The musical horizons of Boomtown, one of the UK’s largest independent music festivals, knows no bounds and following the success of its major headline announcement that sees the likes of Ms Lauryn Hill, Prophets of Rage, The Streets and Groove Armada top the bill, the festival has revealed an extraordinary lineup of influential artists headlining Whistlers Green; a district dedicated to jazz, world and soul music born from traditional festival roots.
To celebrate one of the most masterful music styles on the planet artists will be performing on the brand new and powered by renewable energy, Lighthouse Stage, and they will be taking the audience on a journey into the magic of one of Boomtown’s favourite scenes. Lead by the likes of Swedish band Little Dragon whose rhythmical and ethereal electronic sounds have made waves across the soul and jazz scene; and the unique and seemingly effortless voice of the multi-talented artist and wordsmith Kate Tempest who is making a popular return to the festival; saxophonist and composer Nubya Garcia will bring the passional sounds of her afro-tinged Jazz; singer songwriter and Grammy nominated Maimouna Youssef AKA Mumu Fresh adds her blend of Native American, jazz, gospel and hip hop amongst many others. Turning up the heat with their hypnotic dance vibe that combines elements of Cumbria and Afro-Caribbean rhythms is The Mauskovic Dance Band and Necktr, a 9 piece soul fusion band with their unique interpretation of Hip Hop, Afrobeat, Soul and Ambient music.
Saturday will see a full day takeover from Brighton based label Tru Thoughts celebrating their 20th anniversary with artists spanning two decades including Alice Russell, Nostalgia 77, Rodney P & Skitz, Anchorsong, Wrongtom, J Felix, Ego Ella May, Bryony Jarman-Pinto.
In the intimate Floating Lotus venue, attendees will be taken on a journey across acoustic, folk and electronic music with grassroots sounds guaranteed to soothe the soul. Artists include Nashville indie folk singer Old Sea Brigade, pop folk outfit Keston Cobblers Club, one man band Tamu Massif aka Bristol’s Dave Dixon with his soulful vocals and blend of acoustic guitar and synth, the divine, otherworldly sounds of Manchester singer songwriter Caoilfhionn Rose and Sufi inspired folk from Pakistan born Babar Luck.
Just around the corner, with a new stage designed for Chapter 11 in Kidztown, Town Centre headliners and Latin salsa and Urban hip-hop legends Ozomatli will be bringing Ozomatli presents Ozokidz a family friendly set geared towards children and adults, alongside Boomtown favourites Big Fish Little Fish, Fun DMC, Junior Jungle, Kid Carpet and Reggae Roast & Raver Tots bringing Reggae Tots. DJ Archie will be making a welcome return, plus Dr Syntax & Pete Cannon, Laid Black and many more.