Sonar 2008 – Barcelona

The programme for the 15th edition of Sónar is based on two main themes – the “female factor” in today’s music and “hybridism” as the result of the intersection of musical genres and subgenres. Women have pride of place on the bill. Unquestionable divas of modern pop like Goldfrapp and Róisín Murphy provide a contrast to the confrontational and multicultural glamour of M.I.A. or the vocal alchemy of Camille, the new muse of the “chanson française”. Leading figures that are impossible to label, such as Justice, Yelle, Diplo, Spank Rock and
Boys Noize give this year’s programme an injection of hybrid energy and a proud display of the spirit of ‘Do It Yourself’. It will be a scenario for encounters and reencounters. Two short-lived fleeting but legendary duos will be reunited at Sónar – synthesiser pop legends Yazoo, and Mike Banks together with Jeff Mills, the genesis of Underground Resistance. On a contemporary note, Jamie Cullum and his brother Ben Cullum join forces with the former member of Underworld Darren Emerson to create BC vs JC featuring Darren Emerson. The collaborators and protégées of Kanye West, A-Trak and Kid Sister, combine decks and rhymes with the new phenomenon DJ Mehdi.Sonar 2008, Barcelona 19.20.21 June