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Ok, so first off I must iterate the fact that this particular run down is in no particular order, nor is it a definitive list of the best British record labels of all time (as if such a breakdown could ever be truly quantified). It is simply a list of some personal favourites within the British...MORE>>

At the time of writing there are exactly 14 sleeps, 22 hours, 3 minutes & 50 seconds until the Big Chill begins its 2009 outing; an edifyingly exciting proposition for anyone with a predisposition towards the more ambient sector of the music spectrum. Nestled among the grounds of the picturesque Eastnor Castle, in the midst of

the Herefordshire countryside, the Big Chill will transform the 19th Century estate into a hive of bustling creativity perpetuated by an impressive array of acts from both the foreign & domestic music & comedy circuits. Couple this with an intoxicating collection of the Artistic; Poetry, Theatre & Literature all taking their rightful place amongst the surfeit of proceedings,  that which results should prove to be the biggest & best Big Chill thus far.

It seems rather absurd that the first Big Chill took place an incredible decade and a half ago, it’s first incarnation being a series of ambient soirees homed by Islington’s legendary Union Chapel. It seems rather hard believe that from such humble beginnings should be bred one of the biggest music festivals of its kind. With several heavyweight contenders shouldering for recognition such as this, it makes the feat all the more impressive.

This year, the line-up takes on an air of eclecticism which seems to embrace many World styles, along with the archetypal Big Chill Ambience. A particular favourite, and sometime strangers to our less than predictable shores, will be Tuscon Troubadours Calexio, who’s widely distilled, richly theatrical sound has proven them to be one of the most exciting protagonists within the Alt-Country genre.

The Line-up list itself is richly saturated with so many artists of fine pedigree, that anyone embarking upon the big chill experience should plan one’s trip ahead to avoid disappointment. With cultural icons such as David Byrne battling with the Electro-House stylings of the ever-present Basement Jaxx, not forgetting the magnitude of having Orbital reforming for this very event alone, the Big Chill Artist roster will seemingly fail to disappoint, regardless of musical taste. However, if Indie excellence is to your particular inclination, then British Sea Power, with their unflinching aural assault, should be something worth seeking out regardless of other line-up clashes.

With the majority of larger festivals selling out within hours of opening, due in some part to a ridiculous degree of pomp & circumstance, it’ll come as some relief that there still remain a handful of Big Chill tickets available priced at £145 for the weekend. However, with two weeks remaining, it’s impossible to say how long said tickets will last. So if August sunshine, good bands & great vibes sound appealing, call up, log on & Chill out with the Big Chill 2009.

And be sure to try some organic Herefordshire Scrumpy while your there!