The Wanderland Music and Arts Festival established itself as a major destination for indie music fans, with such bands as The Temper Trap and The Drums headlining the event’s previous two editions.
This year, show organizer Karpos Multimedia has named American hip-hop recording artist Kid Cudi as the main act—a step toward further expanding the annual fair’s roster of musicians in terms of genre.
“We’ve decided that we needed to diversify our lineup this year and in the coming years, to attract a wider audience,” Karpos president Stephanie Uy told the Inquirer. “It’s what we’re aiming for. We would also like fans of other types of music to witness and experience the unique Wanderland community.”
Discovered by hip-hop superstar Kanye West, Kid Cudi—best known for the hits “Day ‘n’ Nite,” “Pursuit of Happiness” and “Erase Me”—will be visiting Southeast Asia this year, exclusively for the Wanderland fest, to be held on April 25 at the Globe Circuit Event Grounds in Makati City.
“There’s been a demand for Kid Cudi here in Manila…We want the best for our audience,” Uy said.
That’s not to say, of course, that the one-day, outdoor event will stray too far away from its roots. Once again, Wanderland has put together a solid collection of international indie artists that includes Augustana, Youngblood Hawke, RAC, The Jungle Giants and Lewis Watson.
“The Karpos team comes up with the lineup of artists…But of course, the fans do have a say,” Uy said.
Meanwhile, leading the lineup of local acts is Hale, which is making a comeback in the music scene, after five years of inactivity. Also featured are SINYMA, Kate Torralba, Austin and The Strange Creatures. Revelers can also expect CRWN, FXXXYBLNT, BP Valenzuela, The After-School Special and Similar Objects to fill the air with slick beats and turn the venue into a dance floor.
The theme of the coming Wanderland fest is “Day Camp 2015,” so fans are encouraged to show up in their camp ranger outfits. Apart from the music, there will be a host of outdoor activities like an obstacle course, various art installations, as well as live art exhibitions from young talents such as June Digan, Kris Abrigo and Tokwa Peñaflorida. There will also be tents and s’mores stations for the full camping experience.
Tickets are available for P5,500 at SM Tickets; call 4702222. For more information, visit wanderland.ph or facebook.com/karposmultimedia.
(apolicarpio@inquirer.com.ph)