Down on the South Coast, the news of the Great Escape Festival never fails to excite us, and this year is no exception. The 300+ announced performers dotted across Brighton is the ultimate showcase for the city’s talents, and proof if there ever needed to be any, that summer has begun.
Since its formation in 2006, GE smashes the line up every year and is one of the most diverse, value for money festivals the UK has to offer. It offers one of the best opportunities to showcase new music in Europe, and has helped kick-start the careers of acts such as The Wombats, The XX and Crystal Castles.
GE boasts previous stars such as Bon Iver, Tinie Tempah and a little known pop singer named Adele, and headliners this year include Maximo Park and The Temper Trap. But GE is as much about bands you know as it is about discovering those you don’t.
Nothing beats wondering into one of the 30 venues around the city and settling in to watch an unknown act spread their wings. And for all you know, you could be witnessing the beginning of the next big thing, and that’s the wonder of the Great Escape Festival.
So to save you sifting through the hundreds of acts on offer, we give you just some of our picks to watch out for, but make sure to go with your gut and try out a newcomer; it may very well pay off.
SQ Recommends
Dry The River
Shortlisted for BBC Sound of 2012 poll, Dry The River’s acoustic folk sound has got heads turning, and rightly so. Born of Norwegian frontman Peter Lidde;s solo project, the band have drawn comparisons to the likes of Mumford and Fleet Foxes, and the band’s debut album ‘Shallow Bed’ released in March has received glittering reviews. Definitely not one to miss.
When and where? Corn Exchange – 11th May – 11:45pm
Song to Listen For – Bible Belt
Lianne La Havas
As La Havas briefly supported Bon Iver on tour in December, expect a similar sound from the London born multi – instrumentalist. A soulful, sassy voice packed full of the emotion reverent of a young Nina Simone, Lianne had an eventful 2011 and her success is set to blossom in 2012. Recognised for her amazing collaboration with folk singer Willy Mason, on ‘No Room For Doubt’, who coincidentally is also playing at GE, so a duet may be on the cards. Not one to party to though; check out Lianne if you’re looking to relax and appreciate the beauty of her raw talent.
When and where? Komedia – 11th May – 10:00pm
Song to Listen For - Gone
The Killgirls
Chosen out of 80 acts showcased at this year’s Fuse Music Festival, the 5 piece electro / indie band from South Australia make music for you to jump to. They’re loud, ferocious and sure to put one hell of an intense performance. In fact, they even made a campaign video to fund their trip over to the UK, so you can bet they’ll want to make the most of their time here by blowing the roof off every venue they visit.
When and where? The Haunt – 10th May – 2:00pm, Psychological Basement – 10th May – 8:00pm, Digital – 12th May – 12:00pm
Song to Listen For – Animal
The Temper Trap
The Melbourne based band stood out as one of the festival hits in 2009 and their ensuing success may have a lot to do with their exposure at GE. Temper Trap visit Brighton promoting their much anticipated 2nd album, and if it’s anything like their 1st outing, we could be in for a very special gig indeed. Their instantly likeable tracks make them one of the best indie bands around, and will surely once again be a highlight not worth missing.
When and where? Brighton Dome – May 11th – 19:30pm
Song to Listen For – Soldier On
Alabama Shakes
A sound as soulful as Otis Redding in his prime and a debut single reminiscent of early Kings of Leon, Alabama Shakes are bringing their southern rock sound to GE in what could fast become the hottest ticket in town. Only formed in 2009, the band simply reeks of style and mainstream success is only round the corner. 2012 is sure to a massive year for them in the wake of their debut album and this is a great opportunity to see the new major rock & roll band before they blow up.
When and where? – Komedia – May 12th – 8:00pm
Song to Listen For – Hold On
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