Festival Preview: Farmfest 2021

Farmfest | Bruton

If your heart is longing for that sweet festival feeling but you’re still apprehensive about being in large crowds, Farmfest might be just the place for you.

Located in the idyllic rolling hills of Somerset, Farmfest is a small, completely independent festival that consciously caps it’s attendance at 5000 people to maintain an intimate and buzzing atmosphere. Boasting previous line up highlights such as Craig Charles and Horse Meat Disco as well as Bristol favourites Snazzback, Elder Island, Goan Dogs and Waldo’s Gift, 2021 sees the festival return with a bang across the 30th-31st July weekend. With some of the UK’s most exciting artists taking to the stage and an offering of wellness treatments at Kanga Spa, comedy shows, workshops and morning workouts, Farmfest marks the much-needed return of summer festival perfection.

Here’s our top pick of acts you don’t want to miss:

Los Bitchos

Los Bitchos are one of the funnest bands to see live. A heady combination of tequila and cumbia, the five gals from London blend infectious instrumental riffs with groovy, syncopated rhythms. They are the band to win over any cynic who thinks songs need lyrics to be catchy. The only downside is trying to work out the name of the track with that really sweet guitar lick (aka all of them).

Grandmas House

The queer, femme, punk trio known as Grandmas House have gone from strength to strength over the past year. Live, they are a riot. From drummer Poppy’s energetic shouts to singer Yas’ growling vocals, and bassist Zoe’s quiet but powerful stage presence, there is never a dull moment when at a Grandmas House show. Hell, if past gigs are anything to go by, you might even get a pasty thrown at you if you’re lucky.

Ross From Friends

Headlining the den this year is Felix Clary Weatherall, who is better known by his stage name Ross From Friends. Having always been interested in live set ups for electronic music producers, Ross From Friend’s stage show is certainly a far cry from your average DJ performance. Accompanied by bandmates Jed (guitar) and John (saxophone, microKorg), the live show is simultaneously chilled and chaotic with electronic elements mingling serendipitously with live sax and guitar.

Katy J Pearson

Pearson's lilting vocals and skilled songwriting makes you nostalgic for the 70s even if you were born in '95. With a music video by Joe Lycet recently released and a performance for the iconic Balley TV it's clear she's on the up. Check out her debut solo album Return for a taste of the sweet Americana vibes she is sure to bring to Farmfest.

Wych Elm

Last but far from least is one of the coolest bands on the Bristol scene - Wych Elm. The punk rock four piece are known for their blend of 90s grunge with macabre folklore and have become a well-known name in Bristol over the past couple of years. A fascination with death leaches into their merch as well as their lyrics, with their debut EP being sold under Jane Doe in hand-stitched cadaver bags. Enchanting live, these are definitely an act to catch.

For a taste of what to expect at Farmfest, check out the festival playlist here.

Farm Fest takes place on the 30th-31st July, at Gilcombe Farm. Get your tickets here (but be quick! They've almost completely sold out!)

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