Taking place between 5-9 August, Norway’s Øya Festival would like you to consider taking your outdoor music watching to Oslo this year. “Øya Festival has been dubbed as being one of the most beautiful music festivals,” explains the event’s Claes Olsen. “Øya provides picturesque scenery to a cultural experience with an immaculate line up – huge, credible names in an intimate environment.” What’s more 2014 marks a new leave of life for the event, as it’s moving to a new home. “Railroad construction is due to take place at the festival site therefore for its sixteenth year, Øya moves to a stunning new site called Tøyenparken,” adds the booker. “Tøyenparken is even more special than the original site and is situated between three Oslo landmarks; the international Munch museum, the beautiful botanical gardens and Oslo’s huge outdoor amphitheatre park – which includes an outdoor swimming pool, a football field and picturesque walking paths.” Still if that’s not enough, here are Olsen’s personal picks from the 2014 bill.
Outkast – Two Dope Boyz (In A Cadillac)
“It was a long fight to secure Outkast, but OMG we made it! Probably the smallest venue you will see their big reunion show at. With Janelle Monae playing before them, what a party this will be in our new amazing park.”
Highasakite – Since Last Wednesday
“The next big thing from Norway. This tune is just amazing. Discovered by Bon Iver’s Justin Vernon at Øya 2011. THey recently toured US with London Grammar.”
Queens Of The Stone Age – If I Had A Tail
“I booked QOTSA for the first time in 1998. Their catalogue is so strong. Can´t stop listening to this track from their latest album.”
Todd Terje – Spiral
“Todd Terje will headline the final day. Together with the artist we are building a massive show. This is a single that will not be on the debut album coming out 7 April.”
Neutral Milk Hotel – In The Aeroplane Over The Sea
“In The Aeroplane Over The Sea would be high up on my all time high album list. It’s kinda unreal they will come to Oslo again after all these years.”
Angel Olsen – Hi-Five
“Her new album is probably the album I have listened to most so far this year. Perfect music for a summer afternoon.”
Jungle – Busy Earnin’
“Saw them for the first time in January and was blown away. Now I have seen them twice more, and become a huge fan.”
The National – Fake Empire
“They haven’t played in Oslo since we had them in the Opera house in 2010. Fake Empire is my favorite track from their catalogue.”
Emilie Nicolas – Pstereo
Cool translation of an old norwegian hit. Emilie is a rising star from Norway.
Neko Case – City Swans
“An amazing song. Her 2013 album came after four long years waiting. Finally we got her confirmed for Øya.”
For more, including the full line-up and ticket details, head to Oyafestivalen.com
