Baba Yaga’s Hut are about to bring the second Raw Power festival back to The Dome in Tufnell Park, London, with the event running from May 22-24. As a primer, the Quietus asked event booker Anthony Chalmers to pick out the five bands he’s most looking forward to seeing at the festival.
Pharaoh Overlord
They are one of the names towards the top of the bill, but I think a lot of people might not have seen the mighty Pharaoh Overlord. Basically it’s the same band members as Circle but more in the heavy, Krautrock-type tradition of their earlier albums. It’s not easy getting six people over from Finland if you’re a small promoter, so if you’re going to get Circle then it’s an absolute must to book Pharaoh Overlord as well. Their show at Corsica Studios in 2007 is still a Baba Yaga’s highlight. They are HEAVY!
Anji Cheung
Anji was the last person booked for Raw Power, actually on the morning that the last of the line-up was announced, due to a cancellation (thanks to Jimmy from Teeth Of The Sea/Supernormal festival for the recommendation). Since then I’ve ended up diving deep into her drone-filled music. Can’t wait to have her opening things up on the Saturday.
Satelliti
Despite the fact that the line-up is predominately rock-type acts, I think it’s really important to have some variety on the bill. I’d like to think we have a fairly open-minded audience who will enjoy all sorts of stuff. Hence from Italy we have drums and synth duo Satelliti. I mean we all love Zombi right? Why not this? It will be the first time I’ve seen them and I’m really looking forward to it.
Sex Swing
I booked Sex Swing before I ever saw them or heard a single track by them if I’m honest. When you see who is in the band – Dan Chandler and Stuart Bell from Dethscalator, Jason Stoll from Mugstar and Tim Cedar from Part Chimp – you JUST KNOW it’s gonna be great. I heard stunning stuff from their shows at Oslo for the Quietus and Supernormal festival, I think they are going to blow everyone away. Since booking them, some songs have appeared online and I’ve heard a rumour about an album coming on a fantastic label.
Jiboia
After playing a fantastic support slot at Corsica Studios in November 2013 I’ve been itching to get Jiboia over to play again and I’m really pleased to have him at Raw Power. Sometimes featuring a singer, but playing solo at the festival, Jiboia (‘python’ in Portuguese) uses a guitar, sampler and synth to fantastic effect creating a tropical, psychedelic experience that is quite unlike most other things you’re likely to hear.
Tickets are available for the festival on Ticket ABC or Event Cube. Hope you can make it!
