World Music Network

August 31 – September 2 will see the second outing for The Smugglers Festival, a family friendly gathering that takes place in the rolling Kent countryside. The line-up is jam-packed with some of the UK’s best roots, folk and indie music.

Here are our top picks of the festival:

Nuru Kane 

Nuru Kane is a renowned Senegalese musician. Originally from Dakar, Senegal, Nuru Kane moved to Paris in the 1990’s and is now internationally famous on the world music scene in France, North Africa and Japan. His first appearance on the world music stage was at the 2004 Mali Festival in the Desert. His distinctive take on Senegalese music explores the connections between the music of North and West Africa – a musical journey across the Sahara. Nuru has recorded one album with Riverboat Records, Sigil and is working on new projects right now. 

Cocos Lovers

Cocos Lovers are a vibrant band who channel North African and Eastern influences together with their coastal Kent roots to make a distinctive sound. They have supported acts including Mumford and songs, Pete Roe and Steeling Sheep and have rocked festival stages at Green Man, Secret Garden Party, Glastonbury and Cambridge Folk Festival. 

The John Langan Band

The John Langan Band are a trio from Scotland whose dramatic music fuses Balkan, punk, electronic, gypsy swing and traditional flavours together. Expect humorous lyrics, driving fiddle lines peppered over strumming guitars and accelerating percussion. The band won the Danny Kyle Open Stage Award at Celtic Connections in 2008 and have since built up a steady legion of fans and followers.

And there is more to check out ... As well as the marvellous music on offer don’t miss the art, theatre, installation and performance that will be occurring in every corner of the wooded forest venue. Locally sourced food will be available all day and late in to the night. Smugglers Festival is a home-grown affair with a friendly, personal appeal that is perfect for chilled out festival goers and families alike.  

Click here for the full line-up and ticket info.