Ten Acts You Have To See

Chic plus Nile Rogers
Saturday

For lovers of afros, flairs, slap bass and ‘the groove’, the prospect of seeing Chic play ‘Le Freak’ is surely a mind-blowing one. Chis’s Nile Rodgers has had a hand in creating some of the greatest pop tracks ever written, so lucky punters can expect, amongst others, some well-known Bowie and Duran Duran thrown into the mix. Also, don’t miss the chance to catch Nile reading from his best-selling autobiography on the Literary Stage.
 
Lisa Hannigan
Saturday

It is easy to imagine that this softly-spoken songstress will be at home in the relaxed wooded surroundings of this boutique festival. This is Irish fans’ last chance to see Lisa this summer, before she departs on a UK tour. Highlights will include last year’s folk pop gem ‘Knots’ as well as tracks from 2008’s Mercury-nominated Sea Sew.
 
Nicolas Jaar
Saturday

American-Chilean composer/singer/electronic artist Nicholas Jaar, aka Nico, manages to create a hypnotic blend of minimalist techno that is both blissfully head-melting and wonderfully melodic. Live, Nico is lauded for his inventive approach to electronic performances. Any musos who think that electronic music is soulless repetitive nonsense, forget your prejudice – Nicholas Jaar blows them out of the water…
 
Bob Mould Band
play Copper Blue
Saturday

In the ‘90s, Bob Mould’s Sugar unleashed Copper Blue upon a post-Nevermind world. It bore the angsty hallmarks of the grunge era but it was the album’s sunnier, pop punk moments that made it so brilliantly lovable. Now, 20 years on from its release, Bob Mould is commemorating the album by playing it in its entirety. Cue early ‘90s inspired Doc Martens and over-sized stripey t-shirts. Waaaaaa!
 
Interference
Saturday

Fergus O’Farrell’s Interference emerged in the ‘90s and remain one of the most mystifying and intriguing musical acts in the country. O’Farrell has a slew of impressive collaborations under his belt and has shared the stage with the likes of Liam Ó Maonlaoí and Glen Hansard. Carefully crafted and multi-layered in their approach, Interference are renowned for their spell-binding live performances.

Tieranniesaur
Saturday

Tieranniesaur’s Choice-nominated self-titled debut – which endeared them to fans and critics aike – was recorded by wife and husband duo Anne and Pádraig in the comfort of their own home. On stage, Tieranniesaur are a seven-strong ensemble that pump out infectious, slightly naughty, indie pop tunes. If last year’s Picnic performance is any indicator, Liss Ard will be treated to a bout of funky pop goodness.
 
West Cork Ukulele Orchestra
SUNday

If the sun shines in Skibbereen, this ten-person ukulele orchestra could easily be the feelgood highlight of the weekend. The local-based crew combine ukuleles with spoken tales (think Gogol Bordello), messy harmonies and contagious enthusiasm. Warning, their song ‘Rasputin’ is a wonderfully pesky little ditty that will run rings around your mind!
 
Julie Feeney
SUNday

One of the brightest new stars to emerge over teh past five years in Ireland, Julie Feeney has been busy touring the US and presenting radio shows with Jack L. since the release of the magnificent Pages in 2009. With gorgeous pop classics like ‘Impossibly Beautiful’ in her drawer this is going to be a highlight of the weekend., Her Sunday set will also include tracks from her crowd-funded third studio album due for release in September.
 
Toots & The Maytals
SUNday

Liss Ard’s eclectic line-up is given an always welcome injection of Jamaican roots by the mighty Toots and the Maytals. ‘Monkey Man’ will get the crowds hollering if their previous Glastonbury performances are anything to go by and ‘54-46 Was My Number’ may just be the greatest ska song ever created. Don some baggy trousers and be prepared to head bop.
 
Paul Howard: Reading from ‘Triggs’
TBA

Yes, it is very weird that a dog has an autobiography, but the fact that it is Roy Keane’s canine Triggs does kind of make sense. Curious? Well the author and sports journalist Paul Howard is at hand. in Keane’s home county. to read excerpts from the autobiography of the most famous dog in football! And hopefully answer a few questions too!