Summer and music go together like gin and tonic, a good book and a long train journey, a cute flowery dress and the words 50% off written in red text. Indeed, sitting out in the warm rays of the earth’s glow and soaking in the lyrical tunes of a well-strummed instrument makes this time of year so pleasant. Together with friends and a jazzy, funky outfit, music festivals are a great way to fill up those summer months.
However, this is article is not about your good old Glastonbury or Reading; these are festival sitting under the radar waiting to be discovered by you.
1. Skye Live Festival 2018
Date: Friday 21st – 22nd September
This groovy, hip musical festival caught my eye – first and foremost – for its location in the idyllic highlands of the Kyle of Lochalsh. Nestled in the rolling Scottish hills, it offers a range of acoustic sounds and electronic vibes, blending the old and the new together. Created in 2015 by a local DI, every year it grows bigger and better, attracting people from all over the UK.
This September promises to be good one, with a selection of DJs such as Denis Sulta, Dan Shake and many more. You can camp out under the stars next to the water and woodlands and spend your days in this intimate musical setting eating gourmet festival food. Acclaimed as ‘one of Scotland’s most distinctive small festivals,’ Skye Live is an up and coming star.
2. Barn on the Farm
Date: 5th – 8th July
For me, this one is slightly closer to home in Gloucester – embracing more of the English country vibes. The festival includes a range of acoustic singers, mostly an individual and their guitar, creating a chilled setting in the lush green fields. Top artists this year are Tom Misch and Tom Grennan – both of which you get to enjoy, again, in a more intimate setting due to the smaller nature of the festival.
Camping is also possible over the weekend, pitching your tent in a small nearby site and strolling through the local villages. With reasonable pricing and much less hassle than the larger-than-life festivals, Barn on the Farm is a little gem of a festival.
3. Community Festival
Date: 1st July
With a name like community, one might expect people sitting in large circles with your face painted, playing the drums and consumed in a cloud of questionable smoke. However, this festival is less Bob Dylan and more Two Door Cinema Club than you might expect. It is about, essentially, people coming together for a day of good music and vibes, hanging out under the sun.
It is a one-day event in London celebrating ‘the best in new music’ with acts such as (you guessed it) Two Door Cinema Club, Cira Waves, Pale Waves, Sam Fender and so much more. Located in Finsbury Park London, it is easily accessible and a great way to spend a day in the city. Slightly bigger than the last two options, but still providing an intimate space, it is a great place for hanging and listening to cool music.
Sources
http://www.barnonthefarm.co.uk/
https://communityfestival.london/community-summer-feels/
http://louderthanwar.com/community-festival-london-live-review/