Five Must See Acts at Soundwave

Photo: LTJ Bukem

As one of the jewels in the Croatian festival crown, Soundwave brings a distinctly soulful, jazzy, feel-good vibe to the Adriatic coast over the summer.

Hitting up The Garden Tisno between 6th and 10th August, Soundwave boasts a discerning line up of 'global musicians, club nights and boat parties with the option of snorkelling, diving, renting a boat or taking a trip around the islands, to sample the local cuisine or visit one of the nearby national parks.'

There's a hell of a lot to see and do over the five days, not least the enormous musical line up. But there's no need to be overwhelmed, we've focused on five of the acts that you must bsolutely see at this year's festival.

LTJ Bukem

As one of the true mavericks, LTJ Bukem's jazz fuelled, atmospheric drum & bass has created its own niche within the scene. As the brains behind Good Looking records, LTJ is one of the classiest protagonists in electronic music - his sophisticated, soulful, hypnotic drum & bass is simply a cut above. With him only making rare appearances these days, seeing him in action really is a no brainer. Check out his Fabric promo above to see what all the fuss is about.

Slum Village

Described as hip hop inspired by Detroit's legacy, Slum Village rose to prominence in the late nineties, with anchors T3 and Young RJ alongside Jay Dilla responsible for some of hip hop's most glorious moments. Even since his departure in 2002, Slum Village have continued to impress, 'delivering soul-stirring sonics that represent Detroit to the fullest'. Relive the timeless Fantastic, Vol.2 album above.

Mala

Throughout the ups and downs of dubstep, one constant beacon of light has been Mala. As one of the originators of the scene, Mala's sound has never been even remotely tarnished by fads and trends, he's always stuck to his guns and continues to pioneer a sound he wholeheartedly believes in - the result has been a back catalogue of defining, timeless records continue to keep people hooked. 

Craig Charles

When Craig Chartles is behind the decks, you know you've got a real party on your hands, partially because he'll be partying as hard as the punters, but mostly because his encyclopaedic knowledge and unbridled passion for soul and funk is utterly irresistible. Feel good times are guaranteed. Watch his appearance at Kendal Calling above.

Mr Scruff

The Stockport selector is always a must-see, especially in the festival environment. His sunny, positive even humorous forays into electronica, soul, funk, hip hop, reggae and everything in between is surefire party fodder. Expect to be part of a sea of beaming grins when he mans the decks at Soundwave. Watch his brilliant vinyl only set at Piccadilly Records above.

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