Awarded best pet project 2003 CDs available at Kirth&Lovery! INTRO! WHAT? WHERE? WHEN? HOW MUCH? WHO? LATEST NEWS!! It has now been officially confirmed that the Utani pop megastar from the 70s/80s, Davie Jones, will be giving a performance at the festival! Don't miss this unique opportunity! The playing list is now complete, with the last addition of Vito Scaniglia Jr of Stervia! INTRODUCTION Kirstwall. Every Somerish kid associates this town with the place where the seed to what was to become Somery was sown. History hangs heavy over the site where the Summer clan first came to power in the new country. Lately also music hangs heavy in a twifold manner over Kirstwall since the town has become the site for a great festival of pop and rock music, second only to Dwimmerdell, but still first when it comes to inviting pop and rock acts from other countries. Starting this year it's been decided to open it to the international arena of rock and pop music. All types of still picture cameras are allowed on the festival grounds, but any kind of camera that can record moving images or sound is forbidden. Such cameras must be handed over to the festival staff and will be returned after the festival is over. Other things that are not allowed include glass bottles, unsealed plastic bottles, animals, friends without ticket ribbons, any kind of weapons, alcohol or other drugs of any kind whatsoever. Things which the staff judge unsuitable will be taken care of and returned at the end of the festival. Objects judged as illegal will not be returned. People carrying illegal objects, be it drugs, weapons or objects of any other kind will be actively handed over to the police authorities. Children below the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult when on the festival grounds. WHAT IS IT? Sunmirch International music festival is dedicated to pop music of various kinds, from rap to art rock, from jazz pop to heavy blues rock. It is also the first music festival to be open to non Somerish bands which will add to the diversity of music and give foreign pop acts a chance to present themselves to the Somerish audience in a tangible way. The festival has been around for quite some time, enjoying its 15th anniversary this year, and has grown tremendously since its start in 288, nowadays attracting close to 20,000 visitors each year. The number of tickets have this year been raised to 25,000 following the opening to performances by foreign acts. WHERE IS IT? Kirstwall is situated in the heart of old Somery, on the outskirts of Avillion Evens, near the world famous stone circle to which the town owes its name. Follow the L4; to Bridglea from the north and follow the signs towards Druith or Curham; and from the south to Wrennington and watch for signs to Kirstwall. There are also frequent regular bus connections from both Bridglea with good train connections with Sibury and Lynnest, and Wrennington, when coming from Eamouth. Added to that there will be specially chartered festival buses going from both Sibury and Eamouth making several stops on the way. Distance from Sibury 233 kms, from Eamouth 222 kms. Go to Air U:s website for flight information from the Old Continent. WHEN IS IT? The festival coincides with the Somerish Aftsummer Monday Holiday, and lasts from Friday the 22nd to Sunday the 24th of August 303. Below are the preliminary performance hours for the various acts. Please note that the schedule may change owing to circumstances beyond our control. TROYD Fri 1800-1930 Oon'Bay-Woozt 2020-2150 Sister Sky 2240-0000 Crith & Buigan Sat 1600-1700 Vito Scaniglia Jr 1800-1900 Much 1930-2020 Hoppy Potty 2120-2200 Embers 2300-0000 Kondorkankui Sun 1630-1730 Carlieta Rae 1830-1930 Men In Plaid 2030-2200 Marchogion Llwyd DURBEW Fri 1930-2020 Segerros 2150-2230 Fullock Writ 0000-0130 Project M Sat 1500-1630 Wilderyard 1830-2000 Fiona Elma 2130-2300 The Luthiers Sun 1500-1630 Tod Lowry 1830-2000 The Dice 2130-2300 The Croft FORME Sat 1500-1630 Shon Maynard Sparrow 1830-2000 Lom Sayle 2130-2300 Hindbury Bligh 0000-0200 Davie Jones Sun 1300-1400 Beo 1500-1630 The Tillers 1830-2000 Toxic Gas 2130-2300 Alloy FESTIVAL (FRELS) Sat 1700-1800 Winterset 2000-2100 Gray Slawke 2300-0100 Derwent Dunyon Sun 1330-1500 Christophersson & Stavin 1630-1800 Whither So Aye 1900-2100 Annideigh Carra 2300-0100 The Mirth HOW MUCH IS IT? The price for all three days of the festival is 39/5'- (CHR$79). Check locally for sellers of tickets. Tickets for separate days are also available at reduced prices. Admission is free for children below the age of 13. WHO'S PLAYING? The following Somerish acts have been booked for performances during the festival. The Mirth - Gray Slawke - Winterset - Annideigh Carra Derwent Dunyon - Hindbury Bligh - Alloy - Whither So Aye The Luthiers - Lom Sayle - Marchogion Llwyd - Wilderyard Crith & Buigan - Shon Maynard Sparrow - Men in Plaid Tod Lowry - The Croft - The Tillers - Fullock Writ - Much The following foreign acts have been booked. Project M - Carlieta Rae - Sister Sky - Oon'Bay-Woozt Beo - Segerros - Christophersson & Stavin Hoppy Potty - Fiona Elma - Toxic Gas - The Dice Kondorkankui - Embers - Davie Jones Vito Scaniglia Jr   Some would say the main attraction to this festival is this group, by now well known worldwide, and consequently no further introduction should be necessary. This will be their first gig after the one in Tull, closing their world tour 302. Festival Sun 2300-0100 Following the release of Last Call Gray started his Somerish tour at the Whit Kirthfair, and after a somewhat shaky start he is now getting warm in the performance of the new songs. Festival Sat 2000-2100 A relatively new star on the pop sky, but you can tell they've come a long way before they finally got their record deal. Don't miss them if you like The Mirth. Festival Sat 1700-1800 It's not possible for anyone with any interest in Somerish pop music to miss this young Shirleithian girl who has a firm grip around the musical heart of the Somerish people. Festival Sun 1900-2100 After a few years when some would say they had gone a bit astray Strawton's pride is now back on track, according to most reviews better than ever. Festival Sat 2300-0100 Their King Meybren's Last Stand album is a classic and where would it be more appropriate to listen to this group than near the site where Leomancoren was saved by the eclipse, from being slain by Meybren, at the battle of Kirstwall. Heavy blues rock mixed with acoustic passages and mellotron, all accompanying Hobbie Potwort's characteristic voice. Forme Sat 2130-2300 This is probably the heaviest act you'll see (and hear) at the festival. Although basically playing heavy rock, Alloy has shown themselves open to new fields, among other things performing and recording a concert with the Melster Philharmonic Orchestra (which as we all know already know their way in the rock field after their sessions with the Mirth). Forme Sun 2130-2300 Behind this somewhat odd name we find a group that has chosen an unusual merge between pop and classical music by basically using only instruments normally used in the latter, like strings, from violin to double bass, oboe, clarinet, flute, piano, etc. Festival Sun 1630-1800 Guitar-based pop music, immediately likable, but still intelligent enough to survive daily airplay on commercial radio. There are lots of light pop star wannabes out there, but The Luthiers rule! Festival Sun 2130-2300 With his rough voice and eminent slide guitar playing in the midst of an atmospheric laid back sound, Sayle is a master at describing lazy sunny days on the beach, long gone bittersweet summers, and loves that could have been. Having miraculously recovered from an illness that almost claimed his life he is much welcomed back by his supportive fans. Festival Sun 1830-2000 This is art rock of a kind that is quite popular in Somery, with lyrics teeming with hints at fairytales and early Somerish/Estron legends and myths. The name is Classical Estron, meaning The Grey Riders, and the most loyal fans, one of the most devoted groups of followers of any band in Somery, usually show up all dressed in various shades of grey, and many make their own outfits with beautiful decorations, mostly referring to horses. Festival Sun 2030-2200 Wilderyard play slick, well-produced pop music that it's hard not to like. Maybe they won't be remembered 50 years from now, but they're fully enjoyable right now, and surely there's something here for the ladies to look at. Durbew Sat 1500-1630 The two Shons, Shon Crith and Shon Buigan, are back together again after having been working on other projects for about ten years, Crith as a music producer and Buigan as an actor. The sales figures of the newly released album show that the public has not completely forgotten about them. Backed by some of Somery's finest musicians they're not likely to show any lack of quality. Crith & Buigan have occasionally been accused of being boring on stage, but if quality music, performed with brilliance, is your bag, rather than energy and volume, then don't miss this opportunity. Troyd Fri 2240-0000 Back in the 70s Shon Maynard was considered one of the most brilliant guitar players Somery had ever seen (or heard). He is still going strong and even if you feel you've heard the new songs before he is still a musical force to consider. Noteworthy is also the fact that nowadays he tends to replace the quantity of notes played with quality. Better than ever, surely he, and his fellow musicians, deserve to be lent an ear or two. Forme Sat 1500-1630 With lots of humour and great musicianship the Men In Plaid usually turn their performances into hilarious experiences, without missing the main target, to give the audience musical value and high quality entertainment. Troyd Sun 1830-1930 Behind this stage name we find Elston Shonaugh, pianist and singer, and lyricist Bream Daufin who have written a great number of songs that have reached high on the Somerish music charts over the years. Apart from a considerable amount of music released on vinyl and CD they have also written several songs directly for the screen, like the #1 hit Life gives life from the computer animated film The Antlered King. Durbew Sun 1500-1630 Formed in Winster 10 years ago the Croft have in the last five years had great success, featuring Ninnys Pershaugh's smooth vocals and Perwy Simmers' clever and original songwriting. After a near breakup following intensive touring, solo projects and a battle of strong will powers the group has recently experienced an injection of newfound joy in making music together. You're welcome to take part in that joy by seeing them perform at the festival. Durbew Sun 2130-2300 Get caught by a captive groove, deeply rooted in the soil of blues, dirty boots and all. Don't expect no sunny skies or romantic love, it's all heartache and hard work. It's incredible how these blokes can vary the deceivingly simple concept of blues. Forme Sun 1500-1630 Three guitars and three voices make up the core of this group which has taken its name from the document that reunited Somery back in the early 1st century AP. Their music is deeply rooted in Somerish folk music, with lyrics containing many historical references as well as descriptions of the life and scenery of the Somerish countryside in centuries past. Durbew Fri 2150-2230 With a comparatively small but dedicated group of followers this group has been around for quite a while, almost as long as the Mirth, with which they sometimes are compared although they have suprisingly little in common. What gives Much its character is the way the group bases its songs on themes, very much like classical composers. All members are very skilled musicians and people who are more into light music will probably find them too boring or too demanding. Shon Kenather's lyrics and his characteristic tenor adds to the impression of originality. Not everyone's cup of tea, but well worth a try. Troyd Sat 1800-1900   Bowdani This progressive rock/pop/jazz group, whose second album, The Jester Wears The Fool's Cap, has hit number one in Bowdani and stayed there for 8 weeks has also made Somerish listeners of more sophisticated music prick up their ears. It is a five-piece led by the beautiful voices of pianist Anna Lang and guitarist Carol Haas, backed up by guitarist/vocalist John Upshaw, bassist Mark Donnan and drummer/percussionist Andy Urban, each of them virtuosos on their instruments. Their sound and style span from soulful jazz to hard rock. Durbew Fri 0000-0130     Bowdani She is considered the pioneer of modern jazz in Bowdani, treating the piano as an extension of her voice and hands. With the release of over 8 albums, all having gone platinum and having been received with much critical acclaim, hers is an impressive list of awards and top ten hits. Her most notable songs include A Song for Living, Gentle Touch, Keep Up (Or Fall Way Behind), and her most popular song, which can also frequently be heard on Somerish Radio, Picking up (With A Groove). Troyd Sun 1630-1730   Bowdani An all female four-piece that has begun a huge rise in popularity, stemming from their original pop sound and the creative song writing, being the signature of their songs. Having released their first album only 5 months ago, titled Running High, they are looking to expand their ever growing fan base and become the next international sensation. We will see what their performance at this festival can do to boost the international acclaim on their road to accomplish this dream. Troyd Fri 2020-2150   Feniz This Fenizic artist, with his early song I Feel Well, his ballad In The Desert and with the songs of his latest album, Here And Away is all but unknown in Somery, but is very popular is his home country. Troyd Fri 1800-1930 Vingarmark This garage rock quintet, featuring Mads Nyqvist on lead vocals and very popular in Vingarmark is known for their short, fast, and high-energy concerts. It is one of the most exciting bands to come out of Vingarmark for some time (or at least that is what some reviewers say). Their stylish gigs have gained them some international success so far. Maybe their gig at the festival will add to that. Forme Sun 1300-1400   Vingarmark This alternative rock quartet is known for their atmospheric music and they often use words and sounds from a variety of languages, exploring these sounds and setting them to music. Segerros is arguably the most imaginative and original band from the that part of Vexillium. Durbew 1930-2020   Vingarmark Sondre Christophersson and Liv Stavin are the leading contemporary jazz musicians in their country. Their innovative jazz gigs have earned them an international following. While Liv handles the piano and vocals in the duet, Sondre is the composer and plays the soprano sax. Festival Sun 1330-1500   Vingarmark Schtein, Inga, Elka, Gunder and Jarl form Hoppy Potty, the latest pop dance supergroup from Vingarmark. It's probably without risk saying that no body will be able to keep still when they perform their dance floor hits at the festival. Troyd Sat 1930-2020   Utania Already with a #1 album and two #1 singles under her belt at home, Ms Elma is a true Utanian talent. With the guitar she plays, and a small backing band, Ms Elma has been entertaining audiences in Utania for many years.He style has been described as a "gentle fusion of jazz and rock" and her voice as "honey for the ears". It seems that fans of Ms Carra will find something here that applies to their taste. Durbew Sat 1830-2000   Utania Alloy fans should definitely give these blokes a chance, as they're moving in a musical landscape similar to theirs. Their song Angels became the song of the year in Utania 302, with few rivals. What this says about the musical taste of the Utanians or the quality of Toxic Gas' music is up to you to decide. Be there! Forme Sun 1830-2000   Utania In Somery they're known for being the supportng act for the Mirth in Utania on their world tour, but when you hear them you might be surprised and ask yourself why they chose this band. Possibly it was a matter of personal taste and a way of making the world prick up their ears to the excellence of this group's musicianship. Pop of the finest brand, not very likely a mere mayfly, but a june, july and augustfly, too. Enjoy! Durbew Sun 1830-2000   Utania Kondorkankui is what the Utanians call an ujarakilae rapper, or shanty-town rapper, a poet of the modern, urban Utani, voicing the discontent of their increasingly despondent, disconnected lives, telling tales of empires lost, urban violence, poverty and discrimination. Rap is not that big in Somery but maybe Kondorkankui will make a difference. Troyd Sat 2300-0000   Utania This female trio play no instruments of their own, but their pop vocals have won them three #1 singles since the country's independence which gained them the right to perform. Previously banned, as ethnic-Utani, under Guwimithian rule, the trio burst onto the Utanian music scene shortly after independence with A night like this, which went straight to the top of the charts. They hit #1 earlier this year with Stronger and lately with Blue/ Shape. Their heavily mixed music was previously deemed too difficult to perform live, but their recent concerts have proven this wrong. Troyd Sat 2120-2200   Utania Davie Jones, 57, is currently recording and producing a new album, will take a break from recording to play the one date at the festival. Jones is expected to play hits from his back-catalogue, from the 70s, 80s and 90s. While most of his songs have been hits primarily within the Guwimithian Empire's Dependencies, several songs were worldwide hits, including Dust to Dust, Heroic, Zipangi girl, Let's Jive and Starman. Locally, Jones has dozens of top 10 hits, and between ten and twenty number ones.His most recent Unbeliever CD was the second-biggest selling in Utania, last year, and scored two more #1 singles and a #2. Forme Sat 0000-0200   Stervia Vito Scaniglia, Jr. is one of the most successful talents in the young generation. 'Wintertime' sees Vito's return to the top of the charts, two years after his smashing hit album 'Pour toi' which revealed this gifted newbie to the public. Writer as much as singer, the heartfelt sincerity and openness of his ballads are rapidly becoming popular standards. Born in a family of recent immigration which moved to Mishart after the breakup of Brolecia, and a true polyglot Scaniglia is often seen as the embodiment of the complexity and diversity of Stervia today. Troyd Sat 1600-1700