All Tomorrow's Parties have announced that Stewart Lee, the stand-up comic and part-time composer of folk songs about Russell Brand, will curate ATP 2016. Although the festival line-up is typically overseen by musicians, an alternative cultural figure will step up every now and then, including The Simpsons' Matt Groening and the Chapman Brothers, who took up the reins in 2010 and 2004 respectively.The second of the ATP 2.0 festivals will take place at Pontins camp in Prestatyn, north Wales, from 15-17 April. The bill hasn't been announced yet, but Lee released the following statement to give you an idea of what to expect (it's exactly what you'd expect):"Of all the ATPs I’ve attended, the 2001 weekend, when Tortoise curated it and laid American free jazz, European improv noise, alternative country rock, alienating stand-up comedy, ambient electronica, eighties hardcore, seventies CBGBs nostalgia, smart-arse post punk, Dutch anarcho-jazz and all manner of unexpected cross-currents on curious young people remains a pivotal point in my musical education. It’s a great honour to be allowed to attempt something similar. Bring a bucket, spade, swimwear and an open mind."ATP has come under criticism over the last few years for cancelling their events with a regularity and last-minuteness that Morrissey could only dream of, but maybe ATLee: A music festival made from 100 per cent real music, is precisely what was needed to restore fans' faith in the company. Even if it doesn't, this is easily the coolest thing that has ever happened in Prestatyn.Limited early-bird tickets for Lee’s ATP are on sale here.
Advertisement