The rain has held off all day, we’ve weedled our way into the middle of the black sea of metal-tees – beer in hand, and it’s time for the first headliner of Download Festival 2018 – Avenged Sevenfold. Heading out onto the Donington stage for the first time in 2006, A7X have been firm favourites at the festival, returning in 2011 and then 2014 to headline, but this is something else entirely.
The stage is set with a raft of giant screens depicting stone murals and front-man Shadows appears in his now signature garb of a red and black plaid shirt and an Axl-style bandana strapped around his head, yelling something or other about Jesus, as the band scream straight into the entirely apt ‘The Stage’. ‘Afterlife’ is heralded by a bombardment of pyrotechnics in the form of massive flame cannons, which serve to singe the whiskers off anyone in the front five rows, and to the surprise of many around us – they’re absolutely nailing it. I suppose the problem with A7X has always been their willingness to explore so many different styles of rock and metal, from prog to hardcore and everything in-between. They’re not ‘that’ polarising band that you either love or hate, they’re just somewhere in the middle, where a song or two might chime with what you like. As such, it can be hard to accept their set as anything other than a mash-up of whatever they feel like that day, but honestly, today it’s more like an expert tour through metal as a genre.
Vengeance and Synyster are back to back, playing intricate harmonies and it’s clear that from a sheer musical perspective, they deserve their top of the bill spot here at Download. Yelling “It’s our favourite goddamn place in the world to play” is always guaranteed a roar from the crowd in the UK, whether it’s true or not, but the sheer force and power of ‘Hail to the King’ rings the sentiment true, and here’s where it gets interesting. Taking more than a small cue from metal legends Iron Maiden I’m sure, a giant zombified king is ushered in from the back of the stage to ‘crawl’ above the band and inexplicably, to sing along. This kind of production is usually the reserve of giants like Maiden or Viking Power-metal bands who just really believe in their storyline, but hey, maybe that’s what the current festival scene is lacking? The 90’s and noughties saw a phase of rock and metal where any kind of gimmick or even loud clothing was considered tacky and unprofessional, leaving a hole in big-scale shows which covered the entertainment factor, as well as musical prowess. Are we due a proper resurgence of pantomime metal? I’m not sure it’s a bad thing, it keeps things interesting in a long set at the end of a busy day of bands, and who doesn’t love an enormous skeletal king having a sing-song anyway?
With a sobering video tribute to former drummer James “The Rev” Sullivan who died in 2009, they head into ‘So Far Away’, followed by the massive ‘Nightmare’. Yelling out “…we’re taking it back to the beginning, none of that shit we’ve been playing all year, this one’s just for you” the band roll into a track from their second album – ‘Eternal Rest’. Just when you thought it couldn’t get weirder, yet another giant installation is floated out above them on stage… a humungous skeletal space-suited spectre, as grim as it is spectacular, and the screens change to dark starry skies as the night truly sets in over Donington Park as the band hit the ahem, high notes of ‘Higher’.
A cover of Pink Floyd’s ‘Wish You Were Here’ is dedicated to celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain, who was reported to have committed suicide in the early hours of the morning, and Shadows implores anyone who is struggling – to seek help; “…we lost Anthony Bourdain today. It may seem silly but he’s a guy that showed us all different cultures and different people… that we’re all equal… so reach out, we all feel the same way”.
Bringing things back to a safer, louder space ‘Shepherd of Fire’ inevitably sees the stage… well… on fire. Pretty much all of it in fact. You’ve got to wonder what their total carbon footprint is for this entire set. Joking “We’re gonna have some fun… all the people who hate us have gone back to their tents”, A7X finish up with ‘A little piece of Heaven’ a delightful song about murder and necrophilia, and then ‘Unholy Confessions’. No really, and the entire crowd is singing along as if it were as normal as a school assembly hymn. I mean, metal has always been known for hitting up risqué topics but there’s something undeniably jolly and therefore unnerving about this. If there’s one thing you can say about Avenged Sevenfold, it’s that they’re not afraid to go there. Well, anywhere really. Tonight was a triumph of their absolute willingness to do whatever the fuck they want. Bravo I say.
After national rail disruptions and flash floods in and around Birmingham it didn’t stop the hauls of music fans descending on the NEC Birmingham this bank holiday weekend for Slamdunk Festival 2018.
It was time to go see The Audition who more than six years ago disbanded but this festival weekend the pop punk heavyweights reformed to play a nostalgic set at this year’s Slam Dunk Festival.
Band members Danny Stevens, Seth James and Tim Klepek who are the original members of the band were joined by Cartel’s Kevin Sanders and Jack’s Mannequin’s Jon Sullivan to perform on the Monster Energy Stage; which sent fans back to their teenage years singing along to this band in there bedrooms.
So it’s back to the Monster stage to see the Scottish rockers that are Twin Atlantic. Now Dressed in a dark floral shirt with striking red trousers and jacket, vocalist Sam McTrusty came out on stage playing the intro to Gold Elephant: Cherry Alligator which set the fans into a craze.
His impressive vocal range shone throughout the entire set and had fans singing at the top of their lungs to the likes of Make A Beast Of Myself and No Sleep.There set was energetic and anyone in that room could be seen to having a good time.
Frank Carter and The Rattlesnakes were about to take to the Jagermister stage and if you’re a former Gallows fan you’ll know vocalist Frank Carter is renowned for his on-stage antics, and well his new band have got the same reputation.
Frank and co. did not disappoint by the second song Frank decided to go for a walk in the crowd and this wasn’t going to be the last time Frank “Took a walk” which would get the whole crowd involved.From the first notes of Juggernaut the band were whipping across the stage back and fourth and The audience quickly followed suit; with hit tracks Wild Flowers, Snake Eyes and Devil Inside Me creating absolute pandemonium inside the NEC with what I would say were the biggest circle pits of the day.
Even though chaos was breaking out onstage and offstage vocalist Frank regularly interacted with the crowd and promoted a safe environment in which everyone could have fun.
Following Frank Carter and The Rattlesnakes were PVRIS who last graced the Slamdunk stage back in 2015 on the tour circuit of their debut album White Noise and here we are seeing them again touring their second album All We Know of Heaven, All We Need of Hell.
Justin took his place behind the drum kit then soon after Alex, Lynn and Brian took to the stage; it was dark and backlit creating a moody, somewhat spooky atmosphere. They opened up with Heaven, which was the debut track from AWKOHAWNOH album back in 2017.
SETLIST:
Heaven St. Patrick Half You and I What’s Wrong Winter Anyone Else No Mercy My House
The PVRIS CVLT (as their fans are known) were singing along to every word and in all the right places knew when it was time to jump and dance along which seen vocalist Lynn Gunn climbed down from the stage to be among the fans along the barrier during the track No Mercy.
Following a mammoth line up on the Jagermister stage it was time for the Headliners who were none other than Good Charlotte and well what can I say cannons exploded with streamers; which resulted in the Main Arena looking like it just got “TP’d” as it all hung from the ceiling. The fans crowd were hit with flashing lights and the heat from the pyrotechnics as the band jumped into hit song The Anthem.
The band ploughed through their extensive back catalogue to take fans on a trip down memory lane with tracks The Story of My Old Man, Keep Your Hands Off My Girl, Predictable and Girls and Boys.They also through in Life Changes and Actual Pain which has only just been recently released, yet the fans seemed to know all the words already.
Each song showcased the tightness and experience the band had with Joel Madden’s powerful voice, his brother Benji’s and Billy Martin’s impressive guitar skills, Paul Thomas’ catchy bass lines and Dean Butterworth’s strong drumming.The night was coming to a close and the famous track Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous marked the end of an impressive live performance, closing Slam Dunk Festival 2018 with a crowd united through their love of stellar live music.
We also managed to catch the sets from Crown The Empire, Dream State, Devil Wears Prada, Knuckle Puck, Sleeping With Sirens and more. All photographs from these artist can be found on our social media sites.
Over the years, Cambridge Junction has played host to many great artists. On Tuesday 3rd April the venue welcomed English rock band, Lower Than Atlantis. The quartet, who are originally from Watford in Hertfordshire, first formed in 2007. They released their first EP in 2008 and then went on to release their first full album "Far Q" back in 2010.
The live music gig was being held in the main stage room at the venue. Upon arrival, the room was covered in a blanket of dim blue lighting and was quickly filling up with a relatively young crowd. With drinks and chatter flowing nicely the audience was soon introduced to the other acts that would be joining the guys from Watford.
For the evening, Lower Than Atlantis were joined by support acts The Faim and Milk Teeth.
The Faim were the first of the night's acts to take to the stage. With an excited crowd of people in front of them, they jumped straight into their first song of their set, titled "My Heart Needs To Breathe" before then introducing themselves.
This four piece pop/alternative band first formed on the 20th November 2014. The band members themselves have stated that their music has been influenced by artists including, 5 Seconds of Summer, Blink 182, and Fall Out Boy. I will also mention that their debut single "Saints of the Sinners" was also co-written by Pete Wentz, also known as the lead vocalist of rock band, Fall Out Boy. The first thought that came to my head upon hearing them perform was "they sound just like Fall Out Boy". And now I know why after doing my research.
The Faim are a band that have a great stage presence with high energy and know how to work the crowds well, an example of this was asking the audience to jump along with them during their performance. They are a really likeable band and when performing live it is clear to see that the four lads are very passionate about their music. As the stage is flooded with blue and green lighting, the band performed songs including "A Million stars", "Midland Line" and "Infamous". They brought their set to a close with a performance of their single "Saints of the Sinners" which is not only (as mentioned previously) their debut single release but is also about "making their mark in the world". What's worth mentioning is that the down to earth band members were also seated at their own merchandise stall at the back of the room after their set, with their family members. Who doesn't love a good family support network?
After a short break the second of the evening's acts graced the stage.
Milk Teeth, a punk rock band from Stroud in Gloucstershire, are full of energy and clearly enjoy making interesting facial expressions when performing. The band are Becky on vocals and bass, Billy and Chris on guitars and Oli on drums. Unusually, just like fellow support act The Faim the drummers were set up front alongside their fellow band mates for this gig. The band's guitar players were great at rallying the excitement from the crowd of fans in front of them. The band members also encouraged the audience to shine lights from their phones during their set. They performed their original songs including "Nearby Catfight" – which was also the song they entered the stage to, they also showcased "Stabbed" and "Swear Jar".
After an energetic set from Milk Teeth, along came another short interval as we stood waiting for the night's main act! During this break the venue did continue to play music into the sound system as we chatted amongst ourselves. Some rather unusual releases featured on the venues 'interval playlist'. What stood out for many people there was the moment when Aha's Take on Me came blaring through the speakers. It was like being at a gig in the 80s. The whole room sang along and was filled with buzzing energy. Continuing with their vintage playlist, we were then treated to Uptown Girl which was originally made famous by Billy Joel back in 1983! The well known single got as far as the end of the intro before being turned off to welcome the night's main act. This did not go down well with ticket holders as the room was then filled with Boos and sighs of disappointment. Although these negative emotions were soon forgotten about when the band members of Lower Than Atlantis walked onto the stage.
The band's drummer, Eddy Thrower was the first to take his place. He sat at his drum kit and began to build the atmosphere with a small drum solo which was accompanied by synchronised strobe lighting. He was quickly joined by fellow band mates Declan Hart on bass, Ben Sanson on guitar and then lastly the band's front man and vocalist Mike Duce. And what strong entrance they made! They started their set with their amazing single "Had Enough".
Further into their set, vocalist Duce had requested the audience to run and mosh in front of him, before he then came down into the viewing area to begin crowd surfing with his fans. After being carried back to the stage the band continued to play more of their music until once again their front man returned to the middle of the crowds of people. He stood in the middle of the room with his guitar to play an acoustic version of their song "Another Sad Song". The atmosphere was so relaxed and calm, with people sitting crossed legged on the floor in a circle around him. Not something you'd typically expect to see at a rock band's gig. It could have been likened to sitting around a bonfire singing campfire songs.
This was one band that certainly knew how to work a crowd! It is clear to see how much their value their fans after seeing them live. The band's lead singer asked the audience "if anyone's got a beer then raise it up!" he then encouraged drinkers to consume their beverage of choice while all members of the band and fans chanted "CHUG CHUG CHUG" and when they played "Beech Like The Tree" they managed to encourage plenty of people to crowd surf.
As the majority of musicians that perform live, Lower Than Atlantis' set appeared to come to an end after finishing their song "Words", which of course, wasn't their last song of the evening. The band members exited the stage for a very short space of time before returning for once more for an encore. They all thanked their fans for all of the support they have received over the past 11 years and then stated "otherwise we would be working in Morrisons, although there's nothing wrong with working in Morrisons". Nice cover up lads!
The gig came to a close with the band's last two performances of the night which were "English Kids" and my personal favourite of theirs "Here We Go".
Lower Than Atlantis is a band that is undoubtedly worth seeing live, they offer familiarity with their hit singles and also something completely different when interacting with their fans! Our photographer and I are now new fans of The Faim. All three bands are continuing to tour this year with tickets still available.
Country music in the UK? Not something you heard of much back in 2013 when the O2 Arena in London welcomed its very first C2C Festival. Telling people you were going to a country music festival was like telling people you were eloping. Fast forward to 2018, Country Music has started to become a bit bore acceptable to the mainstream, british artists such as The Shires are selling out tours and playing every festival that you can imagine, Ward Thomas secured a number one album slot for their second record Cartwheels and festivals across the UK are booking country artists more and more. It doesn't stop there though. Many C2C Alumni are starting to break into the scene as they collaborate with pop artists. Chris Stapleton started to blow up after his Brit Award performance with Justin Timberlake and has been charting ever since with his own material, Maren Morris had a top ten hit with her collaboration with Grey and Zedd for the song Middle and artists like Kacey Musgraves are playing some of the UK's biggest venues – country music in the UK is starting to be a thing.
So here we are 2018 and C2C has just had it's sixth festival. The first year was just the main arena and a few pop up stages with unknown acts but as the years have gone on, the festival stages surrounding the arena that take place in the day have become bigger and better, securing more known artists from all over.
This year, the festival stages had exceptionally popular artists that you would pay good money for to see individually such as DanielleBradbery, LANCO, RyanHurd, StephanieQuayle, LindsayEll, AshleyMcBryde, RyanKinder, HighValley, WalkerHayes, JillianJacqueline, MorganEvans, DeltaRae, MoPitney, LukasNelson&PromiseoftheReal, AshleyCampbell , RussellDickerson and many many more. The festival stages took place from Friday day time through to Sunday day time and included some evening after party shows which ran directly after the main arena events had closed.
The O2 is transformed into a mini Nashville during C2C Festival and fans are absolutely everywhere, it is heaving. The queues to get into each venue are very long and you get to experience full band shows to acoustic shows to songwriters rounds. Highlights on the pop up stages for many this year were AshleyMcBryde , LANCO , DeltaRae , DanielleBradbery and LukasNelson.
Then we have the main stage acts. In the last few years C2C has expanded from a two day event to a three day event by popular demand. This year, we, the UK were treated with a rarity of having TimMcGraw and wife FaithHill headline. Tim and Faith headlined the Friday night in London and brought over their entire Soul2Soul tour which they have been touring the US with. As well as hearing songs they released as a pair, we got to hear their solo hits too sich as Tim's stunning track Humble&Kind and Faith's huge UK hit in the 90's ThisKiss.
On Friday other main stage acts included the unmissable OldDominion who are worthy of being UK chart toppers with their country pop sound, witty lyrics and exceptional performance skills. Old Dominion are not a band to overlook and you wouldn't even consider them country by UK standards. Songs such as Break Up With Him and No Such Thing As A Broken Heart created a strong sing a long atmosphere which was electric.
KelseaBallerini also took to the stage. Country's new pop princess, this wonder woman of the stage has it all, beauty, stage presence, killer vocals and one heck of great list of songs such as Peter Pan, Legends and I Hate Love Songs. Kelsea is heading towards being the biggest thing in country music, taking over a title Taylor Swift once had in the genre before going pop. Kelsea, newly wed to MorganEvans brought her beau with her as he played the Spotlight Stage that night inside the O2 Arena in between main stage acts. Morgan, an Australian country artist won the crowd with his charm and his brilliant songs such as Kiss Somebody and I Do. Also on the Spotlight Stage that evening was rising star BrettYoung who played the O2 Arena in October with Lady Antebellum. Brett had the entire arena singing along to his hit In Case You Didn't Know.
Saturdays main stage acts saw the UK debut of LukeCombs who is looking to be the next big male country artist. His rock country sound shook the O2 and left everyone in awe enabling him to sell out his London's Shepherds Bush Empire date in October this year which prompted him to add an extra date.
Following Luke was the UK's favourite US star KipMoore. If you think you don't like country, listen to Kip Moore or better yet go and see him live on a whim and then think again about whether you like country or not. Kip Moore is ever the performer. Kip's mind blowing stage performance skills along with his fantastic band make you wonder why this guy is not the headliner of every festival going. Kip has a country rock voice that is so dang good and infectious that you could listen to him all day. Kip's three albums Up All Night, Wild Ones and Slowheart are some of the best material around in any genre, especially Wild Ones.
Taking stage after Kip was the eagerly anticipated return of country music duo Sugarland. Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush recently reformed and made their C2C debut which blew everyone away. Both Jennifer and Kristian have played C2C individually as solo artists but never as Sugarland, so this was a very special moment indeed. Sugarland filled the O2 Arena with so much energy and excitement with songs such as Stuck Like Glue that anyone who had to follow Luke, Kip and them had a hard task.
Set with that hard task was KaceyMusgraves. A radio 2 listeners favourite, people were concerned that Kacey and her mellow yet sassy music wouldn't quite cut it for a main stage act but how wrong the doubters were. Kacey pulled it out of the bag and then some. With her new album Golden Hour due out next week, Kacey treated the audience with her stunning new music as well as some of the classics such as Follow Your Arrow, Silver Lining and Merry Go Round to name a few. Kacey had upped her game since her last C2C performance and delivered a much more energetic and upbeat show – a show very worthy of a headline slot.
On the Spotlight stages on Saturday were Ashley McBryde who brought a more traditional country sound to the arena and enchanted her audience. Being the new IT girl in country music, Ashley left C2C being the most talked about artist from festival goers. Her songs Little Dive Bar in Dahlonega, American Scandal and Girl Going Nowhere created a storm big enough to pick her up and whiz her into a girl that is going everywhere.
Also on the Spotlight Stage was Jillian Jacqueline who made her UK debut last October as part of Country Music Week, Jillian's EP SideA is a stunning collection of modern country pop with some of the finest, sweetest and slick songs you will ever hear. Way beyond the boundaries of country music, Jillian needs to be a mainstream artist so do look her up.
LukasNelson son of legend Willie Nelson proved his worth and more on the Spotlight Stage. A country, soul, rock god this artist and his band Promise of The Real are as mainstage, headline worthy as the previously mentioned Kip Moore. A born performer, Lukas has so much to offer and became my highlight of the entire weekend and rocked the joint with his powerful tracks Find Yourself and Just Outside Of Austen. Lukas returns to the UK on July 10th for a show at London's The Garage so I highly recommend a visit.
Saturday also saw a truly stunning and emotional tribute to Glen Campbell which was delivered by his daughter Ashley Campbell. An artists in her own right and a phenomenal Banjo Player, Ashley gave us a medley of some of her fathers finest tracks such as Gentle On My Mind and Wichita Lineman. Ashleys performance was so powerful that the arena erupted and chanted for more.
Sundays main stage brought the UK debut of one of the most talked about new country bands in the US right now Midland. Bringing traditional back in both their music and fashion styles, Midland delivered one of the strongest performances across the weekend. Midland played tracks from their debut album On The Rocks and filled the arena with their insane performances of Drinkin' Problem, Make A Little and Check Cashin' Country. The trio captivated the O2 crowd and had everyone up and dancing to their slick, cool sound.
Following Midland was Americana artist MargoPrice. Having had a televised Glastonbury performance, Margo has made quite the career in the UK recently. Margo impressed the crowd with her music, albeit slightly chilled out and a bit too mellow after Midland but she still held her own and gave a hell of a show which included a "drum off" with her bands drummer with two drums sets on stage delivering one awesome jamming session. Margo also brought Lukas Nelson on stage to perform with her for a song his dad Wille Nelson recorded with Margo called Learning To Lose.
After Margo was the legendary EmmylouHarris who undoubtedly put on a show stopping, flawless performance. Again, a bit laid back which isn't a bad thing, just a bit too chilled for the last night, Emmylou had one of the biggest and most respectable crowds yet as everyone in the arena stood for her entire set. To be able to say you have seen Emmylou Harris live is a rarity and something to treasure.
Closing the festival was another UK favourite LittleBigTown. A vocal group so sensational, Little Big Town can do no wrong and always put on a performance that will blow your mind. Mesmerising doesn't quite do it enough justice, this band are the best of the best across all genres and vocally, no vocal group can beat them live. With one of the most impressive and much loved back catalogues which include Girl Crush, Boondocks and the Taylor Swift penned Better Man,Little Big Town played hit after hit and proved why they work so well together and why they are nominated for just about every award out there.
On Sundays Spotlight Stages were Canadian Country artist Lindsay Ell. Lindsay, best known for her insane guitar skills that put her up there with likes of Clapton,Lindsay showed the audience she was so much more than that with her beautiful vocals and amazing music from her newly released album The Project.
After Lindsay was Sony artist Russell Dickerson who brought a fresh, pop sound with his tracks Every Little Thing, Yours and Blue Tacoma. Russel is another artist to watch with his catchy, infectious music and will soon be all over the radio.
Last but far from least on the Spotlight Stage was Walker Hayes. Mixing hip hop with Country music, Walker had a lot of doubters who he soon converted into fans with just one song. Walker is quite the showman and stood in stage unaccompanied with just his guitar and loop pedal wowing the crowd with his songs Broke Up With Me , Shut Up Kenny and More.
All in All, this was one of the best C2C Festivals yet and stamps out all those stereotypes of country music being stetsons , boots and songs about trucks and beer.
C2C Festival is the place to be to discover new music and enjoy old music and a place to make you realise that you actually do like country music but never knew.
On the 8th February 2018, well known venue, Cambridge Junction, opened it's doors to ticket holders filled with excitement to see English rock band, The Amazons, take to the stage. With an entry fee of just £17 for fantastic performances and ample parking around the local leisure complex, the venue did not disappoint. Doors opened around an hour before the gig was planned to start. Within the venue there are three separate stages J1, J2, and J3 (Junctions 1, 2 and 3). But for this night, it was all about the acts on the J1 stage.
The Amazons are a Reading-based quartet that formed back in 2014. Since then the band had been shortlisted for the BBC's sound of 2017, nominated for Q’s Best Breakthrough Act and have even made an appearance on MTV’s Brand New 2017 list. The band have also caught the attention of many radio DJ's including Radio 1's Clara Amfo, Annie Mac, Huw Stephens, Nick Grimshaw and Greg James. The lads have even found a big fan in Zane Lowe. The awesome foursome (cheesy I know) are also produced by the Grammy nominated Catherine Marks (Wolf Alice and Foals). It looks like The Amazons are hotly tipped to make it big in 2018! The band's self-titled debut album is also out now!
Supporting and touring with The Amazons, are Brighton based group, Yonaka. The band themselves describe their music as "dark alternate pop with heavy riffs." Yonaka's band members are Theresa Jarvis – Vocals, George Edwards – Guitar, Alex Crosby – Bass/Keys and Robert Mason on Drums.
In a darkened room filled with screams and cheers and after a short musical intro, the four members of Yonaka entered the stage to start their set with a performance of their single "Ignorance", to which I and many individuals within the room were putting on our very best karaoke voices to sing along to. During the high energy set, featuring fast paced lighting and stunning vocals from the band's vocalist Theresa Jarvis, they continued on to perform other singles including "Gods and Lovers", "WWBY (Wouldn't Wanna Be Ya)", the very intense and somber "All In My Head". We were also introduced to a new song titled "F**king With The Boss" – a song to which caused a tiny mosh pit form in the centre of the room. The foursome kindly thanked their fans for "turning up" and continued on to promote the night's main act The Amazons and referring to them as "f**king amazing!"
As expected they finished their set with their most popular hit to date, "Bubblegum" to which the audience were asked to contribute with vocals along with the band on stage. "Bubblegum" is a song that will be playing on loop in your head for a while. I've often found myself humming it to myself after seeing Yonaka perform for the first time at Truck Festival in 2017. I really liked them back then and love them now! I am definitely looking forward to hearing more of their material in the future. If you get a chance to see them live, then please do. They are not an act that you would want to miss live. With lots of energy, great interaction with their audience and catchy pop/rock/alternative tracks, they are everything you'd expect from a band of their genre.
After the excitement from the support act's performance, the majority of room was ramped up and ready for the main act of the evening to take centre stage. Around 9pm teenage girls flocked to the front of the room clinging to the security barrier filled with excitement, fans repeatedly chanting "Am-A-Zons, Am-A-Zons!" and clearly a row of parents at the back of the room with their ecstatic teenagers in front them and their backs against the wall, that looked like they had been dragged to the venue against their will, with folded arms and yawns a plenty.
As the chanting for the main act continued (and got considerably louder), eventually after a short wait, the band began to take their place on the stage under dim red and white lighting to perform their first song of the night "Stay With Me", which had almost the entire room bathed in strobe lighting and fans singing along too. There were also head boppers and foot tappers as far as the eye could see. Not including the poor bored and tired parents at the back of the room. Oh dear indeed. The four piece continued on to perform their second and third tracks of the evening – "Ultraviolet" (which has featured heavily on BBC Radio 1) and "Raindrops" before then speaking to their fans in the audience for the first time. Did they announce the title of their next song? Or perhaps thank everyone for coming to their show? Nope. They simply opened with "Hello, we are The Sherlocks!" Just Brilliant!
For those of you that don't already know, both artists, The Amazons and The Sherlocks have recently been involved in some rather amusing shenanigans on social media. Recently, the line up for Y Not Festival had been announced, and both acts are confirmed to perform at this popular event. Yorkshire band, The Sherlocks were shown to appear on the fourth tier on the festival's poster. However, The Amazons are shown on the third tier of the promotional image. When The Sherlocks posted the image of the festival's line up on their social media feed the two acts had been swapped – rumour has it that the band photoshopped the original image to place themselves higher up in the third tier to replace The Amazons. Whether the two bands are actually just enjoying some friendly banter or they genuinely don't get on, I don't know. But it certainly has caught the attention of the press and has had many people both perplexed and entertained. After all, entertainment is their game!
During their show, the guys also pulled out a few surprises. Including an incredible percussion solo from drummer Joe Emmett. Honestly, I didn't want it to end. It was that impressive! He was applauded with a huge roar of appreciation from the entire room of people. Also, they included an awesome cover of T-Rex's 70's hit, "20th Century Boy". The last unexpected addition to their set was a clever move to introduce Theresa Jarvis, (vocalist in support act Yonaka) back onto the stage to perform "In My Mind" with the group. The joining of the two acts was a brilliant idea, and worked to their advantage, creating excellent musical balance.
Throughout the evening ticket holders were in constant admiration for the band on stage. There were moments when the room was filled with people jumping and head banging. There were also times where all I could see was slow hands, phones and even a lighter (not really very safe, but oh well) in the air during tamer segments of The Amazons' set. After performing their latest single "Black Magic", the guys left the stage and we were left once more in a darkened room. Like earlier in the evening, the chanting started again "Am-A-Zons! Am-A-Zons!". The foursome did return to the stage after around 3 minutes to finish their show with an encore performance of "Palace" and the hit that I, and most likely many others, were excited to see performed live. Their well known track "Junk Food Forever", which even encouraged a crowd surfer to come out of the centre of the room. During the their encore at the end of the night, one of the band members even stated "don't take this the wrong way, but I didn't think this was going to be this f**king amazing! Thank you".
As much as I like The Amazons' music when hearing it recorded, I much preferred hearing it live. Their music inspires a great atmosphere when they are physically seen performing. It will be interesting to see them perform on a bigger stage and in front of a bigger audience too.
Both The Amazons and Yonaka have a busy year ahead. The Amazons will also have a very busy festival season this year while appearing at events including Y Not Festival and Truck Festival in the summer months. Yonaka are also due to play at The Garage in Islington on 28th February 2018. Everyone, grab your tickets now!
On Monday evening (9th October 2017) the small town of Hitchin saw the anticipated return of the band, Coasts. A band that is well known to the local area as they also headlined the BBC Introducing stage at the town's own Rhythms of the World Festival a few years ago. The band were very well recieved by the locals at the time so it was awesome to have the band back once again. The band were hosted this time by the small, but awesome venue Club 85 with colourful neon decor within the all black loft sized room. The venue also has a small bar and merchendise stalls at either side of the stage. Something else to be excited about was the evening's warm up act, Misfires.
Misfires are a young, all male indie rock band from Swindon, UK. The band formed in February 2016 and began their musical journey playing for house parties which then led onto sell out gigs in local venues. In other media the four lads have often been compared to the likes of Catfish and the Bottlemen and The Libertines. Some have even called the band the lovechild of the two big names mentioned. Misfires are currently on a month long tour with this being their first time visiting the town of Hitchin in Hertfordshire. They have also recently supported The Sherlocks on their tour playing at three of their tour venues which they admitted they had a great time performing to the larger crowds. In the short time on stage at Club 85 the band members who were all dressed in black casual clothing totally nailed it! The four guys performed their singles '22', most recent release 'Do You Wanna?' and 'Indie Kid' which the band themselves said is likely to be their next single. During the performance of their song '22' there even appeared to be a tiny mosh pit of adolescent fans jumping around. Throughout their set the band were often interacting with a group of teens at the front of the room, just laughing and joking which was great to see. They were definitly well liked by ticketholders.
I also briefly managed to chat to the four lads just after their performance to congratulate them on a great set, along with our phototographer. These lads are so down to earth and fun. They even mentioned that for them its not all about the stereotypical "rock and roll" lifestyle when it comes to being part of a band. They had also expressed how much they enjoyed being on tour and stated that they've performed alongside other bands who don't necessarily prioritise interaction with their fans which is why they expressed how important it is to them to remember that it's always good to make time for fans of their music. I would highly recommend that you see Misfires live if you should get the chance. I would be very surprised if they didn't make it big in the music industry.
After a short break to make some changes to the stage set up the main band of the night walked in and introduced themselves. Of course this band was Coasts.
Indie pop band Coasts oringinally formed in Bristol back in 2011 and have had great success ever since. Over the years they have recieved a lot of airplay especially via BBC Radio 1 with the support from well known DJs Greg James, Huw Stevens and Fearne Cotton. Due to the support from Radio 1, the band also performed for the radio stations 'Big Weekend' festival like event in Glasgow back in 2014. They also played at Reading and Leeds festival in the following year. The guy's self titled album was released back in January 2016.
During their time on stage at the Hitchin venue we saw them perform singles "Rush Of Blood", "Modern Love" as well as other album tracks including "Paradise" and "White Noise". The room may not have been large but an electric atmosphere filled the room and flooded out of the doors. Almost everyone was up on their feet dancing to the satisfying sounds. The five piece group also sampled some music from their new album that they are working on. "Heart Starts Beating" is just one of the tracks from their upcoming release and if it all sounds like that we should expect more great things from them. After an energetic set leaving what looked like an exhausted drummer as he leant back onto the screens at the back of the stage we were treated to a great performance to see the evening out. The band played their biggest hit to date "Oceans" which was great to leave us all reeling with excitement from a great evening. The performers asked people to meet them afterwards at the merch stall for a chat and some photo opportunities. It was great to see two acts this evening that were very happy to chat to fans of their music.
Keep your eyes peeled for more from both of these brilliant artists! Coasts have announced that they will be back on tour in April 2018 which will be in a London venue.
This festival had been on my must do list for a number of years, so I was genuinely thrilled to finally make it this year (albeit for one day only).
It would appear that the weather god Zeus is at one with Carfest, as I approach the car park in glorious sunshine. From here it’s a 25 minute walk to the main entrance where I notice along the way other day visitors with all manner of camping gear, ice boxes, trolleys etc determined to make a day of it. I’m greeted by a sea of people waiting patiently to enter the site as I approach the wristband exchange. With the sun blazing down, amongst what appears to be a thousand people; a few appear to be struggling (including myself) and begin to feel overwhelmed with the sun and heat. Some requiring medical attention due to fainting. Long delays entering festivals appear to be a common theme this year due, it would seem, to the increased security checks. All together it took some 2 and half hours from joining the queue for the car park and getting through security. Not great, but not as bad as some other festivals this year.
It’s a little before 2pm and I’m on-site seeking some shade to re-fresh. On my way I pass several tempting food stalls and I’m immediately taken by all the happy, smiley family faces. There appears to be an endless array of activities and events for all ages, and had I more time I would have loved to have explored more. I got the sense you could never find yourself kicking your heels here. Sometimes however it’s nice to just find a chilled spot in the shade, relax and watch the world go by.
It wasn’t too long before I heard some familiar voices over the speakers in the main arena bellowing out “bogies” which could mean only one thing, Its Dick and Dom!! Like a bottle of fizzy pop they explode on the stage and barely sit still for a minute as they create all sorts of mayhem from jumping into the pit with super soakers dousing the audience to unleashing giant inflatable balls onto the crowd in a race to see which one came back quickest. The humour had something for everyone including a few choice innuendos for the adults.
It’s hard to think of a better way to get the crowd galvanised and open the main music stage for the day. Despite being in this business 20 plus years, I have never had the opportunity to catch Deacon Blue live. They are I have to say consummate professionals as they deliver all the hits, and they have all obviously had a glug from the well of youth as they have barely aged! Highlights include “ Fergus Sings the Blues” and set closer, the magnificent “Dignity” which at one point had the person next to me in tears. Every word sung back to the band who were clearly moved by the outpouring of love for them.
As the last note lingered, Chris Evans came bounding onto stage. At this point I should point out that there are two identical stages next to one another which keep things jogging along nicely, no need here to endure 30 minute changeovers on stage, which means that it was only a few minutes between Deacon Blue and Dodgy. Even in this short space of time, Chris Evans was there on stage with all manner of entertaining routines and happily diving into the pit to meet fans and pose for photos.
I can’t think of a more appropriate song to open with than “Staying Out for the Summer” as Dodgy launch into their set. With feel good vibes on overload, it was easy to get blissed out to their infectious guitar pop. Their sound is a bit beefier live thanks to the addition of a fourth member to the line-up. Although some may not necessarily know their name, everyone knows the tunes especially the mighty “Good Enough” which was the cherry on the cake.
After the briefest of interludes by Chris Evans who keeps the energy flowing, it’s onto Jess Glynne who along with her band looked spectacular, aside from one or two of her biggest hits including Clean Bandit’s “Rather Be” the whole thing feels a bit soulless and perhaps a little too slick. I’m reminded of RnB shows with overwrought singing and some padding with long introductions. I must however be in the minority as the audience are enthralled.
Another quick changeover and its Paul Heaton and Jacqui Abbott whom I am very much looking forward to. Opening with the whimsical, country tinged “Prettiest Eyes” it’s the perfect antidote to what preceded; and provides the perfect soundtrack to the setting sun. A few Housemartin’s tracks get an airing (sadly not “Build”) and a few from previous incarnation Beautiful South in the shape of “Rotterdam” and “Don’t Marry Me”. Much like “beans on toast”, and “curry with a beer”, this pairing work so well together even more so on their newer material.
The mum’s and dad’s must now relinquish their spot at the front for their offspring as Olly Murs takes to the stage, who is breath-taking and a real tour de force as an entertainer. I’ll admit I am not familiar with his music, but that doesn’t seem to matter as this guy is a showman in every sense of the word. Again as with Jess Glynne earlier there are moments of padding out of the show, but he is back on point with an incredible 10 minute melody of cover versions including a very credible “Superstition” by Stevie Wonder.
My day at Carfest is drawing to a close, but that’s not before tonight’s headliners Kaiser Chiefs make their presence felt. They are the perfect choice uniting both young and not so young with their hook laden tunes. It is genuinely surprising to me how many good songs they have in their back catalogue, songs I have long since forgotten about. Singer Ricky Wilson leads the charge and has the crowd eating out of his hand. The band is tight which allows Ricky to go….well full Ricky on us! Highlights include a ferocious “Angry Mob” and the mass sing-a-long “Ruby”. I think the band in some quarters are unfairly criticised, and are deserving of a second look by those who perhaps dismissed them too early in their career. A joyous “I Predict a Riot” signals the night is over.
Despite some initial problems getting onto the site, I must doff my cap to the organisers and artists; who let’s not forget are not getting paid for this. The entertainment was non-stop and it’s a genius idea having two mainstages adjacent to one another enabling non-stop music and entertainment.
My only regret is not having enough time to get the most out of it all from the car displays/racing, cooking demonstrations, carnivals, and much much more. I have been to many family festivals over the years, and this is by far the very best. For those of you old enough to remember Tiswas or Going Live, It’s basically the Saturday morning TV of the festival world, and I will definitely tune in again.
Bestival. The summer finale. The big kahuna. Bestival has been my homecoming for the last twelve years and this is the first time I don’t have to catch a ferry to get there. No lies – it feels weird. There was something sort of magical about catching the ferry with everyone, the anticipation, the journey, knowing that you were really going on an adventure. The short drive from the motorways to The Lulworth Castle estate just isn’t the same. On the other hand, the hefty hiked Red Funnel ferry prices I certainly will not miss, nor the uncertainty of whether your entire party will actually make it onto said ferry (my brother missed it once due to an accidental detour round the M25 at rush hour. He didn’t make it onto the island for another twelve hours…).
Anyway, we’re here – the sun is trying to shine and we’ve just driven through a very castle-y looking gateway to get into the carparks. Now, first thing to mention – the carparks are at first thought, extremely pleasingly close to camping. Trussed up with all our camping gubbins we head through the bag and ticket check which isn’t too busy at this time in the morning, though the searches aren’t super through (maybe I just have an innocent face?) there are police and sniffer dogs quite clearly overseeing operations. In fact, we watch some scallywags being unceremoniously marched offsite whilst we queue.
Grabbing our wristbands, we head into the campsites in search of high ground in Rainbow Rave (we’ve checked the weather… no-one wants to be downhill…). After a quick set-up and drinks we head into the arena to see what’s what. To my utter dismay there seems to be only one route through the campsites into the main arena and it’s a valley, with a great stonking near vertical hill either side. My foreboding barometer is going wild… I know what this will look like in the rain.
As we traverse the site we pass Slow Motion which doesn’t look entirely set up yet, there are men still hammering things… a very sad looking tiny cousin of The Wishing Tree, and then we are into the main arena, greeted by The Lovebot and the two giant astronauts which flanked last years’ Space Port. It’s very weird seeing all this out of situ on the IOW. Taking in the site it’s considerably smaller and a lot more cramped in than Robin Hill, it’s also pretty damn hilly, with The Temple and Bollywood up at the top, presiding over everything.
We decide to tramp our way to The Castle in search of The Feast Collective for some late lunch and find it tucked away in a small field behind, alongside the kids and crafty area. It’s cute, but it’s pretty remote/removed from everything else. The Feast Collective itself is one of my favourite additions to Bestival’s lineup over the last few years, I mean the food is great all over site, but this is always something special. Today we hit up The Rac Shack for Poutine, which is absolutely epic (who doesn’t love chips, cheese and gravy?!) but there’s just so much on offer it was pretty hard to choose. The music is loud, the fairy lights and foliage give it atmosphere and everyone is chowing down on a world-tour of amazing food. You can wrap your chops around crispy duck Bao, buttermilk fried chicken, Indonesian street food, vegan maki rolls… we’re spoilt for choice. Another notable addition – plastic Bestival beer cups, much less drunk hazard and probably the cheapest souvenir on site.
After food we take a quick tour around, the main stage area isn’t open yet (and looks like it’s still being built) we take a quick peek over the site from the top of Oberon’s Observatory and then make a pit-stop at the Old Mout cider garden for a boogie. Our friend manages to split the ass of his jumpsuit during a dance-off, and proceeds to can-can with his pants hanging out. We do some karaoke, have a go at their tiny zip-line and join in a very ill-advised and danger-laden conga around their small stage. It’s a nice little area complete with swing seats and the most useless periscopes ever, but we’re in search of different feels so it’s onto a firm favourite of mine – Caravanseri. It’s a different layout, a little bigger, but with two distinct sections – the tent/bar area and the stage area. As the rain begins to pour we dart into the Carousel tent for a dance and shelter, here it most feels like we’ve returned. The twinkling lights, the DJ’s, the laughter coming from each little caravan pocket of seating, the glitz and glam of this otherworldly little circus. It’s hard to describe, to put into words… it feels like I’m made entirely of fibre-optics and being at Bestival again is lighting up all the pathways. There’s something about being surrounded by other people setting themselves free, embracing the moment as if nothing else exists. I mean, that’s the point of all this, surely.
Drunk on freedom and well… vodka, we set off for The Box (for Besti returners… the artist previously known as The Big Top) to catch a bit of ‘Oh My God! It’s The Church’ who are bonkers and brilliant. As instructed, we sinners crouch down low as the Reverand yells “The church has one last thing to tell you… I have to praise you!” before jumping about like loons on the drop of Fatboy Slim’s classic track.
We take a hike up the hill to check out The Temple – a beautiful neon beacon in the night, it’s all lasers and light with bass thumping heavy in our chests. After a brief (excuse the pun) encounter with a very friendly, ginger-bearded, shiny-hot-pants wearing Santa Claus and some pretty crap Kevin-and-Perry style raving, we flop down on beanbags in the shisha tent next door. It’s cosy and calm but all the drinks taste of chai no matter what you’ve ordered and the staff seem to be a little bit squiffy themselves.
Friday
…and so it pours. There was never going to be any escaping it this weekend, and luckily we packed accordingly. After fetching our friend who spent last night in her car just outside of Bestival due to arriving after the midnight curfew, we wait out the stormy morning weather in the tent, playing some very revealing drinking games and then head into the arena during a relatively dry break. It’s clear the valley between the campsites is already a problem, we stick to the sides but watch a number of people go down hard as it’s really slippy. One other thing we’ve noted so far is that there seem to be really few toilets around in the campsite, and they don’t seem to be being cleaned or emptied as regularly. A shame considering decent loos were something Bestival has been known for over the years.
We catch a little of Sinkane’s set in The Box, it’s a pretty decent crowd and he has an incredible voice, the jazzy, disco sound is just right to blow away the blues of a wet afternoon. Over at Old Mout we witness the greatest Karaoke ever – a guy who knows every single word of Men At Work’s ‘Land Down Under’ wins himself a tambourine, and the admiration of all who heard, and then the crew of Coppafeel proposition us for photos posed with a giant wearable boob, and tell our friend how to check his pecs.
Over on the main stage Dub Pistols are bashing out the electric feels and looking way too cool to be there, but next up we have Bestival legends (and my personal heroes) The Cuban Brothers. Throwing shapes on stage we have Archerio and Kenny (the bastard) alongside Juan Erection who busts big flares and flips, whilst Miguel tell us all about his #sexyfavours. I’m sure its incomprehensibly weird to anyone new to the Cubans but you learn to just roll with it, promise. After a quick costume change into their signature fringed lycra, Miguel apologises for Arch “…it’s a big guy in a gold suit with a tiny penis… it’s like a shittily wrapped christmas present…we’re giving to you” before Arch drops freezes and Kengo performs insane head-spins. Despite the expected de-pantsing of Miguel and the frighteningly small Swan pouch pants, the Cubans are never not entertaining. You know, in a nightmare-inducing way.
Soul II Soul bust late 80’s hit ‘Back To Life’ and we are instantly transported into nostalgia, they are every bit as vocally strong as they ever were and it’s clear that despite the iffy weather, the crowd are absolutely loving every second of it. Over at the Bramble FM Roadshow (a tiny caravan stage behind the castle) a comedian is making terrible historical jokes about Cholera, so we catch some of Ray BLK’s incredible vocals on the main stage, ‘Doing Me’ and ‘Chill Out’ are just awesome to hear live, it’s beautiful and serene. Over in The Box, Romare is all big visuals and mixed up beats. From the same label as Mr. Scruff (also playing this weekend) it’s a stay-n-sway chilled set, and everyone in the tent is moving.
Closing the main stage tonight are English indie-rockers The XX, with an incredible, forceful yet intimate set replete with hits old and new. Check out our full review HERE!
After the high of The XX we’re not ready to finish the night there, so head into Caravanserai to catch some acts at Cirque Bijou, and we are beyond impressed by the extremely talented @_thathoopgirl who even managed to spin her LED lit hoops ON HER TONGUE. We also loved the slackline twins and Slightly Dubious Science, despite the bubble failures. Heading into The Ambient Forest for a roam we quickly deduce that this is a considerably smaller space than Robin Hill, with about as many people trying to get through it. There are some trails with serious drop-offs, not a single security guard in sight (other than at the entrance) and nowhere near enough lights on paths to be safe. It’s a long chalk from the beautiful and eerie forest we knew at the previous site. I did love the cosy fire-tent at the top, and there were some hilarious attempts at umbrella limbo in The Frozen Mole, but to be honest it didn’t really work overall. It felt really separate to everything else, where the previous Ambient Forest was full of pathways to other areas and an adventure in finding secret happenings.
Over in Club Dada, we catch the New York Brass Band (who are actually from North Yorkshire… go figure) in an extremely sweaty but friendly tent, under the soft light from strings of old lampshades. They play amazing big band covers like Daft Punk’s ‘Get Lucky’ and Eurythmics’ ‘Sweet Dreams’, with the entire crowd singing along. We join in for Bob Marley cover ‘One Love’ and Marvin Gaye’s ‘Sexual Healing’ but head for the sides when they drop into the rowdy LMFAO ‘Party Rock Anthem’. One of my favourite things about Bestival is all of these individual pockets of joy all over the site.
Saturday
Well things overnight have improved a little – it’s actually verging on sunny so we’re donning our best sparkly outfits today. After a cracking breakfast of avo-on-toast from The Breakfast Club and a couple of cans of G&T (I don’t care how hipster that sounds, it was glorious) we’re heading into the arena. Witness The Fitness is giving yoga-bods their daily dose of zen, there’s glitter in the air and the true colours of Bestival are showing in everyone’s fabulous outfits.
Over on the main stage, UK rapper Nadia Rose is cute but fierce in her pink shellsuit jacket spitting ‘Skwod’ to a bouncing crowd but we’re charging The Box for Disney Rascal. Dressed in an eclectic mix of costumes from Disney movies the band play ska/pop punk covers of all our favourites. There’s ‘The Bare Necessities’ and ‘Kiss The Girl’ but the mashups are the real stroke of genius; Queen’s ‘I Want To Break Free’ flows seamlessly into ‘Hakuna Matata’ whilst Bob Marley’s ‘Everything’s Gonna Be Alright’ becomes Toy Story’s ‘You’ve Got A Friend In Me’. As if that all isn’t Disney enough for you, the show is halted so that guitarist Peter Pan (aka Chris) can propose on stage to his girlfriend, who is dressed as Absolom from Alice in Wonderland. It’s surreal and adorable. We loved you Disney Rascal, please return!
Just as we decided to head out in search of food, the heavens opened with the biggest downpour of the weekend yet, and the realisation that we’ve all opted for trainers instead of wellies, sets in. Arse.
Luckily for us a second exceptional cover band is up next – The Smiths Ltd. with a very realistic (though definitely less politically sassy) Morrissey frontman. The entire tent is singing at the top of their voices for ‘There Is A Light That Never Goes Out’ and honestly, it’s a pretty damn good replacement for those of us that never got to see The Smiths themselves. Bonus points for not having to listen to Morrissey whine about the world mid-set too. Oh and I have to give special mention to the dude in the crowd wearing the ‘Rizla Fedora’ – you sir are a king among men. For everyone who didn’t encounter this top cat, he had glued packets of rizla and filters to his hat in a help-yourself buffet of cigarette rolling genius.
With a small break in the rain, we traipse through the pooled mud and grab ourselves some stomach-warming Katsu curry and then watch a strange pop-up mariachi band on the stage underneath the Astronaut rainbow, who play covers of Five’s ‘Keep On Moving’ and The Spice Girls’ ‘Spice Up Your Life’. It’s bonkers and brilliant. At this point it’s becoming clear we’ll have to trek back to the tents for wellies due to the increasing danger the arena is posing underfoot, and as expected – the valley between campsites has become deadly slick and there aren’t really any other options for getting up or down it safely. It also takes an incredibly long-time to get back to the tents which is a shame because it means missing even more. Here’s hoping next year a second entrance to the main arena can be organised, cause death valley is not my idea of fun festival times.
After some fortifying beers and more appropriate footwear, we are back in the arena for Rag ‘N’ Bone Man. Towering over everyone else on stage, Rory Graham (aka Rag ‘N’ Bone Man) strides on with confidence, wearing a red and black varsity jacket. Starting off with ‘Wolves’ and letting us know “I feel very lucky to stand in front of you beautiful people and play today”, the crowd is already absolutely taken with his flawless vocals. Bowling through old and new hits, Graham jokes “That was a song about people with big heads and big egos… I dedicate it to Donald Trump… the orange prick” to much laughter and clapping across the arena. ‘Human’ and ‘Hell Yeah’ just top off a stunning set, marred only slightly by the crappy weather.
With the cooler temperatures and intermittent downpours, The Feast Collective is ram-jammed with bodies but we manage to commandeer some table space for dinner (I chose a Prawn/Chips/Samphire box of joy from Shrimpy’s – amazing) but no sooner than we had finished, security guards were clearing the tent due to a ‘health and safety issue’. Talking to the Bestival team we discovered it was a national grid issue – it seems the weather is a pain in the arse for everyone this weekend!
Over at The Port (which is considerably smaller and a bit sad compared to it’s original conception) Fatman Scoop and Jaguar Skills are delivering beats and laughs, but we’re back at the Castle stage for Dizzee Rascal. The much needed injection of energy coming from Dizzee helps us forget the dire weather for a while and we get down to ‘Dance Wiv Me’ like it’s 2008. Dizzee shouts out to the dude dressed as Batman and busts out the one we’ve been waiting for: ‘Bonkers’, and it is just that. The arena erupts in a muddy, bouncy, frantic mess. Which is precisely the kind of release everyone seems to have needed today. Yelling into his custom yellow mic “Put two fingers in the air and shout peace!” Dizzee notes that there’s a “…lot of bollocks going on the world right now but we all came together.” to a huge roar from the crowd who’ve battled death valley to be there.
Unfortunately due to rain and the state of the arena, there’s no safe way for the night parade to, well, parade. It’s a sort of sad little gathering in front of the castle, until the Portsmouth Batala Band get on the case with their rolling drums. It’s a shame the parade couldn’t have marched around the castle walls, away from the mud – it would have looked amazing.
Back on the main stage we are ready for A Tribe Called Quest’s final ever show. Following the death of bandmate Phife Dawg last year, this show is above all else a tribute act and a way to say goodbye. Despite a dodgy start the show goes on to be one of Bestival 2017’s highlights, and to be there, to be part of the history; amazing. Read our full ATCQ review HERE!
Embarking on the grueling walk back to the campsite we see an unfortunate person with what looks like a dislocated knee being attended to, and I can’t help thinking that the weather gods really have decided to smite this new site. On the other hand, we also watch a girl ride an inflatable unicorn down death valley with wild abandon, so it’s obviously not too awful for some!
Sunday
After a hairy night of holding onto the sides of the tent in fear of ending up in Kansas, we pop our heads out to see that the campsite is looking decidedly emptier. It seems a lot of people have packed up this morning/been forced to evacuate wind-trashed abodes. Robin Hill campsites were blessed with the shelter of the valley and cliffside but here we are open to the elements and it shows, there are broken tent-poles and piles of scrapped polyester strewn around the place. Another bugbear for this new site/year is the toilets don’t seem to have been cleaned or emptied at all this morning, they are very full, stinky and gross – not something we’re used to experiencing at Bestival to be honest.
After hiding out for most of the morning, trying to muster up the courage to brave the walk in, we top up with all the booze we don’t want to carry home tomorrow and head to The Box for a little warmth with Weymouth Ukeleleans who are dressed in Hawaiian shirts and playing T Rex’s ‘We Love To Boogie’. It’s a bit of a culture shock to be honest.
At The Port we catch a gospel choir singing Bon Jovi’s ‘Livin’ On A Prayer’ to a meagre and beleaguered crowd (well, except for that stag party down the front who are clearly already half cut and loving it), and over near The Feast Collective we get in on a small bluegrass band playing washboards and roping in audience members for percussion.
On the main stage L.A. Salami is part spoken word, part soft lounge jazz. He has a fantastic voice and it’s a shame the crowd is so sparse, the arena is a picture of devastation with churned up channels of mud knee deep. The area near the corner toilets looks like the bog of eternal stench, and if you get too close, smells like it too.
Too many T’s are drafted in to fill another spot and joke about the “The great British summertime” as the wind picks up again. In a perfect twist of fate, three songs in to their set after declaring “We’re gonna do our debut album, it comes out on Friday… front to back, in it’s entirety” the show is halted due to rising winds and some dangerously flappy stage-side screens. It’s 1.20pm and the winds are driving in hard. We get word that the Ambient Forest has also been closed for safety, and within half an hour the call goes up for the arena to be evacuated entirely. By 5pm the screens have been strapped down, most of the site has been bathed in hay and we’re back on track, but by now it seems the damage has mostly already been done.
The information about the arena being back open went out via the app and Bestival social media… only one problem… how many people still have charged phones, data, or signal left on Sunday afternoon of a festival? We also heard reports of some security staff telling people that the whole thing was closed and the arena wouldn’t be re-opening, prompting many to give up and leave early, I suppose with the high risk of drink driving – had they spent the morning in full festival mode.
On the main stage a po-faced Loyle Carner calls out “I’m really sorry I can’t play this show… but I can do you one poem if you want?” before playing to the meagre 20 or so people who actually made it back out. Luckily people begin to filter back in and a couple of acro-yoga performers get entertaining in the mud, even roping in a security guard for a go. They’ve gathered a pretty massive crowd and are epitomising the true spirit of Bestival – no fucks given. It’s awesome.
Circa Waves up next and they’re just what the doctor ordered. The wind has died down and the sound is cracking, calling out “…this the last song of our festival season… thank you for coming to see us…” they are lifting the spirits of the growing crowd, now a sea of mud, glitter and laughter. There are also rumours that Simon from The Inbetweeners is running around in the mud naked, as they’re filming for ‘The Festival’ here this weekend. I can only imagine the terrible, perfect portrayal of British festivals that will be…
Up next with a last minute fill in for the absent Justice, are masters of the electro – Soulwax, and OH MY WORD their set is infuckingcredible. 3 giant metallic boxes house 3 drummers, playing all manner of weird and wonderful toms and cymbals, the beats are so strong it feels like the ground is shaking beneath us. The whole crew are decked out in bright white lab coats which are pulsing bright under the flashing strobes, and a spinning silver cyborg head on a mic stand at the front flashes like a disco ball.
Pushing and prodding at giant NASA-esque synths, Soulwax seem as lost in the moment as we are, but there’s time enough for them to joke “…to be here, on this stage… because Justice didn’t turn up… we turned up in the rain with our studio…” before dropping ‘NY Excuse’. It sounds like a wry dig at Justice and we wonder if they know something we don’t about the bands’ absence this weekend. As a giant version of the android head rises from the back of the stage and spins in tandem with the small one, the beats continue to ramp up to a point where every single body in the now fuller arena is going all out mental, this is hands down the best show of the entire weekend and I can’t believe so many people are missing it. It’s a travesty!
Yes it’s cold tonight, but the wind has died down and the rain has thankfully abated in time for the almost-didn’t-happen finale of the Pet Shop Boys. With an amazing laser-filled extravaganza absolutely saves the day with a proper, justified ending to the festival, instead of the wash-out it certainly could have been. Check out our full Pet Shop Boys review HERE!
Turning around to watch the fireworks show go off from the top of Lulworth Castle, we hug each other and say our goodbyes to the summer (hah), it’s a perfect moment only spoiled by the knowledge that we have to make the trip back to the tents once more. We take one last detour to Anna-Mae’s Mac N Cheese, passing The Temple and The Port which are both still going heavy with the remainder of the Bestival 2017 survivors. The campsite is a tent graveyard, broken poles like the bones of destroyed carcasses stick into the sky and we all duck as a loose pop-up whirls past our heads, escaping into the night sky. The toilets still haven’t been cleaned and seem to be taking on a presence of their own, a la Foul Ole Ron. If you know, you know.
However bad it is, I know that moving this festival was a crazy feat, there are teething problems here for sure, but the feel… the spirit of Bestival is still alive. Tomorrow I will rejoice in clean toilets, sinks with running water and a bed that I didn’t have to inflate, but the Bestival blues will hit just as hard after that, as any other year. I love you, you weird wonderful place.
The tragic news of the death of Louella Michie doesn’t hit the papers until Monday, and leaves extreme sadness – she was just someone who was there, like us, for freedom and fun. Bestival had all the measures in place that they should have, but it’s hard to deny that UK drug culture has been on the rise again in the last few years. It’s a tragic and sobering end to what was a rocky, but great first year for Bestival in it’s new home.
It’s day three of Bestival and though the rain hasn’t hit has hard today, the wind has managed to savage the site to the point of an arena-wide closure. However in true rockstar form the stage screens have been lowered, strapped in and everything is back up and running in under an hour, and we’re on track for the grand finale headliner: Pet Shop Boys.
The only problem is, since the arena was closed for that time, a lot of people seem to have taken it as red that the festival has been stopped entirely. As more than a few Facebook posts to the Bestival page suggest – some security staff seem to have actually been telling punters this was the case, and it seems that an awful lot of people have packed up and gone home. The announcement that the arena would re-open was communicated through Bestival social media and the app, but I can’t help but feel that wasn’t really going to work – how many people still have their phones charged, or indeed any signal (the site is notoriously pants for those on EE) by Sunday evening of a four day festival? At any rate it’s more than clear that the crowd that has made it’s way back in through the mud, is considerably thinner on the ground than the previous two nights.
Nevertheless, the night draws in and the stage is set with two giant white discs side by side, which slowly rotate (think, secret bookcase doorway in a spy movie) to reveal Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe in their tinfoil helmets, to ‘Inner Sanctum’ from last years’ release ‘Super’. No really, there’s a very aliens-might-steal-my-thoughts look about them. Given the earlier high winds, we might have expected the sound to suffer a little bit tonight but it’s crystal clear and exactly as electro-dance-party as we’d hoped. Classic hit ‘Opportunities’ comes complete with visuals of money and a heck-tonne of lasers. In the midst of the crowd a very happy man atop his friends shoulders, is making it rain with a giant bag of neon glowsticks, if anyone knows him – please thank Glowstick-King for his kindness!
“A little mid eighties electro for you Bestival!” yells Tennant, whilst the backdrop displays a bright fuchsia ring reminiscent of the kind Samara climbs out of before she kills you for watching that videotape. Giant disco ball visuals replace that for ‘New York City Boy’ and Tennant does a quick change into a sparkly holographic silver jacket for ‘Inside A Dream’, the network of lasers across the sky is incredible, turning through purples and oranges in a panel that looks like an electric sunset. ‘West End Girls’ has the arena singing along and ‘Home and Dry’ brings a softer side to the rave.
With a giant moon visual rising at the back of the stage, and the actual moon hanging in the night sky off to the side, Pet Shop Boys really push the colour theme with rainbow lighting blanketed on everything – including Lulworth Castle behind us. Yelling “Bestival, thank you! You’re fabulous!” the guys are off into ‘It’s a Sin’ and “Heres’s an old song…” hit ‘Go West’ (which is actually one of my least liked from PSB, but hey, if they didn’t play it… anarchy) as giant rainbow spheres are dropped from somewhere unknown in the ceiling of the stage.
Finishing up with ‘Domino Dancing’ and their cover of Elvis song ‘Always On My Mind’ before we turn around for the firework show. Pet Shop Boys have delivered a cracking finale to what could have been a sad early ending for this festival, it was the much needed final boost of energy and positivity we needed.
It’s definitely weird not watching the fireworks, and the neon night parade from the side at Robin Hill, but I have to say – it’s pretty impressive to see Lulworth Castle bathed in rainbows and light. As always, we as a group are standing in a cuddle (because we’re cute… but also it’s absolutely Baltic out here) saying goodbye to another great, but eventful year at Bestival.
After a night and days’ worth of on-off downpours the Bestival arena is a veritable swamp, we’ve sacrificed our trainers to the weather gods and spent a lot of time trying to avoid falling on our faces, but it’s off to the main arena we go for A Tribe Called Quest’s last ever show.
Following founding member Phife Dawg’s sudden death due to complications with diabetes in March 2016, the band decided to wind down their shows, with the finale right here at Bestival 2017. There’s a huge turnout for the hip hop legends despite the adverse weather conditions. Taking to the stage later than scheduled, Tribe kick things off with ‘The Space Program’ from last year’s release, but truthfully – it’s a bit of a mess. There’s something really fractured about the sound, the bass is muddy (excuse the pun) and it’s hard to distinguish all the different vocal layers vying for attention. To be honest, it sounds rushed and there are a lot of puzzled looks being exchanged in the crowd.
However, bouncing about under the Tron-esque visuals, the remaining members DJ Ali Shaheed Muhammad, MC’s Q-Tip and Jarobi White, seem to pick it back up and come together for an impressive run through of their career hits including ‘Excursions’ and ‘Find A Way’ with a little help from special guest rapper, Consequence. White is seen sporting a tributary jacket with a picture of Phife painted on the back and throughout the show the band and visuals make reference to their departed friend and bandmate. Old recordings of Phife’s parts were played over the top of the tracks, rather than covered by another member of the group – which seems fitting, he was part of their last show in a way.
‘Sucka Nigga’ and ‘Buggin Out’ see the crowd doing their best impressions of dancing (NB: as close to hip hop as a drunk, predominantly white middle-class crowd dressed head to toe in sequins and neon is going to get) and Tribe are now hitting the highs we hoped for. The smooth delivery of intricate lyrics is what ATCQ are known for, and it’s finally turning into an unforgettable show. Calling out for some crowd participation “Say we love A Tribe Called Quest’s Music… say do that shit, do that shit good…” the band have the entire Bestival arena on side, heading into the finale with their most well-known track ‘Can I Kick It’ and the almost sombre ‘We The People’. The refrain repeated across the site by both the band and the fans will go down as a moment to remember in music history, even if the show as a whole hasn’t been the high-energy performance we expected. Saying their final goodbyes to the crowd and their time performing together, Tribe are clearly emotional about this ending, Phife’s illuminated empty mic is the last thing we see – it’s a powerful goodbye to an important part of hip-hop history and a fond farewell to A Tribe Called Quest.
