An Ode To The Festival Season

What. A. Summer. For the last few months, music fans across the globe have filled fields, parks, beaches and boats, to bear witness to the world’s greatest artists in pure, unadulterated live form. Battling mud, rain, heat and hangovers – we all know it’s been worth it. So as the 2012 season winds to an end, let’s look back on those special moments that have made this summer so unforgettable!

RADIOHEAD // BONNAROO

What better place to start than with this fantastic video from Radiohead, which captures the festival spirit perfectly. Shot at this year’s Bonnaroo, prepare to be propelled from countryside to campsite to main stage in three glorious minutes.

SILENCE // PUKKELPOP

A minute’s silence was beautifully observed by festival-goers at Pukkelpop, to remember those affected by last year’s stage collapse.

TUPAC REINCARNATE // COACHELLA

No introduction required. This one goes down in festival legend; the definition of an ‘I was there’ moment.

GRIZZLY BEAR // END OF THE ROAD

Having not played a festival in over two years, this one was always going to be special. A spell-bound crowd (including the Songkick team) were treated to a sneak peek of the forthcoming album, and the sense that the band are on the cusp of something huge. Live music at its finest.

EVACUATION // LOLLAPALOOZA

Severe weather warnings ground day two of Lollapalooza to an immediate halt this year, as the entire site was temporarily evacuated. Hats off to the organisers for making the call; just check out the size of the storm rolling in below! Music resumed shortly after, as did partying in the mud.

BEIRUT // FIELD DAY

There’s nothing like a spontaneous dance in a field.

INGRID // WAY OUT WEST

Gothenburg’s Way Out West cemented itself in the upper echelons of the festival calendar this year – what a city, and what a line-up. The highlight of the weekend has got be the debut of Scandinavian super-group Ingrid, featuring Miike Snow, Lykke Li, Peter Bjorn & John and more. Balloons!

THE XX // BESTIVAL

And last but not least, London trio The XX capped off the UK festival season with a stunning return to form on the Isle of Wight.

Be sure to let us know your own festival highlights.

Bring on next year!