BESTIVAL PREVIEW

Bestival returns to the idyllic Isle of Wight countryside this September (10th-13th). Appearing later in the festival calendar than the majority of those in its weight category, its unassuming quirkiness is always guaranteed to close out the Summer in style.

With a line-up jam-packed with big names (Duran Duran, Missy Elliott, The Chemical Brothers, The Jacksons, Tame Impala, Jamie XX to name but a few) it’s easy to forget the smaller details that make Bestival so exciting. This year’s ‘Summer of Love’ theme will see attendees returning to the glory days of the British festival in full sixties attire. Outside the music, adventure activities, film screenings, boutique food stalls and even 24-hour free haircuts will prove more than enough to keep the crowds entertained between acts.

Delving beyond the headline acts and into the exciting array of emerging talent descending upon The Solent (this being The Tipping Point, of course!), we can’t wait to see how the thrashy, jangly pop of Glasgow duo Honeyblood translates on to Bestival’s new music stage ‘Invaders Of The Stage’. Another Tipping Point favourite, Lapsley, proves an exciting Bestival prospect. Her gorgeously emotive songwriting makes for a captivating live show – she’ll certainly be one to make time for.

Elsewhere, songwriter/producer Oly Bayston (aka Boxed In) will make an appearance, after honing his festival set at Green Man Festival in Hay on Wye, Wales. His catchy pop nods its head towards Krautrock and The Talking Heads, making it ideal for a daytime festival slot (provided the sun is shining of course).

Performances from Liverpool four-piece Clean Cut Kid, harmonious Indie-Folk outfit Port Isla and brilliant South West-based duo Honne make Bestival one of the most exciting places for new British music around. With all that on offer, thank God you have The Tipping Point there to bring you all the highlights from the above, as well as the likes of Eaves, Jagaara, Champs and Fickle Friends.

Words by Lewis Lister of Province