I first went to Reading Festival in 2008 at the age of 16. Back then it was a right of passage for anyone doing their GCSEs, as I’m sure it still is for thousands of teenagers today. I’m writing this article nine years later, not as a teen on a right of passage, but as a fan of rock and indie music. I’m really impressed by this year’s lineup, so much so that I’ve bought a ticket despite the realisation that I may increase the average age of attendees by a few years! For this article I‘ve picked the top two artists I’m most looking forward to seeing at Reading Festival this year:

Friday (Reading) / Saturday (Leeds)

WSTR

Stage: The Lock Up

Time: 16:15-16:45

Bio: WSTR are an energetic, punchy pop-punk band from Liverpool and draw their influences from the classic bands of the genre, such as Blink-182 and New Found Glory. The band released their first full-length album – Red, Green or Inbetween – earlier this year and will be performing at Reading and Leeds fresh from an Australian tour supporting Seaway.

Bear’s Den

Stage: Festival Republic Stage

Time: 22:30-23:30 (Reading) / 22:00-23:00 (Leeds)

Bio: Clashing with the likes of Kasabian, You Me At Six and Fatboy Slim, Bear’s Den are a fantastic, low-key alternative to finish off the day. Hailing from London, the folk band’s chilling harmonies and emotional lyrics make it no surprise that they are headlining the Festival Republic Stage after only two albums.

Saturday (Reading) / Sunday (Leeds)

Moose Blood

Stage: Main Stage

Time: 12:50-13:25 (Reading) / 12:50-13:20 (Leeds)

Bio: Alternative-Rock band Moose Blood have been busy since releasing their critically-acclaimed sophomore album Blush just over a year ago, and have deservedly earned themselves a spot on the Main Stage at Reading and Leeds this year. With a respectable collection of big hits in their arsenal, I have a feeling Moose Blood will progress further up the bill over the next few years.

LANY

Stage: Dance Stage

Time: 15:05-15:40 (Reading) / 14:50-15:25 (Leeds)

Bio: With their raspy vocals, catchy choruses and smooth synths, LANY have gained a lot of traction since being announced for their slot at Reading and Leeds, especially over the past few months since releasing their debut self-titled album. I would recommend that you try and get to the Dance Stage with plenty of time to spare if you want to get a good spot for these guys!

Sunday (Reading) / Friday (Leeds)

Liam Gallagher

Stage: Main Stage

Time: 20:15-21:15 (Reading) / 19:45-20:45 (Leeds)

Bio: Possibly the most recognisable name on the line up for this year’s Reading and Leeds, Liam Gallagher is gearing up for the release of his first solo record, As You Were, next month and has been playing festivals all around the world. With the release of Wall of Glass, Chinatown, and For What It’s Worth, the Oasis frontman has shown that he’s back to his best and is guaranteed to give a great show.

Neck Deep

Stage: Lock Up

Time: 22:30-23:30 (Reading) / 22:10-23:00 (Leeds)

Bio: The hype surrounding Neck Deep at the moment is enormous with the recent release of their third album, The Peace and the Panic, which currently stands at No. 2 in the UK midweek chart. Their sound is constantly evolving and there are plenty of hits from their latest release that will transition perfectly to the NME Stage for their headline set.

Feel like I’ve missed anyone? It would be great to hear your recommendations!