The Great Escape has confirmed the first names on its bill for 2011 with Friendly Fires, Warpaint and more set to take part.
Held in Brighton, The Great Escape has evolved to become one of Europe's most important music events. A weekend long showcase, virtually every venue in Brighton is taken up by young hopefuls.
It's no exaggeration to say that The Great Escape can make or break a band's career. Keeping the line up for the 2011 instalment under wraps, the festival organisers have revealed the first names on the bill.
Friendly Fires enjoyed massive success with their debut album, a euphoric blend of indie songcraft. Since then, the band have travelled to South America and been inspired to release a single based on samba rhythms.
With Brazil feature heavily on their second album? Fans are desperate to find out and Friendly Fires have confirmed a special appearance at The Great Escape, which could potentially include new material.
The St Albans band will be joined on the bill by some hotly tipped newcomers. American group Warpaint won acclaim for their dark, moody debut last year and will take their noir show to Brighton.
Irish group Villagers were the shock name on last year's Mercury short list, while Brother are one of the country's most talked about new guitar acts. Elsewhere, Katy B is set to make a special appearance before the release of her debut album.
Now a bona fide pop star, Katy B has worked with some of the biggest names in bass music including Benga, Geenius and more. Signed to Rinse FM's own label, the singer could dominate the charts in 2011.
Other names on the bill include grime star Becoming Real, Tripwires, Twin Shadow, Little Dragon and worriedaboutsatan.
Early bird tickets are already on sale, with a special weekend pass available for just £35 - hurry, though, the offer runs out on February 15th.
The Great Escape takes place between May 12th - 14th.