March 14, 2001 16:20

MELTDOWN READS THE WYATT ACT

Wyatt follows in the footsteps of Scott Walker, Nick Cave and John Peel...

ROBERT WYATT has been appointed artistic director of this year's MELTDOWN festival, which will run from Saturday June 9 to Saturday June 23 at LONDON's ROYAL FESTVIAL HALL.

Revered within the music industry, Wyatt's career spans three decades, during which time he has worked with artists such as Brian Eno, Jimi Hendrix, Paul Weller, members of Pink Floyd and Elvis Costello, who wrote Wyatt's most memorable hit, 'Shipbuilding'.

Glenn Max, the South Bank's Producer of Contemporary Culture, said: "I'm thrilled Robert has agreed to take up the challenge. He will attract a remarkable and eclectic range of performers from around the world, representing his diverse interests and personal passions. With Robert at the helm of this years festival, Meltdown 2001 promises to be one of the most memorable."

Wyatt joins a list of luminaries including Scott Walker, Nick Cave and John Peel, who have selected their fantasy line-ups of artists and events. Acts from previous years include Blur, Radiohead, Lou Reed, Deborah Harry, Cornershop and Spiritualized. Wyatt's full Meltdown 2001 bill is expected to be announced soon.