BYRON BAY Bluesfest continues to mount an ever-more-impressive prospect for 2018’s event, adding 16 more names to its already-enticing line-up, which features the likes of Robert Plant, Lionel Richie, The John Butler Trio, Tash Sultana and many more.
Joining the festivities at Tyagarah Tea Tree Farm in April will be an array of acclaimed singers and musicians, including Senegalese legend Youssou N’Dour, UK soul icon Seal, Bluesfest favourite Michael Franti & Spearhead, lauded troubadour Jackson Browne and the freaking Original Blues Brothers Band.
Speaking of legends, Bluesfest has also secured the stylings of, among others, Bob Marley’s revered band The Wailers, seminal blues’n’boogie outfit Canned Heat, reggae trailblazer Jimmy Cliff, celebrated US muso Jason Isbell and his band The 400 Unit, ascendant British artist Rag’n’Bone Man and a long-awaited return appearance from Walter Trout, who was due to tour our shores in 2014 but was forced to cancel due to medical necessity.
“Our second Bluesfest artist announcement features a cross-section of artists, from the greatest African artist of our time, to incredible singers — in a year [when] we already have such incredibly great singers already announced — to the best in Americana, reggae, blues and roots music, and more,” festival director Peter Noble said in a statement. “From top to bottom, I am so proud of Bluesfest’s new announcement of 16 amazing artists. When added to those already announced, and with more to come, it’s going to be very special Bluesfest.
“Each festival is a handcrafted labour of love. I work hard to present a truly world-class event, and I take pride in it being very special every year.”
Safe to say that he’s absolutely achieved that for the upcoming instalment, and we’re not even through with all the goodness yet to be revealed before next year’s event.
Speaking of, Bluesfest 2018 will be held from 29 March to 2 April. Festival and camping tickets are both on sale now; see the event’s website or head to theGuide for more information.
Story from The Music.