Keshia Lee
If there’s a party you need to hit this Lunar New Year, make it the star-studded and action-packed music festival that hits our shores this month– the Good Vibrations Festival (GVF).
The annual Australian outdoor music festival will be making its way to Singapore for the first time on Feb 19 at Fort Canning Park. With the roll out of an impressive selection of international music makers, music lovers will be treated to an exciting fusion of genres ranging from hip-hop to rock, dance to soul and even world music. Join in the music madness with an expected turnout of 10,000 festival-goers from across the region.
Since its debut in 2004, GVF has travelled to 4 Australian cities each year. Its stop in Singapore follows a stint in Melbourne, Gold Coast, Sydney and Perth. Some of music’s biggest names, including the late James Brown, Moloko and Mylo, have graced its stages. This year’s extravaganza will not disappoint with appearances from heavyweights such as the Beastie Boys, Cicada and Jurassic 5, as well as local and regional acts, Too Phat, Electrico and Saw Loser, just to name a few.
According to their press release, GVF will also feature local graphic and visual design talents such as Phunk Studio, CAPT and The Killer Gerbil to promote appreciation for the arts in addition to this musical buffet. They will provide visuals as an accompaniment to the music as well as decorate the area with their work, ensuring that GVF will be a treat for both the eyes and ears. New York-based artist Rostarr, who has worked on projects with Nike, Gravis and Agnès B, will also collaborate with them to design an exclusive GVF Subaru car, which will be displayed during the event.
Here’s the all-star artiste line-up:
Beastie Boys
Terming the legendary punk turned hip-hop group as “The Godfathers of White Rap”, Good Vibrations has brought them in to headline the event. It’s no wonder the Beastie Boys have gained themselves such respect as it’s been more than 20 years since they first hit the music scene. Their longevity is evidence that their special mix of punk, funk, hip-hop and rock has been a winning formula. As headliners of the festival, the Beastie Boys, along with turn-tablist Mix Master Mike and producer/musician Money Mark, are set to immerse you in the world of fusion music.
Cicada
In a world where music is made to follow trends, it’s refreshing to see a band that’s willing to experiment with different sounds. Cicada, the 3-piece UK band, makes use of live instruments with electronic beats to produce dance remixes from well-known artistes such as Blondie, Depeche Mode and Dannii Minogue. Cicada released their self-titled debut album last August featuring 13 tracks stamped with its signature electronic pop blend.
Jurassic 5
The 5-piece crew, made up of MCs Chali 2na, Marc 7, Akil, Zaakir (Soup), and DJ/producer Nu-Mark, is well-known for its old school hip-hop approach. With on-point lyricism and smooth turntable beats, they’ll let us have a peek at the real deal of disc-jockeying without all the commercial fuss and frills.
Although GVF will only start full-force on Feb 19, a pre-party will kick start the event on Feb 18 at the Chinese Laundry Stage at the Fort Gate at Fort Canning Park. Catch local DJs and stay on for a preview of some of GVF featured artistes when Mad Mats and Spiritual South take over the decks. To enter from 8pm to 1am, you’ll need your GVF ticket. But hold your horses, the fun won’t end yet. GVF guarantees a mind-blowing event so make a stop at its post-party. Held over 2 venues, the festival promises that mystery guests will make appearances. All details, including the venues, will only be revealed on Feb 19. Again, entry is given to those with the GVF wristband, so be sure not to lose yours.
Venue: Fort Canning Park
Time: 4pm till 1pm
Cost: $60 (advanced tickets)/$80 (at the venue)
Advanced tickets on sale at all authorised SISTIC agents since January.
SISTIC Hotline: (65) 6348 5555
Now open to all ages.
(Photo ID required to gain entry. Alcohol will not be served to persons aged below 18.)