Electric Picnic Preview: Friday

Three posts today on Electric Picnic - one designated for the acts not to be missed on each day. Also sorry for the lack of posting recently. I am moving out tomorrow and had quite a bit to sort out for college and that, plus preparing for what will be my first ever Picnic. I'm damn excited it must be said! Okay onwards and upwards...

Do Not Miss:

Modest Mouse. The American alternative rockers are touring the tenth anniversary of their seminal album, The Moon & Antarctica. In the years since they have released one very good record, one pretty decent one and several EPs and standalone singles. They were among the biggest draws for several US and Canadian festivals this summer and now is a great time to see them. Alledgedly preparing a new album as we speak, we may even get a sneak preview of what is to come.

Janelle Monae. Hip-hop/funk/soul sensation Janelle Monae is one of the most hotly tipped acts in the world right now, and she is not to be missed this coming Friday. Heavily influenced by classic motown as well as contemporary music such as Outkast (she worked with Big Boi on this record), her spectacular album is inspired by classic science-fiction amongst other things. She is not the type of act I tend to listen to but The ArchAndroid is full of infectious, irresistible sounds. Her live reputation precedes her - I have heard her performances mentioned in the same breath as David Bowie.... Let's see if she's worthy of such a title.

Laura Marling. Arguably the best musician to emerge in this current folk-revival wave, Marling comes to Stradbally on the back of two Mercury nominated albums (a potential winner next week) and an ever improving reputation. While I missed the hullabaloo the first time round, this second album (I Speak Because I Can) has captured my imagination - a gorgeous, intimate feeling record. One that has me very excited for Friday: here's hoping it can cross over into the live setting.

Also Worth A Look:

Eels. I've always been a fan of E. and co. and think the prospect of seeing Mr. E's Beautiful Blues in the glorious sunshine is too much to ignore! The recent trilogy of album releases is pretty solid too.

Jonsi. Sigur Ros frontman Jonsi has gone solo, though he has retained that soaring intimacy that made SR shows so very special. His vocal is jaw-dropping and the emotion that pours into his songs is some really admirable. Could be a very special performance indeed.

The Irish Act You Shouldn't Miss:

Rubberbandits & Crystal Swing. Seriously. This could be awesome.

Those are my tips for Friday anyway. Check back soon for Saturday and Sunday.