The countdown to Basingstoke’s biggest music festival is well and truly underway as a host of top bands confirm their attendance.
Basingstoke Live returns in July for a two-day extravaganza with acts ranging from rock and pop to music and art. The event is put on by Basingstoke and Deane borough council and is free for all.
Last year the festival was headlined by current chart-topper Chipmunk and this year DJ Crew the Scratch Perverts will headline on Saturday night, away from their usual residency at London’s Fabric nightclub. Lucky Soul, who have earned rave reviews will headline the main stage on Sunday, And it is set to be bigger than ever, according to the town’s top music mogul, Lawrence Hoare.
‘Lozza’ who runs 100% Music, will have his own tent set up at the festival featuring some of the areas biggest bands. He told the Observer: “It is a free event, visitors can bring their own food and drink so wont need to spend a penny but can get all this amazing entertainment. It is the largest free festival within a 50 mile radius, I do not know of another local council putting on an event like this, it’s brilliant for the town.
“This really is as big as it gets for Basingstoke’s music scene. These bands work hard all year so to play in front of a massive crowd, with great facilities, is such a great reward for them.” Lozza admitted he cannot wait for the event.
“At the 100% Music tent alone we have 22 different bands,” he continued. It is beyond comprehension and I cant wait for the weekend to come around.”
Meanwhile Cabinet Member for Housing, Health and Culture, Cllr Cathy Osselton, said the festival continues to grow year on year. “Basingstoke Live has gone from strength to strength and this year we are looking forward to holding the most successful and enjoyable festival yet,” she said. "With such a mix of music, art and dance played across the weekend from rock to pop and funk to DJs, there will be something to appeal to everyone’s taste.”
To hear all the latest news about acts and the fringe festival, visit www.basingstokelive.co.uk
