EOTR vs EP: Countdown

18 sleeps to go…

It’s almost a decade since I innocently stepped foot upon the Stradbally grass for the first time. Drinking in the fresh air and swirling colours for a good 35 seconds before innocently casting my backpack into a field full of strangers (lovey but still, strange) and booting it to the big top to catch an incendiary, life-changing set by dEUS. Upon returning to find my rucksack still intact (good fortune but not recommended), I deemed Electric Picnic the place for me. For the next five years at least, although this timeframe wasn’t decided at the time.

In 2009 I stumbled upon a smaller, more polite festival in the U.K. whose organisers seemed to curate the line-up based on the thoughts tinkling about my hairy head. Although there were crossover years where I attended both End of the Road and EP, it is the Larmer Tree Gardens gathering that has narrowly attained my vote since. Still, EP will forever maintain a special place in my heart and the line-ups don’t tend to differ wildly. This post will feature bands and artists playing both so whichever long weekend you plump for, try scribble this name into your schedule.

Who?: Stephen Malkmus & The Jicks
Why?: Former Pavement frontman Stephen Malkmus is re-energised and revitalised following the release of sixth Jicks long-player Wig Out At Jagbags. Let’s hope the ‘Chartjunk’ brass band joins them on stage.
End of the Road stage: Woods Stage (Friday 29th)
Electric Picnic stage: TBC

For more on Stephen Malkmus & The Jicks visit:

– Stephen Malkmus & The Jicks play both Electric Picnic and End of the Road at the end of August