News

Ones To Watch At Latitude

• 6th Jul 2010

Latitude is a festival you can always rely on. It’s line-up always targets a meticulous blend of new music, comedy and arts, that no other festival offers better.

With so much going on this year, it’s impossible to pick just a few things to look out for. So I thought I’d give you a comprehensive guide on stuff to look out for at this year’s festival.

First off, the fabulous Egyptian Hip Hop who mix a fine blend of electrifying indie-dance all the while throwing in a bit of IDM, produce powerful performances that combine their lo-fi yet high octane music. At 17, and already one of the most talked about bands this year, by this time next year we’re sure to see them propelled to a much greater status. Just make sure you catch them soon enough. A definite one to look out for. They play The Sunrise Arena on the Sunday, along with the likes of the fantastic, These New Puritans, Darwin Deez and hotly tipped Jesca Hoop (fresh of this year’s BBC Introducing stage at Glasto).

This year’s main stage, The Obelisk Arena, plays host to a variety of amazing names such as Laura Marling, Corrine Bailey Rae and The Temper Trap. It also sees Florence and her band produce their first headline festival slot, which looks set to be very special, and what may well be the first of many. There is also Glasgow’s finest, Belle And Sebastian who will definitely enchant the hearts of many a festival goer this year. Topped off with the brilliant Vampire Weekend closing on the Sunday.

As much as we could talk about the never ending list of names on the main stage this year, we must not forget the other fantastic arts stages that you won’t find at many other festivals. This year’s Comedy Arena boosts a wide selection of comedy brilliance. I for one will definitely be down at Holly Walsh’s, Phil Jupitus' and Mark Watson’s shows.

Moving onto theatre there are a range of plays and theatre companies getting involved this year, featuring a very special version of Midsummer’s Night Dream presented by Lyric at the outdoor theatre on Sunday.

Another definite name to look out for is Jónsi, known for his beautiful performances; he’ll bring the stage alight on Sunday with an vast back catalogue of stuff from his band Sigur Ros and recent solo album ‘Go.’

This year’s festival plays host to a huge 17 areas and stages, allowing you to lose yourself in a world of mystery. So wherever you end up at this year’s festival, it looks set to be a special and enchanting experience for all.