Preview: Way Out West Festival

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While Gothenburg (or Goteborg if you’re a local) plays second fiddle to the rather more glamorous Stockholm in terms or tourism, it’s got a massive student population, a great bar scene and is home to one of the best up-and-coming festivals in Europe, Way Out West.

Held in Slottsskogen, a massive, beautiful park on the edge of the city, as well as in the city’s clubs and venues, Way Out West runs from August 8-9 as a three-stage outdoor event, with live music and club Djs at a host of venues from August 7-9 included in the price (although they’re first come, first served, which could be interesting).

Alongside some top Swedish talent, including Jose Gonzalez, the big pulls include Nick Cave’s Grinderman, Sonic Youth, The Flaming Lips, The Sonics, Franz Ferdinand and Sigur Ros. There’s also The National, N.E.R.D., Iron & Wine, Lightspeed Champion, Yeasayer and a whole bunch of others.

There’s no camping, so you’ll have to find somewhere to stay in the city, but there’s really good transport links to the park – in fact it’s a walk if you’re central. Ryanair flies to a field about 15 miles from the city (don’t they always?), while Stockholm is about three hours away in a fast car (or on a train).

Festival tickets are 1,295 Swedish Kronor, which is about £110, and they cover the outdoor and club events. We’ll keep you posted if any other big names are added to the bill.

Visit the official site at http://www.wayoutwest.se