Sun festival scores high-flying acts

A chart-topping Kiwi artist and a voodoo trance act from the Netherlands are among the acts set to entertain festival-goers in Blenheim.

The third annual Sweet Az Sun festival is coming to Lansdowne Park on January 28, and its organiser says this year promises to be the best yet.

Dave White said he was taking a fresh approach this time around, prioritising younger artists instead of the legacy dub and reggae headliners from past events.

The main drawcard, Kings, had been dominating the New Zealand charts with his single Don’t Worry Bout It spending eight weeks at number one last year.

White said he expected the Auckland artist to boost ticket sales and attract a younger audience, along with the first international act to play the festival, My Baby.

The three-piece from Amsterdam, who created music White described as voodoo electronic tribal trance, were coming to Blenheim fresh from playing major festivals around Europe.

There were also four other bands, as well as Nelson-based electronica producer Alion, who would be playing between sets for a seamless day of music.

‘‘All the bands are really danceable, it’s all about being free in the sunshine,’’ White said.

The organiser had made changes to the layout this year, such as moving the kid’s area inside the main stadium, allowing parents to watch their children and the music

The fenced-off bar area would include part of the grandstand, so those looking for a drink would still be part of the action, White said.

There were also eight food carts confirmed, with more to come.

Ticket sales had been strong so far, with White saying he expected a similar crowd as last year, when around 3000 people attended the festival.

*Tickets cost cosmicticketing.co.nz. $35 from