aaamusic | On 24, Apr 2012

This July will see the much anticipated return of one of London’s must-see events of the festival season, Summer Series at Somerset House.

Set in the spectacular courtyard of one of London’s most celebrated historic buildings, Summer Series at Somerset House is a wonderfully unique event in the summer’s live music calendar. This year the programme runs from 7th to 17th July 2012.

Come July, this extraordinary open air venue will be the setting for a truly exciting and eclectic array of musical talent. Australian musical cabaret superstar Tim Minchin will kick off proceedings with a bang on July 7th, paving the way for 11 nights of truly diverse programming; ranging from the slinky urban soul of Jill Scott to the chart smashing pop of dubstep breakthrough Katy B; from returning indie rock juggernauts The Enemy and The Temper Trap to the darker, more dramatic palettes of Anna Calvi and Paloma Faith.

In addition, M83, fresh from the critical acclaim of their new album “Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming” also play a much anticipated show, as do Tindersticks, renowned purveyors of finely wrought melancholia, and a night devoted entirely to Afrobeat, the vibrant and hugely thrilling strain of politically infused music started in Nigeria by Fela Kuti, but which now sees its influence spreading everywhere from indie music to electronica. All in all, this is undoubtedly Summer Series’ most varied and invigorating lineup yet, and promises to make this the most special installment to date.

For the third year running, American Express is headline sponsor of Summer Series at Somerset House meaning Cardmembers will benefit from presale and reserved tickets for all shows. This is one of the many events that make up American Express’ Preferred Seating Programme.

July 7TH – TIM MINCHIN
July 8TH – KATY B
July 9TH – JILL SCOTT
July 10TH – JILL SCOTT
July 11TH – THE TEMPER TRAP
July 12TH – ANNA CALVI
July 13TH – THE ENEMY
July 14TH – DJ ABRANTEE PRESENTS AFROBEATS NIGHT FEATURING OLU MAINTAIN, CAPPO SNOOP, ATUMPAN, SCENE MAY7EN AND VIBE SQUAD
July 15TH – TINDERSTICKS
July 16TH – M83
July 17TH – PALOMA FAITH

Tickets go on general sale at 9am on Friday 27th April 2012.

Tickets from £22.50 – £35.00 (plus booking fee) available online at www.ticketmaster.co.uk and www.somersethouse.org.uk