Superstar pairing Broken Bells have been confirmed for the forthcoming instalment of Meltdown.
It starts simply enough. Taking over the Southbank Centre in London, the organisers of Meltdown simply ask a respected musician to curate their own festival.
Then comes the tricky part. This year’s curator is legendary songwriter Richard Thompson, who has prepared a bill which ranges from blues hobos to Islamic punks, a Malaysian boyband to… Elvis Costello?
Amongst the latest announcements are superstar pairing Broken Bells. Uniting the talents of Danger Mouse with The Shins’ James Mercer, the group are one of the most talked about newcomers of the year so far.
Their debut album was critically acclaimed, with Broken Bells confirming a number of shows around the world. Set to play the Meltdown festival, the duo will be joined by a raft of new additions.
Rufus and Martha Wainwright are due to perform at a special tribute concert to their mother Kate McGarrigle, a hugely respected folk musician in her own right. Set to be one of the festival’s stand out events, the show has been organised by one time Fairport Convention star Richard Thompson himself.
Meanwhile Elvis Costello is due to play a rare London show, returning home for the first time in years. Neil Hannon is to appear at a special cricket themed night, while Martin Carthy will host an eclectic evening of political songwriting.
Of course, Richard Thompson is also set to strap on his electric guitar with the singer preparing to debut his forthcoming album ‘Cabaret Of Souls’.
Meltdown takes place between June 11th – 21st.
