Music Preview: Sónar 2017

One of the world’s most innovative festivals is back in the city, and as always Sónar presents an infallible lineup of the most talented names in the music industry. This year sees a multi-genre selection of acts take to its stages including old-school hip hop from De La Soul, reggae vibes from Fat Freddy’s Drop, and the finest in French techno brought to you by Ed Banger Records, Justice. The lineup is brimming with talent, so here’s a heads-up on some of the unmissable acts playing this year.

Wednesday, the 14th

Björk. SónarHall. 8pm-12am.

SónarHall will be opening its doors early this year to host one of the finest musicians of our time—Björk. The embodiment of experimental music and art, she epitomises the progression and innovation that defines Sónar. Her most recent work, Vulnicura (2015), traces the emotional journey of her breakup with artist Matthew Barney. Björk uses her mastery of sound and technology to produce some of her most beautiful arrangements yet, complemented by her vocals, which continue to serve as one of her most powerful instruments. Her show this year will be a DJ set created around the music that inspires her, which is sure to arouse curiosity in music lovers. Tickets must be purchased separately from the SónarPass and Delegate Pass.

Thursday, the 15th

Tommy Cash. SónarHall. 4.30-5.30pm.

Born in post-Soviet Estonia, Tommy Cash’s music is the product of a youth spent in restrictive surroundings on the outskirts of the country’s capital, Tallinn. Through his teenage years music and dance were an escape from the bleakness and boredom of his environment, a chance to express his personality and pent-up creativity. Cash’s unique style is described as post-Soviet rap. He doesn’t hide his origins or try to be someone else—his Estonian roots are evident in everything he creates, which doesn't stop at music. Written and directed by the man himself, his music videos add a gripping visual element to the eclectic ensemble. They allow those who dare to journey deeper into the artist's complex mind, often depicting the dark, oppressive environment of Cash’s homeland. Pushing boundaries with the provocative and slightly voyeuristic content of his visual and lyrical work, you’ll be left intrigued to say the least.

Friday, the 16th

Anderson .Paak and The Free Nationals. SónarPub. 11.30pm-12.30am.

A latecomer to the limelight, Paak spent the best part of his twenties on the sidelines making music and enjoying the creative process. Inspired by the desire to provide a better life for his son, he decided to knuckle down and nurture his talents, culminating in two top-quality albums that blend jazz, funk, trap and soul with a solid base of R&B and hip hop. But what sets Paak apart is his hypnotising, raspy voice and smooth lyrical style, both of which caught the attention of mogul Dr. Dre. Taking Paak under his wing, Dre has propelled him into the spotlight, featuring him on six of the 16 songs on his latest album Compton (2015). Paak’s most recent release, Malibu (2016), includes cameos from The Game, Talib Kweli and ScHoolboy Q, ensuring the album breaks genre barriers. He will be accompanied on the night by his band, The Free Nationals, adding even more style and  energy to the live show.

Saturday, the 17th

Nadia Rose. SónarVillage. 6-6.30pm.

An explosion of raw hip hop energy, Nadia Rose is on her way to becoming one of the hottest new acts on the UK music scene. Taking fifth place on BBC’s poll Sound of 2017, and winning Best New Artist at the MOBO awards, it’s safe to say that this is shaping up to be a good year for the young rapper. Her sharp-witted rhymes are infectious and strengthened by her attitude-filled choreography. The video for her latest single ‘Skwod’ sees the Croydon MC take to the streets of London with her gang to back up her fiercely addictive brand of hip hop, wrought with clever double entendres. With an album lurking on the horizon, her Sónar set will give a sneak preview of what the 23-year-old is capable of. In the meantime, her EP Highly Flammable (2017) contains a healthy dose of her sharp lyrics.