roskilde 2008

Cadence Weapon continues to firmly establish his legacy as a sonic pioneer while constantly pushing the rap and electronic music envelope. Following his critically-acclaimed, Polaris Music Prize nominated albums Breaking Kayfabe and Afterparty Babies and a two year term as Edmonton’s Poet Laureate, he returns with his new album Hope In Dirt City this Spring. A clearly defined and emotionally mature statement of intent, Hope In Dirt City represents the culmination of these experiences.

Perhaps the foremost sound in Kenya is the benga rhythm, and Kenge Kenge (who began as "Kenge Kenge Orutu System") are among the foremost of the younger generation exploring the music. The name, which comes from the Luo language, means "fusion of small, exhilarating instruments." Formed in the early '90s by Amdo Jawaya and Samuel Nyariwo, they began as musicians backing (really) the Catering Levy Trust Choir. Within a few years they'd grown out of that supporting role under their new leader George Achieng, and focused more closely on the benga rhythm that's synonymous with Kenya.

Boy Better Know is a Grime label formed in North London (N17) by JME (Jamie Adenuga) and his older brother Skepta (Joseph Adenuga, Jr) as well as rapper Wiley. It is a sub-crew of the main crew Roll Deep. The label produced records from various artists including Wiley and Tinchy Stryder. They have received support from various big names including Westwood, and Wiley's single Wearing My Rolex reached number 3 in the UK charts in May 2008. Boy Better Know have become an influential brand, selling over 20,000 of their t-shirt range and playing shows around the world.

The Good, The Bad & The Queen consists of Damon Albarn from Blur and Gorillaz (vocals & keys), The Verve guitarist Simon Tong, Paul Simonon, former bass player of The Clash, and Tony Allen, drummer of Fela Kuti's live band. They are referred to by the name of their first album having not disclosed a name. It has been stated by Albarn that there are no plans yet to change this. Their first album, produced by DJ Danger Mouse, was released on 22nd January 2007 and charted at no.2.