Music, Style & Culture

6 Bands To See At Reading & Leeds Festival ‘09

Often crowded, frequently just plain mental, if you don't know what you're planning to see at Reading or Leeds, you'll probably end up seeing nobody. Here's who we think should be circled on your planner.

Reading and Leeds - the cornerstone of the festival season. If Glastonbury is a big hello to mud, tents and bad burgers, this pair of titans are the beginning of the end. Always one to attract the big names, this year is no different with a significant section of alternative royalty splattered all over that signature yellow line up poster.

Often crowded, frequently just plain mental, if you don't know what you're planning to see at Reading or Leeds, you'll probably end up seeing nobody. Here's who we think should be circled on your planner.

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Radiohead

Look, start with the obvious, OK? There's all kinds of rumours flying around about the Oxford demi-Gods' set. If you haven't heard them, then don't bother - chances are they're nonsense anyway. Possible new material from a band that never disappoint, it's odds on to be their festival.

Listen to Radiohead on Spotify

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Mariachi El Bronx

Yes, they'll rip out your metaphorical throat in their more widely known guise on the Lock Up Stage later on in the day, but what better way to open the Main Stage than with a Mariachi band? Answer; there is no better way.

Listen to Mariachi El Bronx on Spotify

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The Joy Formidable

Brilliant is just one word to describe this lot. Echoing everything from Pixies to perfection, they've been bubbling under nicely for a while now. If the sun is out, then expect smiles and rock in equal measure.

Listen to The Joy Formidable on Spotify

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Metric

This year saw Metric return with yet another brilliant record, 'Fantasies'. With Brody Dalle's Spinnerette on beforehand, expect Emily Haines to show her how it's done.

Listen to Metric on Spotify

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Milk White White Teeth

Blissed out awesomeness on the introducing stage, Milk White White Teeth are the kind of band who put a smile on your face. Equal parks catchy and lovely, they prove you can still find a new band to fall in love with at Reading

Listen to Milk White White Teeth on Spotify

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Jeffrey Lewis: Watchmen Lecture

It didn't happen at Latitude, but it looks like it just might here. If you've no idea why this will be awesome, then all hope is lost. Essential viewing.

Listen to Jeffrey Lewis on Spotify

For the full line up click here.