Newport Folk Festival 2017
Festival guide
Famously the place where Bob Dylan went electric, Newport Folk Festival is a legendary event with a rich history. Taking place in Rhode Island from July 28th to 30th, the line-up is a testament to the festival's stature: exciting acts both old and new will take to the stage over the weekend. From rising star Angel Olsen to a necessary tribute to the almighty Chuck Berry, here's our pick of the best.
Top picks
Angel Olsen
While Missouri artist Angel Olsen’s earlier work owed a lot to folky, lo-fi indie, veering on the side of lilting country (there was yodelling) her latest album has taken a turn towards something a little more forthright. Think grungey feedback, deliciously assured vocals, and even, dare we say, synths. Angel Olsen is easily one of the coolest artists on the indie circuit right now, and with that beauty of a voice this set should be a dream.
Wilco
Although they started out as the kings of alternative country - all bluegrass and deft harmonies - over the years Chicago band Wilco have grown into a more rounded indie rock group, albeit while retaining a slight twang. Their latest album - endearingly called Schmilco - is all warm and gentle yet jaded and weary. Described by Rolling Stone as “one of America’s most consistently interesting bands”, their's should be a standout set.
Michael Kiwanuka
The man with strikingly rich, smooth vocals, Londoner Michael Kiwanuka’s music is audio magic, and this performance should be too. ‘Home Again’ and ‘Black Man In A White World’ are particularly beautiful examples of his blues-y songs about love, home, and race. Kiwanuka’s serving up a highly acclaimed brand of retro-soul that nods to the likes of Otis Redding and Bill Withers, and live he's all kinds of lovely.
