Forwards Festival’s stacked line-up makes it one of the most anticipated events of the summer
The extensive range of genres and artists showcased over the course of the festival means that Forwards caters to everyone’s tastes.
Set in Bristol’s beautiful Clifton Downs, Forwards Festival celebrates its fifth year on August 29th and 30th, with some huge names headlining. Saturday is fronted by Afrobeat artist TEMS, the multi-talented Self Esteem, and one of my personal favourite indie picks on the line-up, fresh off their deluxe album release—Wet Leg. Also performing on the opening night of the festival, Joy Crookes, a singer whose smooth vocals and dreamy instrumentals will be sure to set a fantastic tone for the weekend.
Arguably one of the most intriguing events of the night, Paraorchestra’s Kraftwerk Re:werkwill also grace the stage. Mixing the pioneering electronic sound with orchestral elements, I’m particularly excited to see how this idea can truly come to life on the stage—this will not be an act to be missed! Maribou State also features on the line-up as special guests, and I’m intrigued to see what the blazing electronic duo bring to their first time at Forwards.
Sunday closes the festival with the electrifying hip-hop sensation Little Simz. Her latest album Lotus has been on repeat for me for the last year, and so I can’t wait to see how she brings those tracks to life at such an incredible location. Joining her on the headline slots are multi-instrumentalist and genre-transcending artist Dijon, and feminist punk outfit Amyl and The Sniffers, making one of their few UK appearances this year. Known for their infectious energy and deliciously raucous live performances, this is a spectacular way to round off the festival.
Viagra Boys will also perform on the same day, along with rising stars YHWH Nailgun, and BBC 6 Music’s own Jamz Supernova to name a few of the other artists these performers share the line up with.
Forwards seems to have an eye for up-and-coming musicians, with stars like Olivia Dean, Ezra Collective, and Arlo Parks, all having played there previously, so each artist on this year’s line-up is most definitely worth a listen. The festival has already built up such a strong reputation for itself, and this year it seems to be delivering on that same high standard. I’m certain that Forwards will be the best way to close out festival season for another year.
