthday with an incredible line-up and a new name – ‘New Look Wireless’ – through an exciting sponsorship deal with the fashion retailer New Look.

The latest additions to New Look Wireless are:

CHARLI XCX, JESS GLYNNE, MAVERICK SABRE, LETHAL BIZZLE, KLINGANDE, DJ MUSTARD, TRAVI$ SCOTT, MNEK, MS. DYNAMITE, 3LAU, SHAKKA, OWS, BAD RABBITS, TOVE STYRKE, JACOB PLANT, SINEAD HARNETT, ADY SULEIMAN, NICK BREWER, DAMAGE, TORI KELLY, JERMAIN JACKMAN, ETTA BOND

AND A SPECIAL PERFORMANCE BY JADEN & WILLOW SMITH

FULL LINE-UP:

FRIDAY 3RD JULY – DRAKE, A$AP ROCKY, MAJOR LAZER, LABRINTH, JOEY BADA$$, MAVERICK SABRE, FUSE ODG, NERO, DUKE DUMONT, PARTYNEXTDOOR, KREPT & KONAN, iLOVEMAKONNEN, G-EAZY,LETHAL BIZZLE, KLINGANDE, TRAVI$ SCOTT, MS. DYNAMITE, COLLIE BUDDZ, LITTLE SIMZ, OCD: MOOSH & TWIST, JERMAIN JACKMAN

SATURDAY 4th JULY – AVICII, KENDRICK LAMAR, MARY J. BLIGE, CHILDISH GAMBINO, GORGON CITY, TINASHE, RALEIGH RITCHIE, KNIFE PARTY, JESS GLYNNE, NETSKY, DJ MUSTARD, ROBIN SCHULTZ, INDIANA, MNEK, 3LAU, STORMZY, OWS, BAD RABBITS, SINEAD HARNETT, ADY SULEIMAN, NICK BREWER, ETTA BOND

SUNDAY 5th JULY – DAVID GUETTA, NICKI MINAJ, JESSIE J, CLEAN BANDIT, STROMAE, AUGUST ALSINA, CHARLI XCX, WRETCH 32, RAE SREMMURD, PUSHA T, ARRESTED DEVELOPMENT, GRANDMASTER FLASH, LOGIC, SHAKKA, GEORGE THE POET, TOVE STYRKE, JACOB PLANT, DAMAGE,

TORI KELLY, AND A SPECIAL PERFORMANCE BY JADEN & WILLOW SMITH

Tickets are now on sale on from www.wirelessfestival.co.uk. Day tickets cost from £62.50 – £69.50 across the three-day weekend. Multi-day tickets will also be available.

Drake, Avicii, Kendrick Lamar, David Guetta and Nicki Minaj will headline, alongside Mary J. Blige, A$AP Rocky, Major Lazer, Labrinth, Knife Party, Joey Bada$$, Jess Glynne, Maverick Sabre, Clean Bandit, Stromae, Fuse ODG, Travi$ Scott, Ms Dynamite, Lethal Bizzle, Collie Buddz, Jessie J, Charli XCX, Childish Gambino, Tinashe, Netsky, DJ Mustard, Robin Schultz, Klingande, Partynextdoor, Pusha T, Rae Sremmurd, Nero, Duke Dumont, August Alsina, Grandmaster Flash, Gorgon City, Krept & Konan, Wretch 32, Arrested Development, Logic, Raleigh Ritchie, iLoveMakonnen, Indiana, MNEK, 3LAU, G-Eazy, OWS, Bad Rabbits, Little Simz, Sinead Harnett, Stormzy, Ady Suleiman, Shakka, George The Poet, Tove Stryke, Jacob Plant, Nick Brewer, Damage, Tori Kelly, OCD: Moosh & Twist, Jermain Jackson,  Etta Bond and Jaden & Willow Smith who are all confirmed to appear over the ‘New Look Wireless’ weekend; the event promises to be the hottest ticket this summer.

Reading & Leeds Festival announce Wretch 32 & 20+ more acts for BBC 1Xtra Stage

With Wiley and Devlin already announced as headliners for the stage, Wretch 32 is revealed as the final headliner for the BBC Radio 1Xtra Stage, plus may more names!

A-Z of Artists announced for Reading & Leeds Festivals 2013 to date (New in bold):
 
Action Bronson
The Family Rain
MS MR
Alex Clare
Fenech-Soler
Murkage
Alkaline Trio
FIDLAR
Nathan Flutebox Lee & The Clinic
Alt-J
Findlay
Night Works
AlunaGeorge
Flux Pavillion
Nine Inch Nails
And So I Watch You From Afar
Foals
Palma Violets
Angel Haze
Frank Turner
Parquet Courts
Arcane Roots
Fred V & Grafix
Peace
A$AP Rocky
Friction
Phoenix
A-Trak
Frightened Rabbit
P Money
Azealia Banks
Funeral For A Friend
Pure Love
Baauer
Gallows
Quicksand
Balthazar
Ghostpoet
Redlight
Bastille
Giggs
Robert Delong
Biffy Clyro
Green Day
RX Bandits
Big Black Delta
Hadouken!
Scrufizzer
The Blackout
Haim
DJ Semtex
Bondax
Half Moon Run
Sick Of It All
Brand New
Heaven's Basement
SKATERS
Bring Me The Horizon
Iggy Azalea
Skindred
British Sea Power
Imagine Dragons
Skrillex
Broke’N'£nglish
Is Tropical
Spector
The Bronx
Jacob Plant feat Majestic
Splashh
Bury Tomorrow
Jagwar Ma
The Strypes
California X
Jake Bugg
Stylo G
Cerebral Ballzy
The Jim Jones Revue
Sub Focus Live
Chapel Club
Johnny Marr
Surfer Blood
Charli XCX
Kate Nash
Swim Deep
Chase and Status
King Prawn
System Of A Down
Chvrches
Knytro
Tame Impala
City & Colour
Kodaline
Temples
Clean Bandit
Knife Party
The 1975
The Computers
Left Boy
Theme Park
Context
The Living End
Tim Burgess
Crossfaith
Lower Than Atlantis
Toddla T Sound
Crystal Fighters
Lucy Rose
To Kill A King
David Rodigan
The Lumineers
Tomahawk
Deap Vally
Lunar C
Tribes
Deftones
Magnetic Man
twenty one pilots
Devlin
Major Lazer
Twin Atlantic
Dillon Francis
Mallory Knox
We Are The In Crowd
Disclosure
Merchandise
While She Sleeps
Drenge
Mic Righteous
White Lies
Editors
Mikill Pane
Wiley
Eminem
MMX
Willy Moon
Enter Shikari Sound System
Wretch 32
Etta Bond
Modestep
 
Fall Out Boy
Ms Dynamite
 
 
NEW NAMES FOR THE BBC RADIO 1XTRA STAGE
In a major UK festival first, Reading & Leeds will each have a dedicated BBC Radio 1Xtra Stage delivering the best of hip-hop and grime from the UK and farther afield, which will run across all three festival days and showcase the cream of urban artists and music on offer. This is one of the most important additions that Reading & Leeds have witnessed for a long time and Festival Republic are thrilled to announce more names for the stage.
 
READING FRIDAY 23RD / LEEDS SATURDAY 24TH
 
Headlining the BBC Radio 1Xtra Stage on this day will be UK grime artist Wiley. After an amazing year in 2012 scoring two UK Top 5 singles, including his first No. 1 with the summer smash ‘Heatwave’ and the more recent No. 3 ‘Can You Hear Me (Ayayaya)’ which featured Skepta, his set at Reading & Leeds will be one to get involved in.
 
A widely respected DJ and producer, Toddla T brings a full out live show to the stage. The Toddla T Sound features both elements of live performance and DJing with live vocalists, including Shola Ama, Serocee and MC DRS. Drawing upon his two albums to date, 'Skanky Skanky' and 'Watch Me Dance' and a heap of custom edits and refixes especially for the project, the show will also be augmented with the bespoke visuals of Sheffield designers, Peter and Paul. Add all these elements together and you have something really special on your hands. 
 
He will be joined on the line-up by Grime heavyweight P Money, whose mix of hardcore grime and dubstep has made him a fixture at club nights and a festival staple. Following the launch of his self-released EP ‘Guns Bitches and Weed’ last year – which quickly became a web phenomenon – NY based rapper, singer and producer Left Boy joins the 1Xtra bill. Also performing is Stylo G, bringing his slick, vicious beats to Reading & Leeds and getting the festival audience skanking with a reggae-tinged masterclass.
 
The BBC Radio 1Xtra Stage also sees the impressive musical talents of Nathan Flutebox Lee & The Clinic, whose ability to simultaneously beatbox and play the flute has earned him a global following. Manchester-based musical collectiveMurkage return to Reading & Leeds and upcoming London MC Scrufizzer, whose supersonic speed-rhymes have earned him acclaim from Radio 1 DJs, MTV and The Guardian, also joins the stage.
 
READING SATURDAY 24TH / LEEDS SUNDAY 25TH
 
Already confirmed to join Wiley as a fellow headliner on the new BBC Radio 1Xtra stage is Devlin.  Dagenham-based rapper Devlin returns to the Festivals with his sideways social commentary and formidable flow. Having scored a Top 10 single with 'Rewind', he's leading the UK's next generation of rap stars.
 
Added to the BBC Radio 1Xtra Stage is NY newcomer, Action Bronson, a rapper who has been gaining heat on rap forums, enjoying acclaim on music blogs and has just featured on XXL’s ‘Freshman Top 10’ list of upcoming rap talent this year.
 
Action Bronson
 
Heralded as putting ‘road rap’ on the map, South London rapper Giggs will be returning to the festival armed with new tracks and an impressive following. He’s Peckham’s finest via Jamaica and leading the evolutionary charge of grime in 2013.
 
Mic Righteous is one of the hottest young stars of the UK hip-hop and grime scene. With over seven million YouTube hits and growing, his appearance at Reading & Leeds promises great things.
 
Also added to the bill is the presenter of flagship BBC Radio 1xtra Hip Hop show, renowned DJ and producer DJ Semtex. Expect the freshest tracks, plenty of first plays and a bouncing atmosphere when Semtex blows up at Reading & Leeds.
 
Winning ‘Best Newcomer’ and ‘Performance of the Year’ for his rap battles in Don’t Flop, Lunar C’s no-gimmicks approach has transferred perfectly into the live arena and his set at Reading & Leeds is the perfect place to see him live.
 
Also on the BBC Radio 1Xtra line-up are Manchester's alternative hip-hop faction Broke’N'£nglish, one of the most highly regarded names on the hip-hop scene due to their incendiary live performances and innovative production techniques, which combine electronica, funk, jazz, R&B and hip-hop. Fresh from supporting Devlin this week, self-described “soul with a bit of weird”, Etta Bond prepares to take on the biggest shows of her life at Reading & Leeds.
READING SUNDAY 25TH / LEEDS FRIDAY 23RD
 
Reading & Leeds can now reveal Wretch 32 as the final headliner for the new BBC Radio 1Xtra Stage, following an amazing year for the London MC. After an arena tour supporting Example, he also became the face of some iconic brands at the London Olympics. With his major label debut album ‘Black and White’ amassing over a million sales, Wretch 32 is widely acknowledged by his peers as one of the pioneers of the UK grime scene; be sure to catch his first ever performance  at Reading & Leeds this summer.
 
Wretch 32
 
Joining the bill is American lyricist Angel Haze who sees herself as more of a rock star than a rapper. That said she raps so ferociously, deftly and with real menace, that 'flow' would seem far too mellow a word to describe her delivery.
 
The BBC Radio 1Xtra stage also welcomes the first lady of female MCing, Ms Dymanite. The legendary Brit Award-winner and recipient of the 2002 ‘Mercury Music Prize’ has been thrilling crowds for over a decade and will be playing the best from her hits in a high energy performance.
 
Presenting the best rhythms from the UK to Trenchtown will be iconic 1Xtra DJ, David Rodigan MBE. Heralded as one of the masters of the sound system, his unrivalled vinyl collection and knowledge of reggae culture past and present will ensure that revellers will be enjoy the most thrilling reggae sounds from across the globe.
As well as trading in rap breakbeats and pop hooks, Mikill Pane seamlessly straddles guitar-based sounds, including punk, ska and reggae, making him a firm favourite and collaborator with the likes of Ed Sheeran and Example.
 
Ghostpoet's debut album 'Peanut Butter Blues & Melancholy Jam' was a worthy nominee for the 2011 ‘Mercury Music Prize’ and exposed his talent to an eager new audience. His hotly tipped second album is due out soon and promises to provide the perfect soundtrack to this summer’s sultry evenings.
 
Also joining the line-up is MC Context. Winner of the MTV ‘Brand New Unsigned’ competition in 2012, championed by the likes of Mistajam, Huw Stephens and Charlie Sloth, and now gearing up to support Devlin on his upcoming tour, Context's distinctive take on soulful drum n bass, dubstep and hip hop is sure to be well received by the festival crowd.
 
Despite growing up in the States and Jamaica, Knytro has always been obsessed with the knights, folklore and ancestry of England – hence the name. Claiming to be ‘so Hip-Hop it should be illegal’, he’s always on point and his legions of fans will relish the chance to see him grace the stage at Reading & Leeds.  
 
Other artists playing across the Festivals include the Main Stage UK festival exclusive headliners Green DayEminem, and Biffy Clyro, plus UK festival exclusive performances from Fall Out BoySystem Of A Down and DeftonesSkrillex,Major LazerAzealia Banks take to the NME/Radio 1 Stage and Flux Pavillion, Redlight and Night Works appear on the BBC Radio 1Dance Stage, plus many many more!

Maya Jane Coles, Ms Dynamite and more for High Definition Festival

 

Already announced is Britain’s urban pop superstar, Labrinth. Having taken the nation by storm with his plethora of enormous hits, the ultimate showman will grace Forest Farm with his illustrious fusion of R&B, Hip-Hop and Dubstep.
 
Also performing will be a true purveyor of UK bass music, Ms Dynamite and Sinead Hartnett, the go to girl for the likes of Wiley andDisclosure laying down vocals on their tracks Walk Away and Boiling.
Ms Dynamite
 
One of the UK’s most promising new faces, Dot Rotten has been making cyclonic waves across the nation with his sharp lyrics and gritty beats. The unstoppable force will be performing alongside the likes of Oneman, Joker, EZ and Bohdi for what promises to be a storming session on the main stage.
 
Headlining the High Definition Arena will be the ever prolific Maya Jane Coles. Famed for her absorbing take on house music, the flourishing producer is set to take 2013 by storm with her infectious beats and the eagerly awaited release of her debut album. Chicago born and raised, Lee Foss is one of few DJ’s that have made a definitive impact on the underground house and techno scene over the past few years. Described by DJ Mag as “one of most talented new forces in modern dance music” the Hot Creations label boss is one not to miss this summer. Also out in force will be Bristol resident Eats Everything. Having gained international recognition for his signature brand of bass heavy house, the larger than life producer will join the formidable Justin Martin for a very special back-to-back set.
 
Famed for their upfront house music and a fanatical thirst for hats, the nation’s favourite clubbing experience, Hat Club joins High Definition for a clubbing extravaganza. Topping the bill will be Hot Creation’s star Miguel Campbell. Having garnered critical recognition for purveying the finest in deep, quality house, the momentous producer remains in relentless demand across the globe. Joining Miguel will be the irrepressible Black Butter boys Gorgon CityHot Since 82 and hotly tipped Roses Gabor.
 
This is one Old Skool revival not to miss this summer. The infamous Epidemik will explode onto Forest Farm bringing with them the very best of Jungle, Breaks and Drum and Bass. Featuring a momentous line up including Crissy Criss, Ratpack, Shut Up & Dance and a very special live performance from Peter Bouncer.
 
High Definition has been acclaimed for its jaw dropping production values, rivaling some of the biggest festivals in the world and unique for a boutique event of this scale.  Stakeholders in the festival separately run event production businesses, meaning the festival has exclusive access to some of the best equipment in Europe and is able to bring festival goers sounds and sights other festivals can only dream of.
 
High-end sound systems by Mustt Audio Ltd, hundreds of meters of LED screen panels, full-colour laser systems, stunning pyrotechnics, Co2 cannons, stadium glitter launchers and hundreds of moving lights, LEDs and generic fixtures all supplied by in-house production team Light Design Ltd, will be illuminating up this Essex skyline this summer.
 
The High Definition site is easily accessible from Fairlop tube station on the Central Line, just 24 minutes from Liverpool Street station and the last trains leave after the festival has finished making High Definition a viable event for those from the capital and beyond.
 
LINE UP TO DATE
 
DIGITAL ARENA  
LABRINTH
+ VERY SPECIAL GUEST TBA
 MS DYNAMITE
SINEAD HARTNETT
DOT ROTTEN
JOKER
EZ
ONEMAN
BODHI
  
HIGH DEFINITION ARENA DEFINITION ARENA
MAYA JANE COLES
LEE FOSS
EATS EVERYTHING
JUSTIN MARTIN
LEE CURTISS
BICEP
 
HAT CLUB
MIGUEL CAMPBELL
GORGON CITY
HOT SINCE 82
ROSES GABOR – LIVE PA
ANDY DANIELL
HAT CLUB DJS
 
EPIDEMIK ARENA
 GENERAL LEVY LIVE PA (PERF "INCREDIBLE" AND MORE)
PETER BOUNCER LIVE PA (PERF "I'M RAVIN I'M RAVIN")
UK BEATBOXERS CHAMPION LIVE SHOWCASE FEAT. BALL-ZEE
RATPACK 25 YEAR SHOWCASE
CRISSY CRISS
SHUT UP & DANCE
BILLY DANIEL BUNTER
ALEX P
SCOTT GARCIA
UNCLE DUGS
DEVIOUS D
DJ VIBES
KEZMAN B2B DRIBZ
PIQUE B2B TWISTA
JASON J & VINYL VERA
DIVERSE REALITY LIVE PA
Plus MCs
EVENSON ALLEN/SHABBA-D/WICKED/SAM/SUPPLIER/FIVE ALIVE/3FLOW/LYRICAL GROOVER/STRICT/RYDER MIKE/LURCH/CUTTER
 
 + MANY MANY MORE TO BE ANNOUNCED

Ben UFO, Ghostpoet & more for Bristol’s Love Saves the Day Festival

Conceived by the brains behind Glastonbury’s WOW stageSee No Evil and one half of the team behind the much lauded In:Motion series, Love Saves The Day and LOVE SAVES SUNDAY celebrate musical pioneers and innovators bringing together some of the finest DJ’s and live acts that the globe has to offer.

First Release of Artists – More Headliners announced in the coming weeks
 
Kicking us off in style is Ben UFO, helmsman of the Hessle Audio label and one of those rare breed of young DJ’s that hasn’t strayed into production. His wobbly, percussive strains of dubstep are set to unite the LOVE SAVES SUNDAY in a climatic finale.
 
Last year Bristolian 70 year old DJ Derek was given the Lord Mayor’s Medal for his outstanding work! He’s a true west-country legend and enjoys his real ale almost as much as his beloved rocksteady, reggae, dancehall and Ska. He’s bringing his amazing show to the right place then!
 
GhostpoetGhostpoet’s second album 'Some Say I So I Say Light' drops in May and is set to be a more than worthy follow up to his Mercury Music Prize nominated ‘Peanut Butter Blues & Melancholy Jam’. He has many fans in Bristol and always brings the sunshine to his sets.
 
Montreal wunderboy Jacques Greene’s trademark blend of bass music, synth-heavy house and futuristic R&B vocals will be a welcome addition to LOVE SAVES SUNDAY in the form of his brilliant analogue live set.
 
Lulu James is finding ways to break down barriers between dance, soul and R&B, retro and futurist, pop and avant-garde. Live her icy-smooth performances consider the dance floor of clubs in the 1990s and yearning of old soul music in equal measure.
 
Cut ups, bootlegs, big bounding basslines and addictive vocal toplines both old and new intertwine Melé’s sets. Deftly chucking everything and anything in the mix, the 19 year-old Liverpudlian will be bringing some heavy bassbin action to Bristol’s Castle Park.
 
Winner of the Mercury Music Prize, two Brits and three Mobo’s, Ms Dynamite’s credentials as a legend are beyond doubt. She wowed the crowd with her recent performance at In:Motion and she’s set to do the same at LOVE SAVES SUNDAY.
 
MC Soom T is the Glaswegian wonder known to many for her eclectic vocal stylings and mass collaborations having shared a studio and over 50 record releases since 1999 with the likes of The Orb, T.Raumschmiere, King Creosote, Miss Kittin, The Bug, Mungos Hifi, Bus, Asian Dub Foundation and many other style defining artists, securing Soom T's coveted position as a true innovator.
 
To date Soul II Soul have sold over 6.8 million albums in over 35 territories worldwide. Jazzie B has accreditation on over 35 million albums in over 100 territories, and they have performed in over 20 countries, at some of the most famous venues in the world including Wembley and New York's Universal Ample Theatre. They are the godfather’s of a Sunday session and perfect for LOVE SAVES SUNDAY
 
Transcending age, race and political barriers, Trojan Sound System play music that satisfies the purest of vinyl collectors, while at the same time, introducing a new generation to the roots of Jamaican music. Mixing styles and flavours from the past 40 years, the Trojan crew are legendary party starters, ignited by uplifting vocals, and the biggest bass. TSS – Bristol awaits you with open arms…
 
Also confirmed in the first release of acts for LOVE SAVES SUNDAY are: 2 Kings, Artifact, Babyhead – Live, Ben Pearce, Clean Bandit – Live, Dub Boy and Tenja, Dutty Girl, Lil Silva, My Nu Leng, Necessary Mayhem – Curtis Lynch and Mr Williams, Rainy Milo – Live, Reggae Roast, Riddum Tuffa, Steve Rice, The EEL and Walter Ego.