V Festival is around the corner and kicks off this Saturday with the same bands on both the two sites at Chelmsford and Staffordshire.
Now in its 17th year, the festival has an eclectic mix of acts, most of which have appeared in the charts (and headlines) over the past year.
Headlining acts include the Stone Roses and the Killers and here are our top picks for bands you must make time to go and see.
They’re still battling on with the come-back tour so even if you’re not a fan – go along and watch as it will be a good performance. Watch out for a bucket of objects to be thrown in the air from people getting a bit too keen.
There’s really no more to say. Go and see them and sing loudly to My Brightside and hope they don’t play too much from their new album.
The talk of the town for the past few months, even if you’ve never heard of her you will have seen her during the Olympics singing on just about every video montage.
Fun, friendly and perfect for a summer festival (that’s right the sun will be shining), the hip-hop pair will have you dancing in your sandals.
Named for the fact that just about anything is included – be it hip-hop, grime or indie – make a note and go and see him, you won’t regret it.
Sometimes he’s shouty but more likely he’ll be folky and another awesome choice for the weekend. He’s been around a long time but expect songs from his new album England Keep My Bones to take centre stage.
A beautiful pair from Mexico who skilfully blend acoustic guitars with metal music to create something quite fantastic. They’re a perfect antidote to the rest of the chart-friendly acts.
Anything else?
Of course if you are looking for more entertainment (really?) then there’s a whole host of comedians to make you laugh including the brilliant Tim Minchin over in the Undercover tent. Be warned though – there’s a LOT on and I’ve not even gotten onto the line-ups in the Carling tent so be strict with your timings if you want to pack it all in.
Image: Virgin Media
