麻豆社

With some of music's most exciting and influential artists appearing across three days in Camden, 6 Music Festival 2020 has plenty to enjoy and explore.

But if you need a bit of a nod in the right direction, do not fear, 6 Music's DJs are on hand. Here are just some of the acts the 6 Music DJs think you really shouldn't miss...

• How to watch and listen to 6 Music Festival 2020

"There are lots of things I’m looking forward to seeing, not least Black Midi’s drummer! But I am fascinated to see what Ed O’Brien’s music is like," Mark Radcliffe says of the Radiohead star's first solo UK show, which will take place during 6 Music Festival at the Roundhouse on Saturday.

"We’ve known him as the tall, shadowy figure stage right in Radiohead for so many years and it will be really intriguing to see him take centre stage. Radiohead have been one of my favourite bands for as long as I can remember and so I think it takes guts for Ed to step out on his own from a band that are so cherished."

"Of course the good will towards him will only go so far and he will know that we are all waiting expectantly and watching his every move. I have no doubt though that he wouldn’t be doing it unless he felt it would enhance his already garlanded reputation. And will he still be changing guitar every song? We love you Ed. Can’t wait."

Nemone will be DJ-ing as part of a stellar Late line-up at Fest on Friday, alongside the likes of Norman Jay MBE and DJ Yoda, but it's the prospect of seeing Kelly Lee Owens, also on the jam-packed bill, that's most exciting her.

"Love Kelly Lee Owens productions. Have been playing her for some years now on Electric Ladyland on 6 Music. Possessed by the music when she performs, Kelly cleverly combines drones, 808 beats and her own live vocals into unique sonic experiences every time she’s on stage. Hugely energetic Kelly Lee Owens is one unmissable act, head-banging over her synths and equipment whilst the projections match her mood. She moves as if the music emanates from within her and is being created in the moment."

"With her collaborating latterly alongside the likes of Daniel Avery and Jon Hopkins, and Ghost Culture producing her album, bass is intrinsic in her tunes. I can’t wait for her set on Friday 6th March."

Shaun Keaveny, meanwhile, found it difficult to whittle down his pick to just one, saying that he was "frankly affronted to pick ONE highlight of this stellar line up," name-checking the likes of Nadine Shah, Squid, Black Country New Road, The Orielles and Black Midi all as acts he can't wait to witness live in Camden.

However, he did manage to narrow his choice down to two: Melt Yourself Down and Brittany Howard. These two acts will be "duking it out for coveted first place on my must-see list. Mad jazz to mellow R&B in one weekend. Only at the 6 Music Festival."

For Jon Hillcock, Black Midi are a band best appreciated live. "I went to see them at [tiny London venue] New River Studios last year and they played in the round, in the middle of the room on the floor," he says.

"The sound was so intense and overwhelming, with a dynamism that reminded me of Swans. It was very intense, brilliant and psychedelic. You didn't know where it was going to happen next. It felt like things could fall apart at any second - and that makes it all the more engaging. It almost bordered on an endurance test, but I found it completely engaging and meditative. It was unlike anything else."

"I like bands that challenge the audience, and that's exactly what they do. It's almost like they have a contempt for people who come to see them and couldn't care less if anyone is there or not. I like any art that has conviction and admire their conviction. They're playing the Roundhouse, so it'll be interesting to see them in a far bigger space."

Warmduscher are big favourites across the board at 6 Music. Not only was their album, 'Tainted Lunch', one of our albums of 2019, but they are also Marc Riley's pick of the 6 Music Festival 2020 acts. "Of all the bands I’m looking forward to at the 6 Music festival I’d have to say that it’s Warmduscher who are getting me the most hot under the collar," Marc says.

He continues: "I’ve seen them live four times now - and they’re the best live band on the planet at the moment for me. They’re riddled with mischief, infectious hooks and sinewy riffs. Lead singer Clams is the best. They’re a truly great night out. I might well be moved to dance. Take that as a warning."

"I can't wait to see Nadine Shah at the 6 Music Festival," says Amy Lamé. "She's a force of nature - beautifully and brutally honest in her music and her life."

Shah will perform at the Roundhouse on 6 Music Festival's Sunday, alongside Kate Tempest, Kim Gordon, Anna Meredith and Jehnny Beth; and it's a billing that Amy is stoked for.

She adds: "Nadine is appearing on an all-female lineup on International Women's Day and I can’t think of a better artist and freedom fighter to fly the flag for diversity and inclusion in the music industry."