The concert craze takes off with none other than Madonna, who’ll take the Türk Telekon Arena stage on 7 June. Unfortunately, tickets are sold out, so if you haven’t already bought yours, your best bet is to head to the arena on the day of the concert and see if you’re lucky enough to find a ticket at the door.

Things get going for indie lovers on 28 June with the Küçükçiftlik performance of Metronomy and Two Doors Cinema Club. In June, the Istanbul Jazz Festival takes off with some incredible names, especially the very cool Canadian indie rock band The Dears on 12 July at Istanbul Modern and the Grammy-winning Erykah Badu on 13 July at Cemil Topuzlu Açıkhava Sahnesi.

Possibly the most exciting concert of the summer is Morrisey on 19 July at at Cemil Topuzlu Açıkhava Sahnesi. He’ll surely mesmerize the audience with his dynamic voice and stage performance.

This year’s Efes Pilsen One Love Festival, taking place from 14-15 July, will feature Pulp, Kimbra, and Selah Sue. Pulp will bring 90s Brit-pop to the present, while New Zealand sensation Kimbra’s mix of neo-soul and dance music and Selah Sue’s reggae and soul beats will get the Istanbul audience ready for the summer.

Come fall, the Canadian songwriter, poet, and novelist Leonard Cohen, who is the brain behind the uber-covered ultra-emotional song "Hallelujah" will be back in Istanbul on 19 September at Ülker Sports Arena.After the Canadian music genius, the sensational indie band Beirut, most famous for their song “Nantes,” will take the Turkcell Kuruşçeşme Arena stage on 21 September for a night of Balkan-inspired upbeat songs.

Whatever the answers to those vital questions may be, this year will be the time to simmer in past memories, with Istanbul concerts taking place in July and September.

Guns N’Roses have been confirmed to perform July 6^th but the details are still under wraps so keep up with our Agenda to be informed of the updates.

Chris de Burgh, most famous for his hit “Lady in Red,” will be performing July 10^th at Küçükçiftlik Park.

Megadeth will be on stage July 19^th at Küçükçiftlik Park with front row standing tickets already sold out.

The Red Hot Chili Peppers will be performing September 8^th at Santral Istanbul. Tickets are unavailable at the moment, but check up in our Agenda for updated information.

DJ Martin Dawson has been rising in fame since the release of his first solo album in 2009 and his work with such important labels as Crosstown Rebels, Get Physical, and 2020vision. Dawson, whose album was nominated as best of the year by DJMag, not only produces music but also enjoys performing on his own and has participated in festivals all over the world. Now the DJ, who has won the support of such renowned DJs as Laurent Garnier and Tiefschwarz, will spin away for the Istanbul crowd.

When: March 24, 11pm

Where: Indigo, Tomtom Mahallesi Akarsu Sokak, Galatasaray; P: (0212) 244 85 67

How much: From Biletix: 28.50 TL, 23.50 TL (student)

Burn Dubstep Series: Hatcha featuring MC Crazy D

DJ Hatch, a British DJ who has been a pioneer in introducing sets cut to 10”, and who has collaborated with other South London producers like Benga and Skream, will be playing at Babylon as part of the Burn Dubstep Series. From the streets of South London, MC Crazy D, the “Dread Poet of Dubstep,” will accompany DJ Hatcha in his performance.

There will be a warmup by two bassheads from Istanbul, MC Chellyfish and Nk6, who together have been pushing the Istanbul Dubstep scene with their Re-Spectralize events.

When: March 24, 11:30pm

Where: Babylon, Şehbender Sokak No.3, Asmalımescit; P: (0212) 292 73 68

How much: From the venue: 35 TL; 25 TL (students). From Biletix: 39 TL

Jonny Rock

All the way from Britain is the old school DJ Jonny Rock who will spin the best of soul, funk, disco and house together to shake up the dance floor and bring the boogie back to town!

When: March 24, 11:45pm

Where: MiniMüzikhol, Sıraselviler Caddesi Soğancı Sokak No:7 D:1, Cihangir

DearHead

The female DJ duo composed of Bengi Ünsal and Evrim Tüfekçioğlu will be playing at Küçük Otto tonight. Based in Istanbul and Berlin since 2009, Ünsal and Tüfekçioğlu have played at numerous clubs, bars and festivals, displaying their talent with mixes and original tracks of chill deep house and good danceable electro. A touch of sophistication gives their performances that extra something that makes them worth checking out.

When: March 28, 11pm

Where: Küçük Otto, Asmalımescit Mahallesi Şehbender Sokak No. 5/1, Asmalımescit; P: (0212) 292 70 15

How much: Free

Booka Shade DJ Set

With four albums released and a presence in the international club scene, the German House duo Booka Shade will bring their fresh genre of techno mixed with vocal and synth sounds to Istanbul. Get ready to dance all night.

When: March 30, 10pm

Where: Otto Santral, Santralistanbul, Eski Silahtarağa Elektrik Santrali Kazım Karabekir Caddesi No. 1, Eyüp; P:(0212) 427 18 89

How much:FromBiletix: 49 TL

Alexis Taylor “Hot Chip” & Justus Köhncke

Alexis Taylor, one half of the successful indie / electronic duo Hot Chip, has teamed up with German disco / house producer and DJ Justus Köhncke for a brand-new live project. Their first single, “Sorry,” was featured on the album Kitsuné Maison Compilation 10: The Firework’s Issue.

Tonight, Taylor will perform on vocals and synthesizer, with Köhncke performing a great DJ set. The night will begin at 10:30 with a warmup by Mr. Sur, followed by DearHead at 11:30; Taylor and Köhncke will come on stage at 12:30, with DearHead hosting the after party.

When: March 31, 10:30pm

Where: Ghetto, Kamer Hatun Caddesi No.10, Beyoğlu; P: (0212) 251 75 01

How much: From the venue: 35 TL; 30 TL (students); From Biletix: 39.50 TL; 34.50 TL (students)

Erol Alkan

Burn Energy drink’s Electronica Days continue with no one other than the London based lord of electro music, master of the decks; Erol Alkan.

Erol Alkan started playing gigs at the tender young age of 12, invented and re-invented so many styles and genres, influencing many of the DJ’s we have come to love today. In his early twenties he founded Trash night in London, pioneered mash-ups and made the alternative club culture just as well-respected as dance club culture. After a decade of an ever-growing phenomenon, the London Trash nights ended, but Erol’s sizzling beats and bass lines continue to conquer souls around the world and tonight it’s time for the Istanbulites to give in and surrender to his mesmerizing DJ sets.

When: March 31, 11pm

Where: Indigo, Tomtom Mahallesi Akarsu Sokak, Galatasaray; P: (0212) 244 85 67

How much: From Biletix: 45 TL

St. Vincent

Traveling back and forth between indie-rock and jazz, Annie Clark, better known by her stage name St. Vincent, recorded her first album Marry Me in 2007 together with Brian Teasley (The Polyphonic Spree) and David Bowie’s pianist Mike Garson. Her second album Actors had such great reviews (including from Bowie himself) that St. Vincent’s success was assured. St. Vincent now comes to Istanbul, ready to perform her songs, including some from her latest album, last year’s Strange Mercy.

When: February 21, 9:30 PM

Where: Salon IKSV, Sadi Konuralp Caddesi No:5, Şişhane; P: (0212) 334 07 00

How much: From the venue: 35 TL, 25 TL (students). From Biletix: 39.50 TL, 28 TL (students)

Rayko

The name behind “Broadway” – listed as the number one disco piece of 2011 by Juno – talented Spanish DJ and producer Rayko is at Küçük Otto on the 23^rd!

Influenced by 70’s and 80’s disco, electro funk and rock styles, Rayko founded his own label, named “Rare Wiri,” and has worked with A-list producers like Ilija Rudman, Ichisan, Phoreski, and Marbeya Sound. Rayko is known for digging up forgotten classics from his record bins, to create stellar sets that never disappoint his fans. But don’t take our word for it – come to Küçük Otto for a great night of music with DJ Rayko.

When: February 23, 11:00 PM

Where: Küçük Otto, Şehbender Sokak No. 5/1, Asmalımescit; P: (0212) 292 70 15

How much: Free

Selah Sue

Often compared to Amy Winehouse and Adele, Selah Sue is a young talent from Belgium inspired by artists such as Erykah Badu and Lauryn Hill. Her major breakthrough followed after her collaboration with Cee Lo Green on his album The Lady Killer, and soon she was performing and major international festivals such as Lowlands, Sziget, and the North Sea Jazz Festival. Selah Sue will now perform in Turkey for the first time as part of the Garanti Caz Yeşili concerts. Don’t miss out.

When: February 23, 9:30 PM

Where: Babylon, Seyhbender Sokak No: 3, Asmalımescit; P: (0212) 292 73 68

How much: From the venue: 80 TL, 50 TL (students). From Biletix: 88.50 TL; 66.50 TL

Aeroplane

Burn Energy drink’s Electronica Days continue, this time with the infamously smooth disco Belgian DJ Aeroplane (a.k.a. Vito de Luca). Aeroplane’s 80s disco / house mixes of pop songs have already been praised by such nightlife gurus as Erol Alkan, 2manyDJs, Yuksek and Brodinsky; following the release of his 2011 compilation album In Flight Entertainment, Aeroplane’s unique cosmic disco beats are now ready to shake up Istanbul’s nightlife...you don’t want to miss this opportunity to dance in space!

When: February 24, 11:00 PM

Where: Indigo, Akarsu/Acara Sokak, Tomtom Mahallesi; P: (0212) 244 85 67

How much: From Biletix: 34 TL

Don’t waste your time trying to figure out what “Mando Diao” means. The name of this Swedish foursome is the whimsical invention of founding member Björn Dixgård. The band picked up speed when Dixgård, together with vocalist/guitarist Gustaf Norén, supposedly embarked on a marathon 14-month songwriting session in a beach house in the late 90s. It was only a matter of time before they signed on to the EMI Sweden label and released their first album, 2002’s Bring’Em In. Their latest album, Give me Fire,came out in 2009, and was produced by the Salla Salazar from the hip-hop band The Latin Kings.

There will be a warm-up at 9:00 PM by progressive rock group Helicopria, with Mando Diao coming on stage an hour later.

When: February 18, 10:00 PM

Where: Küçükçiftlik Park

How much: From Biletix: 55 TL; 40 TL

DJ Banyosu:

Local and international DJs are heading to Arkaoda for two nights in a row on Friday the 9th and Saturday the 10th for those who are not scared to have a massive hangover on Sunday. Friday night will kick off with Turkish duo Hünkar Uğur and Emir Özer aka Çerikunda who’ll get the night going with live remixes. DJ Golem, also known as Kaan Akay, will get behind the deck afterwards with his drum’n’bass beats. The night will continue will DJ Fitz and Biriken DJ Set (Ünal & Okan), and end with the Dearhead DJ Set.

If you don’t have a chance to attend the Friday program, bear in mind that you can see a different roster of DJs the following night. For a full list of the times the DJs will be playing on both Friday and Saturday, click here.

When: December 9, 8:00 PM

Where: Arkaoda; Kadife Sokak No. 18/A; P: (0216) 418 02 77

How much: Free

Brazzaville:

The band known as Brazzaville, founded in LA in 1997 by David Brown, is currently located in Barcelona, Spain. The band has toured all over the world and is especially popular in Russia and the CIS countries, as well as here in Istanbul, where it has performed at the 2005 Istanbul Jazz Festival. Brazzaville returned to Istanbul four years later, resulting in the 2009 album Brazzaville in Istanbul. Mixing such diverse genres as bossa nova, rock, dub, and jazz, the eclectic sound of Brazzaville is instantly appealing. Come to Otto Santral to give this band the warm welcome it deserves.

When: December 9, 11:00 PM

Where: Otto Santral; Santralistanbul, Eski Silahtarağa Elektrik Santrali Kazım Karabekir Caddesi No. 1; P: (0212) 427 18 89

How much: 34 TL

Alice Gold:

Alice Gold is an up-and-coming English singer and songwriter, referred to by music authorities as a talent to keep an eye on. Gold entered the music scene in 2010 with her debut single “Orbiter” and received considerable attention after her second single “Runaway Love.” Even though she’s technically a pop artist, she says that she gets inspired from rock n roll and 60s psychedelic music, and you can definitely sense the influences of these genres in her not-so-mainstream pop songs.

When: December 9, 11:30 PM

Where: Indigo; Tomtom Mahallesi Akarsu/Acara Sokak; P: (0212) 244 85 67

How much: 28.50 TL; 23.50 TL (student)

De La Soul:

The Grammy-winning New York hip hop act known as De La Soul, founded in 1987, consists of Posdnuos (Kelvin Mercer), Dave (David Jude Jolicoeur), and Maseo (Vincent Mason). Ever since the release of their first album, 3 FeetHigh and Rising, De La Soul has been widely recognized as one of the most original names in hip-hop, with deft, virtuosic, and surprising lyrics. Eschewing the aggressive sounds and violent themes of colleagues like Public Enemy, De La Soul instead founded a genre of alternative hip hop mixing elements of jazz, reggae, and much more. Come to Ghetto on Friday night to welcome this legendary hip hop act to Istanbul.

When: December 9, 11:30 PM

Where: Ghetto; Kalyoncu Kulluk Sokak No. 10; P: (0212) 251 75 01

How much: 55 TL (at door); 50 TL; 40 TL (students)

The mellow sounds of Silberman’s voice and acoustic guitar-playing will easily win over those who prefer thoughtful, low-key indie acts to ear-splitting concerts by A-list performers in packed auditoriums. Don’t miss your chance to hear The Antlers perform live for one night only at Istanbul’s Salon İKSV.

Where: Salon IKSV;Sadi Konuralp Caddesi No:5 Şişhane; P:(0212) 334 07 00

When: December 6; 10:00pm

How much: 50.50 TL; 39.50 TL (students)

Where: Nardis Jazz Club; Kuledibi Sokak No. 14, Galata; P:(0212) 244 63 27

How much: 30 TL

The group’s music career kicked off in 2007 with their first album Colour It In, and continued to rise with the fame of their singles, “First Love” and “About Your Dress.” New Musical Express magazine (NME) and Steve Lamacq (one of BBC Radio 1’s foremost DJs) supported The Maccabees one hundred percent. Their second albumWall of Arms received a great deal of positive reviews and was chosen as the Best Album of the Year by Artrocker magazine.

With Orlando Weeks on vocals and guitar, Hugo White on guitar, Felix White on backing vocals and guitar, Rubert Jarvis on bass, and Sam Doyle on drums, it is going to be an unforgettable night for all those guitar lovers out there.

When: December 1, 09:30pm

Where: Babylon;Seyhbender Sokak No: 3, Tünel; P:(0212) 292 73 68

How much: 45 TL; 35 TL (student)

Lead singer Hayden Thorpe gives the group a magnificent and provocative edge with his high-toned tenor voice, while the innovative guitar playing adds a unique element. Both in terms of their musical and lyrical perception, Wild Beasts definitely has a radical aura.

The band made a strong performance at the Efes Pilsen One Love Festival in 2010. Having continued to receive positive reviews after the release of their most recent album Smother, the band is now coming to Babylon for the Istanbul audience.

Where: Babylon; Şeyhbender Sokak No: 3 Tünel; P: (0212) 292 73 68

How much: 40 TL; 30 TL (student)

When: November 29, 2010

Employing a classically metered French style of jazz music, Kent’s work has been hailed for its soothing and expansive lyrical range. Her album The Boy Next Door went gold in the French record industry, and was quickly followed by further success when her 2007 album Breakfast On The Morning Tram was nominated for a Grammy in the United States – an important feat not just for Kent’s career, but for jazz music in general. A talented and appealing agent for the popularization of jazz music in the contemporary music market, Stacey Kent is an act you will not want to miss!

Where: Salon IKSV; Sadi Konuralp Caddesi No:5 Şişhane; P:(0212) 334 07 00

When: November 23 – 24

How Much: 90 TL (table); 45 TL (standing); 30 TL (student)

The origins of synth-pop group Soaked date back as far as 2003, though it came into being as an active band just two years ago in 2009. Consisting of singer/songwriter Balamir Nazlıca, keyboardist and back vocalist Hatice Arıcı, guitarist Emrah Akar, and drummer Emir Celt, this up-and-coming band has made an EP (2010’sInto the Light) and plans to release its first album in December of this year. The group has performed at many of Istanbul’s established live music venues (Ghetto, Indigo, Otto) as well as at the 2009 Efes Pilsen One Love Festival. Soaked is also an art collective in addition to a live band, and its videos (directed by Akar) are noted for their accomplished visual technique. (Soaked’s artwork can be seen on its website,www.soakedart.com). Come to 11:11 to hear why people are raving aboutInto the Light, and get a preview of the group’s upcoming albumAftermath.

The night will conclude with a performance by accomplished English DJ Lee Burridge, starting at 1:00 AM.

Where:11:11; Meşrutiyet Caddesi No. 69 Tepebaşı; P:(0212) 244 88 34

When:November 18, 10:30 PM (Soaked); 1:00 AM (Lee Burridge)

How much:25 TL (includes one drink)

Hells Bells Tribute to AC/DC

Hells Bells is known as England’s best AC/DC tribute band. Since forming in 1996, they have been touring England, Ireland, and many other European cities, gaining a serious fan base in the meantime. Much like the original AC/DC, Hells Bells is known for its screaming vocals, and powerful bass and drum shows.

Head to Babylon on November 1st to watch their high energy performance and dance to classic AC/DC songs.

Where:Babylon

When: November 1; 9:30 PM

How much:20 TL; 15 TL (student)

Plaid

An outstanding and emotionally-charged ambient, neo-electro, and electro-techno music…otherwise referred to as Plaid.

Having made its name in 1991 with their first albumMbuki Mvuki, this British electronic music duo is comprised of Andy Turner and Ed Handley.Having been on a world tour with the legendary Icelandic musician Björk in 1995, the duo has collaborated with musicians like Mara Carlyle and Nicolette in their projects. In addition to their own materials, they’ve done extensive remix works for many artists including Red Snapper, Björk, Goldfrapp, and The Irresistible Force.

Along with their impressing music, they carry the audience to other realms with their stunning performances on stage. Video artist Bob Jaroc has collaborated with the duo during their performances with his animation work. As a part of their tour around the world, Plaid is coming to Babylon for a single night so don’t miss out!

Where:Babylon

When:November 2, 11:30 PM (doors open at 10:00 PM)

How much:35 TL; 25 TL (student)

Enrico Maciasis the most senior of the four singers/groups, and one of the best-known on the international stage. The Algerian-French singer, born Gaston Ghrenassia, has been a professional musician since the 1960s, and is known for such famous songs as “Zingarella,” “Adieu mon Pays,” and “Solenzara.” Macias’s smooth, mellifluous tones, as well as the conciliatory subject matter of his songs, have earned him the sobriquet “the Voice of Peace.” Macias is very popular in Turkey, where many of his songs have been recorded in Turkish by various artists, including 70s legends Ajda Pekkan and Tanju Okan. Don’t miss out on your chance to see this singing legend come to Istanbul.

When: September 13

Where: Cemil Topuzlu Open-Air Theatre

Tarkanmost likely needs no introduction for anyone reading this article. The 38-year-old singer’s songs have been hits both locally and internationally, so if you live outside Turkey and know only one Turkish pop singer, that singer is most likely Tarkan. (If you live in Turkey, and have never heard of Tarkan, then you need to get out more.) Tarkan’s songs, like many pop songs, are often romantically themed, one of the most famous being the hit “Şımarık,” featuring the sound effect of a kiss at the end of each verse. (The song was covered in English by the singer Holly Valance under the title “Kiss Kiss.”) Known not only for his superb vocal ability, but also for his dancing and flamboyant stage personality, Tarkan is clearly still the King of Turkish Pop.

When: September 9 - 11

Where: Cemil Topuzlu Open-Air Theatre

Jamiroquai, founded in 1992, is one of the best-known names in acid jazz. Its frontman Jay Kay, who is virtually synonymous with the band as a whole, has led the group through many changes in lineup and has made seven albums in all, including 1994’s The Return of the Space Cowboy and 2001’s A Funk Odyssey, both of which went platinum in the UK. The band’s constantly-evolving sound has been heavily influenced by numerous genres, most especially funk. If you’re a Jamiroquai fan then you won’t want to miss this concert.

When: September 5

Where: Kuruçeşme Arena

Lamb, consisting of the duo Andy Barlow and Lou Rhodes, hails from Manchester, UK, and is notable for its highly original sound spanning various genres including electronica, drum and bass, and trip hop. Rhodes’s distinctive vocals are the mainstay of the group’s sound. The two released their first album in 1996 to great critical acclaim; after going their own ways for several years, during which both performers worked on various solo projects, the band reunited in 2009 and (we hope) will stay together for a while longer. So don’t pass up on the opportunity to see Lamb perform here in Istanbul.

When: September 30, October 1

Where:Salon IKSV

See our agenda section for information on times, venues, and ticket prices. Hurry up and book your tickets!

As much as we love the sea-sand-sun combo, we have to admit—the closer September is, the happier we are. And it’s not just because we’re tired of the sun or the sea but because we can no longer wait for the incredible concerts at Babylon...and it turns out that this year’s concerts will be well worth the wait!

The Midnight Express Series

Music is the ultimate equalizer. Regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or language, music brings up similar emotions in the audience. Madonna was completely on board when she said, “music makes the people come together.”

With this in mind, Babylon is setting in motion The Midnight Express Series. You might wonder what the title has to do with any of this? In an extraordinary fashion, the series takes inspiration from the infamous film Midnight Express that, according to Babylon, creates stereotypes about the “other” or the “unknown.” With the aim of breaking such stereotypes, Babylon is bringing spectacular musicians from mostly forgotten or disregarded corners of the world.

This multi-cultural program is intended to show the Istanbul audience what music sounds like on the “other” side of the world. Here are the highlights of what’s coming to Babylon in September-December 2011:

September 15 – Baba Zula: Originally a side project of the now broken-up Anatolian rock group Zen, Baba Zula brings traditional Turkish music to an electronic-acoustic platform, creating an original Istanbul sound. Featuring instruments like the ney, the clarinet, and electric saz, BaBa Zula offers a mesh of Sufi-Islamic tradition, Turkish gypsy music, and the musical spirit of Anatolia. For more information, click here.

September 16 – İlhan Erşahin’s Istanbul Sessions: Istanbul Sessions is made up of four talented musicians—İlhan Erşahin, Alp Ersönmez, Turgut Bekoğlu, and İzzet Kızıl who blend funk and jazz along with Middle Eastern influences to create a unique sound. The concept behind Istanbul Sessions is to blend the signature Nublu sound with the spirit of modern Istanbul, using Turkish scales, club beats, and improvised jazz riffs. For more information, click here.

September 21 & 22 – Mulatu Astatke: The legendary Ethiopian musician Mulatu Astatke became known for his unique blending of classic American jazz, Ethiopian folk music, Latin beats, and Afro-funk to create the one-of-a-kind sound that is Ethio-jazz. He is also famous for introducing and establishing the use of various percussion instruments, such as conga and bongo drums, in Ethiopian popular music. For more details, click here.

September 23 & 24 – Tinariwen: Coming all the way from the Sahara Desert in Northern Mali, Tinariwen is an African blues group that was founded in a refugee camp in Libya in the 1970s by a group of Tuareg tribesmen known as the blue men of the desert. Their music is influenced by traditional Tuareg melodies and rhythms, as well as Tuareg instruments, but is also deeply political. Unlike most bands, Tinariwen has always been a collective of singers, songwriters, and musicians, who perform and record in ever-shifting combinations, but always manage to blend their ancient musical traditions with radical contemporary politics. For more details,click here.

The Best of the Rest

Apart from the Midnight Express series, Babylon has other musicians and bands coming to entertain Istanbulites. Here is a sneak peek of the best of what’s on schedule:

September 14 – The Maccabees: British indie rock group The Maccabees is comprised of Orlando Weeks on vocals and guitar, Hugo White on guitar, Felix White on backing vocals and guitar, Rubert Jarvis on bass, and Sam Doyle on drums. For more information, click here.

November 2 – Plaid: The British electronic music duo, comprised of Andy Turner and Ed Handley, will take the stage with their outstanding and emotionally-charged ambient, neo-electro, and electro-techno music. For more information, click here.

December 8 – No Age: The American indie duo No Age was in Istanbul at Bronx Pi just a few months ago to entertain Istanbul’s indie fan base. Now the LA-based noise pop/punk band is back in Istanbul with Randy Randall on guitar and Dean Allen Spunt on drums and vocals. For more information, click here.

December 15 & 16 – Apparat: A German electronic musician from Berlin, Apparat (Sascha Ring) embarked on his musical journey with dance floor-oriented techno then went on to produce ambient music. In 2007, he formed a band with Raz Ohara on the piano and Jörg Waehner on drums. For more information, click here.

Note that Babylon hasn’t announced its entire fall/winter program and the prices/times for some of the performances have not been finalized. Keep following us to get the scoop on Babylon’s gigs.

The legendary Woodstock concerts might be long gone as a memory of the 1960s, but wasn’t that just a group of music-loving kids on a wide-open field a few days in August? Rock’n Coke at the Hezarfen Airport could very well be the next best thing, promising perks that Woodstockers could have never dreamed of, while staying true to the pure purpose of good music. With an array of activities and giveaways by the sponsors of the festival, festival-goers won’t have a spare minute. A Converse half-pipe, Sony Gran Turismo car simulators, and a free BBM lounge? An unreal cross between an intense music festival and an amusement park, bring your caffeine and sneakers, as sleep is optional!

The festival promises opportunities as afforded by the sponsors and contributors to this massive two-day event. Mavi Jeans will be selling custom signed “Sesli T-Shirts” (Vocal T-Shirts) with lyrics from Turkish groups Duman, Gripin, and Athena. Converse has designed a half-pipe for festival-goers wishing to use their skates, or test out the Converse skate line in a colorful and urban setting designed by the masters at Milk Gallery. A sponsorship by Sony promises prizes for those showing off their skills in their Gran Turismo 5 video game, while Tune-L Music presents an array of activities like recording a professionally mastered demo, as well as partaking in a drum workshop.

In addition to fantastic catering, giveaways, and games, the obvious focal point of the festival is unchanging: the music.

The line-up according to the performance schedule is as follows:

Çilekeş: Turkish rock band Çilekeş has been extremely well liked among rock lovers across Europe since 2002, following their first-ever performance on a modest stage in Ankara. With the chilling vocals of Görkem Karabudak, Çilekeş has made its mark with their debut album titled Y.O.K.

Kurban: Wildly popular Turkish rock band Kurban joins the main stage after their decision to get back together in 2006.

The Kooks: Boasting catchy riffs and bold lyrics, the band has enjoyed immense success especially in the United States and Europe. Earning acclaim for chart-toppers like “She Moves In Her Own Way” and “Shine On,” The Kooks are among the decade’s most successful international recording artists. They are due to release a third much-awaited album titled Junk of the Heart in September.

Motörhead:Part of the New Wave of British Metal, Motörhead experiments with speed metal and heavy metal, never losing its passionate fan base.

Limp Bizkit: In the later hours of day one of Rock’n Coke, another well-loved foreign band graces the main stage for fans and festival-goers. American legend Limp Bizkit, responsible for serious musical influences of the 90s, is back together after a four-year break between 2005 and 2009. This nu-metal band has been nominated for three Grammy awards and has sold an estimated total of 35 million albums worldwide.

2manyDJ’S:Known as Soulwax, these Belgian brothers bring their disco/techno remixes to Istanbul’s eager fans.

Hemi Behmoras:Opening the Rock’n Coke 2011 festivities, Hemi Behmoras kicks off with his unique and interesting DJ set. Combining disco, electronic, and other catchy dance beats, this is sure to get the crowd excited for a long afternoon!

GrupSes Beats: Taking their underlying musical cues from 60s and 70s funk, GrupSes Beats has gained footing in Poland, Holland, and Belgium and now touches back at Istanbul.

DJ Sarıyılan (Sezyum): An unpredictable mix of artists like Zeki Müren and Aphex Twin? Who could pull this off? Don’t miss DJ Sarıyılan’s act.

Melis Danișmend: Songwriter and applauded musician Melis Danişmend comes to Hezarfen with her set of predominantly piano and acoustic pieces, all of which she writes herself.

Soaked: Electronica meets the traditions of synth-pop thanks to Soaked. With their lyrical pieces that seamlessly combine the 80s undertones of early electronica with the more advanced development of the genre in the 2000s, Soaked is here with an unforgettable performance!

Aloe Blacc: New to the realm of international music, Aloe Blacc brings his developing gifts in hip-hop and soul music to Rock’n Coke for the first time, promising Latin as well as rap influences in most of his pieces for this performance.

Curry & Coco:Edgy French pop-punk duo known as Curry & Coco have been extremely productive over the last few years, with hits like “Sex is Fashion”and “Who’s Next?” Now, they bring their electro-dance set to the Vodafone Freezone stage.

Acid Washed:Boasting the sufficient tones of classic disco and electronica, Acid Washed is a Parisian-borne product of the well-known French label Record Makers.

Golem:Turkish artist Kaan Akay has found himself a pair of drums and a bass guitar and goes by the name Golem. Performing on the radio station Dinamo for eight years, his fans know how his lack of adherence to traditions of music set him apart in the music world!

Fuchs &Cervus: These Istanbulites have a taste for well-produced dance tracks. With their friendship almost as strong as the music they produce together, they will take stage at Hezarfen in the early morning hours, keeping the festival’s energy high!

Hakan Tamar: Prolific and always on the move, Hakan Tamar is a front-runner in Turkey’s radio production. Having been on radio stations like Power, Number One, and Dinamo, Tamar has established himself as a DJ to be remembered.

She Past Away: Newly gaining their footing in the genres of darkwave and new wave music, this Turkish group promises a new take on the music of the 80s.

Dengesiz Herifler:Turkish punk-rock band Dengesiz Herifler is a relatively new addition to the growing family of Turkish-borne rock groups of the 2000s, and promise to play pieces off their album Sıfır.

Deja-Vu: Sampling a wide range of instruments from drums to bass and electro guitar, Deja-Vu is a Turkish group that likes to throw an ethnic twist into what would otherwise be a traditional punk-rock setup, incorporating instruments like the Greek bouzouki and other Turkish folk instruments!

Esben and the Witch:Hailing from the well-known musical area of Brighton in the United Kingdom, Esben and the Witch stay true to their eerie name. With their gothic and darkly influenced rock music, they will be chilling the audience at Rock’n Coke!

Electrelane:Bringing girl power to the Coca-Cola Zero stage, the ladies of Electrelane draw their influences from well-known bands like The Velvet Underground and Sonic Youth. A modern twist on classic rock, they will be a surefire hit on the alternative stage.

Dum Dum Girls:Sounding much like popular American indie-pop/noise-pop bands Best Coast and Wavves, Dum Dum Girls put on wild shows overseas. Don’t miss this crazy set—we’re sure you’ll hear them no matter how far away you are!

Gripin: Well-loved Turkish contemporary band Gripin will be performing as the opening act of the main stage on the second day of the festival. Gripin’s modest origins in bars around Istanbul have certainly catapulted them to a very different setting. With a significantly large following among the underground scene before releasing their debut album in 2004, Gripin had no issue rising to the frontline of Turkey’s rock scene. Front man Birol Namoğlu’s touching vocals as well as the band’s compilations with known artists like Pamela, Emra Aydın, and MaNga contributed to the group’s success and invitation to be a part of Rock’n Coke 2011.

Friendly Fires: American band Friendly Fires is fast gaining acclaim by indie reviewers and listeners alike, with their dance tracks that are reminiscent of both disco and indie rock.

Athena: Pioneering branches of music that had been relatively untouched by Turkish musicians, Athena is well-known for their performance in the 49^th Eurovision competition, as well as for their work in Turkish punk and ska with their songs both in English and Turkish.

Skunk Anansie: Bringing a lot of meaning to some heavy metal tracks, Skunk Anansie addresses the repression of black feminism with the anger and passion of true believers in this cause. With their latest album Wonderlustre, it is clear that these women are looking to make an impact while showing their audience a good time!

Paolo Nutini: Scottish superstar Paolo Nutini is a highlight of this year’s festival. Mastering folk, soul, and everything in between, Nutini is nowhere near stopping. Promising a third album to follow the wide success of his first two, he has songs like “Jenny Don’t Be Hasty” and “New Shoes” to follow up.

Travis: Indie/Britpop band Travis joins passionate Istanbulites on the same stage with their catchy and unique twists on the widely popular genre. With albums like Good Feeling (1997), The Man Who (1999), and Boy With No Name (2007), the group has experimented with acoustic tones into heavier rock influences and lighter pop undertones. As the boys deign to take on Hezarfen, Travis fans are in for an evening treat!

Moby: Notably, Moby released Hotel in 2005 with the wildly popular singles Lift Me Up and 18 in 2002, with the track “We Are All Made of Stars” commemorating 9/11. Moby is a pioneer in electronica and techno music and has brought popularity to the genres that had been on a fading track since the early 90s.

Dancing Birds Feel Beat: The masters of Turkish boogie nights, Dancing Birds Feel Beat dip into oldies residents like The Beach Boys to get some of their famous dance tracks to the top of the charts.

Club Bangkok: Hipsters and dance-lovers alike can enjoy Club Bangkok’s self-proclaimed genre of “snobby-techno.” Covering artists like Franz Ferdinand, Arctic Monkeys, and The Clash, it’s impossible to be a stranger to their sets. They just want you to jump up and have a good time with mixes of your favorite tracks!

Tunng: If you’ve spent any time watching American TV hits, you’ve heard Tunng and don’t even know it. Natives of the ever-popular show The O.C and Weeds, Tunng’s odd breed of folktronica is always memorable and catchy.

FM Belfast: Iceland might not be on the map for great accomplishments in international music, but FM Belfast is doing all it can to get their country noticed. With their familiar indietronica, these mixes make it quite difficult to stay put while listening!

İhan Erşahin’s Istanbul Sessions: Master Miles Davis should be proud of İlhan Erşahin’s work in modal funk and jazz. Looping in some Middle Eastern influences to stay true to the sound of Istanbul, this is an experimental set that should prove widely popular if you give it a listen.

Gaslamp Killer:Los Angeles native DJ Gaslamp Killer is no stranger to the international charts. Taking hardened masters like Jimi Hendrix and even Dr. Dre, Gaslamp Killer is a DJ to notice.

Beach House: Growing in popularity with a younger crowd in the United States, Beach House is popularizing a style of dream-pop that doesn’t quite have the edge and noise of Girls or Best Coast, but certainly has the catchy tunes of its genre. Grouped along with popular indie band The xx, Beach House is gaining a passionate sector of indie music fans and promises to prove its worth on the Vodafone stage!

Thievery Corporation: Dub-step meets acid jazz and mixes in with reggae? Thievery Corporation proves this can be done, and can be done more than well. This couple of DJs pioneer in the fields of both trip-hop and down-tempo music.

Mabbas& Style-Ist:Spinning the traditional and popular mix of dub-step, indie, and electronica, Mabba& Style-Ist comes with a simple promise: energy and excitement in the early morning hours!

Social Inclusion Band:An incredible collection of youth with social and developmental disorders, Social Inclusion Band surprises audience members with every show, performing a different genre or branch of popular and classic music.

Kül: Known for their high-voltage performances often charged with politically provocative lyrics, it seems that Kül is by no means a quiet group of young men. With their always aggressive approach towards contemporary music, this should be an electric show for an undoubtedly excited audience!

To Mexico With Love:If loosely defined could have some kind of finality, To Mexico With Love would be it. This Turkish group subscribes to no labels, no categorizations, and no limitations. With pop, punk, dance, and whatever strikes their fancy, there’s no describing their shows!

Post: Artfully blending house, dance, and trip-hop music, Post is a Turkish band that has a lot of potential and a lot of expectations from its small but developing fan group.

On Your Horizon:Another facet of Turkish experimentalist bands, On Your Horizon is responsible for helping regenerate post-rock in the Turkish music industry.

Chapel Club:Who can say no to these beautiful British boys from musical Manchester? This isn’t your typical boyband, however. Chapel Club is noted as a reincarnation of the great 80s band The Smiths, and for having only been in the industry for two years, it seems they’re in excellent company!

The Black Lips: Making their mark on the indie kids of the United States, The Black Lips are a frequent name on some favorite soundtracks like Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World and (500) Days Of Summer. Their brand of garage punk-rock is both soothing and exciting.

Mogwai: Mogwai draws its roots from The Pixies, The Cure, and the legendary Joy Division. Blending meth rock, art rock, and shoegaze, Mogwai is a very successful modern interpretation of 90s post-rock.

The Qemists:With their artfully added DJ performances in traditional bass and drum tracks, The Qemists are an oddball bunch from England hoping to gain some more support at Rock’n Coke’s Vodafone stage.

Where: Hezarfen Airport

When:July 16, 12:00 PM – 04:30 AM

July 17, 12:00 PM – 3:00 AM

How Much: 90 TL (pre-order, single day); 60 TL (pre-order, single day, student); 140 TL (pre-order, both days); 100 TL (pre-order, both days, student); 180 TL (pre-order, camping, both days) ; 120 TL (pre-order, camping, both days, student); 100 TL (at door, single day); 70 TL (at door, single day, student); 180 TL (at door, both days); 120 TL (at door, both days, student); 220 TL (at door, both days, camping); 150 TL (at door, both days, camping, student)

Imagine swaying to the beat of your favorite band with a cold beer in one hand while the sun is shining. Sounds unreal, right? Maybe on a boring Monday morning, but not during the first weekend of July! During Efes Pilsen One Love Festival, dancing and drinking are exactly what hundreds of people will do!

One of the most established music festivals of the city, Efes Pilsen One Love Festival is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. Some of the international acts of the festival are Manic Street Preachers, Happy Mondays, Suede, Editors, Cake, and Nneka. The festival will also host the finest acts from Turkey in a true festival fashion on two stages and a party tent. There will be games, contests, and lots of surprises.

We don’t mean to spoil it for you but one of the surprises is the bracelet that each festival goer will receive at the entrance. This is not a regular bracelet though. It has a special chip that lets you instantly share your Efes One Love Festival experience with your friends though social media. And how will this work? Your Facebook and Twitter accounts will be synced with the bracelets. That’s how all the participants will be able to share their photos and favorite band’s songs with their friends. All you have to do is swipe your bracelets through the uber-technological devices. Can you imagine the kind of twit-mania for two days?

On July 2^nd, the festival’s first live performance will be by 123; vocalist Dilara’s smooth voice over trip-hop and downtempo rhythms will get the atmosphere ready for a two-day marathon of music and fun. Then comes Turkey’s urban legendBüyük Ev Ablukada who will no doubt have their loyal fans arriving early. Next up is Nigerian-born German musician Nneka whom critics associate with Erykah Badu and Lauryn Hill. The band most associated with trademark “Madchester” sound of the 80s in Britain, Happy Mondays is coming to Istanbul for the first time for the festival. The climax of the evening will be when one of the most popular British bands of all times Manic Street Preachers will take the One Love stage once again. The night does not end when the stages close, as DJs MabbasandMurat Beşer will host their legendary “Oldies But Goldies” party in the tent area.

The next day, after Radio Babylon’s DJs warm up Sunday’s main stage, Turkish rock band Sade (not to be confused with the romantic British sensation) will warm up the scene. If you want to hear what Turkish reggae sounds like, then do not miss Neşeli Milis. Santralistanbul will have some Californian breeze with Cake, and then the post-punk British indie band Editors will meet with the Istanbul audience for the second time. The headliner of the evening is veteran Brit-pop act Suede, with frontman Brett Anderson taking the crowds to a nostalgic and energy-loaded tour. The festival’s last event will take place in the party tent with DJ duo Novak’s 3D Disco Party.

Do not miss this if you are looking for quality festival time on a huge green lawn!

• Suede: When we think of Brit-Pop, the first name that pops up in our minds is Suede—a pioneer of the revolutionary musical developments in Britain. Their songs carry the effects of shoegaze grunge and Madchester, and they’re known with songs like “Animal Nitrate,” “The Drowners,” “Trash,” “Stay Together,” and “She’s In Fashion.” They’re touring around the world now to promote their Greatest Hits album, which was released in 2010.

• Manic Street Preachers: Manic Street Preachers (aka The Manics) gave punk rock and alternative rock a face lift. They rose to fame with their epic song “I Laughed When Lennon Got Shot” in 1990. After that they released the album Generation Terrorists, in which songs included quotations from famous authors like Albert Camus, Sylvia Plath, and George Orwell. In 2009, after their guitarist Richard Edwards’ mystery disappearance, they released an album called Journal for Plague Lovers, compiled by songs written by Edwards.

• Happy Mondays: Happy Mondays changed indie rock and electronic music from top to bottom in the early 80s. A catalyst of the Madchester trend, Happy Mondays will take the One Love stage with their crazy soloist. The pioneers of acid house and electronic music, Happy Mondays’ first album was Squirrel and G-Man Twenty Four Hour Party People Plastic Face Carnt Smile. Their second album was Bummed, which made them England’s stars, and their third album Pills ‘n’ Thrills and Bellyache is considered as the peak of their fame and creativity. In 2007, they released their latest album Uncle Dysfunktional known for the unforgettable songs, such as “24 Hour Party People,” “Step On,” “Loose Fit,” and “Kinky Afro.”

• Editors: Editors are considered by alternative rock societies as one of the bands that reformed post-punk music. They released their first single “Bullets” in 2005—it was sold out the day that it was released. Their album The Back Room was nominated for England’s most prestigious prize, the Mercury Prize. After countless concerts all over Europe, Editors will be in Turkey one more time, performing for all the indie rock and Brit rock fans.

• Cake: The Californian rock band Cake combines rock music with funk, ska, and country. Cake’s name was heard with their first single “Rock ‘n’ Roll Lifestyle” in 1993. Their second album Fashion Nugget and their cover of “I Will Survive” made them very popular. In 1998, they released their third album Prolonging Magic and the song “Never There,” which significantly increased their worldwide fame. Their latest album Showroom of Compassion came out in 2011. The group says that this album is very different than the others. Curious much?

• Nneka: Nneka is a young German talent who’s compared to divas like Lauren Hill and Erykah Badu. She sings hip-hop and soul in her own unique way in English and also in Igbo (the language of Igbo people living in southeastern Nigeria). After the release of her first studio album Victim of Truth in 2005, Nneka began performing at big festivals and shared the stage with great names, such as Femi Kuti, Bilal, and Gnarls Barkley.

• Büyük Ev Ablukada: Alternative Turkish music’s dynamic and rebellious group, Büyük Ev Ablukada hasn’t released an album yet but gained popularity through their online releases and has established a solid fan base. Büyük Ev Ablukada is a band that rejects many clichés—their postmodern lyrics, authentic jargon, and lively performances have made this band a favorite amongst alternative groups.

• Neşeli Milis: Neşeli Milis is a band that plays reggae’s most beautiful rhythms. They will offer a performance filled with positive energy at the Efes Pilsen One Love Festival.

• Sade: In 2010, Sade won the best band award at Rock n’ Dark music competition organized by Efes Pilsen. They are currently working on their first album.

• 123: Three friends, who performed with Turkish bands Tamburada and DanDadaDan, formed 123 to create trip hop and downtempo songs. They have released three albums so far: Aksel, Stereo Love, andArve.

• Sapan: Singing in Eglish, Turkish, and French,Sapan blends melancholy and hope in their songs. The indie band is preparing to release their EP of five songs.

• Kırık Çizgi: Kırık Çizgi is a band that has lots of improvising and post-punk elements in their music. In 2008, they released their demo “Sözümüz Yok” and their first album, which carries the name of the band. Following the first album, they released a single called “Mirimari” in 2010.

• Seni Görmem İmkansız: With their different stage setups, unusual instruments, and conspicuous lyrics, Seni Görmem İmkansız performs a very different kind of music. For an unusual sort of electronic music, don’t miss Seni Görmem İmkansız’s performance at Efes Pilsen One Love Festival.

• Yora: Yora is an indie-rock band with seven members. They released two EP’s so far and they are now working on their first studio album.

• Kitschcraft: Kitschcraft attracted attention with their synth-pop based Turkish and English songs. They had their first breakthrough in 2002 with the song “The Girls in Their Summer Dresses.”

• Model: We noticed Model when they shot their first music video of “Olmaz” in 2009. When you’re watching and listening to Model, you’ll witness that the darkest themes of music can be composed with a lot of fun.

• Social Inclusion Band: An international social responsibility project, Social Inclusion Band unites established musicians with teenagers who have disabilities and/or social disadvantages.

• Toz ve Toz: Toz ve Toz combines jazz, punk, and classical Turkish music. Their first album is still in the works.

• Eva: They started their career as a cover band in 2005. Since then, they have been playing songs from the 60s and 70s.

• Ece Dorsay: Ece Dorsay recorded her first demo with Yavuz Çetin and then released her first album Kum Saati in 2002. This unique musician calls her style Post-Folk and Lo-Fi Folk.

• Gözyaşı Çetesi: Gözyaşı Çetesi has elements of rock enriched with synth in their music. They play the covers of Chemical Brothers, Daft Punk, Digitalism, as well as their own mixes.

• Ricochet: In 2001, Ricochet released an EP called capt. ahab and then the band members split up to work on other projects. In 2009, after 8 years of silence, the members of Ricochet reunited. And now they will be at Efes Pilsen One Love Festival.

• Farfara: One of the pioneers of the new generation independent music in Turkey, Farfara makes a kind of music that is hard to describe as it blends different styles and genres. But if we were to push it, their music could be described as Krautrock and Wave.

• Onor BumBum: One of the most talented electronic musicians of Turkey, Onor BumBum’s first album Diyorum ki has downtempo songs that he produced with the software and instruments that he created.

Where: santralistanbul

When: July 2-3

How much: 55.50TL (1day only); 36 TL (1day only – student); 79.25TL (both days); 55.50 (both days – student)

If you haven’t had the chance to take advantage of the national holiday on May 19th to book a four-day getaway somewhere nice and warm, let loose in Istanbul and spend the next few nights dancing your heart out with the best that Istanbul has to offer.

Hooverphonic

The Belgian group Hooverphonic can hardly be confined to a single music genre as it effortlessly blends the different sounds of pop, rock, alternative, and trip-hop among many others. One of their most famous songs “2Wicky” was included in the soundtrack of Bernando Bertolucci’s “Stealing Beauty” in 1996—the first sign of the group’s impending global success. This was only the beginning for Hooverphonic who, later on in 2006, launched a “best of” album that exceeded sales of one million copies, followed by two Platinum awards in 2010 for their most recent album The Night Before.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to watch them live at Salon IKSV, grab a drink, and sway to their dreamy sounds!

Where: Salon IKSV

When: May 18, 10:00pm

How Much:45TL (Standing), 25TL (Student)

Walkmen & Twin Shadow

The Walkmen stand out among the crowd of indie rock bands. Formed in Washington D.C. by high school friends in 2000, the band has released 6 albums in 11 years, and they are already being compared to the early periods of the legendary bands U2 and The Cure. Don’t miss out their first concert ever in Istanbul.

Before The Walkmen takes the stage, George Lewis Jr.’s Twin Shadow will be performing the retro melodies of synth pop and dream pop.

Where: Babylon

When: May 18, 09:30pm

How much:50 TL; 40 TL

Caribou

Timeless and impossible to categorize… Caribou is a Canadian musician who had his album Andorra listed as one of the best in 2007. His unique style is a mesh of psychedelia, krautrock, and indie-rock. His latest album Swim, which was praised by many in 2010, has a minimalist electronic sound.

Where:Babylon

When:May 19, 10:00 pm

How much:40 TL; 30 TL

The Black Heart Procession

Phantasmal, gloomy, and dark feelings are materialized with the harmony of piano and guitar. Playing together under the name The Black Heart Procession, Pall Jenkins and Tobias Nathaniel are all about making songs far from the mainstream trends. Their melancholic lyrics and addictive music keep the audience asking for more.So here they are for their second concert in Turkey on Ghetto’s stage!

Where:Ghetto

When:May 22, 10:00pm

How much:35 TL (Presale), 40 TL

The success of his albumAnimal Magicreleased in 2001 has swiftly transformed him into a respected and well-known artist in his field. His distinctive music, containing harmonious melodies and organically produced backgrounds, displays his exceptional talent for combining digital creations with acoustic instruments.

The artist has participated in prestigious music festivals around the world, such as the Glastonbury Festival, The Big Chill, and Jazz Cafe introducing his fans to unique examples of hip-hop, jazz, broken beats, Latin, funk, and soul, gaining a global reputation for his original sound and stage performances.

Be at Otto Santral on May 14 to enjoy good drinks, great ambiance, and sensational music!

The Grammy winner American rock band Maroon 5 is visiting Turkey for the first time. The band members Adam Levine, James Valentine, Jesse Carmichael, Mickey Madden, and Matt Flynn have a huge fan base in Turkey and the fans will definitely fill up Turkcell Kuruçeşme Arena. Along with their hit songs “This Love” and “She Will Be Loved”, Maroon 5 will be playing their latest song, which was composed in 24 hours in an isolated room.

When: April 15, 2011; 9:00pm

Where: Kuruçeşme Arena

How much:87 TL

Where: Refresh The Venue

When: 10:00 pm

How much: 69,50 TL