Nestled away in the Brecon Beacons lies GreenMan Festival – an idyllic pilgrimage, that with every passing year,
continues to enhance its reputation as one the UK’s most sort after music and
culture gathering. After missing out on Glastonbury this year, it was a no
brainer.
Despite being only approximately two hours
away on the train from London, and despite its relatively close proximity to
Bristol, the rolling hills and secluded location of the festival means it’s
like entering a different world for a few days each August. Where whatever the
weather, the festival offers charm.
Now in its 17th year, the festival’s 2019
lineup spans nearly a dozen areas, from comedy to film to science. Each year
the organisers managing to bring together a brilliant collection of new and old
artists from a wealth of genres, as well as performers, creators and
entertainers.
This year, the eclectic mix includes the
enigmatic, such as crowd-pleasing headliners Four Tet (live) and Father John
Misty, and the established, such as Eels and Yo La Tengo.
Staying true to its Welsh roots, the festival also welcomes Bill Ryder-Jones and Gwenno, while down the road IDLES
are included to headline the Far Out area. There is plenty of depth throughout
he lineup, with Maribou State, Big Thief, Sharon von Etten and Avi Buffalo to
name but a few.
As always with Green Man, the party doesn’t
finish in the amphitheatre of the main stage, with late-night DJs this year
including Shy FX, John Talabot and the disco-laden Greg Wilson.
Additional gems among the music lineup
include Yak, the noisy guitar band who always ensure a good show, Marika
Hackman, whose soft rock has gained her widespread acclaim, and Pigs Pigs
Pigs.. (how many times is it?), who packed out Bristol’s Exchange in March
2019.
Check in a week’s time to find out our ‘Top
10 Acts to Catch at Green Man 2019’ – it’ll be sure to give you some new
artists to listen to. Old and new.
But if you can’t wait! Check out the
official Green Man playlist here – it is tasty.
As well as great music, expect local comedy
from the likes of local Kiri Pritchard-McLean. The literature stage welcomes
Jarvis Cocker and Caitlin Moran; while the film area will show a stellar range
of independent films, including Amazing Grace and Missing Link. Expect art
installations, performing arts and a science area as well.
Children and teenagers aren’t forgotten
either, with activities such as flag making, ‘toddle bops’ and circus
activities taking place in the Little Folk area, for children, and Somewhere
area, for teenagers. Family camping also ensures that all ages can enjoy the
festival – something I certainly wish my parents involved me with when I was
younger.
The festival also continues to innovate
with the Settler’s Pass, allowing attendees early entry and the chance to make
the August festival a week-long break with access to a host of local
attractions including castles and heritage sites.
From the Green Man Beer Festival in the
Courtyard to the Babbling Tongues comedy hub and Walled Garden and Far Out for
your extra music fixes, Green Man remains a hive of creativity and discovery.
With great food and more still to be
announced, a strong environmentally-friendly ethos and a beautiful site to
enjoy, Green Man is the ultimate feel-good festival.
The festival takes place from August 15–18
2019.
Follow us or @richmaver on Instagram to get the latest live from the festival.
Written by //
Richard Maver