News

Festival preview: Y Not Festival 2015

• 22nd Jul 2015

Snoop Dogg performing in the Peak District – who would’ve ever thought it? If you enjoy the picturesque beauty of the rolling English countryside as much as your gin and juice and a hit from the bong, then you’re in for a good one this summer. From its beginnings as house party over-spill in 2005 to a now award-winning festival, this year’s Y Not Festival boasts an impressive line-up with a mixture of old and new, indie and heavy, folk and dance. As they say, there’s something in it for everyone.

Now in it’s tenth year, the ever-growing festival will host headliners Primal Scream, Basement Jaxx and Mr. Dogg himself, alongside the likes of Super Furry Animals, Less Than Jake, Pulled Apart By Horses and Johnny Marr, but it’s not just the established heavyweights to look forward to. The Giant Squid stage will be the go-to place for your dose of giant sound, with Don Broco, Rolo Tomassi and Lower Than Atlantis gracing the stage.

For those who love stumbling across a new, unsigned band destined for the next big thing tag once the summer’s over, then The Allotment stage is your best bet. It’s dedicated to nothing but new and unsigned talent, with the acts handpicked by Saint Raymond, the gents at Pulled Apart By Horses and the folks at BBC Introducing and IME music. Good taste indeed.

The sheer variety of acts might scream size, but the festival remains boutique with its 8000 capacity. At only £99 it’s a steal compared with bigger festivals and there are still some tickets remaining, so get in on the fun while you still can.

With all there is to see, we don’t blame you if you’re a bit overwhelmed for who to catch. Music lies at the heart of this festival, so don’t waste time umm-ing and ahh-ing at your tent; here are some recommendations to get you in the mood:

Allusondrugs
The Giant Squid

Having performed at Long Division, Download and 2000 Trees already this summer, these Castleford grungers should definitely be warmed up and ready to go come Y Not. The comparisons to Nirvana can’t be helped – lead singer Jason Moules looks like Kurt Cobain reincarnated.

Bo Ningen
The Giant Squid

Japanese experimental punks Bo Ningen are set to impress with their style of shrieking, crushing noise. Expect discordant noise that is both explosive and energy-filled.

Rag N Bone Man
The Quarry

Rory Graham, otherwise known as Rag N Bone Man, mixes hip hop, blues and soul to produce a sound that is full of good vibes. His voice is versatile and his music varied, meaning it’s the perfect act to see when you and your mates can’t seem to compromise.

Paper Hawk
The Allotment

Does your heart need melting? If so, Brighton three-piece Paper Hawk are sure to warm even the coldest hearts with their beautifully honest brand of acoustic folk.

Slaves
The Main Stage

It seems like Slaves are playing almost every festival this summer – which is all the better for us. After a raucous set at Glastonbury, the punk two-piece from Tunbridge Wells keep proving they’re not just a hype machine. Whether you’ve seen them before or it’ll be your first time, you’re guaranteed to have a fun time.