I’ve been away for a while. Now I’m back to bring the blogging back to this here blog. I’m going to try and take a different approach to this in 2011, make it a bit more flexible, give it some variation beyond reviews of gigs and albums. Have some fun. Sure, there’ll be shows and records. I’m not buying a t-shirt though, I’m a bit past music t-shirts. We’ll see how it goes. One things for sure, I’m excited about what the year has to bring to my ears, and here’s my Top 5 things that are tickling my fancy.
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So, you’re off to one of the biggest festivals in the world; revered and loved by all whom attend? You lucky soul! I’ve picked five acts that you shouldn’t miss and hopefully demonstrating some of the variety that Glasto is famed for. The headliners are Neil Young, Bruce Springsteen and Blur for the main stage, with great bands throughout the bill.
The Soft Pack
Where: John Peel Stage When: Sunday, 4:55 – 5:45pm Why: Feral racket making of the highest order, California’s The Soft Pack (formerly The Muslims) are a fantastic live prospect. Fast, loose and exciting the band will bring garage to Glastonbury. Expect tunes from their recent Extinction EP.
Listen: Call It A Day Watch:Extinction
Rokia Traoré
Where: Jazz World Stage When: Saturday, 3:45 – 4:45pm Why: Malian superstar Rokia Traoré has a voice that could melt Glastonbury Tor. Rich and vibrant, her band play with such sheer joy that despite the language barrier you’ll find yourself captivated and understanding exactly what is going on.
Bon Iver
Where: Park Stage / Other Stage When: Saturday, 10:45pm-12:15am / Sunday, 8:00-9:00pmWhy:I guess little explanation is required for this pick. Justin Vernon’s act has been one of the critical smashes of the last eighteen months or so and For Emma, Forever Ago still sounds as good as the hype that surrounded it. The opportunity to catch him out in The Park should be a big draw.
Listen: Blood Bank Watch: Skinny Love
Florence And The Machine
Where: John Peel Stage When: Saturday, 8:00-9:00pm Why:An opportunity to catch Florence Welch before she goes stratospheric. Lungs, her debut album, is just around the corner and is likely to be in the mould of her output so far; fresh, intelligent and delivered with a killer voice. Watch out for her cover of You’ve Got The Love – it’s a barnstormer.
Listen: Dog Days Are Over Watch: You’ve Got The Love
Speech Debelle
Where: Pussy Parlure When: Friday, time TBC Why: Rap? At Glastonbury? Speech Debelle is an incredible talent balancing fresh-yet-old-school beats with thought provoking lyrical flourishes. Coming straight outta London, catch Speech and her incredibly personal tunes will burrow their way into your heart and mind.
Listen: Buddy Love Watch: The Key
Enjoy – and if you haven’t checked out who is playing in full yet, the whole line up is here.
Photo: CmdrGravy, Glastonbury 2007
