Kendal Calling 2012 festival line-up announced

DIZZY RASCAL, Maximo Park, James and Andy C are set to headline Kendal Calling 2012 (27 - 29 July), writes Alex Fenton.

Rascal clearly loves Kendal Calling. In 2008, he flew in from Ibiza to perform at the festival before flying back again, 'cos that's how he rolls.

Meanwhile, drum and bass legend Andy C may be new to Kendal, but like Dizzy he is a true master of his trade and will dazzle the crowd at this year’s event.

Kendal Calling truly has something for everyone. Once again the festival organisers have mastered the art of the eclectic and diverse line-up with James and Maximo Park to inject some powerhouse, headlining guitar-based energy. 

Tim Burgess of the Charlatans returns to Kendal Calling to host 'Tim's Diner' after last year's excellent acoustic set while festival stalwarts Dreadzone and Utah Saints will raise the tempo. Lancashire’s finest party regulars, The Blowjangles carnival band and The Lancashire Hotpots join the fun for some “by ‘eck” zany fun and are not to be missed.

Vintage Trouble blew the roof off the festival last year with their high octane grooves. They return again and will be a massive crowd pleaser. Some old indie favourites join the 2012 line-up in the shape of Inspiral Carpets, Dodgy and Shed 7. This first wave of acts is impressive, but with over 100 artists still to be announced, it will be another good year.

The festival is scheduled as always at the end of July in the stunning setting of Lowther Deer Park in the Lake District.

Setting up shop in 2006, Kendal Calling hit the ground running with some amazing acts playing to less than 1000 people in the first year.Since then, Kendal Calling has collected bucket-fuls of nominations and awards including Best Small Festival Live UK award 2011 & UK Festival Award 2010.

The number of tickets and quality levels are raised each year meaning it sells out very quickly. 2012 will be no exception with yet another crowd-pleasing line up to add to the festival's growing reputation.

For a small festival, Kendal Calling impresses each year with its bands. The true mark of such a popular festival, however, is the ‘other stuff’. Real Ale tents, inspired fancy dress, circus acts, Professors in residence, comedy and some really quirky and beautiful décor combine to make this an innovative, witty festival not to be missed.