Issue 1481

Back in the frame
The daily realities of life – babies, illness, anxieties – put paid to Everything But The Girl’s music making 23 years ago. Now they’re making the comeback their fans have hoped for, but without any grand promises beyond an album. Gary Ryan speaks to the married couple and finds their ambivalence only increases their popularity.

Reads like teen spirit
Loss was central to Max Porter’s debut novel, Grief is the Thing with Feathers, and his new book returns to the theme as he tells the story of a lost, rage-filled 16-year-old boy. Sophie Haydock finds the novelist in a state of anger worthy of adolescence.

All day and most of the night
Nothing captures the heady freedom of summer like a festival, but with people increasingly looking for more than just the music, there is now a plethora of festivals providing immersive, thought provoking and restorative experiences for crowds of all sizes. From interactive talks and wellbeing workshops to scientific speakers and lush landscapes, Susan Griffin gives a flavour of what’s on offer.

Plus
News, arts and entertainment, columnist Roger Ratcliffe bows out, Clive Anderson’s letter to his younger self – and more.