Deep, brown and dirty

Essex's scaled down answer to Glastonbury, Brownstock — started seven years ago as a private party for the Brown family and 100 friends on their farm just outside of Chelmsford — has since grown into a full-fledged festival for over 5000. Taking place on 31st August — 3rd September, the dance acts playing Doorly's dance stage, The Good Shed, this year are BIG, even by Glasto standards — Nero (DJ set), Zane Lowe, Grandmaster Flash, Jackmaster, Ali Shaheedn Muhammad (A Tribe Called Quest), Toddla T, Artwork, The Cuban Brothers — plus, in addition, the Stumble Inn tent will be manned by hotshot Chelmsford promotion Gist with support from London honchos Magma on Saturday with No Artificial Colours and Saytek alongside the residents. It's got it all (even an Only Way Is Farming dress theme)! Except Joey Essex on a combine harvester as compere. Thankfully.

BROWNSTOCK 2012

Where? Morris Farm, Chelmsford, Essex

When? 31st August - 3rd September

Highlights? Nero (DJ set), Zane Lowe, Grandmaster Flash, Jackmaster, Toddla T, Doorly, Artwork, The Cuban Brothers, No Artificial Colours, Saytek and many more.

Web? brownstock.co.uk