Following its hugely successful, record-breaking second edition in February 2015, ULTRA South Africa officially returns in 2016, as it announces plans to expand the festival into a full three-day affair!
Having smashed its own record for being the largest electronic music festival in African history this year, and with an increase of 20% in attendance recorded from 2014, it can now be revealed that ULTRA South Africa, due to popular demand, will run for TWO consecutive days at Johannesburg’s Expo Centre, Nasrec on Friday, February 26 and Saturday, February 27, before returning to Cape Town on Sunday, February 28, for a finale to remember.
To celebrate, ULTRA South Africa now reveals its incredible 2015 aftermovie. Directed, produced and shot in 4K by Final Kid mastermind Charly Friedrichs, the aftermovie showcases the magnificent sights of South Africa alongside the fist-pumping sounds of the world’s biggest DJs, and the result is simply breathtaking. Kicking off with Martin Garrix reminiscing about his very first main stage festival performance at ULTRA South Africa itself back in 2014, the aftermovie follows the Dutch luminary a year on from his landmark moment, combining it with some of the incredible footage that was shot at Ostrich Farm, Cape Town and The Expo Centre, Nasrec, Johannesburg over the two mesmerizing days earlier this year. To celebrate the release, Garrix himself also decided to premiere two exclusive collaborative tracks with Matisse & Sadko that you can only hear in the ULTRA South Africa aftermovie. Check it out below!
The three-day expansion isn’t the only exciting change next year however, with the Cape Town leg of the festival moving to The River Club—a strikingly beautiful inner-city venue that will host some 20,000+ revelers come next February. ULTRA South Africa will be the first event of its kind to be hosted at newly renovated River Club and with its central location and jaw-dropping surrounding views, it’s guaranteed to be a sure-fire hit with Capetonians and international fans alike.
ULTRA South Africa will be implementing an easy-to-follow registration process for 2016. Pre-registration will open on Monday, June 22 and will close on Sunday, June 28, giving die-hard fans the opportunity to put themselves to the front of the ticket queue when early birds go on sale on Tuesday, June 30.
Early bird tickets are in very limited supply and will be available exclusively fromultrasouthafrica.com. Please register to avoid disappointment; this will help speed up your purchasing process.
ULTRA South Africa 2016 Ticket Prices:
FRIDAY 26th FEBRUARY & SATURDAY 27th FEBRUARY
@ EXPO CENTRE, NASREC, JOHANNESBURG (Two Day Tickets)
The ever popular Soapbox makes a welcome return to the Lake District for Kendal Calling’s 10th Birthday celebrations.withdance classes, musicalbingo and a belly full of laughs from a comedy line-up bursting at the seams with a whole host of renowned and up and coming acts on the circuit. One of the UK’s most celebrated festivals, Kendal Calling is much loved for providing 4 days of cultural nourishment and these comedians and activities are set to keep revellers in high spirits.
Dance classes will include Twerk-It, Hip Hop dance classes, street dance freestyle sessions, Hola Salsa, Latin freestyle sessions,
Gag Reflex presents a sensational weekend’s comedy line-up that includes:
Carl Donnelly
Nominated for Foster’s Edinburgh Comedy Award in 2009 and 2013. As seen on Mock the Week (BBC2), Dave’s One Night Stand (Dave) and Russell Howard’s Good News (BBC3).
Glenn Wool
As seen on Never Mind the Buzzcocks (BBC2), The World Stands Up (Comedy Central), Russell Howard’s Good News (BBC3) and more.
Gary Delaney
A razor sharp one-liner specialist, as seen on Mock the Week (BBC2), The Comedy Store (Comedy Central), Dave’s One Night Stand (Dave) and more.
Brendon Burns
Hailing from Australia, Brendon is a festival legend. Burns won the prestigious Edinburgh Comedy Award in 2007 and has appeared at the prestigious Just For Laughs Festival in Montreal.
Gein's Family Giftshop
Award-winning sketch comedy. Nominated for Best Newcomer at 2014 Foster’s Edinburgh Comedy Awards, winners of Best Newcomer at 2015 Chortle awards. As seen on Inside No. 9 (BBC2).
Vikki Stone
Described as the “bastard love child of Victoria Wood and Tim Minchin” this is musical comedy at its best.
Justin Moorhouse
As seen on Live at the Apollo (BBC1), Peter Kay’s Phoenix Nights (Channel 4), Shameless (Channel 4) and the feature film “Looking for Eric”.
Phil Ellis
The smash hit of the 2014 Edinburgh Fringe scooping the coveted Fosters Comedy Award Panel Prize. Currently filming a pilot for BBC1.
Dan Nightingale
The return of Kendal Calling’s favourite comedian, Dan Nightingale is widely regarded as one of the best performers working on the comedy circuit today. Mixing fiendishly accurate observation with energetic characterisations and killer punch lines, his comedy is original, playful, intelligent, poignant and exciting; sometimes ridiculous… but always hilarious.
Kendal Calling festival goers can also indulge in some Musical Bingo where songs and themes take the place of numbers and fabulously entertaining compere’s introduce ‘rules’ and prizes! Expect some twists along the way!
Last ManStanding is a cross between the Generation Game, QI and TotalWipeout and will test the nerves, skill and knowledge of festival goers with its wacky challenges.
With its own real ale festival, kids activities, amazing food, drink and art alongside artists such as Elbow, Snoop Dogg,Kaiser Chiefs, Vaccines, James and hundreds more, Kendal Calling is the perfect summer festival.
Today the world-famous dance music festival Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) announced four more additions to the already incredible lineup. Joining some of themost talented and popular acts in dance music at EDC will be Dirty South, Kill The Buzz, My Nu Leng and Sick Individuals.
Dirty South the Australian based DJ has been nominated for both Arias and Grammys for his work remixing and producing the hottest artists on the planet including Snoop Dogg, The Pussycat Dolls and U2. Alongside his nominations Dirty Southhas won numerous awards and accolades internationally including reaching Number One in the Australian Club Charts and ranking in DJ mag’s Top 100 DJs poll every year since 2007.
The Bristol-based twosome, My Nu Leng, who were nominated for the “Best Newcomer” Award at the DJ Awards back in 2014 are known for their electric and highly rated remixes of summertime favourites such as “Right Here” by Rudimental. One of the most promising young acts to emerge in the electronic dance scene is Dutch duo, Sick Individuals, who started out writing television commercials and have since gone on to produce remixes that have hit the world by storm, including the much loved track, “I Love It,” by Icona Pop.
FURTHER LINEUP ADDITIONS: Critically acclaimed Art Department is deep, dark and minimal. Los Angeles-based Carnage deftly fuses electro, hip-hop, pop and trap into an intoxicating brew that’s dirty, defiant, and diverse. Detroit-born Claude VonStroke, owner of Dirtybird Records and now living the life in VeniceBeach, remixes everyone from Kenny Larkin to London Grammar. Cosmic Gate feed off one another’s turntable creativity to whip up a frenzied digital supernova. Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike have enjoyed a continuously upward trajectory from celebrated DJs to dominating figures in the electronic music industry. Dutch legend Ferry Corsten coaxes maximum emotional impact from his records,ensuring his place at the top of the electronic music Hall of Fame. Showing his masterful skills behind the decks, BBCRadio 1’s very ownFriction will be mesmerizing Headliners on four decks with unreleased cuts. Dutch DJ and producer Hardwell won the DJ Mag Top 100 poll for the last two years. High Contrast will be joined by MC Wrec and Ilan Bluestone.
Jamie Jones, leader of the new sound of house, is renowned for his pioneering music, his cross-genre band Hot Natured, his groundbreaking Hot Creations label, and his world-famous event series, Paradise. In less than a decade, he has catapulted himself to stardom by shattering genres and breaking out of the confines of minimal techno. Jamie’s revolutionary sound is an instrumental part of his success, being both artistically innovative, yet easily accessible. Also appearing will be John O’Callaghan, Jordan Suckley B2B Bryan Kearney, Kove and Linguistics—as well as Marco Carola, widely regarded as one of techno’s true pioneers. From his stellar Ibiza residency each summer to his shows across the world, Carola and his Music On parties and record label have become synonymous with cutting-edge music. Markus Schulz is a regular at EDC events around the world and known affectionately by his fans as “the Unicorn Slayer.”
Matrix & Futurebound have defined a whole new era in drum & bass via their skillful fusion of epic, melodic soundscapes with heavyweight dancefloor production and original vocals. Rising star Miguel Campbell and BBC Radio 1’s Mistajam will be in attendance. The debonair Paul van Dyk—German DJ, musician, producer, Grammy winner and torch-bearer for the scene—had the longest unbroken run at #1 in the DJ Mag Top 100 poll, was the first DJ ever to be voted as #1 in Mixmag, and boasts remix and production credits for the likes of U2, Depeche Mode and New Order.
This festival lineup wouldn’t be complete without drum & bass kingpins Pendulum (DJ set) with Verse. Raw and controversial, with momentous killer beats, they are not to be missed. One of the UK’s hottest new talents, Philip George,had the biggest breakout record of 2014 with “Wish You Were Mine.” PureNRG Live and Richy Ahmed will be performing live. Route 94 has quietly yet forcefully established himself as a distinctive young figure in the house music scene. For his latest album project, Cornerstone,Shy FX revisits old-school studio techniques and collaborates with amouthwatering lineup of special guests. Drum & bass duo Sigma need little introduction; from early releases on labels such as Hospital and Viper Recordings, they have cemented themselves as an integral part of the scene. Steve Aoki head label Dim Mak, andSimon Patterson is a star of UK electro house.Sub Focus’ single releases span a plethora of electronic genres, from drum & bass and dubstep to house music and beyond. One of Holland’s most prized exports, DJ and producer Tiësto is a Grammy nominee and multiple winner of the celebrated DJ Mag poll. His legendary progressive electro house sound—along with his uncanny ability to read a crowd’s energy—makes him a perfect deck magician. Visionquest, wAFF and Will Aktinson round out the lineup, with more to be announced.
With the cancellation of the Foo Fighters this morning, it has just been confirmed that Florence and The Machine will take over the Friday headline slot at this years festival.
Taken from the BBC
"Once we heard… Foo Fighters had been forced to pull out, there was only one person we wanted to call and that was Florence," said organiser Emily Eavis.
Florence Welch had already been confirmed to perform with her band before Foo Fighters on 26 June.
She last performed at the Somerset event in 2010.
Foo Fighters cancelled their Glastonbury appearance and a string of other dates after frontman Dave Grohl fractured his leg in a stage fall in Sweden.
Ironically, Welch's recent concerts have been hampered by her breaking her foot on stage at the Coachella music festival in April.
This summer will mark the 28-year-old's first performance on Glastonbury's famed main stage.
"Every time she has played here she's done something spectacular and we always knew she would headline the Pyramid one day," said Eavis, who runs Glastonbury with her father Michael.
"I'm delighted she's agreed to step up to it – she's going to smash it!"
Michael Eavis added: "I'm absolutely delighted. She's a fantastic girl, and she's English as well.
"It's a moment for her and she will be triumphant."
The Foo Fighters have cancelled their upcoming shows after Dave Grohl fell off the stage in Gothenburg last week. This includes the Friday night headline slot at Glastonbury, Rock Werchter and more!
The statement from the band: "Due to injuries sustained in Dave Grohl's fall from the stage during Foo Fighters' June 12 show at Ullevi Stadium in Gothenburg, Sweden, doctors have required the cancellation of the remainder of the band's dates in the UK and Europe. After undergoing surgery Monday, Dave's full recuperation time is still to be determined. It was previously announced that Foo Fighters' June 14 appearance at the Pinkpop Festival and June 16 show at the AFG Arena in St. Gallen, Switzerland were cancelled. The following dates have now been cancelled as well: June 19 & 20 – London, UK – Wembley Stadium June 23 – Edinburgh, UK – BT Murrayfield Stadium June 25 – Werchter, Belgium – Festivalpark Werchter June 26 – Glastonbury Festival 2015."
The Isle of Wight festival has returned for its annual event bringing artist and music lovers together to celebrate 45 years since Jimi Hendrix performed his last ever UK performance in 1970. Where they estimated over 600,000 people turned up to experience his music in the flesh, In celebration of the man himself they have taken the opportunity to name the main stage ‘Electric Church’ This referring to how Jimi Hendrix himself described his music, as though music itself is a religion, away to express, influence and bring positivity to audiences all around the world, through his guitar and vocals.
45 Years later music is adapting, changing and influencing their audiences, and today i am in Seaclose Park, Newport in the Isle of Wight, The festival begins, here’s to threes days of music, dancing, paint fighting and food.
FRIDAY 12th JUNE 2015. IOW OFFICIALLY BEGINS
So it is Finally here I am arriving at the Isle of Wight festival 2015. Gear at the ready, Tent… check, Portable toilet… Check, Clothes… Check and myself… Double check. The crowds are gathering and the atmosphere is captivating, The fashion of the season is floral, and the young female hipster’s seem to favour the hotpant welly combination, this was thriving through the sea of people, they might find that they will be regretting that later. When the monsoon type weather hits the isle of wight. Although this has not dampened their spirits but motivated them to create a buzzing atmosphere and supporting the artists of the festival, with what i would consider rain dancing, glasses of cider and laughter. Myself on the other hand thought after being in the rain for an hour, that is was more sensible to listen to the artists from my tent, in the dry.
When walking around the event, which you do a lot of you see a variety of people from all walks of life, getting involved in the festival spirit, getting creative with the airbrush tattooing to dancing in the rain to 90’s pop sensations, communities sitting around being social with each other getting involved with the discussion of the moment. Getting the feeling of what the isle of wight festival is about, Families, music and people appreciating and creating that memorable year at the Isle of Wight festival.
Through out the evening there were bands performing on the ‘Electric Church’ stage. The line up included The Struts, Kodaline, Counting Crows, You me at six, The Black Keys and the prodigy. Even though there was heavy rain Festival goers still went out and supported the bands, The Black Keys alone sounded amazing, you could hear them from the camp site and even hear the audience cheering along with them, you could imagine the audience was their in the rain, rain macs on and arms in the air enjoy the sensational Black Keys and not caring that the rain was lashing down. The headliner of the night The Prodigy I was informed was outstanding, they didn’t falter under the weather conditions, the crowd went wild, raved, danced and enjoyed the electronic music from the 90’s and now. Some people only lasted half of the set but most stayed for the whole gig enjoying the captivating performance from their fellow English brothers.
Even though the weather was horrendous it was a great way to start the Isle of Wight Festival 2015. Now the sun should shine the clouds be visible and the weekend should improve for the upcoming bands of 2015.
Photo courtesy of Isle of Wight Festival by Sara Lincoln
SATURDAY 13TH JUNE 2015-IOW: DAY TWO
After the torrential weather from the previous night, The people at the Isle of Wight Festival were ready and waiting for the music sensations to start tickling their ear drums, no matter how much rain that came down, it did not dampen their spirits, it just egged them on and made them want more. I can tell you, that day the small stalls around the festival made some money from Welly Purchases and Clothes alone before the food even came in to play. Lucky enough I woke up to slight clouds and a tent that was still standing, I feel this is a proud moment i would like to share with you guys, I Sharron put a tent together and it survived a storm and a half, and i survived sleeping through it, which i am grateful for as there are some outstanding acts that the Isle of Wight festival Goers are going to experience today.
Today was the Day Blur was performing on the 'Electric Stage', Their first ever performance at the Isle of wight festival, For me it was bag of mixed emotions. Damon Albarn the lead singer of Blur had previously lost his voice to illness before the gig, but this did not stop the man from performing with power, passion and giving 110% to his fans. They Did an hour and fifty minutes. Their first section was a mixture of their new album, which i felt didn’t get the crowd moving as much, and i found that it was to much new and not enough of the classics, which finally came towards the middle of the set, when they started playing songs such as Parklife which had guest star Phil Daniels performing with the guys, this got the crowd jumping around, the atmosphere changed and people started moving and getting involved with the music, they followed this up with Coffee and TV, Girls and Boys, Song 2 and the classic Tender. For me the classic win over all, it got people moving and ended the night with a bang.
Photo courtesy of Isle of Wight Festival by Sara Lincoln
Previously to Blur we had the one and only Pharell Williams who first performed at the Isle of Wight festival back in 2008 with his band N.E.R.D, Tonight he gave a performance of old and new songs which included his special Guest his band member from N.E.R.D, They performed classics such as Lapdance and She likes to move, which they welcomed fans from the audience to dance on stage with them, a highlight of the night was the women who danced with the band to the song she likes to move. She bought entertainment to the Isle of Wight festival and the audience cheered her on as her performance bought laughter and fun to the event. He took a moment to celebrate Jimi Hendrix 45 years through an instrumental of the song one love, which the audience in turn put one finger in the air to celebrate a legend that stood on the Isle of Wight stage 45 years ago. He then went on to play renditions of songs that he performed with artists such as Gwen Stefani, Snoop Dogg and many more. He ended the set with the all time Minon favourite song ‘Happy’ He bought to the stage, the children that the Isle of Wight festival where raising awareness and donations for. To join him and to perform and dance on stage to get the crowd clapping along to the song.
Between Blur and Pharell Williams we had the sensational DJ Shortee Blitz, Getting the atmosphere and audience ready for the next big act Blur, he played songs from the 80’s and 90’s to get people on their feet, the last two songs were from the legendary Queen, We are the Champions and Bohemian Rhapsody. This got everyone going and ready for the rest of the night, the crowd was singing and the Isle of Wight was in full song. It was a stunning moment to bring on the one and only Blur.
Through out the day we had performances from bands such as, Ward Thomas, Nothing But Thieves, Jess Glynne, James Bay, Jessie Ware, Kool and the Gang and Dj Shortee Blitz.James Bay created an electric acoustic feel to the festival, He bought his soul and spirit to his music creating a mind blowing set that inspired people and relaxed them, whilst they singing along to the lyrics from hold back the river from his number 1 album and songs such as Let it go and if you ever want to be in love. He was followed by the astonishing Jessie Ware our London goddess, she bought her wonderful voice and performed her electro-pop music, whilst enchanting the audience with songs known as champagne kisses, wildest moments, Say you love me, running and kind of.. sometimes.. maybe which she considered to be her flirtatious song. Jessie ware gave an exceptional performance one of my favourites from this years Isle of Wight festival.
Over on the 'Big Top' stage we had band such as Twin Wild, New City Kings, La Femme, The Shires, Foxes, Stiff Little Fingers and Paul Oakenfold. Foxes performed on this stage creating a strong and fun atmosphere for their audience, people where coming from other venues such as the Colourena, where they had live Djs performing around the clock with classics from the 70’s 80’s and 90’s they provided Paint fighting with music for people to go and let their hair down in between acts and to burn off those calories added from all the food venders on site. It was a fun way to meet, mingle and to dance your socks off before going to rock out to your favourite artist on stage.
SUNDAY 14th JUNE 2015 IOW: DAY THREE
Sunday was the lead up to the headliners Fleetwood Mac and Paolo Nutini, through out the day you witnessed more and more people arriving to get a good spot at the main stage known as the ’Electric Stage’ for the evenings events to unfold. The line up through out the day consisted of The Rainband, Suzanne Vega, Jethro Tull’s Ian Anderson, The Courteeners, and First aid Kit.Suzanne Vega performed with her Guitarist classics such as Left of centre, known for the Pretty in Pink soundtrack in the 1980’s.
In the ‘BIG TOP’ stage we had the band Coasts performing songs such as Modern Love and new hits from their upcoming Debut album also known as ‘coasts’ a new number 1 in the mix called Tonight, this Bristol band got the audience jumping around, whilst pulling people in from all around the Isle of Wight festival to enjoy this fresh new sound created by this 5 piece band from the UK. They where followed up with The View, Lightening Seeds and the one and only Ash.
Ash who performed songs such as Burn baby burn and Shining Light, bringing their music to their fans, the audience were bursting at the seems, the 'BIG TOP' stage was packed and people were gathering to watch this captivating performance, Although I only got to witness the first 15 minutes of this i can tell you these guys where rocking this crowd, and keeping the standard of the Isle of Wight festival which was created over the past two days going.
Even though there was rumours of Fleetwood Mac possibly cancelling the show due to illness and two previous cancellations on their current tour which they have already done 90 shows since last year, they turned up and Gave a performance of a lifetime, Fleetwood Mac Arrived with such grace and presence. The field was full, the Fans where waiting and the night was about to begin, the act that everyone was waiting to see was here, over 50,000 fans filled the Isle of Wight creating an nostalgic atmosphere with the sun setting in the background, creating a perfect evening for an outdoor gig.
They had previously been warmed up by the ever popular Paolo Nutini, His soulful, gruff voice wowed the audience with such power and grace, he topped this of with his dynamic stage presence it created the perfect show to watch and to get the crowed moving to songs such as Better Man, Jenny don’t be hasty and a beautiful rendition of New Shoes. A stunning performance by an amazing Artist, Thumbs up!
Fleetwood Mac opened the show with the song The Chains creating the atmosphere for the evening, and not disappointing with their renditions of classics such as, Go your own way, Rhiannon, Gypsy and who can forget Landslide which Stevie Nicks dedicated to her friend and fellow Artist David Grohl, Who has recently broken his leg whilst touring. This song was written and performed originally in 1974, 41 years prior to Isle of Wight 2015, this did not disappoint but left the audience in ore. They provided a spectacular end to an amazing weekend with the song ‘Don’t Stop’. Whilst performing, Fireworks where provided the perfect end with the perfect song, the crowd danced, they sang and they didn’t want the night to end wanting more from the legendary Fleetwood Mac who had performed for an outstanding 2 hours, getting better and better with each song, and their individual solos showing us what the music industry is all about.
Once Fleetwood Mac had ended, people departed the ‘Electric Stage’ and went on to other events within the Isle of Wight Festival, In the ‘BIG TOP’ stage The Charlatans where closing down the last gig to be performed on the ‘BiG TOP’ for the Isle of Wight 2015, the fans filled the tent and crowded around the edges to see these guys perform, people still buzzing and enjoying their last night at the Isle of Wight Festival, taking in the music, the atmosphere and their fellow music lovers around them. Joining in with the music and capturing these moments through images and tweets via social medias such as Twitter and Facebook. Truly showing what the Festival season is about, Music, Artists, Fans getting together under one Social weekend to celebrate 45 Years of music inspired by those who performed at the Isle of wight 2015 and those who helped to create the Isle of Wight Festival since 1968.
Artists known as: Jimi Hendrix, The Doors, Joni Mitchell, Supertramp, Leonard Cohen, Joan Baez, Chicago, Procol Harum, The Rolling Stones, The Who, David Bowie, Muse, Foo Fighters, Bruce Springsteen, Paul McCartney, Pearl Jam, Kasabian, Amy Winehouse, Kings of Leon, Jay-Z, The Strokes, Coldplay, The Sex Pistols, The Police, Blondie etc.
Thank you guys for a wonderful weekend and an oustanding festival…till next year.
With the majority of the line-up announced across the festival’s five mindblowing stages, we can reveal the final acts who complete the biggest ever edition of South West Four…
COMPLETING SW4 SUNDAY LINEUP
CALYX & TEEBEE DEETRON [LIVE] [UK FESTIVAL EXCLUSIVE] GEORGE FITZGERALD DENSE & PIKA WAX WINGS
A RAM stage simply wouldn’t be complete without our next act. Lauded for their complex and unique take on the drum & bass sound, Calyx & Teebee have played an intrinsic role at RAM since exclusively signing to the label back in 2013. Having also impressed at Brixton Academy and fabric, their position at the forefront of the UK scene has never been more apparent. As an act we’ve always had our ears on, bringing them to SW4 is very much mission complete. With their new album catching all the headlines, their inaugural SW4 performance on the RAM stage is one we can’t wait for.
A true master of his craft and pioneer of his sound, we are delighted to announce that Deetron will join us for the debut his brand new live show in a UK festival exclusive. Having marked his territory within underground circles over recent years, his new direction of mixing sultry vocals with dainty chords and tough compositions has led to a global army of fresh support. All of which are expected to be out in force for as the Swiss-born producer prepares for a career defining performance at South West Four.
Next is an act that we have been monitoring for some time and with 2015 shaping up to be his biggest yet; we’re pleased to confirm that George FitzGerald will make his SW4 debut on Sunday 30th August. Joining Maya Jane Coles in her arena, George joins us following the release of stellar debut album ‘Fading Love’ and at the height of his career. His deep musical knowledge and strong links to Domino, Double Six and Hotflush Records make him of the of the UK’s hottest talents and one we’re extremely excited to showcase this summer. Don’t miss it.
Also making their SW4 debut in 2015 are UK house and techno producers Dense & Pika. Made up of Chris Spero aka Glimpse and Hypercolour co-founder Alex Jones, the Hotflush signed duo have established themselves as one of the most exciting underground acts around today. With three stellar EP’s under their belt, recent performances include Panorama Bar and fabric, whilst upcoming dates confirmed at Awakenings and Hideout plus DC10’s Paradise, illustrates their pedigree. With an arsenal of innovative dancefloor focussed techno ready to be unleashed at South West Four, they also added to Maya’s stage in one of the weekend’s most forward-thinking line-ups.
Completing the Maya Jane Coles & Friends arena line-up is one of the undergrounds most promising talents as we introduce Joseph Icaro aka Wax Wings. A firm favourite within the MJC camp, the past twelve months have seen the young producer mark his territory with a series of standout dates including The Warehouse Project and Gottwood festival as well as supporting Maya across Europe. A brilliant producer and remixer including two outstanding remixes for The Presets and Zebra Katz, this breakthrough star is certainly one to watch out for this summer.
SW4 SATURDAY LINE-UP … Faithless
Eric Prydz
Fatboy Slim
In alphabetical order:
Aly & Fila
Amine Edge & Dance
Andrew Bayer
Andrew Rayel
Andy Moor & Lange present Stadium4
Anjunabeats Showcase
Bakermat Ben Gold
Black Coffee Carl Craig ft ‘Mad’ Mike Banks [Live]
Claptone [Immortal Live]
Danny Daze
Dubfire: live HYBRID
Eats Everything
Fritz Kalkbrenner
Gorgon City vs Pete Tong
Green Velvet vs Patrick Topping
Hannah Wants
Henrik Schwarz [Live]
Hot Since 82
Infected Mushroom
Kidnap Kid
Kölsch
Luciano
Maceo Plex
MaRLo
Mind Against
Nic Fanciulli
Pan-Pot
Paul Oakenfold
Pleasurekraft
Sasha
Secondcity
Solomun vs Àme
Sven Vath
The Magician
Todd Terje [Live]
Tube & Berger ft Paji [Live]
SW4 SUNDAY LINE-UP …
Skrillex Basement Jazz [Live] Carl Cox vs Loco Dice Armin van Buuren presents Gaia In alphabetical order: Adam Beyer Andy C Apollonia Ben Pearce Calyx & Teebee Camo & Krooked Chris Lorenzo Citizenn & Ejeca present Mountain King [Live] Culture Shock DC Breaks Deetron [Live] Dense & Pika Dixon DJ EZ George FitzGerald GotSome Jaguar Skills [Live] John Digweed Joseph Capriati Josh Butler Loadstar Mano Le Tough Marco Carola Martin Garrix Maya Jane Coles MistaJam Oliver Dollar Oliver Heldens Roni Size Reprazent [Live] Route 94 Sam Divine Shift K3y Sigma [Live] Sub Focus Tale of Us Tough Love Wax Wings Wilkinson [Live]
With thousands of die hard rock fans of all ages making the annual piligmage to Donnington on Wednesday, they were met with two days of stunning blue skies over the Castle, leading up to Friday it looked set to be a glorious weekend of sunshine and Metal. But would it be DOWNLOAD Festival without the rain?
Grey clouds formed as MODESTEP warmed up the MainStage at around 4:30pm on friday night, with a weird blend of dubstep and metal, half of their slot appeared to be a DJ set rather than a gig, seemingly out of place considering the rest of the Bill. As the heavens opened, there was still a a huge turn out for the original leaders of new wave of british heavy metal JUDAS PRIEST. Rob Halford may have struggled with some of the high vocals he’s always famous for but with hits like 'breaking the Law' was guaranteed to get older fans rocking, the motorbike and whip for the finale however needed to be left in 1969.
The anticipation for SLIPKNOT reached fever pitch, with many crowd members in masks and the boiler suits, and not even the monsoon like rain could dampen the assaulting experience of IOWAs finest export.
Any notions of them being a gimmick band with their masks and image, have been wiped since cementing themselves in Donnington history with their huge performances since 2009. Back with a New album and seemingly re-energised, the band made made their thundering riffs and singalong chorus’ wash over the adoring cult of maggots(sic) with ease and Mick Seven being one of the best guitarists I’ve ever witnessed glaring out over the audience whilst his shredding hands blurred over his guitar neck. A triumphant performance, even if it was there no doubt it would be.
Photo by Gobinder Jitta courtesy of Download Festival
With 24 hours of rain, the arena opened on Saturday half an hour later due to safety concerns, sawdust saved the afternoon from a wash out and first catching APOCALYPTA on the Encore stage was an intriguing set of classical strings and metal.
The surprise performance of the weekend were HOLLYWOOD UNDEAD, a mutant child of slipknot and Beastie Boys hailing from Los Angeles, the group stood out with a lively Saturday afternoon slot sending the young audience into a frenzy on the main stage.
Being a Motley Crue fan, watching BLACK VEIL BRIDES seemed to be like viewing a synthetic rip off, but with a fan base bordering on the obsessive and similarities with My Chemical Romance, they seemed to have found their own niche and have to be respected for their gutsy rock and roll attitude.
MARILYN MANSON seemed to be a disappointment, with such a legendary reputation and colourful past, his limp attempts to engage with the audience were not helped by the drifting sounds of MUSE from the MainStage, who’s light show could probably be seen from the moon. Is there anywhere to go for MUSE? with album after album of space rock anthems filling the biggest stadiums around, there were no surprises amongst the bells and whistles in their massive headline performance but undoubtably they still set the bar high for British bands.
Photo by Richard Johnson courtesy of Download Festival
Waking up to blazing sunshine on Sunday, the MainStage was set for a superb line up of heavy metal legends, first catching CAVELERACONSPIRACY sounding to me like a wall of noise, thankfully followed by BLACKBERRY SMOKE with their soothing sounds american southern Rock, like a young ZZ TOP were perfect for a Sunday afternoon and I will definitely be checking out their music again once back to civilisation.
BILLY IDOL never fails to impress, his new album material matches perfectly with his classic hits like 'White wedding' and 'Rebel Yell', and with his tongue in cheek shirtless leather jacket combo, he’s been a born entertainer since the 80s and there is still no stopping him. Followed by SLASH, the Guns N' Roses legend had a packed audience on the MainStage, with a back catalogue of hits from GNR, Velvet Revolver and now with Myles Kennedy on vocals, his blistering live performances of 'Paradise city', ‘Nightrain', and a finale of ‘slither' a highlight of how mad a crowd can go for rock and roll.
They’ve said all Bad things must come to an end, and Motley Crue on their final ever UK festival performance, smashed out their biggest and baddest hits including ‘looks that Kill’ and Girls Girls Girls with all the vigour of it being 1981. With minimal set design they let the music do the talking and Nikki Sixx as always with the biggest grin of the weekend on his face. True legends and good to see them go out with a bang, the only down point in a faultless performance was the sorely missed ‘Home sweet home’ but you can’t have it all!
And so to the finale of KISS, with more anthems than most bands can dream of, pyrotechnics and huge circus like stage show, when confetti cannons exploded it was a perfect end to an epic weekend, for those that stuck it out to the end they were rewarded, the spirit of rock and roll prevailed over rainstorms that threatened to wash away even the most enthusiastic fans.
Photo by Andrew Whitton courtesy of Download Festival
Known as much more than just a music festival, Standon Calling's tenth year as one of the UK's best-loved festivals will offer its widest array of activities yet for all the family. For the wranglers amongst us pony rides will be on offer at The Wagon Park whilst cowboys and cowgirls can tame their own wild animal at thebuild a grizzly bear workshop. If revellers plan to run away and join the circus the Full of Fire team will be on hand to teach festival-goers the art of juggling, diablo, hooping and (quite literally) clowning around.The Wagon Park will house many of the workshops and activities throughout the weekend. Whether you're on the hunt for gold in Standon's huge sand pit, woodcraft classes, costume making, cake decorating, jewellery design and much more the adventure will not stop throughout the whole weekend.
While this year will see the return of the much loved trapeze masterclasses, dog show and the outdoor heated open air swimming pool the Standon grounds will be transformed into a world where all is not as it seems. Returning for its 5th year, Autumn Shift who will bring for the first time Dr Jekyll's Hideout& Dr Franken's Mine to the woodlands of Standon which, much like the Victorian legend, will house two very different personalities. By day the frontier town will house the wildest steam and brass-powered bands, stand-up comedy from the likes of Robin Ince, spoken word and folk acts from the likes of super-talented Grace Petrie, dance, poetry and much more in amongst the Victorian-themed music hall. As day turns to night this is when the figures from beyond the woods descend on the town as many of the performers throughout the day will undergo a dark and mysterious transformation…
Ukelele supergroup The Grand Old Ukes of Yorkshire will bring their u(ke)nique take on classic anthems to the fields of Standon while a classic wild west showdown will take place at the centre of the town square as The Dance Off presents: The Hillbilly Hoedown. For those feeling inspired by the main stage acts then the Rockaoke will be on hand alongside creepy crawlie enthusiasts at The Travelling Menagerie, a place to get up close and personal with wild west wildlife, still life drawing workshop Art Macabre and the high-octane Pandemonium Drummers. Plus the opportunity to tame those tresses at the bespoke on-site pop up hair salon provided by the fashion driven hairdressing brand Blue Tit brining their raw and luxurious independent boutique salon experience to the festival fields.
Fuelling the adventure across the three-day festival will be a selection of the most appetising street food vendors from London and beyond. Whether you're looking for warming pie and mash from Barnaby Sykes, award winning crepes at The Creperie, freshly cooked Neopolitan pizzas at Made of Dough or simply a little pick me up at Carnival Coffee Standon Calling caters for every taste. For the meat lovers American style BBQ'd pulled pork will also be on offer alongside vegan and vegetarian offerings from the Bhangra Bus and Goodness Gracious. Craft beer, cider and spirit enthusiasts are also well catered for with the esteemed Meantime brewery on hand alongside the acclaimed Old Mout Cider and master distillersSipsmith.
As a longstanding friend of the festival the breast cancer awareness charity CoppaFeel! will be partnering up with the Standon Calling once again. Dedicated to eradicating the late detection of breast cancer the Boob Team will be on hand all weekend, teaching people how to check their boobs in their bright pink boob cube. Worried they won't be spotted them at the festival? Look out for gang dressed as giant boobs…
With a lineup already fit to burst with huge names including headliners Kings Of Leon and Duran Duran alongside the likes of Kaiser Chiefs, Paloma Faith, Madness and Tom Odell Gibraltar Music Festival 2015 are now adding even more names to this year’s lineup. Providing a fitting and appropriately huge end to the summer festival season, GMF provides sun and music in abundance all within the picturesque surroundings of the Rock of Gibraltar.
Heading up this announcement is British singer-songwriter James Bay. Having won this year’s BRIT Awards Critics Choice Award and also as runner up in the BBC Sound of 2015 list his is a talent that is utterly undeniable and not least showcased on this year’s breakthrough album ‘Chaos and the Calm’. His set is not to be missed.
Since gracing the nation’s TV screens on the X Factor back in 2012 Ella Henderson has proven herself to be a true superstar. With both her debut single ‘Ghost’ and debut album ‘Chapter One’ charting at number one; she is undoubtedly one of the UK’s finest pop exports.
It’s been two years since Union J went from talented unknowns to overnight sensations on the 2012 series of The X Factor, andthey have been on quite a journey. Their army of young fans will be delighted to hear the boys' next stop on their path to boy band greatness will be at GMF this September.
Also joining the lineup are Gibraltar via Manchester sibling trio This Side Up who come to the festival hot on the heels of their summer UK tour as well as Dead City Radio and Kharma 13.
Easily accessible, affordable and suitable for the whole family, GMF rolls a holiday and some of the world’s biggest acts into one incredible weekend.
