Sled Island unveils initial 2015 artist lineup

By Jason Herring, March 5 2015

Organizers of Calgary’s beloved alternative music and arts festival, Sled Island, revealed the first wave of artists that will perform this summer. By the looks of it, this year’s festival will be a stunner.

Bands announced on March 3 include legendary New York proto-punk band Television, iconic post-hardcore group Drive Like Jehu and local art rockers Viet Cong.

The initial set of headliners follows last month’s announcement of the festival’s curating band,
post-rock group Godspeed You! Black Emperor. Their two live shows at Central United Church during this year’s festival will mark the first time the Montreal-based collective brings their fabled live show to Calgary.

Godspeed You! Black Emperor have attracted an eclectic initial lineup, which include their Constellation Records labelmate Matana Roberts, Kim Gordon’s new band, Body/Head and legendary Danish punks The Ex.

Other performers include Lightning Bolt, Daniel Lanois, Fu Manchu, King Tuff, Lydia Ainsworth, Ex Hex, Pentagram, Pissed Jeans, Jaga Jazzist, Black Milk, Hundred Waters, Son Lux, The Coathangers, Oxbow, Fred & Toody, Carla Bozulich, Big Brave, David Donder and Avec Le Soleil Sortant De Sa Bouche.

The initial 26-band announcement just scratches the surface of the talent being showcased at Sled Island. Organizers say the total number of acts will total more than 250.

Sled Island 2015 will run from June 24–28 at over 30 venues across Calgary.