There is only one event on the British calendar that can boast eclecticism in the way Boomtown does. Ska, Jungle, Indie and hip hop are sounds that have elated U.K. culture; and Boom have been architects in combining these scenes for a weekend like no other.
This year’s line up celebrates pioneers of pure British originality, you only have to look at the booking of The Streets as confirmation of this. Debut album ‘Original Pirate Material’ merged garage beats with Nas-esque storytelling to brutally portray 20th century England. Their comeback to dominance will be optimised by this performance; a true highlight amidst the competitive line up.
What is so admirable about the event this annum though is their supporting of collaboration. From Rage Against the Machine, Cypress Hill and Public Enemies’ ‘Prophets Of Rage’, to the Scottish sound-system ‘Mungo’s HiFi’, there are so many artists on the bill freely cooking flavours with fellow musician’s to broaden the horizon of music.
For those with a ticket, and who know the festival well, the creation of new district ‘Room 404’ is an incredibly enticing change. A celebration of the roots of house and techno, this new arena will be blessed by acid house legends in the calibre of Carl Cox and modern day innovators like ‘Mall Grab’, who’s upbeat 4/4 deep techno has taken the U.K. and Australian clubbing circuit by storm.
Those looking for the best of Bassline are covered by the euphoric rhythms of My Nu Leng, who’s previous appearance with TQD is certified legendary. The most successful up and coming Hip Hop record label ‘High Focus’ will be taking over Barrio Loco to showcase their talent: Ocean Wisdom, Dirty Dike and Jam Baxter are just a few names that spring to mind. Little Simz will be bringing her incredible new album to the same stage, and Slowthai is completely unavoidable at the moment; translating tales of Northampton estate culture into vivacious, gritty bangers.
From experience last year, getting wiggy and walking around the various districts of Boomtown has enlightened me to so much. Tangled Roots blared out bass wobbling ragga, Danny Rankin’s set this year will be unmissable, the Psy Woods was as trancy as anticipated, and Banghai roared night bass until 4 in the morning on the Friday night.
The exposure Boomtown gives to the abnormal, creative and heavily overlooked sounds from across the world makes it well worth the money. As the tickets are on their final tier, you better act quick if you want to cop yourself a weekend like none other.