Since launching in 2013, the one-day multi-venue Festival has historically raised circa £85,000 during a 10 year partnership with Reading Mencap, a local charity that supports people with Learning Disabilities and their families.
The critically acclaimed Festival was shortlisted as a ‘Grassroots Champion’ nominee at the first national LIVE Awards in 2023. AYL? won ‘Cultural Contribution at the ‘Pride of Reading’ Awards 2024, and has previously won ‘Festival of the Year’ and ‘Partnership in the Arts’ at the Reading Cultural Awards plus ‘Event of the Year’ at the inaugural Alt Reading Awards.
‘Start thinking about a day trip now’ Louder Than War
‘…a vital addition to the live music calendar of the country for some years now.’ John Kennedy (Broadcaster and DJ, Radio X)
‘Hear the very finest in emerging music while raising money for [Learning Disability] charities? We don’t mind if we do!’
No.1 in Metro Weekend
Past AYL? Acts include…
IDLES, Sprints, Big Special, Billy Nomates, Fat Dog, Ezra Furman, Field Music, The Big Moon, The Amazons, Steve Lamacq (6 Music), Alfie Templeman, Anna Meredith, BC Camplight, Bob Vylan, Porij, Honeyglaze, Sundara Karma, Spring King, Girl Ray, Shame, Bad Sounds, Genghar, The Wave Pictures, Plump DJs, Pulled Apart By Horses, Boxed In, NZCA Lines, Huw Stephens (Radio 1), Black Honey, Flamingods, Phil Taggart (Radio 1), DJ Format, Dream Wife, Matt Maltese, Pixey, John Kennedy (Radio X), Smoke Fairies, Dan Le Sac, Palace and many, many more…
Are You Listening? The festival strives to nurture and support the local, grassroots music scene by booking local artists to share stages with touring acts.
We also pride ourselves on working with the community and local businesses.
Contact email: info@heavypop.co.uk