From Thursday to Sunday, these four artists will take center stage with the intention of impressing an audience all there for the same thing. The music and the atmosphere.
Thursday's exclusive is no other than Y-Not veterans The Wombats. Since their conception back in 2003 in Liverpool, this trio has created six albums and been the soundtrack to a generation of indie lovers. Their discography includes 2007's cult classic 'A Guide To Love, Loss and Desperation' to their latest project 'Oh! The Ocean' which was released in February of this year. The group has demonstrated a masterclass in weaving their music into the culture of a country, cementing themselves in the hearts of millions of music lovers.
For fans of electronic music and a rave atmosphere, nineties legends Prodigy are the next headliners on the bill. The group helped pioneer the sound which became known as big beat, inspired by breakbeat. Along with their peers, such as Fatboy Slim and the Chemical Brothers, they were able to create a musical scene that is still widely appreciated today. The iconic 1997 album 'The Fat of The Land' is sure to be played in part, as it includes some of their biggest hits like 'Breathe' and 'Smack My Bitch Up'. The Essex group has managed to continue their enormous legacy since the passing of vocalist and long-time member Keith Flint back in 2019. MC and vocalist Maxim has ensured the energy and passion of Prodigy is still making a huge impression on the festival circuit, with a recent appearance at Coachella.
Another classic group for indie lovers, Courteeners, looks to take the stage as the Saturday headliner. The current lineup remains largely unchanged from the original, with Liam Fray on guitar and vocals, Michael Campbell on drums, Daniel Conan Moores on guitar, and Joe Cross on bass. The former producer took over bass duties after the original bassist, Mark Cuppello, departed the band in 2015. Since their first album in 2008, 'St. Jude', this Manchester band has made a big impact across the British indie rock scene. With hits like 'You're Not Nineteen Forever' being adopted as anthems of youth, there's no doubt their set will have an electric atmosphere.
The final headliner this year is Madness. In 1976, this group, which has mainly consisted of seven members, began a career that has become synonymous with British culture and a good party. Taking inspiration from pop, ska and, rhythm and blues, the group have cemented themselves as masters of creating a lively energy. They're the perfect choice for closing the weekend off with an impressive list of hits, including 'One Step Beyond' and 'Baggy Trousers'.
With only a few months to go until swarms of fans flock to Derbyshire, there's still time to secure a ticket for this highlight in the music festival calendar. Further down the lineup continues the trend of variety of pushing boundaries in sound, ensuring there's something there for everyone to enjoy at this year's Y Not Festival.
