On the music front, Adam Ant & The Good, The Mad & The Lovely Possee were first up for me. The Word Arena was full with forty & fifty year-olds with a few teenagers scattered amongst the crowd, some with white stripes across their faces. Adam Ant rose to the occasion enjoying the admiration but appearing to be fully aware the whole thing was not to be taken too seriously. The set was chosen purposely for a festival crowd, playing the more commercial Adam & The Ants songs such as Ant Music, Dog Eat Dog, Kings Of The Wild Frontier, Stand & Deliver and Prince Charming plus solo hits Good Two Shoes and Viva La Rock. The set finished with a great rock version of (You’re So) Physical – which was nice!

This is what festivals are all about. Adam Ant gave a great performance merging pop music with cabaret. Looking around I could see others reliving their youth, merrily dancing and unashamedly singing along to every sing, though my 13 year old son did say Adam Ant looked like someone out of Psychoville!

The American indie pop duo, They Might Be Giants continued the retrospective fun on the main stage even though the pouring rain had them playing to a smaller crowd than I had anticipated. Their quirky lyrics and fun had people dancing in the rain with umbrellas and wellies as they played songs like ‘Birdhouse In Your Soul’.

I managed to catch a bit of Brighton’s indie rockers British Sea Power set in the Word Arena, the highlight being a rendition of their anthemic live favourite Waving Flags as a dedicated large group of teenagers held aloft and waved branches in the absence of flags. Great fun that brought a smile to my face and probably frowns on the faces of the ‘greener’ middle-aged festival-goers.

Dionne Bromfield is just 15 years old and has the pressure of being touted as the next Amy Winehouse, as well as being her God Daughter and signed to Amy’s own label. Fortunately, she has a great soul singing voice and as such has a great future ahead of her, as long as she can learn from others’ mistakes. Bromfield played on Saturday afternoon in the pouring rain to a packed marquee in the woods on the Sunrise Stage. Her set included a great cover version of Cee Lo Green’s ‘Forget You’, her hit single ‘Foolish Little Girl’ and songs from her forthcoming album, ‘Good For The Soul’.

From the teenage soulful voice of Dionne Bromfield to the New York angst of Cerebral Ballzy. Loud, fast, noisy and aggressive. Cerebral Ballzy play punk thrash songs about skateboarding, underage drinking, eating pizzas and being sick. The large moshpit of fans knowing what to expect directly in front of the Lake Stage, were joined by older on-lookers bedazzled by what they were seeing and hearing. The vocalist strutted about the stage with his jeans hanging just above his kness screaming undecipherable lyrics while the bass player played throbbing bass lines atop the speaker stack. The last song was dedicated to those in the moshpit. The singer called them to the front of the stage and asked them to turn around when the music started attack the rest of the audience in a call to arms: “Let’s thrash for the cause!” A great set and a real delight to see at Latitude.

Food, drink and a break from the music had my Saturday evening entertainment kicking off with Echo & The Bunnymen playing their first two albums in their entirety. ‘ Crocodiles‘ and ‘Heaven Up Here‘ were followed by a few hits singes including Killing Moon, The Cutter and Nothing Ever Lasts Forever. Ian McCulloch didn’t look much different, apart from a few extra chins, with his back-combed hair, dark glasses, coat and familiar stance wrapping his hands around the microphone and stand with a cigarette constantly burning from between his fingers.

The Word Arena was packed but unlike with Adam Ant, it was noticeable how many teenagers were not only enjoying the Bunnymen but were singing along to the songs. For them it was a chance to see one of the coolest bands of the post-punk / new wave era of the late 1970’s – early 1980’s but for others, including myself, it was another trip down memory lane to reminisce about what it was like seeing Echo & the Bunnymen almost 30 years ago!

The two headline acts for Saturday night at Latitude was Paolo Nutini on the Obelisk Stage and Foals in the Word Arena. Foals attracted a large audience which once again was too large for the marquee. They are difficult to categorise. Songs from the first album, ‘Antidotes‘, are generally funkier, driven by heavy-throbbing basslines and jagged guitars reminiscent of post-punk funk from the likes of Shriekback and A Certain Ratio; where the second album, ‘Total Life Forever‘, is a darker more intense sound which has been described as post-Prog Rock and Math Rock – whatever that is!

Foals played a great set worthy of the headline slot.

Once again, there were performances I wish I had seen but for one reason or another I missed Ed Sheeran, Seasick Steve, The Walkmen, Villagers, Trophy Wife and Dels.

Electric Picnic Music & Arts Festival

Electric Picnic Music & Arts Festival
Stradbally Hall, Co. Laois
Friday 2nd – Sunday 4th September 2011

The undisputed heavyweights of electronic music, Underworld, make a very welcome return to Stradbally Hall following an awe-inspiring show back in ‘08. In the last 20 years Underworld have been providing the soundtrack for summer after summer with the likes of the colossal Born Slippy, arguably the greatest dance track ever made. Now with nine albums, the most recent Barking seeing the band perform a feat of creative regeneration once again, it is with baited breath that picnicers wait to witness what the duo will unleash this September.

One of the world’s most distinguished Irishmen and music legend, Bob Geldof, will be treating picnicers to not only his first ever music performance at the Picnic but also to an appearance at our Spoken Word area. The verbose singer, is set to perform tracks from his extensive back catalogue  including memorable hits from his Boomtown Rats era as well as music from his latest critically acclaimed album ‘How To Compose Popular Songs That Will Sell.’

The album is his first in over 9 years and has already been declared ‘Album of the Year’ by BBC’s veteran DJ Bob Harris. Renowned for speaking his mind, the Picnic could not hope for a more thought provoking guest at the Spoken Word area. Having already been invited to be SXSW key note speaker and also given an unforgettable emotionally charged talk at this year’s Hay Festival, picnicers may well see another side to his didactic character.

Renowned singer-songwriter and producer extraordinaire, M. Ward, returns to Ireland for the first time in over 5 years. Known for his swooning voice and angelic guitar strumming, M.’s 2003 release, Transfiguration of Vincent, caught the attention of fans of future collaborators including Conor Oberst (Bright Eyes), Jenny Lewis, Cat Power, Gillian Welch and Jim James (My Morning Jacket). Since 2003 M. Ward has released several critically acclaimed albums including 2005’s Transistor Radio and his 2007 breakthrough release “Post-War”.

M. Ward is also the ‘Him’ in She & Him the hugely popular collaboration with Zooey Descanel and together with Jim James (My Morning Jacket) and Conor Oberst (Bright Eyes), Ward  released self-titled debut album Monsters of Folk.  Expect to be treated to songs from his current album Hold Time which has been awarded 4 stars from Mojo & Q.

The majestic I Am Kloot’s 2010 release Sky At Night, earned them a well deserved Mercury Prize nomination. Sky At Night saw fellow Mancunians Guy Garvey and Craig Potter from Elbow returning as producers after producing the band’s debut ‘Natural History’ and after years of being criminally ignored, the band finally got some well-deserved recognition.The Manchester trio formed in 1999 and have continuously delivered expertly-drawn, folk-inspired stories that have a lilting, melancholy to them. Album opener ‘Northern Skies’ was nominated for BBC 6 Music’s Top 40 songs of 2010 poll.

Foster The People are another first at this year’s Picnic. Their debut Torches has already been touted as a contender for album of the summer and with the breezy lead track Pumped Up Kicks being played by every DJ on the planet it’s no wonder. Having gained viral recognition last year the band have now been endorsed by MTV, sold out their massive US tour, and sold over 33,000 copies of their debut in it first week in US alone. With super catchy beats and an electric stage presence this is one not to be missed.

Cited by Bono as Ireland’s “Trailblazers,” the “sophisticated soul boot boys” that are Republic Of Loose make an inaugural trip to Electric Picnic this year. With their reputation as one of Ireland’ greatest live acts, along with the vociferous energy of front man Mik Pyro it is certain that  “Loose! Loose! Loose!” will soon be heard chanted across Stradbally lawns this September.

With a set list comprising of Loose classics such as Shame, Break, The Steady Song, Comeback Girl and their most recent critically acclaimed album Bounce At The Devil. Comeback Girl is also set to be the single release from their digital only compilation of their first 3 albums Mutant Soul which is to be released across Europe this August.

Austin-based psychedelic rock band, The Black Angels, bring their droning guitars and organ vibrato to the fields of Stradbally. Following on from their debut Passover and Directions To See A Ghost, The Black Angels current album Phosphene Dream produced by Dave Sardy (Oasis, Wolfmother) has reaped them the most success to date with BBC declaring it the rock album of the year.

Manchester four-piece, Everything Everything have a lot to celebrate this week with their debut album shortlisted for this years Mercury Music Prize. They are not to be missed at this years’ picnic having captivated audiences all over Europe with their engaging mix of operatic indie and sophisticated electronics.   Described by Q as one of the “brightest new talents” are not to be missed at this years’ picnic. Their debut album ‘Man Alive’ was released in 2010, receiving rave reviews with NME rating the album 8/10 and describing them as “pop’s new Picassos”

The Swedish duo Malin Dahlström and Gustaf Karlöf that form Niki & The Dove promise a live show that is nothing short of spectacular. Their debut single  DJ, Ease My Mind, caught the attention of everyone from Artrocker and NME through to The Sunday Times who declared the single and its AA side to “be the two greatest alt-pop songs of 2010”. Their follow up Mother Protect has confirmed Niki & the Dove as the ones to watch of 2011 too.

After garnering widespread acclaim from the likes of The New York Times, Pitchfork and NME to countless indiepop forums, blogs for their 2009 debut, The Pains Of Being Pure At Heart have excelled themselves once more with their stunning follow up Belong. Recorded with the production and mixing team of Flood (Depeche Mode, U2) and Alan Moulder (Smashing Pumpkins, Jesus and Mary Chain, Ride) Belong has been winning plaudits both in native US and Europe, the band even performed on Letterman earlier this year. Their new single ‘The Body’, out this week, is soon to be a regular at every indie disco in the world and paves the way for The Pains of Being Pure at Heart to being year’s biggest buzz band.

Straight from Limerick’s mean streets, the tracksuit wearing colossus that is The Rubberbandits return to Electric Picnic with their rip roaring music and comedy adventure.  Since they caused a ruckus at EP last year The Rubberbandits have gone global. They’ve had 100,000 itunes downloads of their single and most tweeted video in the world Horse Outside, performed from London to Mullingar to New York and every point in between, picked up an IFTA, recorded their debut album set for release this October and now their brand new MTV show, Guide to New York, has just aired in the US.

Donal Dineen’s Parish Recording Project metamorphised from the now legendary shows he did in the body&soul area at the electric picnics of 2009 & 2010. Those special nights among the trees and under stars brought together the likes of Niwel Tsumbu, Liam O Maonlai, Andre Antunes, Ronan O Snodaigh & Peter Erdei, all of whom joined Donal  at a recording studio in January to go back over some of the ground covered in the course of those two nights as well as generating some new material.The first fruits of those sessions, Hi Five O, was released digitally in June on the Parish Records label & features a guest appearance from Sean Mac Erlaine on bass clarinet.

Following the release of her highly acclaimed debut solo album Dream of You Sharon Corr brings her collection of beautifully crafted melodic pop gems to the Picnic for the very first time. Sharon worked with an eclectic range of renowned traditional musicians including Davy Spillane, Máirtín O’Connor and Gerry O’Connor and a thrilling collaboration with the legendary Jeff Beck on Dream of You. Sharon Corr is renowned across the globe as the violinist, songwriter and backing vocalists with her siblings The Corrs.

Ghost Estates have been carving out their sound and songs in Dublin since January 2010 since the demise of their two previous bands, the highly charged 3 piece Sickboy and experimental pop sextet 8ball. The band have emerged with their debut self produced 11 track album mixed by Marc Carolan (Muse, Snow Patrol, The Cure).

Further more information visit www.electricpicnic.ie.

Rock en Seine music festival

Once again the Rock en Seine music festival boasts a fantastic line-up.  The Foo Fighters, Arctic Monkeys, The Kills, My Chemical Romance, Anna Calvi, Interpol, The Vaccines, Archive, Tinie Tempah, The Wombats, Big Audio Dynamite, Trentemoller & The Horrors (to name a few) share the bill with popular French acts such as well-respected house music DJ & producer Etienne De Crecy, pop rock from BB Brunes and the delicious electro new wave pop of Sexy Sushi.

On my last visit to the festival I witnessed the break-up of Oasis just 10 minutes before they were due to headline the main stage.  Lead singer of Bloc Party, Kele announced the rumour between songs and the crowd was filled in equal measures with gasps and cheers.  Other highlights that weekend included Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Passion Pit, MGMT, Madness, The Horrors and an amazing set from the Prodigy who we shared the Eurostar train back with the next day.

Rock en Seine is situated in a northern suburb of Paris and as such almost guarantees good camping weather, unlike the UK festivals which can be marred by rain, rain and more rain.  The festival is in the centre of town just 10km outside Paris and is on from Friday 26th August to Sunday 28th August;  and the High Speed Train and Metro can get you there in a matter of a few hours.

Francophonik - win tickets to see French music

If you are a fan or want to listen to more French music, Francophonik is a cool new service offering you the chance to win tickets and packages to French music gigs in the UK and festivals in France. Their latest competition is to win two tickets to Rock en Seine. All you have to do is visit the Francophonik Facebook page, become a fan, then apply for tickets by simply ticking a box.

Sponsored Post

The National @ Latitude Festival 2011

This was my third Latitude Festival and once again it was an amazing weekend full of friendly people, interesting art, hilarious comedy, poetry and literature, film and theatre, but most of all some great performances from music artists both old and new.

Latitude is somewhere between a big and small festival, depending what you are comparing it too.  But unlike other festivals it is more than just a music festival with comedy, poetry, literature, film and theatre tents and art scattered throughout the site.  It is also a very family friendly festival and the food is great.

Friday began with a trip to the Word Arena to listen to a wonderful set by Avi Buffalo who sing great American falsetto easy listening pop songs, perfect for a sunny festival afternoon.  The songs leave plenty of room for lead vocalist & guitarist Sheridan Riley to shine as Avi Buffalo delivered a well-received folk-rooted set from their 2010 self-titled debut album on the Sub-Pop label.

Another good thing with Latitude is how compact the whole site is, allowing for time to get from the Word Arena to the main Obelisk Stage to see the legendary Edwyn Collins in fine form as he began singing ‘Losing Control’ the title track from his 2010 critically-acclaimed album; the first written and recorded since his illness.  Edwyn played songs from his solo albums including ‘Shilly Shally’, ‘Losing Control’ and his biggest commercial hit ‘A Girl Like You’ but also found time for crowd pleasing Orange Juice songs ‘Rip It Up’, ‘What Presence’ and the first song he ever wrote, ‘Falling & Laughing’.

Edwyn showed his emotion as he introduced and sang a song with his son, William who along with his wife Grace, has helped him return to recording and performing over the past few years.

To complete a wonderful afternoon of music it was straight back to the Word Arena to see a promising new group from London called Chapel Club.  I was as surprised as the band to see such a large enthusiastic crowd waiting, full of anticipation. Fortunately for all concerned, they delivered a powerful set that will help to cement the critical acclaim they have began to receive.

With their dark and moody Joy Division-esque intensity they merge wailing guitars reminiscent of My Bloody Valentine, and at times The Horrors. Chapel Club grew into their surroundings as they sprinkled a few new songs amongst crowd favourites from their 2011 debut album, Palace. A real highlight of the whole weekend was ‘being there’ watching Chapel Club as they performed a great rendition of ‘All The Eastern Girls’.

As with all good festivals, however well I plan my timetable I end up missing performances along the way. Not enough time and difficult decisions not to watch Linton Kwesi Johnson, Glasser, Deerhunter and Grouplove were unavoidable and made all the worse when a colleague told me how awesome Deerhunter had been.

But fortunately I did see Dan Snaith aka Caribou, and what a great performance it was.  Live, Caribou consists of Dan Snaith on keyboards, samples and various percussion instruments, with guitar, bass and drums giving his electronica knob-twiddling a more substantial live sound full of energy, beats and squelches.  Again I was surprised at the age and size of the crowd, most of whom were very familiar with his repertoire.

The Word Arena sound was amazing throughout the weekend and the throbbing bass certainly added to the excitement throughout the marquee, especially as Caribou’s set ended with an acid squelchy long version of ‘Sun’.  That was a moment I will never forget as my son & I pogoed with our hands in the air, dancing with big Cheshire cat grins.

There’s something magical about Latitude.  Where else would I walk across a bridge past brightly coloured sheep into the woods to watch a band play psychedelic pop?

Australia’s hotly tipped Cloud Control played a tight set of quirky psychedelic-fused pop songs with lush harmonies from their 2011 UK debut album ‘Bliss release’ at the Sunrise Arena deep in the woods to round off a perfect sunny summer festival afternoon.

Into the evening as Paloma Faith overlapped with The Vaccines.  No prizes as to where the kids were hanging!

The Vaccines rise has been phenomenal.  Only 12 months ago they formed a band and this summer they are playing to packed audiences who know every word to every song at festivals across Europe.  As they took to the stage the cheers were deafening.  Bright spotlights and a feedbacking guitar emanated from the stage. One look at each other and off we go…just like The Ramones!

The Vaccines blend 1950’s rock n roll, 1960’s garage and surf rock and 1970’s punk rock with C86 indie pop music to create something that is full of life and energy, if not at all original or unique.  Perfect three minute pop songs that strike a chord or three, The Vaccines drew a very large crowd and gave an energetic performance that was appreciated by people of all ages.

Last year, The National, who in my opinion are one of the best groups on the planet, headlined The Word Arena. Tonight, playing Latitude for a third time, they headlined the Obelisk Stage with a 90 minute set with songs taken from their previous five albums and EP’s.

In all honesty I was surprised when they were announced as headliners and wondered if the intensity and power of their music and live performance would be lost somewhat on the open-aired main stage. But alas my fears were unfounded as The National played a mesmerising, awesome set starting with a somewhat subdued ‘Bloodbuzz Ohio’ and ending with great version of a very early track, ‘Son’ with an intro that, ,after an earlier mention of Joy Division, had me thinking they were going to burst into a cover version of ‘Ceremony’.

The groups may have ended at 11pm but the music wasn’t about to stop.  Music blasted out across the site from various locations.  Among them were two renowned London club DJ collectives from Pump Up The Volume and Horsemeat Disco who shared the honours until 3am in the Comedy Arena while Annie Nightingale played a set from the past 10 years in the woods.

I’m assuming I had caught too much sun, as I can’t remember what time I eventually found my tent and drifted off to sleep for what seemed at least 10 minutes!

Latitude Festival photo: Paul Wesley Griggs

Latitude Festival is almost upon us and still more acts have been added to the best small UK festival.

The National, Paolo Nutini and Suede headline the Obelisk Stage while Bombay Bicycle Club, Foals and Eels headline The Word Arena.  But there’s plenty of old and new music across all the stages over the course of the three days.

For the middle-aged among us wishing to reminisce there are some real treats in OMD, The Waterboys, Edwyn Collins, They Might Be Giants, Adam Ant and Echo & The Bunnymen performing songs from their first two albums, Crocodiles & Heaven Up Here.

I am looking forward to seeing the electronica genius of Gold Panda and Caribou, the indie rock of Glasvegas, Foals and the indie pop of  The Vaccines; not to forget the extremely talented young singer/songwriter Ed Sheeran.  I have also recently been introduced to the dark and brooding sounds of the upcoming and highly rated Chapel Club.

I am also really looking forward to witnessing a live performance from the wonderfully titled Cerebral Ballsy.

Below, I have selected a few lesser known artists that have caught my ear recently and so will hopefully get a chance to see whilst swigging on a cider and basking in the glorious English sun.

Still Corners

Glasser

Fixers

Avi Buffalo

Latiude Festival is on from Thursday 14th  to Sunday 17th July in the sumptuous surrounds of the Suffolk countryside.

Since its inception in 2006, Latitude has changed the face of festivals forever, with a passion only matched by its ambition. Encompassing all aspects of the art and music worlds Latitude is the only place that brings together the best in music, literature, comedy, poetry, film, theatre, cabaret, art, dance, opera and fashion for one spectacular weekend. With an unrivalled line-up taking shape, Latitude 2011 will be another exhilarating, scintillating and inspirational festival of fun.

Latitude Festival 2011 Ticket Information

Tickets are currently still available

Weekend tickets £170.00 including VAT, subject to booking fee
Day tickets Fri, Sat, Sun £70.00 including VAT, subject to booking fee
Child ticket (5-12 years) £5.00 including VAT, subject to booking fee
Campervan Permit £30.00
Weekend tickets prices include car parking and camping
Day tickets include car parking only

Credit Card line: 0871 231 0821

For more information visit the Latitude Festival website.

Having been to Glasto last year (see ‘Diary of a Glasto Virgin‘) we found the site a lot less bewildering, we discovered the bars which somehow last year we managed to miss….We found new fields, the Tripod stage and the 50p tea tent in Green fields.

Wednesday evening we trekked up to the top of the hill at The Park to watch the sun set over Glastonbury, this view was amazing, one in a million and the perfect photo opportunity. Chilling with my favourite people made this one of my favourite memories, one that will stay with us all forever.

Wednesday night time at The Park we went to our very first silent disco, this was an experience, a good one, but strange also.

The mud. You got over this in seconds, the mud makes Glastonbury and everyone who is a real festival goer knows that, as long as you’ve got your willies and lots of socks you’re sorted!  In a way it brought everyone together, you would laugh with the person next to you as they fell down but then quickly help them back up to their feet again. It brought people closer together, more like friends rather than strangers in the same place.

Personally I only fell over once, but managed to have my fall broken by someone catching me mid-fall several times.

We started the music by watching Metronomy on the Pyramid stage, they wasn’t my personal choice but thought I’d give them a try.

Samantha Hopkins: “Metronomy is one of my favourite bands and I’ve wanted to see them for ages. I’m so glad I waited as their performance was exceptional! I wasn’t sure if they’d be able to hold such a large audience, however they walked out onto the stage like they owned the place! I loved every minute of it.”

Mumford and Sons and The Vaccines performing on The Other Stage both held a very large crowd! They pulled it off as always and gave us all an amazing time in the rain.

Coldplay were by far my favourite act at Glastonbury this year. They put on an amazing set and the emotions in the crowds were so high, you couldn’t help but be taken in by what was surrounding you!

Beth Shewan: “I missed Mumford and Sons last year, but their set was well worth waiting for in the pouring rain! They had everyone singing along to Thistle and Weeds and many of their other big hits.

Coldplay’s stage presence was amazing and had everyone in the crowd all teary eyed. Being offered to sit on someone’s shoulders during the end of this set will stay as one of my favourite Glastonbury moments forever!”

Friendly Fires were on another level this year.  Starting their set with ‘Lovesick’ they had the crowd going wild, right through to their final songs, the biggest hit was probably from their new album,  ‘Pala – Hawaiian Air.’

Ed Macfarlane was shaking his hips as always really getting into the music and letting the atmosphere take over. Friendly Fires upped their game this year, a lot.

The Wombats, all dressed in the same attire looking very Indie, attracted one of the biggest crowds at The Other Stage. Playing a good mix of old songs which everyone can sing along too and new songs from their latest album kept everyone captured in their stage presence.

I’ve seen The Wombats before at smaller venues, but where we was situated within the crowd, this performance felt just as personal and immense as the smaller venues do, only more amazing and BIGGER.

Of course you can’t forget you’re a womble! There was huge range of ages inside and outside surrounding The Avalon stage in The Avalon. You can’t miss out on some nostalgia from your childhood, even at Glastonbury!

Plan B and Pendulum warmed up the Pyramid stage amazingly for Beyonce.   The mix of small girls wanting to be at the front ready for Beyonce, and the big burly men making their way to the front for Pendulum could have caused concern for some, but as far as I know, there were no injuries.

The crowd for Beyonce was unreal.  It felt as if nearly everyone at Glastonbury had made their way over to watch her!  After keeping us all waiting for up to half an hour Beyonce finally made her entrance.  The Pyramid Stage lit up like a fireworks display on New Years Eve!

It’s a shame there wasn’t an encore for Beyonce, but all of her big hits were already performed during the set, including a great mix of Destiny’s Child. Everyone was singing along like they were 10 years old again and back in the 1990’s!

We saw so many people this weekend, to comment on every single one would make this a very lengthy review. The acts mentioned are just some of the bigger ones we saw.

My memories from Glastonbury 2011 will stay with me forever.  Two years time and we get to do it all over again.  Bring on Glastonbury Festival 2013.

Some shared memories that will be treasured forever:

Davina Kesby: “Dancing with my housemates to Merry Christmas everyone outside the Big Pig food stall at 1am after watching Coldplay. So random but excellent.”

Timothy Robert Walker: “Wandering back from the Park Stage at midnight after seeing Wild Beasts gripping on tightly to their set list, whilst tucking into a Chocolate and Banana Crepe. Only at Glastonbury.”

Samantha Hopkins: “Falling over in the mud and managing to make everyone else fall in around me, whilst trying to help me up!”

Devon folk-punk rockers - Crazy Arm

Devon folk punks, Crazy Arm, release their new single, ‘Tribes‘, on 1st August, the first release ahead of their imminent new album, ‘Union City Breath‘.

Already a live favourite, ‘Tribes/Animals‘, is a song of two distinct parts, combining the band’s love of Springsteen, gospel and honest punk rock.  The lyrics are an indictment of man-made structures of violence and a call for a return to simpler, more ethically-centred ways of interacting.

Also on the record, the voice of Victoria Butterfield (who sang on the band’s last single ‘Sweet Storm‘) and keyboards courtesy of Patrick James Pearson.

The follow-up to 2009’s dramatic debut, ‘Born To Ruin’, ‘Union City Breath‘ is currently in the finishing stages and is being produced/engineered, once again, by Peter Miles (King Blues, The Computers, Sonic Boom Six, Dry The River) at his new studio deep in the South Devon countryside.

Taking its cue from the spurious idea of the Big Society, ‘Union City Breath‘ is a reminder that all societies are made by people and can be changed or at least challenged by people whenever they see fit.

The most authoritarian of institutions and the largest of multinational corporations are still only the product of human endeavour, propped up by other people with the same global interests – they can be, will be and are dismantled if and when they continue to pose a threat and cause violence upon ordinary people.

The band are due to play Shepherds Bush Empire with Social Distortion on 7th July amongst other shows and festival appearances including 2000 Trees and Boardmasters. The album will coincide with a comprehensive tour of the UK and mainland Europe, while the single will coincide with the band’s debut acoustic tour in August with Cory Branan and Sam Russo.

Crazy Arm UK Tour Dates:

Thurs 7th July
London, Shepherds Bush Empire (w/Social Distortion) SOLD OUT

Fri 8th July
London, The Bowery (with The Dissociates)

Sat 9th July
Voodoo Lounge, LMHR benefit

Thurs14th July
2000 Trees Festival, Cheltenham, rock set

Fri 15th July
2000 Trees Festival, Cheltenham, acoustic set

Sat 23rd July
Livestock Festival, near Sidmouth

Sat 6th Aug
Plymouth, Jack Chams (acoustic show)

Fri 12th Aug
Boardmasters Festival, Vans Stage

Sun 14th Aug
Manchester, Tiger Lounge (acoustic w/Cory Branan + Apologies, I Have None + Sam Russo)

Mon 15th Aug
Lincoln, venue tbc (acoustic w/Cory Branan + Sam
Russo)

Tues 16th Aug
Leeds, Santiagos (acoustic w/Cory Branan + Sam Russo)

Weds 17th Aug
Nottingham, The Maze (acoustic w/Cory Branan + Sam Russo)

Thurs 18th Aug
Southsea, Edge Of The Wedge (acoustic w/Cory Branan + Sam
Russo)

Fri 19th Aug
London, The Windmill (acoustic w/Cory Branan + Sam Russo)

Sat 20th Aug
Brighton, The Prince Albert (acoustic w/Cory Branan + Sam
Russo)

Mon 29th Aug
Dbs festival, Bristol

Fri 9th Sept
Ivylive Festival, Ivybridge (with The King Blues + lots more)

Sun 11th Sept – Plymouth Punks Picnic

Here’s the promotional video for Broken By The Wheel

Crazy Arm release their new single ‘Tribes‘ on 1st August 2011 on Xtra Mile Recordings (UK) & Gunner Records (mainland Europe) as a 7″ vinyl and digital download.

The video is an edited version of a 30 minute short film wiritten and directed by Adam Yauch called ‘Fight For Your Right Revisited’.  The film includes cameo appearances from a wealth of Hollywood stars including Susan Sarandon, Steve Buscemi, Kirsten Dunst, Mary Steenburgen, Chloe Sevigny, Ann Archer and the band themselves.

The film pays homage to The Beastie Boys first hit single, ‘(You Gotta) Fight For Your Right (To Party!)‘

The film includes a brilliant dance off between the ‘real’ Beastie Boys from the present and the ‘real’ Beastie Boys of the future in a very amusing ‘dance off’ with some hilarious results.

The Beastie Boys’ Fight For Your Right Revisited film will be screened in the Film & Music Arena at Latitude Festival 2011.

Guernsey Festival with Primal Scream, Ocean Colour Scene, Gaslight Anthem, Example & many more

The Island of Guernsey is set to host the inaugural ‘Guernsey Festival of Performing Arts’ over the weekend of Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd July 2011. Completing the line-up is a host of artists that are at the forefront of their respective scenes.

North London Grime artist Skepta is fresh off the success of his latest album ‘Doin’ It Again’ and will bring his infectious lyrics to Guernsey. Joining him are two leaders of the Drum & Bass scene. Now a TV star, Goldie will bring the sound that has defined his infamous Metalheadz record label for almost two decades. And, having just released his artist album ‘21’ which signals his 21 years in music, Marcus Intalex will treat the D&B contingent to his energetic sound that has that unmistakable soulful groove.

Rounding off the house contingent Tom Novy will bring his two decades of experience to the turntables. His musical nous has seen him hold down a residency at the legendary Space in Ibiza for 14 seasons, and his big room house is sure to please this summer.

This is in addition to the 80+ acts already announced including, Primal Scream, Ocean Colour Scene, The Gaslight Anthem, Frank Turner, Example, Lissie, The Go! Team, Bonobo, Quantic, Seb Fontaine, Krafty Kuts, Greg Wilson and many more.

Set in idyllic Guernsey countryside, yet within a stones throw of the island’s capital, St Peter Port, ‘The Guernsey Festival of Performing Arts’ will host over 80 music acts across four spectacular arenas. Festival goers will be able to enjoy headline acts at the Main Stage (Big Top), the cream of the international DJ scene at the ‘Infectious Rhythm Dance Arena’ and ‘The Get Down Stage’, and will also be able to see the rising talent from the local area at the ‘Chaos Stage’.

The festival will also offer a host of other attractions such as a specialised Arts Arena, a Spine Ramp for skateboarders and BMXers, the worlds tallest mobile Reverse Bungee Rocket, market stalls, and also the obligatory plethora of concessionaires to feed and water the happy masses.

Having previously promoted a string of successful theatre and music events on the Island, Paul and Jon Stephen explain the need for a large-scale high-profile event on the Island of Guernsey:

“We wanted to continue to bring live entertainment to Guernsey, including more shows and music events, but also knew that there was a thirst for a large scale festival on the island, with big name acts…”- Jon Stephen

With many more big acts yet to be announced the event is set to provide an affordable weekend for music and arts fans on a scale that is not currently available in Guernsey.

The Guernsey Festival Of Performing Arts
Date: 2nd / 3rd July 2011
Artists include: Primal Scream, Ocean Colour Scene, Frank Turner, The Gaslight Anthem, Example, Chipmunk, Lissie, The Go! Team, Hayseed Dixie, Bonobo, Quantic, Seb Fontaine, Danny Rampling, Krafty Kuts, A.Skillz, Greg Wilson, Darius Syrossian, Shaun Kay

For the full line-up visit www.guernseyfestival.gg.

Site Address: The Rabbit Warren, Victoria Avenue, St Sampson, Guernsey

Ticket Prices:
Adult Weekend (16+) – £84
Junior Weekend (Aged 13 to 15) – £64
Child Weekend (Age 5 to 12) – £24
Under 5’s – Free
VIP weekend – £174
Camping pass (16+) – £24
Under 16’s camp for free, but must be accompanied by a ticket holding adult (with camping pass).

Day passes:
Adult (16+) – £55
Junior (Aged 13 to 15) – £40
Children (Aged 5 to 12) – £15
Under 5’s go free
VIP – £95

Latitude Festival

On 14th – 17th July in the sumptuous surrounds of the Suffolk countryside, the welcoming daisy-adorned gates will open for the 6th edition of the magical and fantastical Latitude Festival.

Since its inception in 2006, Latitude has changed the face of festivals forever, with a passion only matched by its ambition. Encompassing all aspects of the art and music worlds Latitude is the only place that brings together the best in music, literature, comedy, poetry, film, theatre, cabaret, art, dance, opera and fashion for one spectacular weekend. With an unrivalled line-up taking shape, Latitude 2011 will be another exhilarating, scintillating and inspirational festival of fun.

With more acts still to be announced here are just a few of the music artists appearing at Latitude Festival 2011, so far…

THE NATIONAL, PALOMA FAITH, BRIGHT EYES, KT TUNSTALL, ISOBEL CAMPBELL & MARK LANEGAN, PAOLO NUTINI, MY MORNING JACKET, THE CRIBS, SEASICK STEVE, RUMER, THEY MIGHT BE GIANTS, SUEDE, HURTS, GLASVEGAS, THE WATERBOYS, BOMBAY BICYCLE CLUB, THE VACCINES, LYLE LOVETT & HIS ACOUSTIC GROUP, CARIBOU, FOALS, ECHO & THE BUNNYMEN, I AM KLOOT, BELLOWHEAD, BRITISH SEA POWER, EELS, LYKKE LI, OMD, EVERYTHING EVERYTHING & CARL BARAT.

For a full line-up visit the Latitude Festival website.

As well as the four main music stages (Obelisk Arena, The Word Arena, Sunrise Arena & The Lake Arena Stage) there is plenty of other things to see and do.

The Waterfront Stage

Floating on the surface of Latitude’s central lake is the stunning Waterfront Stage. A beautiful platform on which audiences can enjoy visual displays of delightful dance, one-off musical performances and incredible work by some of the countries most highly regarded choreographers, with Latitude’s luscious landscape providing the perfect backdrop.

Film & Music Arena

One of the most diverse and cutting edge elements to Latitude’s repertoire, the Film & Music Arena offers audiences mesmerising displays, performances and viewings of fantastic cinema and music. Sonically and visually rich, the worlds of alternative film and music collide with a full programme of award winning screenings, documentaries, shorts, Q&A discussions and musical treats.

Literary Arena

Latitude celebrates the written word in all its glorious facets with its very own renowned library of literary excellence. Bringing together today’s most illustrious wordsmiths; the Literary Arena is a hub of storytelling, book discussions, lively debates and in-depth interviews. Top authors and special guests bring books to life and take audiences on fun-filled journeys to the far reaches of their imaginations.

If impassioned and healthy discord gets your juices flowing then find a spot in the Literary Arena for the renowned and revered Instigate Debate. A rock ‘n’ roll version of Question Time, Instigate Debate brings the hottest topics of the nation to the fore and allows you, the audience, to participate, pressurise, pontificate, ponder and pose questions to a specially selected panel. This year the subject title is ‘The State Of The Nation: Cuts, Wars and Weddings’. From Fortnum and Masons and Pippa Middleton’s dress to sleeping with the enemy in Westminster and savage cuts; to crisis in Libya and the Arab Spring, ID present the ultimate in high-brow Punch and Judy. In what will be an incendiary and lively exchange of ideas, opinions, and thoughts the panel is: Rt Hon David Davis MP (Conservative Party), Danni (UK Uncut spokesperson), Liz Jones (The Daily Mail), Jon Cruddas MP (Labour Party, and anti-BNP campaigner), Peter Tatchell (Human Rights campaigner), Gail Porter (The Wright Stuff, broadcaster and former model) and Don Foster MP (Liberal Democrats spokesman for Culture, Media and Sport)

Comedy Arena

Over the past five years, Latitude’s Comedy Arena has become a comedy festival in its own right. Bursting at the seams with the best comic talent in the land, crowds gather all weekend to witness a variety of hilarious turns from an unrivalled bill. With Alan Carr, Omid Djalili, Never Mind The Buzzcocks and Jason Byrne to name just a few confirmed already – it is another stellar line-up of the very best comics on the circuit.

DJ’s

As the sun goes down and the moon lights the night sky, the Comedy Arena transforms into the best club around. Featuring amazing DJs playing top tunes on Friday, Saturday and Sunday night – the party never stops at Latitude Festival.

In what will prove to be an impressive collision of two dance super powers, Latitude Festival will be bringing you Horse Meat Disco Vs Pump Up The Volume:

The institution that is Horse Meat Disco is dedicated to and appreciates all forms of Disco music. Horse Meat’s appearances at boutique festivals and clubs has been turning swathes of unexpecting clubbers into string-laden disco stompers and is at the forefront of the so-called disco revival. The club’s ethos has always been to provide a space for everyone, after all the best parties have always been the ones where the crowd comes from all walks of life. Attendance at any Horse Meat event has become a badge of honour with which to be worn with pride so make sure you take to the floor to claim your Latitude one!

Stiffen up that buzz cut, polish your high-tops and get your Global Hypercolour on: One of London’s best parties, Pump Up The Volume, will take you on a journey all things ’90s. Guaranteed to be an excellent way to get your Festival started, the PUTV crew move from their always-rammed base at Dalston’s Visions to Latitude for an old skool soundclash with Horsemeat Disco, transporting you back to the 1990s Rave in the process with an old school hip-hop, house and pop shakedown.

The ultimate feel good pop party extravaganza Guilty Pleasures shall be gracing Latitude festival 2011. After a busy day of basking in the sun on Latitude green and luscious grounds, what better way to shake off those inhibitions than dancing the hours away to the music you’ve never been so proud to admit you love. Golden oldies, forgotten classics, power ballads and pure pop gold are all lovingly compiled for your pleasure. Dancers in animal outfits, cheerleaders, mascots and camp dance troupes all await you in what promises to be one of the highlights of your festival diary.

Latitude welcomes Blow Up, one of Britain’s longest running club nights, to close Sunday night in the Comedy Arena. Cited as the birthplace of the Britpop scene and influencing the style and sound of a generation, Blow Up’s playlist though is far from being defined by the genre it helped kick-start back in 1993. Expect to hear British Pop, Glam and New-Wave colliding with 60s Soundtracks & Electronica, Library Music, Rock ‘n’ Roll, Indie-Pop, 60’s Soul, Beat, Garage, Funk, Ska & more. Blow Up founder Paul Tunkin has DJed for Blur (Modern Life Is Rubbish/Parklife), Pulp and Suede whilst taking the Blow Up club on tour in the UK, Europe, USA, Russia and Japan. Paul will be joined on the decks by Blow Up’s co-resident DJ Mr. Ian Jackson.

Poetry Arena

A fantasyland of innocent pleasures and unbridled fun lies deep within the festival’s magical woods. A quirky corner of the Latitude site where anything goes. Side shows, games, interactive art, dance troupes, workshops and cutting-edge theatre will keep you entertained all weekend long. Release your inner child and come play around in Pandora’s Playground.

Faraway Forest

Latitude’s fairytale Faraway Forest is a secret haven of dark desires, mysterious mayhem and salacious sin-filled pleasure. This clearing under the woodland canopy will host the decadent Winter’s Ball full of all of the delights of Christmas, hands on workshops and mesmerising theatre and musical performances. Come along and lose yourself in the depths of The Faraway Forest.

Cabaret Arena

A veritable feast of vaudeville fun and mischief, Latitude’s Cabaret Arena is a carnival of top comedy and theatre. With a heady mix of sketch shows, freak, burlesque and drag acts alongside puppetry, illusionists and hearty sing-alongs, the Cabaret Arena encourages you to ditch your woes at the door and be seduced by the frivolities inside for a not-so-innocent ol’fashioned knees up.

Pandora’s Playground

A fantasyland of innocent pleasures and unbridled fun lies deep within the festival’s magical woods. A quirky corner of the Latitude site, here, anything goes. Side shows, games, interactive art, dance troupes, workshops and cutting edge theatre will keep you entertained all weekend long. Release your inner child and come play around at Latitude’s Pandora’s Playground.

Literary Salon

A hub of life-enhancing interactive workshops, discussions, wide-ranging debates and mind expanding sessions, the Literary Salon is the noisy little sister of the Literary Arena that encourages you to get involved. Discover and learn new skills, air opinions and explore your innermost feelings in this progressive school of thought.

Latitude Festival 2011 Ticket Information

Tickets are currently still available

Weekend tickets £170.00 including VAT, subject to booking fee
Day tickets Fri, Sat, Sun £70.00 including VAT, subject to booking fee
Child ticket (5-12 years) £5.00 including VAT, subject to booking fee
Campervan Permit £30.00
Weekend tickets prices include car parking and camping
Day tickets include car parking only

Credit Card line: 0871 231 0821

For more information visit the Latitude Festival website.