Live and Dangerous: Bestival 2014

This year's headliners range in style from Busta Rhymes to Chic to Beck. But everyone knows about the big guys -- here are three emerging acts set to perform that are also well worth checking out if you plan on being in the UK for Bestival this year.
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This edition of "Live & Dangerous" takes us across the pond to one of the UK's most acclaimed music festivals -- Bestival. The award-winning four-day festival has been held on the stunning Isle of Wright every year since 2004, and will take place this year from September 4-7. Bestival, which was created by BBC Radio 1 DJ Rob da Bank, has a uniquely creative vision which is reflected in both its modus operandi and eclectic lineup. The fest features fancy themed dress days (this year's is Desert Island Disco), secret stages, and is often referred to as a "boutique festival" because of its lack of corporate influence -- and this year's headliners range in style from Busta Rhymes to Chic to Beck. But everyone knows about the big guys -- here are three emerging acts set to perform that are also well worth checking out if you plan on being in the UK for Bestival this year.

WHO: Clean Bandit
WHY: Clean Bandit is a breakthrough electro-pop group that really stands out from the indie-pop crowd. They've been making music since 2009, but their irresistibly catchy hit "Rather Be", just recently saw some major success in the US (peaking at #16 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts). On stage the group, whose style has also been uniquely labeled as "classical-dance fusion," pairs strings with old-school dance music during their infectious live sets. Clean Bandit is an up-and-coming act with exciting cross over potential -- and a must see at Bestival this year.

WHO: Glass Animals
WHY: Glass Animals is an exciting up and coming band from the UK set to perform at Bestival. They have a complex, groovy downbeat sound, which interestingly derives from lead singer David Bayley's past experience in the medical/neuroscience world. They have yet to achieve real mainstream success yet, but that doesn't mean they don't know how to bring down the house. Their live shows have a chaotic yet focused energy reminiscent of bands like Animal Collective and Wild Beasts -- which is why they are an essential act to catch at Bestival!

WHO: MNEK
WHY: Even if you haven't heard his name, you have probably heard MNEK's music before - the UK garage/dance-pop artist has built his career writing and producing for top names like Kylie Minogue, The Saturdays and Rudimental. And while MNEK's career as a solo artist is just now beginning to really take off, he already has a Grammy nomination under his belt for a collaboration with Duke Dumont last year. Live, MNEK delivers powerful (but still wildly fun) performances driven by his deep, soulful vocals -- his set this year is sure to be one of the most talked about at the festival.

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