Big Day Out 2008 brings big band lineup to Auckland

Once we’re over Christmas, another exciting event is on the horizon: the Big Day Out 2008.

Or should I say THE BIG DAY OUT. That’s how big it’ll be.

I, along with hundreds of others, am looking forward to it. Butterflies in the stomach kinda thrilled about it, actually. Don’t tell anyone, but this is my first time. With a stellar Big Day Out lineup announced, this year’s event is sure to be a winner. Alternative songstress Bjork is my top pick, but Liam Finn (the bearded boy wonder), Phoenix Foundation (ah, the songs of Kiwi summers) and indie-stars Arcade Fire are also high on my list of must-sees.

Playing at Mt Smart Stadium in Auckland, on January 18th, will be:

Local bands and musicians:

The Phoenix Foundation, Shihad, Katchafire, The Clean, Liam Finn, SJD, Motocade, Cut Off Your Hands, White Birds and Lemons, Op Shop, Pluto, Scribe, Die! Die! Die!, Tiki Tanne, Havoc, Collapsing Cities, Bleeders, Supergroove, The Checks, Young Sid, Antagonist, Dam Native and other New Zealand bands.

And of course, international music acts:

Rage Against the Machine, Bjork, Arcade Fire, LCD Soundsystem, Spoon, Brand New, Anti-Flag, Carl Cox, Kate Nash, Shy Child, Enter Shikari, Operator Please, Unkle, Krafty Kuts & MC Dynamite, The Nightwatchman (Tom Morello acoustic), Dr Octagon with Kutmaster Kurt, Aceyalone, Dizzee Rascal, Paul Kelly, Battles, Hilltop Hoods and Billy Bragg.

For a day of summer sun and music, book your ticket at the official Big Day Out site, any Ticketek outlet, Real Groovy and selected music stores nationwide.