Nozstock 2013 Review

This was my second year at Nozstock and having just left, I can say that not much has changed since 2012… which is fantastic.

The same warm smiles and friendly faces scatter the green fields, waters and forests of this small but very picturesque festival.  The beer is still cheap (at £3.20 a pint), the entertainment diverse and the toilets clean.  Although one noticeable difference was the presence of rain this year which was heavy at points but this only seemed to cause for more smiles when the sun came out time and time again. What I didn’t notice last year were the sometimes steep slopes dotted around the place, being that the festival is housed in VALLEY truthfully I should have seen this coming but when the rain came down these made for some slippery journeys and treacherous trekking between the campsite and the stages but the organisers were only a stone’s throw away laying down straw and wood chips over night to make it all better.  These little touches are evident throughout the festival and this is what makes it so special.  There was a Human Fruit Machine, which I had to play; archery and belt making – to only name a very few!

Inside the festival there appeared to be a lot for kids to do and plenty for the adults too. The days were easily filled with comedy and music, this year saw Howard ‘Mr Nice’ Marks grace the comedy stage with some trademark tales and bands I’d never heard of owning the main stage (Orchard Stage) such as Tako Lako from Denmark (who I now CANNOT wait to see again next year, I think the lead singer might be a new hero of mine) and The Wytches who had a great sound as well as acts I was looking forward to like The Electric Swing Circus.  The Orchard Stage was also the setting for yet another memorable performance from The Correspondents; ‘Mr Bruce’ never seems to fail the crowd!  It was just as good as last year!

Nozstock 2013

It’s so easy to kick back and soak it all up in the sun on the farm but it it’s at night when this one really kicks into gear. The sun goes down, the volume goes up and the masses come out.  Friday night saw, By The Rivers, an original 6-piece reggae band, light up the Garden Stage.  I had never heard of them but had received strong recommendations – I was not disappointed at all as they played a lovely sounding reggae to a packed crowd.  Andy C was the highlight for me, having appeared to enjoy his time at the cubicles (Nozstock’s dedicated dance area) last year so much that he brought his crew this time, with Loadstar and Wilkinson also delivering big beats into the small hours. A late night/early morning trip down to the coppice is a must as there’s nothing quite like a trance skank-out in the forest before bed at dawn.

A great thing about Nozstock is the size, it is one of the smaller festivals but with so much going in really doesn’t feel very small; a problem with larger festivals can be the lack of phone signal, this was not the case but most of the time it was not needed as I always found myself bumping into the same festival goers over the weekend.

Nozstock 2013

The more I go to Nozstock the more I love it. There’s just something remarkable about listening to a huge stacked speaker system in a graffitied barnyard on a weekend afternoon with a pint of locally sourced beer or cider. If you can manage the drawn out trip over to this remote spot I would definitely recommend it.  Just watch out for the slippery slopes.

Review by Sam Walsh 

More Photos by Paul Taylor here

Nozstock reveals final music lineup for 2013

The small family-run event now in its 15th year is set in a beautiful rural part of Herefordshire. It started life as a party for relatives and friends and has grown over the years into one of the friendliest small festival experiences to be had.

The Hidden Valley has nine stages, many nooks and crannies and is landscaped around a ramshackle Tudor farmhouse. The ORCHARD STAGE is set at the foot of a natural arena on the side of the gently sloping valley. Alongside the farmhouse is the GARDEN STAGE, which provides a more eclectic line up, turning electronic by sundown whilst converted cowshed the CUBICLES pushes out sub-thumping bass and dubstep this year hosted on Saturday by the legendary drum 'n bass label RAM Records. With further music (including a new electro-swing stage), theatre, comedy stages and tents dotted around the site Nozstock offers a cornucopia of wonders to explore.

This year’s theme is Wild Wild West, so dust off your cowboy hats, fringed moccasins, saloon skirts and ropey John Wayne impressions for what promises to be the best Nozstock yet.  

Also playing are hotly tipped young upstarts The Strypes, one of Britain’s longest running and most cherished acts Chas & Dave, Dub Pistols (fronted by the enigmatic Barry Ashworth), The Beat, Benny Page, The Computers and Ava Leigh plus the legendary RAM Records takeover of The Cubicles dance arena. Featuring some of the hottest talent in the dance music scene including the undisputed godfather of DnB Andy C, RAM will once again be bringing his bag of bass-heavy tricks, alongside Wilkinson, Loadstar, Loko and MC Visionobi.

New Additions:

THE CORRESPONDENTS | THE WYTCHES | MISTY MILLER  |   ELECTRIC SWING CIRCUS

WILLE AND THE BANDITS | THE EQUATORS | TAKO LAKO | SMERINS ANTI SOCIAL CLUB | MORE LIKE TREES | DR MEAKER  |   UNCLE DUGS  | KRY WOLF  |  RICHARD AND THE RAFTERS | BO WALTON  | STIFF JOINTS

The Correspondents will be returning to Nozstock for a second year with their high-energy two-man stage show. DJ/Producer Chucks throws a history of dance music from Blues to Jazz, Electro to Dubstep to Drum’n’Bass into the mix which is then seasoned with Mr Bruce’s vocals depicting the trials and errors of love, lust and loss creating a show not to be missed.

Electric Swing Circus are a 6 piece Electro Swing band that fuses cool 20's swing with stomping electro beats in a dazzling live show.  Fronted by the sassy Sisters of Swing with the addition of live drums, fretless bass, gyspy jazz guitar, keys, synths and swinging samples, The Electric Swing Circus hotfoots its way through everything from breakbeat and house to jungle and dubstep, whilst keeping true to their own unique style of swing. 

The Wytches formed in November 2011 and have slithered their way in to various cities over England with a cynical, dark and flowery take on psychedelia ever since. Their songs take in 50’s surf riffs, desert whips and loungey melancholic shuffles, drawing influence from Nirvana, Bright Eyes and The Cramps

Dr Meaker have become one of Bristol's prize assets and are set to be an exciting prospect for Nozstock this year. Many have been won over by their mind blowing live performances, tight production, quality writing and their ability to effortlessly mix soul with Bass music. Last year the band performed a Maida Vale Live Lounge session for Trevor Nelson’s BBC Radio 1xtra show.

Smerins Anti Social Club are renowned for their explosive live shows and Nozstock will be no exception. They have long been firing up festival crowds and gig-goers throughout the UK with their 10 piece lineup using the raw ingredients of ska, funk, dub, drum'n'bass and swing to full effect in their epic, brass-heavy instrumentals.

Sika Studios Hip Hop Squat Takeover

Fliptrix  |Verb T | Jam Baxter |Leaf Dog | BVA | Edward Scissortongue | DJ Sammy B Side| DJ Madnice |Dr Syntax |Devilman | Ed Cox + Stivs (DSC) + Mattycore (Life4land) |Stagga + Skamma |Lee Scott + Bill Shakes (Children of the Damned) | Split Prophets | Jman |Sonnyjim + Sleaze |Mylo Stone | Tenchoo | Traumatik |Rum Committee | Concept of Thought | Defenders of Style + Lego + Matter | Granville Sessions + Jester Jacobs|Influx |TPS |GV Clik | Cracker Jon + Too Late | Bennadict | Kimberley Newell |Bahai | Flash Harry

In addition to these announcements, Sika Studios have announced the lineup for their hip hop squat takeover in The Bullpen. This will see the return of High Focus Records to Nozstock, putting on a showcase featuring the like of Fliptrix, who has been considered the UKs freshest hip hop MC since 2010's critically acclaimed Theory of Rhyme, Leaf Dog, one third of underground heroes Three Amigos, Verb TBVAJam BaxterEdward ScissortongueDJ Sammy B Side and DJ Madnice. A huge figure in underground UK hip-hop, Dr Syntax will be returning to Nozstock, with his ‘witty social commentary, self-deprecating humour and intelligent wordplay. (Rhyme and Reason).

The Coppice lineup announced

Psytrance stalwarts Tribe of Frog will also be returning to Nozstock to bring deep beats into The Coppice all weekend long with acts like Big Scary Monsters, Illegal Machines, and K.i.M joining the fray. Also appearing will be: Brainiac, Occular, Lurk, Lorraine, Awen, Neutron, Nocotopus, Psychosonic, F'da F'da, Hemp, Timmer, Dr. Psy, Piemanand Wicki.

First comedy acts revealed

Nozstock is also thrilled to announce the first wave of its comedy lineup for 2013. Hosted by Rock ‘N Roll tour manger turned award winning comedian Bob Slayer, this year’s line up features the cream of the UK comedy crop.

Lauded by Time Out as a ‘wonderfully observed and hysterically funny character who contacts dead celebrities with incredible results‘ Tom Binns is set to grace the stage with his most recent comic creation Ian De Monfort, a psychic from Sunderland.  Mr Methane, the renowned performing flatualist caused a stir on Britain's Got Talent a few years ago with his anal voiced rendition of The Blue Danube will also be appearing.

Other highlights include Martin Mor, Norman Lovett and Simon Donald as well as Lach, Joey Page, Holly Burns, Ben Target, Pat Cahill, John Kearns, Holly Burn, Karl Schultz, Adam Larter, Paul Duncan McGarity, Matthew Highton, Beth Vyse Gareth Morinan and Joe Davies.

Full Lineup

The Strypes | Dub Pistols | Chas and Dave | Mr Scruff | The Beat | The Correspondents | DJ Yoda | Sonny Wharton | The Wytches | | Parlour Flames | The Computers | Misty Miller | Electric Swing Circus  | Wille and The Bandits  | The Equators  | Ava Leigh | Tako Lako | Smerins Anti Social Club | Kitten and The Hip | More Like Trees | Dr Meaker | Uncle Dugs | Kry Wolf | King Porter Stomp | By The Rivers | George Ezra | Velvet Stream | The Resonators | Dutty Inspectors | Ziro | Heymoon Shaker | Backbeat Soundsystem | Coda | MouthMaster Murph | Goldseal | More Like Trees | Gypsy Unit | Cazal | Too Spicy | Duncan Disorderly and The Scallywags |  Wyynona Ryyder |  Caolin Clay | Johnny Kowasaki and The Sexy Weirdos | Captain Accident and The Disasters | Sarah Joy | Jennifer Booton | The Inexplicables | The Cadbury Sisters | Richard and The Rafters  | Bo Walton  | Stiff Joints | High Focus Records Showcase | Fliptrix | Verb T | Jam Baxter | Leaf Dog | BVA | Edward Scissortongue | DJ Sammy B Side| DJ Madnice | Dr Syntax | Devilman | Ed Cox + Stivs + Mattycore | Stagga + Skamma | Lee Scott + Bill Shakes | Split Propehts | J Man | Sonnyjim + Sleaze | Mylo Stone | Big Scary Monsters | Illegal Machines | K.i.M | Brainiac | Occular | Lurk | Lorraine | Awen | Neutron | Nocotopus, Psychosonic | F'da F'da | Hemp | Timmer | Dr. Psy | Pieman |  Wicki

 

Andy C | Loadstar | Wilkinson | S.P.Y | Kasra | Break | Benny Page | Loko | MC GQ | MC Lowqui | MC Visionobi | Remidy MC | Amoss | Octo Pi | DJ Scope

 

The Music Pool Charity

This year Nozstock is delighted to announce The Music Pool as an official charity for 2013. A community based music charity for Herefordshire and its borders; they are dedicated to providing chances for people of all ages and abilities to make music together, because it is one of the most powerful ways to improve people's lives and well-being. You can find out more about what they do at www.musicpool.org.uk and catch the best of their Livewire youth music project showcased on The Bandstand on Saturday.

Cosy Camping from Yippee-Yurts

If there’s one thing that would make your Noz experience that little bit snugger, it would be having a non-soggy sleeping bag, and no muddy footprints on the tent ceiling from the previous weekend (don’t ask). If this sounds like your festival wish list, then you need to book yourself in for some cosy camping. We’re over the moon to have partnered up with Yippee-Yurts who are offering you the chance to build a pick and mix package that suits you (and your wallet!) for the festival weekend, with cosy and spacious fab cotton canvas (no soggy nylon nightmares here!) bell tents, assembled and waiting for you simply furnished with scatter cushions, textile rugs, fleecy throws and decorated around the entrance with solar fairy lights, and more standing room than you’ll know what to do with. If you want to push the boat out why not book an airbed with bed linen and a snuggly duvet! In the Yippee Village there will be a covered chill out area with chairs, tables, BBQ's and charging facilities for your phones and pads! They even offer a luggage porter service and they stay on-site to look after you for the whole event! Start your cosy camping experience at www.yippeeyurts.webs.com or email [email protected] to choose what you want for your weekend home. Just imagine, perfect days at Nozstock and perfect nights in your bell tent. Could your weekend get any better?

ON SALE NOW AT – www.nozstock.com

Tier 2

Adult Weekend = £95

Children 12 and under – free

Car parking – £10

Camper Van £30

Final Music lineup announced for Nozstock

THE CORRESPONDENTS | THE WYTCHES | MISTY MILLER  |   ELECTRIC SWING CIRCUS

WILLE AND THE BANDITS | THE EQUATORS | TAKO LAKO | SMERINS ANTI SOCIAL CLUB | MORE LIKE TREES | DR MEAKER  |   UNCLE DUGS  | KRY WOLF  |  RICHARD AND THE RAFTERS | BO WALTON  | STIFF JOINTS

The Correspondents will be returning to Nozstock for a second year with their high-energy two-man stage show. DJ/Producer Chucks throws a history of dance music from Blues to Jazz, Electro to Dubstep to Drum’n’Bass into the mix which is then seasoned with Mr Bruce’s vocals depicting the trials and errors of love, lust and loss creating a show not to be missed.

Electric Swing Circus are a 6 piece Electro Swing band that fuses cool 20's swing with stomping electro beats in a dazzling live show.  Fronted by the sassy Sisters of Swing with the addition of live drums, fretless bass, gyspy jazz guitar, keys, synths and swinging samples, The Electric Swing Circus hotfoots its way through everything from breakbeat and house to jungle and dubstep, whilst keeping true to their own unique style of swing. 

The Wytches formed in November 2011 and have slithered their way in to various cities over England with a cynical, dark and flowery take on psychedelia ever since. Their songs take in 50’s surf riffs, desert whips and loungey melancholic shuffles, drawing influence from Nirvana, Bright Eyes and The Cramps.

Dr Meaker have become one of Bristol's prize assets and are set to be an exciting prospect for Nozstock this year. Many have been won over by their mind blowing live performances, tight production, quality writing and their ability to effortlessly mix soul with Bass music. Last year the band performed a Maida Vale Live Lounge session for Trevor Nelson’s BBC Radio 1xtra show.

Smerins Anti Social Club are renowned for their explosive live shows and Nozstock will be no exception. They have long been firing up festival crowds and gig-goers throughout the UK with their 10 piece lineup using the raw ingredients of ska, funk, dub, drum'n'bass and swing to full effect in their epic, brass-heavy instrumentals.

Sika Studios Hip Hop Squat Takeover

Fliptrix  |Verb T | Jam Baxter |Leaf Dog | BVA | Edward Scissortongue | DJ Sammy B Side| DJ Madnice |Dr Syntax |Devilman | Ed Cox + Stivs (DSC) + Mattycore (Life4land) |Stagga + Skamma |Lee Scott + Bill Shakes (Children of the Damned) | Split Prophets | Jman |Sonnyjim + Sleaze |Mylo Stone | Tenchoo | Traumatik |Rum Committee | Concept of Thought | Defenders of Style + Lego + Matter | Granville Sessions + Jester Jacobs|Influx |TPS |GV Clik | Cracker Jon + Too Late | Bennadict | Kimberley Newell |Bahai | Flash Harry|

In addition to these announcements, Sika Studios have announced the lineup for their hip hop squat takeover in The Bullpen. This will see the return of High Focus Records to Nozstock, putting on a showcase featuring the like of Fliptrix, who has been considered the UKs freshest hip hop MC since 2010's critically acclaimed Theory of Rhyme, Leaf Dog, one third of underground heroes Three Amigos,Verb TBVAJam BaxterEdward ScissortongueDJ Sammy B Side and DJ Madnice. A huge figure in underground UK hip-hop, Dr Syntax will be returning to Nozstock, with his ‘witty social commentary, self-deprecating humour and intelligent wordplay. (Rhyme and Reason).

The Coppice lineup announced

Psytrance stalwarts Tribe of Frog will also be returning to Nozstock to bring deep beats into The Coppice all weekend long with acts like Big Scary Monsters, Illegal Machines, and K.i.M joining the fray. Also appearing will be: Brainiac, Occular, Lurk, Lorraine, Awen, Neutron, Nocotopus,Psychosonic, F'da F'da, Hemp, Timmer, Dr. Psy, Pieman and Wicki.

First comedy acts revealed

Nozstock is also thrilled to announce the first wave of its comedy lineup for 2013. Hosted by Rock ‘N Roll tour manger turned award winning comedian Bob Slayer, this year’s line up features the cream of the UK comedy crop.

Lauded by Time Out as a ‘wonderfully observed and hysterically funny character who contacts dead celebrities with incredible results‘ Tom Binns is set to grace the stage with his most recent comic creation Ian De Monfort, a psychic from Sunderland.  Mr Methane, the renowned performing flatualist caused a stir on Britain's Got Talent a few years ago with his anal voiced rendition of The Blue Danube will also be appearing.

Other highlights include Martin Mor, Norman Lovett and Simon Donald as well as Lach, Joey Page, Holly Burns, Ben Target, Pat Cahill, John Kearns, Holly Burn, Karl Schultz, Adam Larter, Paul Duncan McGarity, Matthew Highton, Beth Vyse Gareth Morinan and Joe Davies.

Full Lineup

The Strypes | Dub Pistols | Chas and Dave | Mr Scruff | The Beat | The Correspondents | DJ Yoda | Sonny Wharton | The Wytches | | Parlour Flames | The Computers | Misty Miller | Electric Swing Circus  | Wille and The Bandits  | The Equators  | Ava Leigh | Tako Lako | Smerins Anti Social Club | Kitten and The Hip | More Like Trees | Dr Meaker | Uncle Dugs | Kry Wolf | King Porter Stomp | By The Rivers | George Ezra | Velvet Stream | The Resonators | Dutty Inspectors | Ziro | Heymoon Shaker | Backbeat Soundsystem | Coda | MouthMaster Murph | Goldseal | More Like Trees | Gypsy Unit | Cazal | Too Spicy | Duncan Disorderly and The Scallywags |  Wyynona Ryyder |  Caolin Clay | Johnny Kowasaki and The Sexy Weirdos | Captain Accident and The Disasters | Sarah Joy | Jennifer Booton | The Inexplicables | The Cadbury Sisters | Richard and The Rafters  | Bo Walton  | Stiff Joints | High Focus Records Showcase | Fliptrix | Verb T | Jam Baxter | Leaf Dog | BVA | Edward Scissortongue | DJ Sammy B Side| DJ Madnice | Dr Syntax | Devilman | Ed Cox + Stivs + Mattycore | Stagga + Skamma | Lee Scott + Bill Shakes | Split Propehts | J Man | Sonnyjim + Sleaze | Mylo Stone | Big Scary Monsters | Illegal Machines | K.i.M | Brainiac | Occular | Lurk | Lorraine | Awen | Neutron | Nocotopus, Psychosonic |F'da F'da | Hemp | Timmer | Dr. Psy | Pieman |  Wicki

Andy C | Loadstar | Wilkinson | S.P.Y | Kasra | Break | Benny Page | Loko | MC GQ | MC Lowqui | MC Visionobi | Remidy MC | Amoss | Octo Pi | DJ Scope

The Music Pool Charity

This year Nozstock is delighted to announce The Music Pool as an official charity for 2013. A community based music charity for Herefordshire and its borders; they are dedicated to providing chances for people of all ages and abilities to make music together, because it is one of the most powerful ways to improve people's lives and well-being. You can find out more about what they do at www.musicpool.org.uk and catch the best of their Livewire youth music project showcased on The Bandstand on Saturday.

Cosy Camping from Yippee-Yurts

If there’s one thing that would make your Noz experience that little bit snugger, it would be having a non-soggy sleeping bag, and no muddy footprints on the tent ceiling from the previous weekend (don’t ask). If this sounds like your festival wish list, then you need to book yourself in for some cosy camping. We’re over the moon to have partnered up with Yippee-Yurts who are offering you the chance to build a pick and mix package that suits you (and your wallet!) for the festival weekend, with cosy and spacious fab cotton canvas (no soggy nylon nightmares here!) bell tents, assembled and waiting for you simply furnished with scatter cushions, textile rugs, fleecy throws and decorated around the entrance with solar fairy lights, and more standing room than you’ll know what to do with. If you want to push the boat out why not book an airbed with bed linen and a snuggly duvet! In the Yippee Village there will be a covered chill out area with chairs, tables, BBQ's and charging facilities for your phones and pads! They even offer a luggage porter service and they stay on-site to look after you for the whole event! Start your cosy camping experience at www.yippeeyurts.webs.com or email [email protected] to choose what you want for your weekend home. Just imagine, perfect days at Nozstock and perfect nights in your bell tent. Could your weekend get any better?

Chas & Dave to headline Nozstock Festival

Also confirmed for the tasty Nozstock smorgasbord of music are: The Dub Pistols, The Strypes, Andy C and MC GQ, Wilkinson, Loadstar, Loko, MC Visionobi, The Beat, Bhi Bhiman, The Computers, Ava Leigh and Velvet Stream. Plus the legendary RAM Records will be hosting a Saturday takeover in The Cubicles. More artists to be announced soon….

This small family-run event now in its 15th year is set in a beautiful rural part of Herefordshire. It started life as a party for relatives and friends and has grown organically over the years into an experience where a sense of belonging still holds true. There is a warm, inclusive welcome, synonymous with the small festival experience, an ethos of fun and participation, and an incredible array of entertainments. With over six stages and many nooks, crannies and secret wooded glades to discover Nozstockers are invited on a journey of discovery through the dingles and the dells of this magical site

The Hidden Valley is landscaped around a ramshackle Tudor farmhouse. It sits behind the main ORCHARD STAGE and is set at the foot of a natural arena on the side of the gently sloping valley. Alongside the farmhouse is the GARDEN STAGE, which provides a more eclectic line up, turning electronic by sundown whilst converted cowshed the CUBICLES pushes out sub-thumping bass and dubstep this year hosted on Saturday by the legendary drum 'n bass label RAM Records. With further music (including a new electro-swing stage), theatre, comedy stages and tents dotted around the site Nozstock offers a cornucopia of wonders to explore

This year’s theme is Wild Wild West, so dust off your cowboy hats, fringed moccasins, saloon skirts and ropey John Wayne impressions for what promises to be the best Nozstock yet.

Line up

In a career spanning 40 years, Chas & Dave are without doubt one of Britain’s longest running and most cherished acts. Chas Hodges (piano, vocals, banjo, guitars) and Dave Peacock (bass guitar, vocals, banjo, guitars) began playing together way back in 1972.  With hits like Gertcha, Rabbit, The Sideboard Song and Margate, they created a sound that was uniquely British and rockin' to boot. And it’s those songs that have ensured that the boys have continued to tour for over five decades to audiences across the world, enchanted by their East End charm and witty song-writing

Their contribution to popular culture was recognised recently by BBC Four with an hour-long documentary detailing their career and influence. The critically acclaimed show was based around the 2011 tour and featured input from Jools Holland, Phill Jupitus, and Pete Doherty to name a few. Also just announced are festival favourites The Dub Pistols (fronted by the enigmatic Barry Ashworth), teenage buzz band The Strypes (tipped by NME as one of the most exciting new bands of 2013), The Beat, Benny Page, The Computers and Ava Leigh plus the legendary RAM Records takeover of The Cubicles dance arena. Featuring some of the hottest talent in the dance music scene including the undisputed godfather of DnB, Andy C, who will once again be bringing his bag of bass-heavy tricks, alongside Wilkinson, Loadstar, Loko and MC Visionobi

Sika Studios

SIKA studios are returning to Nozstock! By day they provide break dance lessons and graffiti workshops, with a chance for everyone to get their hands on a spray can, giving all ages the chance to get creative and express themselves. By night, enjoy SIKA’s dynamic programming as they bring you DJs spanning every urban style and bringing a big time groove to your weekend. Keep your ears peeled for some beatbox battles and record label showcases

The Music Pool Charit

This year Nozstock is delighted to announce The Music Pool as an official charity for 2013. A community based music charity for Herefordshire and its borders; they are dedicated to providing chances for people of all ages and abilities to make music together, because it is one of the most powerful ways to improve people's lives and well-being. You can find out more about what they do at www.musicpool.org.uk and catch the best of their Livewire youth music project showcased on The Bandstand on Saturday

Cosy Camping from Yippee-Yurt

If there’s one thing that would make your Noz experience that little bit snugger, it would be having a non-soggy sleeping bag, and no muddy footprints on the tent ceiling from the previous weekend (don’t ask). If this sounds like your festival wish list, then you need to book yourself in for some cosy camping. We’re over the moon to have partnered up with Yippee-Yurts who are offering you the chance to build a pick and mix package that suits you (and your wallet!) for the festival weekend, with cosy and spacious fab cotton canvas (no soggy nylon nightmares here!) bell tents, assembled and waiting for you simply furnished with scatter cushions, textile rugs, fleecy throws and decorated around the entrance with solar fairy lights, and more standing room than you’ll know what to do with. If you want to push the boat out why not book an airbed with bed linen and a snuggly duvet! In the Yippee Village there will be a covered chill out area with chairs, tables, BBQ's and charging facilities for your phones and pads! They even offer a luggage porter service and they stay on-site to look after you for the whole event! Start your cosy camping experience atwww.yippeeyurts.webs.com or email [email protected] to choose what you want for your weekend home. Just imagine, perfect days at Nozstock and perfect nights in your bell tent. Could your weekend get any better?

Nozstock and Global Gathering 2012 Weather Forecast

Global Gathering

Friday 27th July – Most of the day will remain cloudy with the sun making an appearance in the afternoon.  A high of 23° is expected.

Saturday 28th July – Another fine looking day with cloudy periods and the sun should come out in the late afternoon.  A high of 18° is expected.

The Summer Festival Guide recommends that you pack up the sunscreen, hats, sunnies, and all your other summer gear.  With little or no rain at all, it may get a little cold at night so pack a light jacket.

Nozstock

Friday 27th July – Sunny with a possible light shower in the evening, a high of 21° expected.

Saturday 28th July – Another fine day with sunny intervals and a high of 17° expected.

Sunday 29th July – A chance of showers and a high of 17° expected

The Summer Festival Guide recommends that you pack some light wet weather gear with some rain expected over the weekend.  Be sure to also pack sunscreen and the summer essentials as there will be periods of sun!

Phil Kay To Headline Nozstock Comedy Tent

 

PLUS DUB BAIT TAKEOVER THE GARDEN STAGE AND TRIBE OF FROG LINEUP ANNOUNCED

New additions to the comedy tent…

PHIL KAY
PAUL RICKETTS / MILES LLOYD / SHAZIA MIRZA

SHAUN MCHUGH / TOM ROCHE  

BRIAN DAMAGER

Tribe of Frog announce new additions at the CoppIce…

  BASS CLEF / PSYMMETRIX / ASMILON / MONAD

Dub Bait announce Garden stage takeover…

  STUMBLEINE / BROCKSTEADY

PRYMEDIA / TENZ / LARSEY

Previously announced Comedy Line Up…

THE RUBBERBANDITS / JASON ROUSE

DEVVO / PAT MONAHON / TONY LAW / PAUL DUNCAN MCGARRITY / DARIUS DAVIES / CHRIS BOYD / JOHN KEARNS / SPENCER JONES / PAT CAHILL / MATTHEW HIGHTON / DON BISWAS / JOE DAVIES / MARK STEPHENSON / RICHARD TODD / KISHORE NAYOR / BOB SLAYER (MC) / TREVOR LOCK (MC)

Music Line Up for the Orchard/Garden stages…

THE FUTUREHEADS / THE PROCLAIMERS / DREADZONE

THE CORRESPONDENTS / WILLY MOON / JUAN ZELADA / CROWNS / SON OF DAVE /

BY THE RIVERS / ZINC / IMPERIAL LEISURE / SONNY WHARTON / KAL LAVELLE / JAKE BUGG / ED SOLO / EUGENE FRANCIS JNR / LOS ALBERTOS / SICKNOTE / NEW TOWN KINGS / THE CAEZERS / EYES ON FILM / CHINA SHOP BULL / THE SNARE / THE RAGED / RUBY AND THE RIBCAGE / KENTISH FIRE / WE STEAL THIEVES / THE STOWAWAYS / PHYISCS / FLASH HARRY AND J MAN /JOHN BLOOD AND THE HIGHLYS / ANDI SKELLAM /

BEDLAM BEAT ASYLUM FT. MOUTHMASTER MURF

Nozstock The Hidden Valley is delighted to announce Phil Kay and more names for this year’s comedy line up.

Over the past few years Nozstock has forged a reputation for hosting some of the finest UK comedy talent. Seen now as the perfect place to road-test new material past luminaries have included the likes of Russell Howard, Phil Jupitus, Adrian Edmondson and Stephen Frost to name a few.

Headlining the laughter dome on Friday night is multi award-winning Scottish comedian Phil Kay. Known for his eccentric and at times wild persona Kay has been a regular on the circuit for the past 20 years, fronted his own TV shows  – such a Channel 4’s ‘Phil Kay Feels’ and ‘Next Stop, Phil Kay’ – and even found time to pen scripts for the likes of the Jonathan Ross show and The Smell Of Reeves And Mortimer. A former British Comedy Award winner and Perrier nominee Kay’s brand of high-energy improv and anarchic wit defies comedy convention.

Also just announced is Comedy Store regular Paul Ricketts, accomplished young stand up Miles Lloyd and new kids on the block Shazia Merza, Tom Roche, Brian Damager and Shaun McHugh. They join an incredible array of previously announced talent such as The Rubberbandits, Jason Rouse, Devvo, Pat Monahon, Tony Law,Paul Duncan Mcgarrity and Darius Davies to name a few.

From midnight on Saturday leading blog Dub Bait takes over the Garden Stage and presents an intriguing late night line-up of 60’s inspired retro-futuristic electronica. Confirmed acts include Bristol basedrising star Stumbleine and weighty dubstep producer Bassclef as well as moving visual duo Prymedia, Dub Bait founder Larsey, and newbie’s Tenz and Brocksteady. Meanwhile over by the lake and in the trees of The Coppice legendary psy-trance crew Tribe of Frog have announced their line-up featuring heavyweights such as Bass Clef, Psymmetrix, Asmilon, Monad, Colour, Steve Oood andPsyfi plus a whole host of breakthrough talent (see full line up in the TheCoppice stage section below).

Landscaped around a ramshackle Tudor farmhouse this small family-run event now in its 14th year is set in the pristine Herefordshire countryside. It started life as a party for relatives and friends and has grown organically over the years into an experience where a sense of belonging still holds true. With over six stages and many nooks, crannies and secret wooded glades to discover Nozstockers are invited on a journey of discovery through the dingles and the dells of this magical site.

Win a chance to play at Nozstock 2012!

Please submit your best track (no covers please) via our SoundCloud DropBox nozstock/dropbox>  by midnight 8th July 2012.
 
Voting will be open Monday 9th July – Monday 16th July by way of Soundcloud 'favourites'/'likes' The Nozstock team will pick one of the most favourited tracks from among the Soundcloud submissions to perform at the festival (27-29th July).

Your track should be labelled in this format: "PlayNoz – ARTIST NAME – Track Name". Make sure the track can be downloaded, as we will be re-uploading it to the Nozstock Soundcloud page. We will not make your track available for download, and will delete it after the competition closes.

Once you have submitted your track, please let us know your contact details via the "Write a personal note for nozstock" box in the upload process OR email promotions[at] nozstock.com, with the subject line **PlayNoz – ARTIST NAME, TRACK NAME** so that we can contact the winner. All entrants/band members must be from the UK and available 27th – 29th July 2012. Nozstock will cover transport costs and provide refreshments on the day.

 

 

Futureheads, DJ Zinc and more for Nozstock 2012

UK ska exponents Imperial Leisure and live breakbeat act The Raged. There will also be a new stage at Nozstock this year, Tent of Temporary Thought, a proverbial literary feast which will appear alongside festival favourite Bantam of the Opera, a theatre stage by day and Velveteen Valley Caberet Lounge by night.

Sunderland post-punk power quartet The Futureheads burst onto the scene in the early noughties. After a string of releases it was their cover version of Kate Bush’s ‘Hounds Of Love’ that firmly etched them into the public consciousness garnering a No.8 slot in the UK singles chart. Since then they have released five critically lauded albums, launched their own label and picked up a legion of fans with their frenetic live show. Known for their blend of guitar stabs and rich, tonal four part harmonies, they are set to close Saturday night in style on the Orchard Stage.

Future Heads

Meanwhile headlining the Garden Stage on Friday is founding member of the now legendary Ganja Crew/Tru Playaz collectives DJ Zinc. His 1995 club smasher ‘Super Sharp Shooter’ and speaker-busting bootleg of The Fugees ‘Ready Or Not’ won him international acclaim and spawned the Tru Playaz club night which he set up with fellow TP cohorts Pascal and DJ Hype. Also just confirmed are North London ska-punk rockers Imperial LeisureKal Lavelle (who recently toured with Ed Sheeran), The Caezers, Jake Bugg, Kentish Fire, Sicknote and We Steal Thieves to name a few.

But it’s not just the music line-up that will delight this year, as there are many nooks and crannies and secret wooded glades to discover. During the day the Bantam Of The Opera tent offers a myriad of theatrical shenanigans where one can learn circus tricks, belly dancing and acrobatics or soak up puppet shows and side-splitting theatre. Midnight marks the start of the Velveteen Valley Caberet Lounge – tassels and glamour are in store here, featuring ring mistress Ophelia Bitz on Saturday in an eclectic mix of cabaret, humour, song and dance.

Elsewhere The Tent Of Temporary Thought will pop-up throughout the festival with a selection of the UK’s finest wordsmiths (such as the winner of the ‘UK young story yeller of the year’ award Rachael Rose Reid and leading Welsh poet Ifor Thomas) delivering a wide range of talks, poetry, spoken word and forums. For those who feel the creative itch themselves, the new and improved arts and crafts area is an immersive hotbed of fun featuring classes and demo’s of such forgotten arts as chalk carving, haberdashery, coppicing, spoon carving and blacksmith forgery.

 

THE FUTUREHEADS

DJ ZINC / IMPERIAL LEISURE / THE RAGED

IMPERIAL LEISURE / JAKE BUGG / REMEDY MC EUGENE FRANCIS JNR / LOS ALBERTOS/ KAL LAVELLE / THE CAEZERS / EYES ON FILM / KENTISH FIRE / WE STEAL THIEVES / PHYSICS / SICKNOTE    

 THE STOWAWAYS / CHINA SHOP BULL / THE SNARE  

JOHN BLOOD AND THE HIGHLYS / ANDI SKELLAM / SCOPE / AMOS

RUBY AND THE RIBCAGE / NEW TOWN KINGS / WOODEN HOUSE

They join the previously announced…

THE PROCLAIMERS / ANDY C and MC GQ / DREADZONE / THE CORRESPONDENTS / CAMO AND KROOKED / DRUMSOUND AND BASSLINE SMITH / SKINNY LISTER / WILLY MOON / JUAN ZELADA / SON OF DAVE / OCTANE and DLR / BRASSROOTS / DOLLAR BILL / ELECTRIC SWING CIRCUS /

BY THE RIVERS / TOMB CREW / YOUNGSTA / DUB PHIZIX / ED RUSH / SONNY WHARTON

 

Other Stages:

THE BULLPEN:

SIKA STUDIOS – hip hop takeover featuring the cream of underground UK hip hop talent, with graffiti art workshops

THE FOUR OWLS / DIRTY DIKE & JAM BAXTER / FLIPTRIX / 3 AMIGOS / ED JONES / NATALIE COLEMAN / NICK WALTERS / SAMANTHA (GET DIVERTED)

London’s MOOCH Saturday night takeover www.moochlondon.co.uk – underground House & Techno.

THE COPPICE:

Bristol’s TRIBE OF FROG host psychedelic trance stage www.tribeoffrog.com

THE BANDSTAND:

MUSICBORN from London host Friday night www.musicborn.com – elite bands from the London circuit with a mix of indie, rock and electro

THE CUBICLES:

ANDY C and MC GQ / CAMO AND KROOKED / DRUMSOUND AND BASSLINE SMITH / TOMB CREW / OCTANE and DLR / YOUNGSTA / DUB PHIZIX / ED RUSH

Other Fun Activities:

Nozstock The Hidden Valley strives to bring a whole cornucopia of fun, games and happenings. 2012’s extravaganza will bring you:

Sock Wrestling, Walkabout Theatre, Ballz Out Circus Troupe, Fire Dancers, Jive and Ceilidh evenings, Sound Art, Spoken Word and Poetry, Talks and Forums from the Tent Of Temporary Thought with guest speakers

KIDS AREA: THE ENCHANTED GLADE

Slapstick workshop, Circus skills, Willow Sculptures, Face Painting, Tall Tales, Puppet Procession, Kidi Yoga, Puppet Processions, UV Disco and Dance Workshop, Hula Hooping, Gaffer Tape Roses, Bubble Making, Craft Workshops, Magician, Balloon Maker

COMEDY:

This year Nozstock is working with UP FOR COMEDY? showcasing the cream of national and regional talent plus STAND UP AGAINST RACISM as part of the SHOW RACISM THE RED CARD campaign to raise awareness. Full line-up soon to be announced.

WRONG DIRECTIONS CINEMA:

MASH Cinema have been organising events and screenings since 2002 and continue to promote art, film and music through their events locally and internationally. Over the past six years MASH Cinema has gained recognition for visual performances working with artists, musicians and DJs at events, clubs and festivals throughout Europe.

HEALING AREA:

The healing and therapy area will be offering Thai massage among other healing therapies. It is run by www.yelenisupport.co.uk who will be donating a percentage of their takings to cancer patients and their families.

FOOD AND DRINK:

As ever, Nozstock will be creating a varied menu combining local delights with foods of the World. A plethora of tasty meals and snacks will be offer with a chill out café for those seeking coffee-scented sanctuary.

TICKETS:

Gates open at 9am from Friday 27th July. Shuttle services will be on offer from local town Bromyard and to and from Hereford and Worcester before and after the festival.

ON SALE NOW 

Adult Advance Weekend Tickets  £80

Camper Van/Live in Vehicle Pass £28 (price freeze)

Parking Pass Full Weekend £5 in advance (price freeze)

Boutique Camping – details to follow soon

 

ON SALE FROM JUNE 1ST

Tier B Adult Weekend Tickets £85

Nozstock: The Hidden Valley lineup!

Along with the above are the confirmed acts below:
 
ANDY C – NETSKY – SONIC BOOM SIX – SPUNGE – LIFE IN FILM –
 CATCH IT KEBABS – DC BREAKS – ALIX PEREZ – RESON – BORGORE – THE CORRESPONDENTS – ICICLE – MC GQ – MC SEROCEE- LAID BACK – TAKO LAKO – MC REMIDY – JAZZSTEPPA – DR MEAKER – THE ANOMALIES – DUB BAY – TREE OF FROG – AMOS – OCTO PI – SONNY WHARTON
 
jim jones revueJim Jones Revue are one of the hottest bands on the up. They have been described by Mojo as ‘deranged rock +roll’ reminiscent of the Stooges. Produced by Bad Seed Jim Sclavunos, their album, ‘Burn Down Your House,’ has been getting recent media attention but it is live where this band excels. Adrian Edmondson + The Bad Shepherds have garnered excellent reviews for their folk-style reworking of classic songs such as ‘Down in the Tube Station at Midnight.’ With a skillful array of multi-instrumentalists they’ll be a ‘must-see at Nozstock. CW Stoneking is an American-Australian who defies time and place with his Deep South Blues. He’s already been on ‘Later Live With Jools.’ And, The Wurzels are a perfect accompaniment to cider and hog roast as the sun sets over the Hidden Valley on Sunday evening.
 
Amid the brushes of Herefordshire’s countryside lies Nozstock: The Hidden Valley. Founded by local residents during the hazy, optimistic and halcyon days at the turn of the millennium, it’s a homegrown event built from a curious amalgamation of performance, art, electronic supersounds and good old-fashioned guitar-strumming and drum-bashing. Now an established, leading family event in its 13th year, Nozstock is a sonic escape boasting eight main stages of entertainment with surprising sights and intimate, secluded areas of theatre and discovery to be unearthed.
 
When its visitors down tools and hand themselves over to the laid back atmosphere of the event for three pleasure-filled days, there’s a small world of frivolity to find, all scrupulously programmed by the festival’s founders, the Nosworthy family and their eclectically-informed friends.
 
The festival’s ethos is about bringing play to everyone, in whatever form it can. Nozstock believes in the value of not only entertaining, but in participation and contribution. Above all, Nozstock: The Hidden Valley is a blissful family festival that caters to all ages with activities that little ones can enjoy as well as families en bloc, keeping in the spirit of those early days.
 
New for 2011:
 
This year’s theme: ‘Twisted Carnival’.
 
Festival friends are encouraged to dress up in the brightest, eye-catching outfits they can procure. The theme should inspire all sorts of warped imaginations. Be bold, be free, be you!
 
Nozstock’s home-grown bars will offer the Wye Valley’s favourite brew Butty Bach, local Kingston Rosey & Press ciders… the usual spirits, lagers, wines and homemade cocktails, embellished with our own special ingredients. We try to keep as close to pub prices as we can.
 
Food will be sourced locally where possible. An eclectic mix from around the world to stimulate the taste buds. For carnivores there’ll be the delicious Hog on the Spit, tasty burgers and there’s healthy vegan and veggie options too.
 
Facilities:
 
New roads after the year of rain; so easy on and offsite access.
 
New beefy soundsystem in the Cubicles for the dnb & dubstep.
 
Boutique camping and tipis.
 
Nozstock Supermarche selling all useful supplies for the festival camper.
 
Official Merchandise (hoodies, tshirts, lighters, programmes)
 
Workshops – free standing, comedy, theatre, arts & crafts, kids…
 
Arts & craft area with sculptures
 
Little Wonderland Kids’ Area – all weekend entertainment for 12s and under.
 
Jamming round the wood fire
 
The Arenas and Stages:
 
Nozstock’s main arena, The Hidden Valley, is landscaped around a ramshackle Tudor farmhouse which sits on the side of the Valley in the centre of the festival site. It’s nestled against The Garden Stage, which hosts an array of eclectic bounce-inducing artists with an electronic turn post-sundown. The Orchard boasts the bigger names and good rollicking party bands as the Bandstand offers experimental electro-acoustica from diverse and unsigned artists.
 
The converted cowsheds include the Cubicles, sub-thumping drum ‘n’ bass and dubstep, to be found aside the Bullpen, knees-up housey beats and alternative dance. The Coppice’s luminous sounds from veterans of psytrance Tribe of Frog are the blissful converse to the Bantam of the Opera Theatre which explores another world with live performance, workshops and after-dark experimental cabaret while Laughing Stock bills prime-time comedians and up-and-comers, providing raucous chuckles and proper belly rumbles.
 
Shenanigans for the mini-festival goer occur off the beaten track and over the bridge where the Dingle is programmed with workshops aplenty and theatrical splendor, where opportunities abound to get interactive and remember how to play like only kids know how.
 
You can also catch a late night short film or music video from the mesmerising screenings on offer in the Cinetent, or grab some delicious local fare and a cocktail and take a tour round the site, letting your curiosity get the better of you.
 

In essence, Nozstock: The Hidden Valley is your chance to romp throughout a weekend of guilt-free debauchery and indulge in a medley of eye-opening encounters.

Nozstock Festival update

Now an established, leading family event in its 13th year, Nozstock is a sonic escape boasting eight main stages of entertainment with surprising sights and intimate, secluded areas of theatre and discovery to be unearthed.

When its visitors down tools and hand themselves over to the laid back atmosphere of the event for three pleasure-filled days, there’s a small world of frivolity to find, all scrupulously programmed by the festival’s founders, the Nosworthy family and their eclectically-informed friends.

The festival’s ethos is about bringing play to everyone, in whatever form it can. Nozstock believes in the value of not only entertaining, but in particpation and contribution. Above all, Nozstock: The Hidden Valley is a blissful family festival that caters to all ages with activities that little ones can enjoy as well as families en bloc, keeping in the spirit of those early days.
Quote from Farmer Pete Noz:Chaos at Nozstock this year? No chance! – we’ve built new roads though the site. There’s also going to be a new sound system in the Cubicles and we’re going for a full 3 days all at last year’s prices. We’ve had great feedback about our campsite but for those who want to go up market there’s boutique camping in bell tents, tipis and of course showers for the dirt-shy. We’re also developing some green plans that we’ll announce over the coming weeks. Nozstock is well known for its unique atmosphere and handmade vibe, that won’t change but there’s more colour, more to do and more walkabout performance, plus we’ve decided on a ‘Twisted Carnival’ theme this year to really get the punters looking lively. So come on down to The Farm and party till the cows come home!

NEW FOR 2011:

This year’s theme : ‘Twisted Carnival’. Festival friends are encouraged to dress up in the brightest, eye-catching outfits they can procure. The theme should inspire all sorts of warped imaginations. Be bold, be free, be you.!

Nozstock’s home-grown bars will offer the Wye Valley’s favourite brew Butty Bach, local Kingston Rosey & Press ciders… the usual spirits, lagers, wines and homemade cocktails, embellished with our own special ingredients. We try to keep as close to pub prices as we can.

Food will be sourced locally where possible. An eclectic mix from around the world to stimulate the tastebuds. For carnivores there’ll be the delicious Hog on the Spit, tasty burgers and there’s healthy vegan and veggie options too.

FACILITIES:

New roads after the year of rain so easy on and offsite access.

New beefy soundsystem in the Cubicles for the dnb & dubstep.

Boutique camping & tipis.

Nozstock Supermarche selling all useful supplies for the festival camper.

Official Merchandise (hoodies, tshirts, lighters, programmes)

Workshops – free standing, comedy, theatre, arts & crafts, kids…

Arts & craft area with sculptures

Little Wonderland Kids’ Area – all weekend entertainment for 12s and under.

Jamming round the wood fire

THE ARENAS AND STAGES:

Nozstock’s main arena, The Hidden Valley, is landscaped around a ramshackle Tudor farmhouse which sits on the side of the Valley in the centre of the festival site. It’s nestled against The Garden Stage, which hosts an array of eclectic bounce-inducing artists with an electronic turn post-sundown. The Orchard boasts the bigger names and good rollicking party bands as the Bandstand offers experimental electro-acoustica from diverse and unsigned artists.
The converted cowsheds include the Cubicles, sub-thumping drum ‘n’ bass and dubstep, to be found aside the Bullpen, knees-up housey beats and alternative dance. The Coppice’s luminous sounds from veterans of psytrance Tribe of Frog are the blissful converse to the Bantam of the Opera Theatre which explores another world with live performance, workshops and after-dark experimental cabaret while Laughing Stock bills prime-time comedians and up-and-comers, providing raucous chuckles and proper belly rumbles.
Shenanigans for the mini-festivaler occur off the beaten track and over the bridge where the Dingle is programmed with workshops aplenty and theatrical splendor, where opportunities abound to get interactive and remember how to play like only kids know how.
You can also catch a late night short film or music video from the mesmerising screenings on offer in the Cinetent, or grab some delicious local fare and a cocktail and take a tour round the site, letting your curiosity get the better of you.
In essence, Nozstock: The Hidden Valley is your chance to romp throughout a weekend of guilt-free debauchery and indulge in a medley of eye-opening encounters.

Gates open at 10am from Friday 29th July. Shuttle services will be on offer from local town Bromyard and to and from Hereford and Worcester before and after the festival.
Adult Early Bird Weekend Tickets £65.00
Teen Early Bird Weekend Tickets (13-17 yrs old) £50.00 (16s and under must be accompanied by adult)
Child Ticket (12 and under) FREE (must be accompanied by adult)
Camper Van/Live in Vehicle Pass £28.00
Parking Pass Full Weekend £5.00 in advance

Location: The Farm, Rowden Paddocks, Bromyard, Herefordshire, HR7 4LS
Capacity: 5,000