We Are FSTVL announce BBC Radio 1’s Danny Howard!

by
BBC Radio 1’s dance music maestro Danny Howard has been added to what is already an incredible line up at this year’s We Are FSTVL. The UK tastemaker will bring his own brand of high energy big room house music to Upminster’s ‘Field Of Dreams’ – joining Sunday’s main stage gathering of Steve Angello, Knife Party, Steve Aoki, Amine Edge & DANCE, Heidi, Oliver Heldens and more – plus future talents Philip George, CamelPhat and As I Am also announced. 
 
Currently touring on behalf of his very first brand, Nothing Else Matters, and influencing the listening habits of thousands of fans worldwide across his shows for BBC Radio 1, BPM and Sirius XM, Danny Howard is a bona fide UK dance music lynchpin. Juggling a residency at Pacha, a regular column in DJ Mag and the promotion of his already #1 BBC Radio 1 Dance Anthems compilation, Howard has somehow found time in recent years to produce tracks such as ‘Spire’, ‘MUG’ and ‘Apex’ on Spinnin’ Records, as well as collaborating with the legendary Paul Oakenfold. His production talents show no signs of stopping this year, with his remix of Dr Kucho! & Gregor Salto’s ‘Can’t Stop Playing (Makes Me High)’ being released imminently on Ministry Of Sound.

Also billed on Sunday’s main stage is 21 year old newcomer Philip George – the man behind the huge record ‘Wish You Were Mine’ which peaked at number 2 in the UK chart. On the rise duo CamelPhat are also set to feature on Sunday’s Paravana stage, as well as As I Am who rounds off the latest additions.  

Keep an eye out for further news on We Are FSTVL’s 2015 after party at Studio 338 which will be revealed shortly – with plenty more surprises in store before proceedings kick off on Saturday 30th May 2015.
  

Line Up
 
Saturday 30th May
 
Main Stage: Carl Cox, Gorgon City, Hot Since 82, Monki, Nic Fanciulli, Second City, Seth Troxler, Solomun
 
Used and Abused: Loco Dice, Adam Beyer, Enzo Siragusa, Recondite (Live), Tale of Us, Yaya
 
What Hannah Wants: Hannah Wants, Redlight, Cyril Hahn, Friend Within, GotSome, Kidnap Kid, My Nu Leng, Oneman, T Williams, Waze & Odyssey
 
Defected In The House: Masters At Work, Andrea Oliva, Oliver Dollar, Cristoph, Noir, Sam Divine, Simon Dunmore, Sonny Fodera
 
Toolroom Live: Mark Knight, Dennis Ferrer, Tensnake, Dosem, Purple Disco Machine, Shiba Shan, Tube & Berger, Wankelmut, Weiss, Mark Storie, Pete Griffiths
 
Clockwork Orange: Tall Paul, Brandon Block & Alex P, Trevor Fung, Andy Manston, Tristan Ingram, Danny Clockwork & Keith Mac, 2 Good Souls, Tony Grimley
 
 
Sunday 31st May
 
Main Stage: Steve Angello, Knife Party, Steve Aoki, Amine Edge & DANCE, Heidi, Oliver Heldens, Danny Howard, One Bit, Route 94, The Martinez Brothers, Philip George
 
Cocoon: Sven Vath, Dixon, Ame, Ilario Alicante, Popof, Ricardo Villalobos, Ten Walls
 
Hospitality: Camo & Krooked, DK EZ, MJ Cole, Toyboy & Robin, Etherwood, Fred V & Grafix, Spy, Metrik, Logistivs, Nu:Tone, Lynx, Krakota
 
Paradise: Jamie Jones, Marco Carola, Claude Von Stroke, Steve Lawler, Jackmaster, Richy Ahmed, Patrick Topping, wAFF, Russ Yallop, Mark Jenkyns
 
MK Area 10: MK, andhim, Anabel Englund, Ben Pearce, Beckwith, Dantiez Saunderson, DJ S.K.T, Dusky Huxley, J Phlip, Kant, Kevin Saunderson, Lee Foss, Pleasure State, Shadow Child
 
Paravana: Camelphat, Max Chapman, Senzala, Panda, Headspace, Anthony Lowther, Ollie Mundy, Melvo Baptiste, Russ Jay, Jnr Windross, Secondself, Shane Macauley, Jedd Barry
 

Calling Festival add Sunset Sons, Bleachers and many more

by

The line-up for Calling Festival 2015 heats up as Sunset Sons, Bleachers, Sundara Karma, White Room, James Veck Gilodi, VANT and Osca are confirmed, joining Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds for one of the biggest days in London’s festival calendar. Calling Festival takes place in Clapham Common on Saturday 4 July. Tickets are on sale now at www.livenation.co.uk.

Calling Festival 2015 is renowned for bringing the hottest new acts to the forefront, and this year’s line-up does not disappoint. Sunset Sons, nominees of BBC Sound of 2015, will bring their beachy, surfer rock vibes to the festival. The band have been making waves across the UK; their debut album The Fall Line has been riding high in the iTunes chart and the majority of UK dates are sold out. Bleachers, lead by Fun. guitarist Jack Antonoff, are fast becoming a crowd favourite following a string of shows in the UK. Their frenetic energy and relentless explosive sound have been getting high praise on both sides of the Atlantic.  

James Veck Gilodi, front man of Deaf Havana, has been confidently striding around the UK selling out shows as he carves out his future as a singer-songwriter. Inspired by the likes of Bruce Springsteen, his effortlessly honest folksy acoustic sound has been delighting fans and his song writing ability has been well documented.Sundara Karma, are the all driving, rousing indie quartet from Reading. Gathering the support of resident BBC Radio 1 DJs Fearne Cotton and Huw Stephens, their dreamy, almost psychedelic sound has been described as ‘the sound of summer’.

VANT have enjoyed an incredible start to the year on all fronts. Described as a cross between The Kinks and the Pixies, 2015 has seem the band supporting the likes of Royal Blood, The Bohicas and Hinds, and receiving extensive airplay from BBC Radio 1 and XFM.  London four-piece Osca have been hotly tipped as the next big thing by nearly every tastemaker blog, website and the likes of Zane Lowe proclaiming their last single a ‘next hype’ record. 

Finally, White Room have grabbed the attention of the music industry, including the ‘Modfather’ Paul Weller – who they have supported on several occasions. The band have drawn comparisons with the Stone Roses and The Charlatans, and will bring some Britpop vibes to the Common. 

Calling Festival takes place at one of London’s best outdoor locations, Clapham Common. The multi-stage festival is steeped in heritage, where music icons Bruce Springsteen, Pearl Jam, Paul Simon, The Who, Eric Clapton, Neil Young, The Killers, Bon Jovi and more have all previously jetted in to headline its main stage. Last year, over 80,000 people flocked to Calling to experience music from legends Stevie Wonder and Aerosmith, plus an amazing daytime lineup of top musicians. 

This year’s festival is headlined by Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, with Ryan Adams and the Shining, Modest Mouse, Wolf Alice, Echo & the Bunnymen and The Hives

Ultra Europe 2015 announce the next wave of artists

by
Ultra Europe
Ready to descend upon Croatia’s Dalmatian coast this July for ULTRA Europe’s third annual gathering, Hardwell, Dash Berlin, Jamie Jones, Marco Carola, Paul Van Dyk andSolomun can now be added to the already huge list of Phase One headliners, includingAlesso, Armin van Buuren, Axwell ^ Ingrosso, Carl Cox, The Chemical Brothers (Live), David Guetta, Knife Party, Martin Garrix, Nicky Romero, Steve Angello, Tiësto andZedd. All of these global superstars and more will be bringing their talents to the colossal Poljud Stadium in Split from July 10-12 at ULTRA Europe’s flagship event.
 
In addition to the colossal Main Stage, the inimitable ‘Resistance’ stage will be making its first appearance in Croatia, following a spectacular debut at Ultra Music Festival Miami in March 2015. Once again co-produced by the UK’s award winning Arcadia Spectacular team (responsible for some of the most groundbreaking stage productions at Glastonbury) the 360-degree immersive ‘Afterburner’ production will play host to some of the most forward thinking artists in electronic music.
 
If that weren’t enough, Ultra favourite Carl Cox will once again be bringing his Carl Cox & Friends arena to the masses in Split, where he’ll be joined by a selection of superstar guests who will be revealed over the coming weeks.
 
Supporting acts announced in the Phase Two lineup include (in alphabetical order) Andrew Rayel, Apollonia, ATB+, Blau, Chaim, DVBBS, Flosstradamus, Galantis, Guy Gerber, Harvard Bass, Hot Since 82, Markus Schulz, Marlo, Nic Fanciulli, Orjan Nilsen, Sasha, The Chainsmokers, Umek and W&W. Offering a plethora of international talent, the biggest electronic music event in Croatian history is living up to its reputation for showcasing the most in-demand talent, providing party-goers with a truly unique experience.
 
Crowned the World’s No.1 DJ in the DJ Mag polls for two consecutive years (2013 & 2014), global superstar Hardwell will be gracing the ULTRA Europe main stage for a third consecutive year. Joined by fellow Dutch megastar Dash Berlin, both will look to secure their reputable legacy as heroes of the EDM scene. Seasoned-veteran and all-round ambassador for global electronic music, Paul Van Dyk will also be showcasing a master craft that he has built up for more than two decades, as he prepares to set one of Europe’s most formidable arenas alight in just two months time.
 
On the other side of the musical spectrum, global ambassador of techno and Ibiza mainstay,Marco Carola, is set to amaze the crowds in Split with his energetic, three-deck mixing, proving once again why he remains as one of the most in demand DJs on the planet. Jamie Jones and Solomun will also be bringing their talents to Croatia in July, proving the diversity of this year’s lineup and its widespread appeal.
 
‘DESTINATION ULTRA’ is a brand new concept that will see the festival expand into a phenomenal seven-day experience. ULTRA Europe’s Official Opening Party, Cocoon,  will officially kick off on Thursday, July 9, at the brand new Giraffe Palm House in Split (the official Ultra Europe After Hours club) with none other than SVEN VÄTH headlining the proceedings. The Cocoon head honcho will also be bringing fellow label mates Christian Burkhardt (LIVE), Maurizio Schmitz and Reach Visuals to a party that will have everyone in attendance whipped into a tech-filled frenzy.
 
A week on from the Opening Party with Väth and his cohorts, the DESTINATION ULTRA Closing Party, Resistance, will get underway for the first time on Wednesday, July 15, at the breathtaking Fort George venue on the picturesque island of Vis. Built in 1815, the Fort George site was originally used by the British Army to defend against opposing forces, but in 2015, it will see NIC FANCIULLI and JORIS VOORN taking to the decks in this pristine location to put a fitting end to a perfect week.
 
‘DESTINATION ULTRA’ is offering more choice than ever for its attendees this year with a wealth of other parties and events to attend across the week. With the ULTRA EuropeFestival itself being hosted on July 10-12 and featuring some of the most sought after artists in the world, more than 150,000 fans are expected to witness another slice of history.
 
Following the Festival, ULTRA Europe will launch a one-off Yacht Regatta on July 13 on Zlatni Rat Beach on the Island of Brač, Bol with world famous South African house duo, Goldfish. July 14 will then take the party across to the island of Hvar for the famed third edition of ULTRA Beach, where Fedde Le Grand, Oliver Heldens, Sunnery James & Ryan Marciano and more will play to over 5,000 people at the Hotel Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort.

The Prodigy headline Sea Dance Festival along with Rudimental and more

by

EXIT, TheSoundYouNeed and UKF present Sea Dance Festival, Europe's most beautiful beach festival held from 15th-18th July on Jaz Beach, Montenegro. After scooping 'Best Medium-Sized Festival' at the European Festival Awards, 2015's proceeding will be headlined by iconic dance supergroup The Prodigy in a Balkans-exclusive as well as electronica diva and former Moloko singer Roisin Murphy, plus Rudimental (DJ) who have redefined the drum n bass genre for the mainstream charts. Joining them will be British duo Sigma, genre-hopping Noisia and 'Afterglow' producer Wilkinson. Festival-goers can also expect sets from a number of underground artists including esteemed Slovenian producer Gramatik, hip hop/house fusers Bondax, Californian soul outfit Soul Clap, the master James Zabiela and over 100 more across six stages.

Serbia's legendary EXIT Festival presents their latest offering as part of their 15th Birthday celebrations – the stunning Sea Dance Festival in Montenegro. Partnering with AEI Media and their premium brands TheSoundYouNeed and UKF, Sea Dance will create the ultimate beach festival experience in Europe's hottest new party destination. With day parties at the best beach on the Adriatic, revellers can dance under the warmth of the sun with the sand in between their toes, whilst drinking cocktails at sunset and experiencing the finest purveyors in electronic music and beyond. To watch 2014's highlights visit here.

Headlining Sea Dance 2015 is The Prodigy who's rich quarter-century-long music career has made them one of the most influential bands in dance music and touts over 25 million albums sold worldwide, their most recent being their sixth studio release 'The Day Is My Enemy'. Their signature and energetic live performances are known for the mass euphoria they produce and a real coup for Sea Dance Festival who will host them for the first time in the Balkans. Joining them in a special headline slot is Roisin Murphy, one half of electronic duo Moloko and respected soloist who has been one of the key figures of the music scene since the late 90s. With unparalleled hits and music classics such as 'The Time is Now' and 'Sing it Back' and her newest EP 'Hairless Toys', Roisin has established herself as the icon of modern pop culture and her highly-anticipated premiere performance at Jaz beach will be her first in Montenegro.

Rudimental are a British drum n' bass band who's hits such as 'Waiting All Night' and 'Not Giving In' have earned them both Brit and Mercury nominations, and have made them one of the most in-demand festival acts in recent years. Joining them on the mainstage will be Sigma who have scored two number one's including 'Nobody to Love', a re-edit of Kanye West's infamous track, as well as 'Changing' with vocals from Paloma Faith. Noisia, the famous trio from Holland, are renowned for their unparalleled technical skills with their style transcending from traditional drum bass to dubstep, breakbeat and house, with releases on labels such as Jay Z's Rocnatio. Finally Wilkinson from London has been dubbed one of the most exciting young talents to come out of the genre earning a place on Andy C's prestigious Ram Records roster and not-to-mention the legendary Hospital Records. 

Representing the drum 'n bass heads are Renegade Hardware stalwarts Calyx & Teebee who will bring some serious basslines to the idyllic surroundings of Jaz Beach along with legendary three-piece Black Sun Empire and liquid dnb purveyors Fred v & Grafix. Other acts to feature at Sea Dance include the newly announced Brookes Brothers and bass-heavy Gotsome, while the young pioneer Maduk will have revellers dancing long into the night.
 
As one of the most innovative names in the game James Zabiela will bring his DJ magic to the Montenegro shores alongside New York's leading lady in house and disco Kim Ann Foxman. Bondax and alumniSnakehips will also take to the decks accompanied by the ultimate party DJ Doorly. Bringing a hip hop flavour to the Dance Paradise Stage is Brooklyn-based DJ/Producer Gramatik whose unique blend of electrothump, funk, jazz, hip hop and rnb has spawned hits such as 'Hit That Jive' whilst Seattle duo Odesza will bring some of the biggest dancefloor hits of 2014 including 'Say My Name (feat Zyra). Other acts to feature include remix king Star Slinger, French house star FKJ aka French Kiwi Juice and TCTS.
 
Known for their laid-back LA vibes Soul Clap will bring their Crew Love family to the festival providing feel-good house music ideal for the beach. The colourful Nick Monaco will join the ambassadors of Crew LovePillowtalk.

Kings of Leon and Duran Duran to headline Gibraltar Music Festival

by

Bringing some of the world’s biggest live acts to Gibraltar each year, GMF is back in 2015 with its biggest lineup to date in the picturesque and intimate surroundings of Victoria Stadium on the Rock of Gibraltar.

Headlining proceedings this year are none other than Nashville rock heroes Kings Of Leon who come to GMF as a British exclusive performance. Since bursting into the public consciousness with breakthrough album ‘Youth & Young Manhood’ back in 2003 they have spent over a decade becoming one of the greatest bands of a generation.

Also headlining will be pop icons Duran Duran. Having sold over 100 million records worldwide and with a new album set for release in mid-September of this year featuring highly anticipated collaborations with the likes of Janelle Monáe, Kiesza, Nile Rodgers and Mark Ronson, the band are as vital and festival ready as ever. Expect a career spanning set filled to the brim with the band’s huge arsenal of hits alongside new material.

Joining the headliners is a supporting cast of some of the world’s best talent including award-winning piano balladeer Tom Odell, breakthrough singer-songwriter Rae Morris, powerpop superstars The Feeling, pop-rock chart smashers Lawson and reggae veterans Third World alongside names like Reach,Strange Brew, Tim Garcia featuring Afterhours, Paddy Taylorand many more still to be announced.

Providing the perfect end to the festival season, GMF is a family-friendly festival in the sunshine. Affordable and easily accessible, Gibraltar Music Festival rolls a holiday and a festival into one incredible weekend.

Latitude Festival 2015 preview – Who to watch

by

Henham Park, Beccles, Suffolk

Thursday 16th – Sunday 19th July 2015

Now in its 10th year, Latitude has proved its point that it is far more than just a music festival. It’s an artistic, creative, inspired and imaginative goldmine, stuffed to the brim with an eclectic blend of comedy, live-art, poetry, theatre, as well as choice upon choice of world-class musicians. This is an event that can suit the most rugged of festival goers, on the hunt for a venue to head-bang and let loose, to those whose preference is to sip on a glass of chilled chardonnay, witnessing the very best in contemporary ballet. This year promises to celebrate the ten year anniversary in style, with lashings of exciting and innovative artists – in all forms – ready to entertain, intrigue and enthuse the 35,000 strong crowd.

When it comes to headline artists, Latitude have certainly pulled out the big guns to take to the stage of the Obelisk Arena – an ideal hill-top venue, overlooking the entirety of the stunning Suffolk site. It’s difficult to describe the sound of the Friday headliners, British three-piece Alt-J; they’re music is instantly recognisable, with their rustic atmospherics and melodic harmonies. This is an act with stunning crowd-unifiers such as Matilda and Hunger of the Pine under their belt, and the headline slot promises to be an enthralling affair to remember for everyone who attends. As Saturday arrives, the sounds of Portishead will be nailing the headline slot; the trio, much like Alt-J, operate in a world of their own, with a magnetic sound that seems to be unlike any other. Currently the only UK date on their tour, it can definitely be said that this is not one to be missed.

The final headliners of the weekend are Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds; yes, the rock legend himself will be gracing the stage, firing out hits from the bands’ new album ‘Chasing Yesterday’. From previous sets, it seems Noel and co aren’t shy of pulling out back catalogue Oasis classics such as Don’t look back in anger and Champagne Supernova within their set, so expect thousands of echoing voices singing in unison at the top of their lungs to top off the weekend.

                         

Away from the headliners, there’s a plethora of incredible and unique acts performing to keep every soul entertained. Welsh rock legends the Manic Street Preachers will be making their debut performance at Latitude at the Obelisk Arena on Sunday – it seems 12 albums in, the band will never fail to attract the crowds, and Latitude should be no different. Indie rock band The Vaccines – who have just finished touring the States with Mumford and Sons – will be making their way to BBC Radio 6’s Music Stage on Saturday, providing a harder alternative to main stage headliner.

With a shimmering lake as a picturesque backdrop, The Lake Stage, curated by Huw Stephens, has an array of handpicked rising stars gracing the stage; To Kill a King, Pretty Vicious and Rea Morris, to name a few, will all be performing at this fantastic open air hub, each to show off their own fresh, unique musical talent.

The special thing about Latitude is the side-splittingly fantastic array of comedy acts present each year – and this year is no different. The festival is fast becoming a well-respected portion of the comedy calendar, and 2015 brings funny man Mancunian Jason Manford, QI star Alan Davies, and the delightfully monotone Jack Dee to the stage to add a bit of light-hearted hilarity to the bill.

For theatre fans, the National Theatre Live presents Everyman will hold a special performance at Latitude’s very own theatre stage, starring BAFTA winner and Academy Award® nominee Chiwetel Ejiofor. Meanwhile, The Waterfront Stage welcomes Sadler’s Wells National Youth Dance Company, bringing together some of the brightest dance talent across the UK combined with their internationally renowned associate artists. Sadler’s Wells is a world leader in contemporary dance; so whether you have a true passion for movement, or just want to witness something a bit different, this promises to be a vibrant and exciting performance for anyone who attends.

If this wasn’t enough, for the first time in the festival’s history swimming in the lake will be permitted, for those who want to take a dip as they watch the festival go by. This, combined with new hot tubs where audiences can soak up the cultural atmosphere of the site, is what makes it so much more than a festival – it’s an adventure. There’s masses to be explored; from opera, to slam poetry, to cabaret, down to a live art house, there’s simply too much to possible divulge here – you’ll have to dive in and experience it for yourself.

Tickets range from £84.50 for a day pass, to £200.50 for a full weekend with camping, with discounts available for children and teenagers.

You can check out the entire Latitude Festival line-up at the website, www.latitudefestival.com.

No Tomorrow unveil day splits

by
NO TOMORROW UNVEILS DAY SPLITS FOR NOTTINGHAM’S OFFICIAL START TO SUMMER

 

 

One month to go until the Jessie Ware and John Newman headlined weekend festival

 

With No Tomorrow festival fast approaching, festival organisers are excited to reveal day splits for Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th June at Wollaton Park, Nottingham. Crowned by Jessie Ware and John Newman, also starring DJ Fresh, James Bay, Hannah Wants, Gorgon City and many more, tickets priced £65 are available now via notmorrowfestival.com.

Headliners Jessie Ware and John Newman will bring sultry and soulful pop to No Tomorrow with an electronic twist, appearing on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th June respectively. Elsewhere on the main stage chart-topping DJ Fresh will keep Saturday’s crowd on their feet, whilst BRIT Awards ‘Critics Choice’ winner James Bay will woo Sunday’s audience. The ‘Stealth’ stage welcomes a headlining set from woman of the moment, Hannah Wants on Saturday, whilst a Black Butter Records stage for Sunday is topped by ‘Ready For Your Love’ duo, Gorgon City.
 
Whether they have scored number one records or featured in 2015 ones-to-watch lists No Tomorrow festival boasts an array of the biggest, best and brightest. With 50+ artists over the weekend no set of ears will go un-loved.  Full details of which acts will appear on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th June can be found below.
 
Wollaton Park’s leafy oasis, hosting No Tomorrow, will encompass not only cutting edge sets from DJs and live acts but also an array of fringe attractions. Dance crews, craft food, cocktails, vintage stalls and more will be on hand to the delight of festival-goers. 
 
Weekend tickets priced at only £65 are available now from the No Tomorrow website. 


Top Trumps released: Circa Waves and Typhoon added to Best Kept Secret bill

by

Best Kept Secret are certainly playing a game of cards, and they’ve just added two to their hand: Liverpudlian rock-indie band Circa Waves and Dutch hip-hop star have just been added to the lineup.

These acts join an already sensational lineup by on the Dutch Festival in June. Boasting headliners such as The Libertines, Alt-J and Noel Gallaghers High Flying Birds, and other crowd pleasers such as A$AP Rocky, The Tallest Man on Earth, Drenge, The Vaccines, First Aid Kit, Royal Blood and Earl Sweatshirt, this years scope of talent is sure to please everyone.

 

Who To Watch At BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend In Norwich

by

Next week (23rd & 24th May) sees Radio 1's Big Weekend land in Norwich, bringing with it some of the world's biggest artists including Taylor Swift, Muse and Florence & The Machine all descending on Earlham Park. With three stages packed with bands and artists from all over the world, consider this your go to guide whether you are attending or watching from home.

BBC Introducing Stage

Fickle Friends – Canvassing the power of pop music, Fickle Friends wield music that was made for festival atmospheres. Upbeat and melodic synth pop oozes around the vocals of frontwoman Natti building to spectacular euphoric crescendos that have already earnt them support from the likes of Huw Stephens. Listen to their tracks 'Swim' and latest single 'Could Be Wrong' on their SoundCloud and you'll understand perfectly why Fickle Friends are set to be one of this summer's runaway success stories. https://soundcloud.com/ficklefriends

 

HONNE – Roughly translating as 'true feelings' or 'desire' in Japanese, Honne make the kind of sultry futuristic music that will no doubt soundtrack the conception of more than a few babies in the years to come. Still very much an underground sensation, Honne have already been compared to the likes of Drake and Frank Ocean for their low-fi high impact soundscape. Their debut single 'Warm On A Cold Night' carries on the smoothness of the 80s synth scene and carries it romantically across the threshold and bang into the 21st Century, ready for some serious vibe heavy baby-making.

 

In New Music We Trust Stage

 

Circa Waves – Having already made one of the best songs of the summer with 'T Shirt Weather', Liverpudlian lads Circa Waves have the same frenetic energy that helped Two Door Cinema Club sky-rocket to success. Their debut album 'Young Chasers' is packed to the rafters with absolute belters that will no doubt be sang back at high volumes in the Norwich sunshine. 

 

Hozier – He seemed to take over the world with melancholy ballad 'Take Me To Church' but for those thinking that Irish Hozier was merely a fleeting one hit wonder, he'll be on hand to prove he is more than worth his salt. He's already been nominated for a Grammy, meaning that this afternoon set is likely to be full of couples ready to soundtrack their schmoozing alongside many other music fans that fell in love with his debut record. 

 

Years & Years – Olly, Emre and Mikey won the BBC's Sound of 2015 Poll at the start of the year for their ridiculously upbeat and heartfelt sound. With album 'Communion' slated for release in one month, the boys already have a wealth of well loved and well rehearsed material including their number 1 single 'King' and latest ode to love 'Shine' which sees frontman Olly Alexander not only wear his heart on his sleeve, but rub it all up in your grill. If you want to hear what the future of great pop music looks like, it's here and by jove is it wonderful.

 

Jungle – Make sure you're not 'Too Busy Earnin' to miss Jungle carry on the party. Taking to the stage in a caccophany of rainforest sounds and noises, Norwich is set to feel more like the Amazon throughout this set. Their self-titled debut album was nominated for the Mercury Prize and are a must see even if you caught them on last year's festival circuit.

 

SOAK – Having been made BBC Radio 1's 'Track Of The Day' and having been in session for Huw Stephens, it's no surprise that SOAK has landed a slot on the In New Music We Trust Stage. At only 18 years of age, SOAK has a wiseness and world weariness in her lyrics that channels the soul of Tom Waits putting a unique black and white filter over the world. SOAK us undoubtedly one of the best songwriters around right now and her mellow melancholy will be in high demand across the summer and beyond. It's gloomy without being sad and quite cathartic to listen to no matter what the weather.

 

The Main Stage

 

Charli XCX – Her tracks with Icona Pop and Iggy Azalea propelled Charli XCX into the global spotlight, but it is her own hefty catalogue of bratty punk pop you should be paying attention to. Charli is very underestimated when it comes to how good of a role model she is to teenagers . Preaching self love and a devil may care attitude to authority, Charli's set is one of my most anticipated sets of the entire weekend for unrelenting energy she puts into performances and the amount of #tunes she has following on from the release of her debut album 'Sucker' which was overflowing with belters.

 

Florence & The Machine – Despite having broken her foot at this year's Coachella festival, sitting down still hasn't been holding Florence back from re-conquering the world with cuts from her soon to be released third album 'How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful'. Florence was propelled from the womb ready to be crowned queen of the summer festival circuit and Big Weekend marks her first UK festival performance since she signed off her secodn album Ceremonials at Reading & Leeds in 2012. This return has been a long time coming for fans of all ages and with an even bigger Machine to back her powerful lungs, Norwich won't know what hit it when Florence is carried onto the stage.

 

Clean Bandit – Opening the Main Stage on May 24th, Clean Bandit have all of the hits on hand ready to get the people of Norwich jumping high into the sky ready for the final day of Big Weekend. With their collaborator Jess Glynne playing the day before, we can hope for a joint rendition of 'Rather Be' at some point across the weekend.

 

George Ezra – Since Mumford & Sons have put down their banjos, George Ezra is here to fill that barn dance shaped hole in your life with his take on acoustic power folk. The undoubtedly deafening roaring along to hits such as 'Cassy O' and 'Blame It On Me' will cement Ezra's status as a much loved nation's sweetheart. His thunderous soul will be perfect for the people of Earlham Park to get down to and warm up for the evening's headline act.

 

Taylor Swift – No preview for Big Weekend would be complete without mentioning one Ms Taylor Swift. Having taken over the world with her record '1989' Taylor might just cause the biggest number of people shaking it off in one place at one time. Armed with more than three albums worth of hits and fan favourites, Taylor's arrival on Norwich soil is a very very big deal. 

You can check out the entire line up for BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend in Norwich here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/events/ewh8q9/performances/lfbj3d

And you can also check out a mash-up of all of the acts announced for the festival here to get you in the festival mood: http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/p02pd4gj/big-weekend-mashup

Wychwood Festival announces Comedy lineup and more

by

As a regular face on '8 Out Of 10 Cats', 'Would I Lie To You?' and many more the BAFTA nominated Michael Legge will perform alongside 'Gloucestershire's number 1 diabetic comedian' Jon Wagstaffe and hotly-tipped student funnyman Jamali Maddix on day one. Making his name on both sides of the Atlantic Irish-born Keith Farnan and Edinburgh fringe regular Mitch Benn keeps the laughter rolling alongside musical comedian George Rigden, Russel Howard's Good News regular Jarred Christmas and the interactive comedy of Howard Read. New up-and-coming talent Jenny Collier, Jack Heal, Sam Chaplin,Becky Brunning and many more will also keep the Wychwood audience in stitches throughout the weekend. 

Further musical additions to this year's Wychwood have also been announced. With a performance on Later With Jools Holland and a release on the esteemed Africa Express label, Songhoy Blues will perform their debut show on the main stage while Josephine & The Artizans will showcase their unique 'Hip-Hopera' over at the Ecroticity Big Top alongside 3-piece Pocket Club. Citing inspirations ranging from The Horrors to Fleetwood Mac, Object Object take residency on the main stage while Coventry four-pieceQuarry and Leader will perform at the Big Top and the Hobgoblin Stage. 

Wychwood's Pomme Stage has been revealed, featuring some of the finest local talent in association with the University of Gloucestershire. Heading up the stage across the weekend will be the likes of alt-rockers All Ears Avow, Cheltenham's own Spice & The Readies, experimental hip-hop trio SPOILS and former busker and rising singer-songwriter Ben Cipolla. Also appearing will be brooding songstress Gigi St. Fallow, Bobby Scaife, Katie Collins, Megan Timms, Joe Buckingham, Dan Walton and Maxine Stacey from Cheltenham and from the Black country comes Neil Morris and David Young.

Adding to the exciting literature programme on display at Wychwood comes yet more esteemed writers set to educate and influence on the Children's Literature Stage. Author of 'Twelve Minutes to Midnight' and 'Shadows of the Silver Screen', Christopher Edge will share his tales alongside Roald Dahl Funny Prize winning author Philip Ardagh and the writer of the 'Compton Valance' series Matt Brown. The feline friendly Anna Wilson, Waterstones Children's Book Prize winner Steve Anthony and 'The Grunt' and 'The Grouch' author Tracey Corderoy will also be on hand to inspire the children and adults of Wychwood. 

Created in 1996 to provide clean, green and renewable energy for all, Ecotricity's founder Dale Vince will debate the importance of sustainable green energy with organic food supplier Guy Watson of Riverford. Chaired by the BBC One Show and Observer journalist Lucy Siegle the topics up for discussion include the sustainability of Energy, Transport and Food, three very important topics that will undoubtedly make for an informative and inspiring debate. 

Riverford founder Guy Watson said: “I’m happy to be taking part in the ‘Green Britain Chat’ this year at Wychwood. We’ll be talking about a whole bunch of things we can do towards helping Britain be great and greener. I’ll be focusing on the Food side of things, with organically grown food being an important part of this; I can talk for ever about vegetables until someone tells me to shut up; fortunately my fellow panellists talk can about our Energy and Transport if they can get a word in; plus the importance of making space for Nature!”

New for 2015 Wychwood Festival will this year be taking festival-goers back to a time that was both glamorous and gritty. On one side there were the dive bar dwelling anti-establishment anger of Sex Pistols, on the other the decadent sounds of Donna Summer and thew exclusivity of Studio 54. When it comes to Punk vs Disco, which side will Wychwood festival-goers choose? Wychwood is inviting revellers to release their inner-anarchist or dancing queen to create a sense of Saturday Night Fever on Cheltenham Racecourse.

FESTIVAL LINE-UP

MUSIC
Ladysmith Black Mambazo / UB40 – Ali Campbell, Astro, Mickey Virtue reunited / Boney M
The Undertones / Justin Fletcher / The Proclaimers / Craig Charles / Andy Kershaw / Dreadzone / Basseskou Kouyate & Ngoni Ba / Mad Dog Mcrea / Dr & The Medics / Songhoy Blues / The Outcast Band / The Going Goods / Talk In Code / A Way With Words /  The Edwin Starr Band ft. Angelo Starr / Electric Swing Circus / Rusty Shackle / Pocket Club / Ghostpoet / Lucy Rose / Mt. Wolf / Plastic Mermaids / Fickle Friends / Monsieur Doumani / The Wonder Stuff Acoustic / Darlia / Demob Happy / TED ZED / Black Honey / Palace / Zak Abel / Lanshapes / Syd Arthur / Henry Green / Hunter & The Bear / Loud Mountains / Cooper Black / Object Object / Josephine and the Artizans / Sophronie / George Montague / Danni Nicholls / The Black Feathers / John Adams / Grace Palmer / James Michael / All Ears Avow / Spice & The Readies / SPOILS / Ben Cipolla / Gigi St. Fallow / Bobby Scaife / Katie Collins/ Megan Timms / Joe Buckingham / Dan Walton / Maxine Stacey / Neil Morris / David Young

BBC Introducing Coventry & Warwickshire: Grassroutes, Rosetta Fire / Yes Sunshine / Reece Bahia /Quarry / Speak Brother / James TW / Emily Burns / The Commonjets / Joe Doloman

BBC Introducing Hereford and Worcester: Cantaloop / Ronin / Clark Carmody / Tom Forbes / Interior Castle / Crowsaw / 7shades / The Dale Von Minaker / Fictonian / Chase The Deer

CHILDREN'S LITERATURE FESTIVAL
Ali Sparkes / Petr Horacek / Giancarlo Gremin / Steve Anthony / Steve Cole / Chris Edge / Paul Strickland / John Dougherty / Anna Wilson / Karen Langtree / Tracey Corderoy / Philip Ardagh / Cathy Cassidy / Philip Adagh / Tracey Corderoy / Matt Brown / Tony de Saulles / First Draft

WYCHWOOD COMEDY IN ASSOCIATION WITH EFESTIVALS
Michael Legge / Jenny Collier / Jack Heal / Chris Turner / Jay Cowle / Jamali Maddix / Jarred Christmas / Becky Brunning / Sam Chaplin / David Jordan