Galtres Parklands Festival will feature a host of local musicians.
Some of the best and brightest of York’s music scene are taking their place at this year’s Galtres Parklands Festival, playing alongside national icons.
The likes of Human League, Tricky and Levellers are some of the big name acts with a slot at the festival. Meanwhile, some of York’s own best loved music acts will be playing.
A Joker’s Rage, RSJ, The Franceens, Boss Caine and Vitula String Quartet are just a few of those playing the festival who have roots in York. Some of these acts are known in cities futher afield too.
“Mixing famous touring acts with local acts has always felt like a very natural booking policy for us. Festival-goers invariably want to see some big name acts – bands like The Human League and Levellers, both of whom are playing here this summer. But then there’s also this tremendous wealth of talent in York’s music scene, and in neighbouring areas throughout the north. We’re proud to offer a platform for our tremendous local performers,” said PR manager for Galtres Pete Wise.
York acts to watch at Galtres
RSJ may have started off playing bars in York but now they are known across the country. They won the Best UK Metal Band 2007 award at the National Music Awards in London.
The Franceens are a garage punk three-piece who have been making waves across the UK and Europe.
Boss Caine is led by York singer songwriter Daniel Lucas and the band’s acoustic blues have previously had airtime on Radio 2.
Irie Vibes will be spinning up reggae and dub on a custom-built soundsystem. The collective has been running since 2009 and hosts regular music events with Caribbean cuisine.
Vitula String Quartet might look like a classical outfit but they love to play rock and pop covers too. They’ve done weddings, session recordings and they also busk in York.
Bigger and better
Now in its tenth year, the Galtres Parklands is much bigger than when it started as the Crayke Village Real Ale Festival. It is now hosted at Duncombe Park in Helmsley, where there are ten stages, a performance area and plenty of stalls.
As such, competition for a spot at the festival is much tougher than it used to be. Hundreds of applications are sent in each year from both local bands and other artists around the UK, so organisers need to be impressed.
Pete said the acts are chosen very carefully. Bands must apply for a place before being scrutinised by a judging panel. Judges then make a decision based on a number of factors, such as originality, ambition and how well the act can engage a crowd.
Along with the increasing popularity of the festival comes a higher accolade of playing there and organisers have noticed that a slot means more to bands nowadays.
“For one thing, performing at a festival like this one is a fantastic experience, and for another, it’s a tremendous chance for musicians to boost their profile and win over new fans,” said Pete.
Galtres Parklands festival will run from August 22nd until the 24th. Tickets can be booked from the website.