www.womanthismonth.com May 2016 65 PRIMAVERA SOUND, BARCELONA Music journos have dubbed it the best music festival in the making and one has even gone on to claim that “Primavera Sound is to US festivals what a nice contemporary-design sofa is to a beat-up couch from Goodwill.” Started in 2001, the festival celebrates its 16th edition this year with a smashing line-up that includes Radiohead, Tame Impala, Suede, Beach House, Beirut, PJ Harvey and Sigur Rós among 150-odd artists and bands who’ll perform from May 30-June 5. Unlike Barcelona's other renowned modern music fest, Sonar, which concentrates mostly on electronic beats, Primavera Sound boasts a diverse line-up year after year covering genres such as alternative, can bring down the temperatures at night, so carrying an extra layer is much advised. If gig-hopping in the city, the best way to do this is on foot while discovering Barcelona’s modernist architecture and numerous other treasures. Fill up on tapas, pintxos and vermouth or head to Montjuïc Mountain for a break during the day and marvel at the astonishing views of the city. Rabat Justin Timberlake Mausoleum of King Mohamed V Primavera Sound Barcelona city indie, pop, rap, hip hop, electro, dance, folk, world music, jazz and pretty much anything else you can think of. You can catch a number of live gigs at the city’s numerous pubs and bars but the main action is reserved for Parc del Forum, a vast and surreal urban landscape that seems almost purpose-built for the job. Another factor, and a very important one, that adds to the experience is the amazing summer weather in Barcelona. However the sea breeze Leafy Tapas Barca MAWAZINE – RHYTHMS OF THE WORLD, RABAT, MOROCCO As the name suggests, Mawazine attracts an international audience as well as a celebrity following. This popular nine-day festival blends cultures and attracts musical talent from all over the world. The festival was founded in 2001 as part of a government initiative to promote a more liberal image of Morocco, and has since expanded. By inviting thousands of singers and musicians from all corners of the world, Mawazine calls for sharing and conviviality among cultures. Many big names like Stevie Wonder and Rihanna have graced the festival’s stages, and artists from around the world exhibit their works at individual and collective shows. At this festival you can hear everything from Berber fusion rock to Colombian cumbia music. To be held this year from May 20-May 28, the line-up includes Iggy Azalea, Jean Wyclef, the National Orchestra of Barbes, The Afrobeat Experience and Christina Aguilera. Rabat, Morocco's capital is the centre of cultural dynamism and is a great starting point to get acquainted with the country. When not attending a concert, explore its array of historical sites and museums or wander in local markets and gardens. Do visit the 11th century fortress in the Kasbah district, the incredible Hassan Tower, tomb chamber at the Mausoleum of King Mohamed V and the Andalusian-style Medina. Hassan Tower
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