First names announced for Long Division

The event is set to continue its concentration on supporting the best new talent and launching a platform for young bands to play with 90 acts set to appear across seven venues in Wakefield city centre.

The 2016 renewal is already lined up to involve some exciting collaborations and partners, which will be announced over the coming months, leading up to a big launch and announcement party on February 12 at Unity Works, Wakefield.

The first two acts announced embody what Long Division is trying to achieve. Hailing from Glasgow, Bis’’ joyous and dedicated approach to the DIY attitude and aesthetic makes them a perfect match.

Recently reformed and having a released their first new album in 13 years, now seemed the perfect time to bring them to Wakefield for the first time.

Los Campesinos! are returning to the festival after creating the festival’s first ever ‘were you there?’ moment in 2011 when they took to the stage at the 150-cap venue The Hop.

The flag bearers for DIY culture are returning to Wakefield in 2016 as they prepare to release their sixth album and celebrate their tenth year together.

Cementing the ethos of the festival and new for the 2016 edition, bands can apply to play through a simple form on the Long Division website via the artist submission. This function has been set up in collaboration with Music Glue.

Tickets for the Saturday are now on sale, keeping the 2015 price of £25. Building on and trying to get more young festival goers into music, they are now offering a reduction to just £15 for 18 to 21-year-olds and £10 for 16 and 17-year-olds, making Long Division one of the best value and friendliest festivals around.

Dean Freeman, organiser of the festival, said: “For me 2015 was the best Long Division yet - I certainly had the most fun of any Long Division.

“But afterwards, I did wonder if it could ever happen again – these are tough financial times. But then there was this huge response to the Crowdfunder, which just blew my mind.

“The passion people have for Long Division was amazing.

“And now, I’ve never felt more invigorated about the festival. And I’ve never dashed around the country meeting people who want to get involved so much either. It’s incredibly exciting and I can’t wait to announce more bands in February.”

Kat Morris, global marketing director of Music Glue, said: “We’re very excited to be teaming up with Long Division for 2016.

“Their passionate support of independent music and DIY artists is something we share. We look forward to being able to work together on helping bands get their music heard and play at this great festival.”

For ticket details, visit http://www.longdivisionfestival.co.uk/