AROHA

Often when I mention the Laneway festival to friends, the responses I get are "I don't know many of the bands" and "isn't it just full of hipsters?". To them I say, "why don't you come and find out for yourself?". It's highly likely that some would classify me as being a "hipster", but I'm more interested in the music.

The thing about Laneway is the acts programmed are alternative and often on the cusp of things really blowing up for them. Which is precisely why I like it; I want to be challenged musically. Whilst there is a great satisfaction in knowing all the words to your favourite songs so you can sing maniacally at the front woman whilst sweating off your mascara (me, watching Bat For Lashes at Laneway 3 years ago); there's something special about being turned onto new music in a live concert environment.

That said, I'm hoping to demystify some of the acts for you by sharing those who I'm most looking forward to seeing. Check out the links to their songs to get the gist of what they're about. I've also made a Laneway mini-mix with some of my favourites, which you can listen to below while you're preening before rolling down to Silo Park.

Aroha's Laneway 2016 Mini Mix by Aroha on Mixcloud

LEISURE

GOLDLINK

THUNDERCAT

SHAMIR

THE INTERNET

VINCE STAPLES

GOLDLINK

HERMITUDE

COURTNEY BARNETT

GRIMES

SOPHIE/QT

FLUME

Lastly, don't forget to drink lots of water. It gets really really hot at Silo Park and you do not want to flake out before Grimes takes the stage.