5 Must-See Acts At This Year’s EXIT Festival

The colossal Serbian event returns...

Music lovers are in for a massive treat as Novi Sad’s EXIT Festival in Serbia gets ready to open the doors to one of Europe’s most acclaimed music events.

As it approaches its 20th birthday in 2020, the festival continues to emphasise its values of freedom, social change and youth rebellion.

Leading up to the anniversary, this year is headlined by The Cure, and EXIT has a blistering, diverse line-up to deliver, one that’s likely to establish its reputation as the ultimate European festival destination.

The idyllic surroundings of Petrovaradin Fortress – an 18th century citadel overlooking the iconic River Danube –is a stunning setting, and one of Serbia’s most cherished landmarks becomes extra special when it transforms into a huge party.

With more than 20 stages, past line-ups include an ever-growing list of global artists who have headlined including Liam Gallagher, The Killers, The Prodigy, Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds, Arcade Fire, Pet Shop Boys and New Order.

The festival’s aim to deliver the most eclectic line-up of any festival in Europe by representing all genres from indie-rock and pop to techno, dance, hip hop and reggae continues.

The Dance Arena is a special jewel, and many DJs see it as the best festival stage in the world. Hosting a rave for 20,000 is one thing, and having artists playing the extra hour until 9am and famously calling it “one of the most special places on Earth” is major too.

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Here's five acts to catch at this year's EXIT Festival…

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The Cure

No introduction is needed. But the endurance of the much-loved new wave punk band is astonishing, and as they continue their four-decade reign, it will be fascinating to see if it is possible for them to pull their music in new directions.

Prepare yourself to see an iconic, career-spanning set. It is going to be a celebratory, glamorous and emotional goth-rock show.

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Skepta

The grime star’s EXIT festival set was a late, but thrilling announcement. With what seems to be an ever-increasing thirst for variety in life and career, the Tottenham rapper juggles several projects in addition to his music such as being a father and becoming Chief of his Nigerian hometown.

Following the release of his fourth studio album ‘Ignorance Is Bliss’ we are about to witness something special and unmissable.

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Carl Cox

An ambassador of acid house and a pioneer of dance music, producer Carl Cox is one of the most influential champions of music. His list of credits includes an annual residency at Space Ibiza and a seminal slot on BBC Radio 1’s Essential Mix.

Showing no signs of stopping at 55, his EXIT spot is going to be massive; expect an iconic set highlighting his technical brilliance and unadulterated blend of house and techno.

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Peggy Gou

The innovative Korean DJ and producer Peggy Gou is one of several DJs to pave the way for other female DJs and producers. With a focus on creativity and cultural diversity she first appeared in the limelight in 2016 and has since enjoyed a diary full of commitments.

Drawing on a diverse palette of influences her DJ slot promises plenty of reference points, all set to be delivered with finesse and style.

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Greta Van Fleet

The Michigan four-piece is known for their Led Zep-inspired heavy rock. Made up of three brothers – Josh, Sam and Jake Kiszka and their friend Danny Wagner – they have gained the approval of Robert Plant and continue to build their reputation and grow their international fanbase. Their show at EXIT looks set to be of the raw, energetic kind and is not to be neglected.

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EXIT Festival 2019 runs between July 4th – 7th – ticket LINK.

Words: Susan Hansen

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