After a storming series of sets at Hitchin’s St Mary’s Church earlier this month by many acts including Kim Wilde, the latest destination for Rhythms of the World is the town’s Club 85 for a three-day residency from tonight.
Instead of one festival weekend, the organisers are marking the 25th anniversary with a number of events throughout the year – with the fun continuing at the Whinbush Road venue from tonight until Sunday.
Tomorrow will Music From Round the Corner’ – an evening bringing a rock flavour, with the alternative funk stylings of English Manner followed by Late Homecoming and Points. Thousand Suns and Scar City will cap off the first night’s performances.
Saturday will see the festival’s Icehouse Stage brought to Club 85, with a free daytime line-up starting with the psychedelic influence of the Timeless Lizards, followed by Katie Rice who brings her acoustic vibes.
There will also be indie from The Elements, and Such Strange Arts, who bring pop-punk to the roster.
On Saturday night, DJs will take over with RotW favourites the Blunt Beats DJs, Agent M, DJ Erbalist, Marcus Hurley, DJ G Louis-Krisis, D’n’B from DJ Barrington and MC Five Alive.
The Arcadeclectic Stage on Sunday will round off the weekend featuring an eclectic mix of acts blending blues, funk, African influences and 50s rock and roll.
Performers include The Rapides, Chris Ripple and the Blood Sisters, The Astronauts, Purple Dread and Chron Gen.
Club 85’s Bob Mardon is looking forward to hosting the Rhythms event. Bob, took time out from his busy schedule – including getting married to his long-time partner last Saturday – to speak to the Comet and said: “I’m absolutely delighted that RotW is coming to Club 85.
“I’ve helped organise the festival in the past and I’m happy to do anything we can to help and take it forward.
“We are long-time supporters of Rhythms of the World, and are excited to provide a temporary home for the charity to help them remain a part of Hitchin’s vibrant musical scene.”
Tickets for Music From Round the Corner cost £5. Entry to Club 85 on Saturday from 12.30pm to 6pm is free, with a charge of £7.50 for the evening gig. Performances on Sunday are free.
Money raised at the events will contribute to securing the long term future of the Rhythms of the World charity.
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