The Great Escape - Becky Barns
Before I went to The Great Escape I was warned by a few people that there's a lot of running around involved if you actually want to see anything and this proved itself on a Friday night that was disappointing on the band front! However, through a little bit of pre-planning and recommendations from friends, I managed to see some really fantastic performances that are definitely worth a mention.
Thursday was my most organised night as I arrived in Brighton bright eyed and bushy tailed clutching my freshly printed and highlighted timetable in my hand. Not in time for daytime gigs, my night kicked off in Horatio's at the end of Brighton's iconic pier. With favourable drink prices, Horatio's has a 'cosy social club ' feel.
First band on were Big Deal, a super-cute Anglo girl/American boy duo who in recent months have been tipped as the ones to watch by the likes of NME. Both singers gave an effortlessly cool, laid-back performance with quaint catchy lyrics. Their successfully simple and honest performance couldn't be anymore stripped back as the only instruments they use are two guitars. My favourite track was 'Talk.' And the good news is that they will be playing on the Saturday of this year's Lounge on The Farm. Don't miss them!
Thankfully Audio isn't far from the pier, so I managed to catch the last song from post-punk band The Soft Moon. Clearly at the climax of their performance their music was loud, thumping and consumed my body from the centre! Coming in at the last song was the optimum way of getting to the front of the next band and so I had a good view of Suuns, who were next!
Suuns gave an epic performance built upon a rich texture of layered and looped sounds. It was evident that each musician was focused and passionate about their music but where the music was tight, they could have been slightly more engaged with the audience at times. However with riffs that were reminiscient to the like of Muse in their heyday and Radiohead, that had been smashed up and pieced back together in a fresh and experimental context, I wasn't really put off. My pick of their tracks is 'Armed for Peace.'
Then it was back to Horatio's for Cults. I wasn't disappointed. The New York five-piece had four members with the same hairstyle and enough musical gems up their sleeve to make them equally recognisable in the near-future I expect! Although their performance wasn't quite as tight as it could have been, mostly due to a few tech difficulties, the girl singer's stunning vocals and charming dance moves were the highlight of the show. Also, anyone who injects a fair share of Korg and xylophone well into their music gets a tick in my book. Be sure to check out 'Go Outside' and 'You Know What I Mean.'
Sadly the queues for Gang Gang Dance and Warpaint looked like they reached as far as Hove so we popped down to the Green Door Store for the rest of the night. Nothing much to mention there except great venue! It's right by the station and they have a Facebook page if you're interested!
Again on Friday I didn't do anything in the daytime because I was at a Journalism taster day at Brighton Journalist Works. I've already mentioned the lack of music on Friday night and this was due to peaking too early with ciders on the beach in the early evening. Compared to Thursday, Friday was even more rammed with people and their were queues everywhere. I had a great night, just not at the Festival.
So, it was important that on Saturday I would get my money's worth. I should have definitely done stuff during the day but turns out, I'm really good at sleeping.
Onto the eve: sadly there was a big queue for Horatio's, so no chance of checking out Braids. Thankfully Coalition offered an answer to this running around and queuing business; put two bands you would like to see on in a row!
New band Foster the People played before White Denim. Their lively performance immediately engaged the audience and got them moving (no one seems to dance as much these days.) The lead singer had a really unique voice and I was a big fan of their track 'Houdini'. Their album is out next week.
I was lucky enough the be right at the front for White Denim which meant I could see how much they enjoyed performing and really revel in their talented and extended live instrumentals. Check out the track 'Shake Shake Shake' on Spotify.
Again, queues wiped out the chance of seeing The Naked and Famous (biggest disappointment but they are doing an extensive tour at the mo) and The Vaccines but hey ho they'll be at Lounge on The Farm! Instead it was the much smaller venue of The Prince Albert pub to watch King Charles, a small but interesting man in a small but interesting room.
King Charles' stage presence was second to none. He connected with the audience and was not put off by an annoying group of drunkards or a few problems with sound. There was something very theatrical about the gig with balancing on chairs and his nest of hair which is like another instrument in the band, we'll call it visual hair! I loved his range of songs, his witty and engaging lyrics and his voice layered with the voices of his backing vocalists. The gig had attitude which certainly thwacked its stamp on my Festival experience. I love his song 'Mr. Flick', like others recommended here it has lots of 'Ooohs' which makes it easy to sing along!!
I recommend that if you go to The Great Escape next year; you plan which bands you want to see, don't get too drunk, buy or blag a delegatebs pass which means you skip the queues and make sure you get your ass down to gigs during the day and make the most of the whole Festival. Organisation is key!
What festival would you recommend?: Lounge on The Farm
Thursday was my most organised night as I arrived in Brighton bright eyed and bushy tailed clutching my freshly printed and highlighted timetable in my hand. Not in time for daytime gigs, my night kicked off in Horatio's at the end of Brighton's iconic pier. With favourable drink prices, Horatio's has a 'cosy social club ' feel.
First band on were Big Deal, a super-cute Anglo girl/American boy duo who in recent months have been tipped as the ones to watch by the likes of NME. Both singers gave an effortlessly cool, laid-back performance with quaint catchy lyrics. Their successfully simple and honest performance couldn't be anymore stripped back as the only instruments they use are two guitars. My favourite track was 'Talk.' And the good news is that they will be playing on the Saturday of this year's Lounge on The Farm. Don't miss them!
Thankfully Audio isn't far from the pier, so I managed to catch the last song from post-punk band The Soft Moon. Clearly at the climax of their performance their music was loud, thumping and consumed my body from the centre! Coming in at the last song was the optimum way of getting to the front of the next band and so I had a good view of Suuns, who were next!
Suuns gave an epic performance built upon a rich texture of layered and looped sounds. It was evident that each musician was focused and passionate about their music but where the music was tight, they could have been slightly more engaged with the audience at times. However with riffs that were reminiscient to the like of Muse in their heyday and Radiohead, that had been smashed up and pieced back together in a fresh and experimental context, I wasn't really put off. My pick of their tracks is 'Armed for Peace.'
Then it was back to Horatio's for Cults. I wasn't disappointed. The New York five-piece had four members with the same hairstyle and enough musical gems up their sleeve to make them equally recognisable in the near-future I expect! Although their performance wasn't quite as tight as it could have been, mostly due to a few tech difficulties, the girl singer's stunning vocals and charming dance moves were the highlight of the show. Also, anyone who injects a fair share of Korg and xylophone well into their music gets a tick in my book. Be sure to check out 'Go Outside' and 'You Know What I Mean.'
Sadly the queues for Gang Gang Dance and Warpaint looked like they reached as far as Hove so we popped down to the Green Door Store for the rest of the night. Nothing much to mention there except great venue! It's right by the station and they have a Facebook page if you're interested!
Again on Friday I didn't do anything in the daytime because I was at a Journalism taster day at Brighton Journalist Works. I've already mentioned the lack of music on Friday night and this was due to peaking too early with ciders on the beach in the early evening. Compared to Thursday, Friday was even more rammed with people and their were queues everywhere. I had a great night, just not at the Festival.
So, it was important that on Saturday I would get my money's worth. I should have definitely done stuff during the day but turns out, I'm really good at sleeping.
Onto the eve: sadly there was a big queue for Horatio's, so no chance of checking out Braids. Thankfully Coalition offered an answer to this running around and queuing business; put two bands you would like to see on in a row!
New band Foster the People played before White Denim. Their lively performance immediately engaged the audience and got them moving (no one seems to dance as much these days.) The lead singer had a really unique voice and I was a big fan of their track 'Houdini'. Their album is out next week.
I was lucky enough the be right at the front for White Denim which meant I could see how much they enjoyed performing and really revel in their talented and extended live instrumentals. Check out the track 'Shake Shake Shake' on Spotify.
Again, queues wiped out the chance of seeing The Naked and Famous (biggest disappointment but they are doing an extensive tour at the mo) and The Vaccines but hey ho they'll be at Lounge on The Farm! Instead it was the much smaller venue of The Prince Albert pub to watch King Charles, a small but interesting man in a small but interesting room.
King Charles' stage presence was second to none. He connected with the audience and was not put off by an annoying group of drunkards or a few problems with sound. There was something very theatrical about the gig with balancing on chairs and his nest of hair which is like another instrument in the band, we'll call it visual hair! I loved his range of songs, his witty and engaging lyrics and his voice layered with the voices of his backing vocalists. The gig had attitude which certainly thwacked its stamp on my Festival experience. I love his song 'Mr. Flick', like others recommended here it has lots of 'Ooohs' which makes it easy to sing along!!
I recommend that if you go to The Great Escape next year; you plan which bands you want to see, don't get too drunk, buy or blag a delegatebs pass which means you skip the queues and make sure you get your ass down to gigs during the day and make the most of the whole Festival. Organisation is key!
What festival would you recommend?: Lounge on The Farm
Wood Festival - by Anna Mellor
I went to WOOD festival not really knowing what to expect. I didn’t really know many of the bands on the line-up, and was sceptical about the 800 capacity, family friendly feel. Going into to something like WOOD festival with no real expectations is the best way really, what I found was an incredibly magical, inspirational and beautiful place, filled with great music, plenty to do and an atmosphere you could never create with bigger, more commercial festivals.
WOOD is situated in Braziers park, which is home to a old castle, now a commune. The surroundings are stunning, acres woodland and farmland and surprisingly its only a 40 minute bus ride to Oxford. You can walk across the festival in less than 5 minutes and the tiny capacity means it never feels crowded. There are three food stalls and a number of clothing and healing type stalls. There is also a workshop village and three stages, two run by solar power and one run by bicycles. The main stage is not much bigger than a small bedroom and in true WOOD style, is also made of wood.
One key part of the festival is the worksop village. Each day a considerable amount of free workshops are run, both for children and adults. These range from Yoga, Nature for the Senses, Making Worm farms, Composting, Indian Chanting and Animal Spirit Medicine. I tried a bit of Celtic harp playing, made a lantern from a jam jar and took a tour around Braziers house.
Musically, my highlights came on Saturday night. Beginning with Khaira Arby, a singer from the deserts of Timbuktu in Mali. With a African backbone to her music, it is also layered with rock and roll and a fantastic Hendrix influenced guitar player. She herself is a breathtaking performer, stunning voice and more passion than ever comes from many of todays singers. The audience were wild, many hugging each other in joy and Khaira in tears from the reaction from this tiny festival.
Trevor Moss and Hannah Lou played next in the tree tent. They are a husband and wife duo who make beautiful harmonies but its their chemistry on stage which really draws the audience in. They are playing The Lexington with Daughter soon and then doing a free canal boat tour, check them out.
The highlight of my day was Willy Mason. I’d heard the odd song by him before but never properly listen to him. Earlier in the day I was actually debating with my friends whether he was aged 60 with a beard or a young chap, turns out he is young, and the old guy is actually Willie Nelson. He mixed his set with solo numbers and full band songs, two of his band were actually some of the festival organisers and the other was his brother. His voice is crystal clear, but its his songwriting which got me. Mixing country, rock and folk his sound is quite his own, but maybe an Americana Johnny Flynn is a fair comparison. He converted me into a fan anyway, I purchased both of his albums as soon as I got home.
After the music finishes, the children go to bed and everyone else gathers around the campfire which is based just above the stage. There are campfire songs and life stories from people at every angle. There is also a small bar located at the back of the campervan field, 60′s music is played repeatedly and a stove keeps people warm. The whole time there is such a lovely community feeling to the festival.
I missed the Sunday night entertainment as I had to head back to London, but I felt complete after seeing Willy Mason so wasn’t too bothered. Overall, WOOD is a beautiful festival, in another league from other ’boutiques’, it encompasses what a festival should be, and I think festivals like this will become a growing sensation. I for one, shall certainly be back for another year.
Anna Mellor
Flying With Anna
http://flyingwithanna.wordpress.com/
WOOD is situated in Braziers park, which is home to a old castle, now a commune. The surroundings are stunning, acres woodland and farmland and surprisingly its only a 40 minute bus ride to Oxford. You can walk across the festival in less than 5 minutes and the tiny capacity means it never feels crowded. There are three food stalls and a number of clothing and healing type stalls. There is also a workshop village and three stages, two run by solar power and one run by bicycles. The main stage is not much bigger than a small bedroom and in true WOOD style, is also made of wood.
One key part of the festival is the worksop village. Each day a considerable amount of free workshops are run, both for children and adults. These range from Yoga, Nature for the Senses, Making Worm farms, Composting, Indian Chanting and Animal Spirit Medicine. I tried a bit of Celtic harp playing, made a lantern from a jam jar and took a tour around Braziers house.
Musically, my highlights came on Saturday night. Beginning with Khaira Arby, a singer from the deserts of Timbuktu in Mali. With a African backbone to her music, it is also layered with rock and roll and a fantastic Hendrix influenced guitar player. She herself is a breathtaking performer, stunning voice and more passion than ever comes from many of todays singers. The audience were wild, many hugging each other in joy and Khaira in tears from the reaction from this tiny festival.
Trevor Moss and Hannah Lou played next in the tree tent. They are a husband and wife duo who make beautiful harmonies but its their chemistry on stage which really draws the audience in. They are playing The Lexington with Daughter soon and then doing a free canal boat tour, check them out.
The highlight of my day was Willy Mason. I’d heard the odd song by him before but never properly listen to him. Earlier in the day I was actually debating with my friends whether he was aged 60 with a beard or a young chap, turns out he is young, and the old guy is actually Willie Nelson. He mixed his set with solo numbers and full band songs, two of his band were actually some of the festival organisers and the other was his brother. His voice is crystal clear, but its his songwriting which got me. Mixing country, rock and folk his sound is quite his own, but maybe an Americana Johnny Flynn is a fair comparison. He converted me into a fan anyway, I purchased both of his albums as soon as I got home.
After the music finishes, the children go to bed and everyone else gathers around the campfire which is based just above the stage. There are campfire songs and life stories from people at every angle. There is also a small bar located at the back of the campervan field, 60′s music is played repeatedly and a stove keeps people warm. The whole time there is such a lovely community feeling to the festival.
I missed the Sunday night entertainment as I had to head back to London, but I felt complete after seeing Willy Mason so wasn’t too bothered. Overall, WOOD is a beautiful festival, in another league from other ’boutiques’, it encompasses what a festival should be, and I think festivals like this will become a growing sensation. I for one, shall certainly be back for another year.
Anna Mellor
Flying With Anna
http://flyingwithanna.wordpress.com/
Meadowlands - Becky Barns
I hadn't actually heard of Meadowlands but was ecstatic to be a part of it at the weekend. In the middle of nowhere, through a maze of trees and stunning Sussex scenery was Glynde Place; the setting for our tale.
If anyone knows Lounge on The Farm Festival and remembers it (or probably any) local Festival in it's first years; this was the essence of Meadowlands. Some good impressive names peppered with some talented local bands. Plus a great, family-friendly atmosphere which felt cosy and safe.
After putting up our tent at nightbreak minus five minutes, a night of DJs 'n' dancin' and a couple of hours of shut-eye it was time to follow our ears and check out some bands. Saturday kicked off with a high octane show from The Electric Riot whose pumpinb tunes sent a real buzz through the main tent. Fusing fast-paced electro beats with dirty rock riffs this band did not fail to get everyone up off their feet or their wellies.
Another highlight of Saturday was seeing Mirrors. If you're going to Glasto, Camp Bestival or Bestival, make sure you see this euphoric 'pop-noir' ensemble because they are bloody brilliant. Every inch of their music is chocka with electronics that would make the likes of Ultravox send them a Blue Peter Badge, right up my street!
However, the hidden gem of the hour was most definitely Gentleman Starkey. This Brighton band combines rock 'n' roll rhythms that will get your body shaking, with vocals reminiscent of Morrissey that will leave you drooling for more. Structurally tight as a band, they ooze cool, effortlessly. Their music is unpredictable, it dances excitedly between frantic addictive instrumental and experimental vocals. They are definitely the ones to watch.
Other highlights of Saturday included Turin Brakes, Niko and Hot Club De Paris, but onto Sunday.
Stripping it back and keeping it real was one-woman band Abi Wade. I say one-woman band because this talented lass sings, plays the cello, plays the bass drum with her foot AND taps incredible rhythms and sounds on her cello. You can listen to her tracks and imagine it but her skill is also very visually impressive. She's got the vocal essence of Kate Bush or Florence Welch. Wow.
My favourite band of Sunday was Deadwax who provided plenty of rock 'n' roll for my Sunday. They're a bit Oasis and Beatles-esque but they pull it off! They're dirrrty, they're energetic.
So that's a couple of snippets of the fantastic time had at Meadowlands this year. If you're sick of the big player and sell-out Festivals, find Meadowlands!
The only criticism would be: get a cheap and cheerful burger stall!!! Big gap in the market for some morning meat!!
Recommended festivals: Lounge on The Farm, Hop Farm Festival, Bestival
If anyone knows Lounge on The Farm Festival and remembers it (or probably any) local Festival in it's first years; this was the essence of Meadowlands. Some good impressive names peppered with some talented local bands. Plus a great, family-friendly atmosphere which felt cosy and safe.
After putting up our tent at nightbreak minus five minutes, a night of DJs 'n' dancin' and a couple of hours of shut-eye it was time to follow our ears and check out some bands. Saturday kicked off with a high octane show from The Electric Riot whose pumpinb tunes sent a real buzz through the main tent. Fusing fast-paced electro beats with dirty rock riffs this band did not fail to get everyone up off their feet or their wellies.
Another highlight of Saturday was seeing Mirrors. If you're going to Glasto, Camp Bestival or Bestival, make sure you see this euphoric 'pop-noir' ensemble because they are bloody brilliant. Every inch of their music is chocka with electronics that would make the likes of Ultravox send them a Blue Peter Badge, right up my street!
However, the hidden gem of the hour was most definitely Gentleman Starkey. This Brighton band combines rock 'n' roll rhythms that will get your body shaking, with vocals reminiscent of Morrissey that will leave you drooling for more. Structurally tight as a band, they ooze cool, effortlessly. Their music is unpredictable, it dances excitedly between frantic addictive instrumental and experimental vocals. They are definitely the ones to watch.
Other highlights of Saturday included Turin Brakes, Niko and Hot Club De Paris, but onto Sunday.
Stripping it back and keeping it real was one-woman band Abi Wade. I say one-woman band because this talented lass sings, plays the cello, plays the bass drum with her foot AND taps incredible rhythms and sounds on her cello. You can listen to her tracks and imagine it but her skill is also very visually impressive. She's got the vocal essence of Kate Bush or Florence Welch. Wow.
My favourite band of Sunday was Deadwax who provided plenty of rock 'n' roll for my Sunday. They're a bit Oasis and Beatles-esque but they pull it off! They're dirrrty, they're energetic.
So that's a couple of snippets of the fantastic time had at Meadowlands this year. If you're sick of the big player and sell-out Festivals, find Meadowlands!
The only criticism would be: get a cheap and cheerful burger stall!!! Big gap in the market for some morning meat!!
Recommended festivals: Lounge on The Farm, Hop Farm Festival, Bestival
Trib Fest - Ed Faulkner 2011
No ticket for V why not consider Tribby the music festival of your dreams?
Are you looking for somewhere different this year then why not consider a weekend music festival with a difference?
If you fancy seeing the big names but can't afford the prices or there simply sold out,why not consider the music festival of your dreams?
If you could ever bring together current stars and acts from the past on one weekend then you arrive at the concept of Tribfest. Elton John , Eric Clapton, ABBA, Rolling Stones, Nirvana, U2, Red Hot Chilli Peppers and Take That all at the same festival but with the performers all professional tribute acts .
Elton John will be tickling the ivories, Arctic Monkeys performing indie classics, Guns & Roses belting out Paradise City before the Black Eyed Peas tell everyone to 'Shut up' There will be 'Twisted Firestarterbs', a 'White Riot', Lady Gaga, Bono and a crowd of 5000 dancing to 'One Step Beyond' This is the world of Tribfest and everyone is invited to join the fun. Professional tribute acts performing the classics but for a fraction of the price to see such a line up.
Tribfest was created in East Yorkshire back in 2007 when Event Director Ed Faulkner, himself a singer for the Beautiful Couch (Tribute to the Beautiful South/Housemartins) devised the concept of a Glastonbury style music festival which was small, family friendly and performers came from the vast number of tribute acts performing throughout the country.
The festival has grown in stature over the following years and has won nominations for the best small festival in the country. Tribfest 2011 is held August 19th-21st at the Beverley Polo Club in East Yorkshire and over the weekend there will be up to 45 tribute acts, a comedy festival, silent disco, VIp Marquee dance marquee, unsigned bands and folk acts an karaoke marquee.
The event offers the experience of a Glastonbury but for a fraction of the price, Standard weekend passes are £80 for adults and £40 children and 5000 people are expected at this years festival held at the Beverley Polo Club is which is seven miles from Hull, there is excellent access, great facilities for campers and very easy to find.
To discover much more about the festival visit www.tribfest.co.uk , this provides information on festival facilities, performers and entertainment. Tickets can be purchased online and you can also access a range of videos of past festival so you can also see the quality of the acts.
Fancy something different for a weekend? Come to Tribfest, you won't regret this. Once you enter the festival site just leave your preconceptions behind, enjoy yourself , soak up the atmosphere and lose yourself in the festival of dreams. Where else could you see the Stones, Beatles, Meatloaf and Madonna over one weekend?
Are you looking for somewhere different this year then why not consider a weekend music festival with a difference?
If you fancy seeing the big names but can't afford the prices or there simply sold out,why not consider the music festival of your dreams?
If you could ever bring together current stars and acts from the past on one weekend then you arrive at the concept of Tribfest. Elton John , Eric Clapton, ABBA, Rolling Stones, Nirvana, U2, Red Hot Chilli Peppers and Take That all at the same festival but with the performers all professional tribute acts .
Elton John will be tickling the ivories, Arctic Monkeys performing indie classics, Guns & Roses belting out Paradise City before the Black Eyed Peas tell everyone to 'Shut up' There will be 'Twisted Firestarterbs', a 'White Riot', Lady Gaga, Bono and a crowd of 5000 dancing to 'One Step Beyond' This is the world of Tribfest and everyone is invited to join the fun. Professional tribute acts performing the classics but for a fraction of the price to see such a line up.
Tribfest was created in East Yorkshire back in 2007 when Event Director Ed Faulkner, himself a singer for the Beautiful Couch (Tribute to the Beautiful South/Housemartins) devised the concept of a Glastonbury style music festival which was small, family friendly and performers came from the vast number of tribute acts performing throughout the country.
The festival has grown in stature over the following years and has won nominations for the best small festival in the country. Tribfest 2011 is held August 19th-21st at the Beverley Polo Club in East Yorkshire and over the weekend there will be up to 45 tribute acts, a comedy festival, silent disco, VIp Marquee dance marquee, unsigned bands and folk acts an karaoke marquee.
The event offers the experience of a Glastonbury but for a fraction of the price, Standard weekend passes are £80 for adults and £40 children and 5000 people are expected at this years festival held at the Beverley Polo Club is which is seven miles from Hull, there is excellent access, great facilities for campers and very easy to find.
To discover much more about the festival visit www.tribfest.co.uk , this provides information on festival facilities, performers and entertainment. Tickets can be purchased online and you can also access a range of videos of past festival so you can also see the quality of the acts.
Fancy something different for a weekend? Come to Tribfest, you won't regret this. Once you enter the festival site just leave your preconceptions behind, enjoy yourself , soak up the atmosphere and lose yourself in the festival of dreams. Where else could you see the Stones, Beatles, Meatloaf and Madonna over one weekend?
Ben and Jerrys Festivals - Alice Langley
This is a day entry only non camping festival perfect for young families. Live music this year includes Ocean Colour Scene, Maximo Park, Ash and The Fun Lovin Criminals and we must not forget the FREE icecream all day!!
Last year was a great day, we took our 18 month old baby girl and she partied all the way till the end. With a free petting farm, face paining, fun-fair rides and soft play areas children are well and truly looked after - and with an early fininsh of 8pm its a great day that you dont need to leave early because you have children in tow.
I would highly recommend a visit!!
Last year was a great day, we took our 18 month old baby girl and she partied all the way till the end. With a free petting farm, face paining, fun-fair rides and soft play areas children are well and truly looked after - and with an early fininsh of 8pm its a great day that you dont need to leave early because you have children in tow.
I would highly recommend a visit!!
The Hop Farm - Becky Barnes
I have never been lucky enough to attend Glastonbury, but the experience of the Saturday and Sunday headliners at the Hop Farm had the calibre I would expect of Glasto and blew me away. I attended Hop Farm last year to see Bob Dylan and also thoroughly enjoyed Ray Davies, Mumford and Sons and Seasick Steve to name a few. This Festival is unique in offering a cosy vibe juxtaposed with massive artists and it won't stay that way for long, especially after Prince put Paddock Wood on the map with his epic Sunday evening performance.
Saturday's bill had a definite punktastic vibe beginning with Magazine followed by Patti Smith who gave a gorgeous performance where the energy around the stage and beyond was electrifying. Lou Reed stumbled over his words a bit but still complimented the evening.
Iggy Pop is the best frontman I have seen live, well as I say that, I forget I have Prince as a contender but at this point in my life he was and even if you couldn't hear the music, his moves are really something else!
Morrissey had clearly changed his tune a bit since Glastonbury and was very interactive with the crowd and hailed Hop Farm as ' the best Festival left in the UK.' He performed a good mix of solo stuff and a few Smith's choons, which is to be expected, but I would have liked more Smith's. Saying that his performance was solid and I enjoyed ' You're the one for me Fatty' and ' Irish Blood, English Heart.' Most memorable moment was the spine-tingling rendition of ' There is a light that never goes out.'
For the encore, he popped back for ' This Charming Man ' which was super.
Saturday was rounded off with a bit of comedy, notably Stewart Lee who had a giggle about Lou Reed's performance. Shame he was only on for 20 mins.
Sunday's line up looked like someone had made a mistake as shockinglyTinie Tempah proceeded Prince. Converting this into a positive factor, we used the time to move the car and put down the tent (as well as you can put down a pop-up tent - do NOT buy one!) Before Prince, I enjoyed Big Deal earlier in the day who were followed by Tall Ships, a 4-piece energetic electro band, layering catchy and irresistibly danceable loops with sharp vocals.
I lounged on the grass to the backdrop of Eliza Doolittle during the day and enjoyed Larry Graham with his passionate session musicians and iconic white suit.
However it was clear by the abundance of purple; ribbons, balloons, catsuits, you name it that everyone was there for Prince.
I was gutted I forgot my raspberry beret. I've never worn it and I think I missed my opportunity to rock it.
Fashionably late onto the stage, but worth the wait, Prince and his highly talented female band managed to pull off precarious outfits, comments digging at the day's bill 'This is real music', audience interaction, pouting into the camera, around 4 octaves and approximately 5 encores. The incredible set was daring, it was camp, it was fun, it was iconic and it will be forever imprinted in my mind as one of the most epic and thrilling performances I have experienced.
He combined medleys of his hits alongside ones where he asked the audience 'Can we take a little more time on this one?'
'Purple Rain' was incredible with an explosion of shiny purple paper over the crowd, so light that it floated over for the duration of the song.
Prince's performance was enhanced by his connection with his audience and was a brilliant end to an amazing line-up, carried by such iconic musicians of our time. It was an honour to experience them.
What a shame about the 2 hour queue to get out of the car park!
Saturday's bill had a definite punktastic vibe beginning with Magazine followed by Patti Smith who gave a gorgeous performance where the energy around the stage and beyond was electrifying. Lou Reed stumbled over his words a bit but still complimented the evening.
Iggy Pop is the best frontman I have seen live, well as I say that, I forget I have Prince as a contender but at this point in my life he was and even if you couldn't hear the music, his moves are really something else!
Morrissey had clearly changed his tune a bit since Glastonbury and was very interactive with the crowd and hailed Hop Farm as ' the best Festival left in the UK.' He performed a good mix of solo stuff and a few Smith's choons, which is to be expected, but I would have liked more Smith's. Saying that his performance was solid and I enjoyed ' You're the one for me Fatty' and ' Irish Blood, English Heart.' Most memorable moment was the spine-tingling rendition of ' There is a light that never goes out.'
For the encore, he popped back for ' This Charming Man ' which was super.
Saturday was rounded off with a bit of comedy, notably Stewart Lee who had a giggle about Lou Reed's performance. Shame he was only on for 20 mins.
Sunday's line up looked like someone had made a mistake as shockinglyTinie Tempah proceeded Prince. Converting this into a positive factor, we used the time to move the car and put down the tent (as well as you can put down a pop-up tent - do NOT buy one!) Before Prince, I enjoyed Big Deal earlier in the day who were followed by Tall Ships, a 4-piece energetic electro band, layering catchy and irresistibly danceable loops with sharp vocals.
I lounged on the grass to the backdrop of Eliza Doolittle during the day and enjoyed Larry Graham with his passionate session musicians and iconic white suit.
However it was clear by the abundance of purple; ribbons, balloons, catsuits, you name it that everyone was there for Prince.
I was gutted I forgot my raspberry beret. I've never worn it and I think I missed my opportunity to rock it.
Fashionably late onto the stage, but worth the wait, Prince and his highly talented female band managed to pull off precarious outfits, comments digging at the day's bill 'This is real music', audience interaction, pouting into the camera, around 4 octaves and approximately 5 encores. The incredible set was daring, it was camp, it was fun, it was iconic and it will be forever imprinted in my mind as one of the most epic and thrilling performances I have experienced.
He combined medleys of his hits alongside ones where he asked the audience 'Can we take a little more time on this one?'
'Purple Rain' was incredible with an explosion of shiny purple paper over the crowd, so light that it floated over for the duration of the song.
Prince's performance was enhanced by his connection with his audience and was a brilliant end to an amazing line-up, carried by such iconic musicians of our time. It was an honour to experience them.
What a shame about the 2 hour queue to get out of the car park!
Blissfields - Suzie Hawthorne
Blissfields from a family perspective by Suzie Hawthorne
Being our first small scale boutique festival we weren’t quite sure what to expect but we had smiles
on our faces the moment we arrived. No cars stacked up trying to park, no wrist band queues, no
strong arm security, just happy people setting up camp. The organisers had said “you can see your
car and the main stage from your tent”. And you absolutely can at Blissfields. No long haul, walking
for miles to catch the last song of a much anticipated band. Everything felt within easy reach on a
site you could walk the length of in 15 minutes.
We were camping with 3 other families and all our children aged between 3 and 12 played happily
on a site that felt safe and self contained. With plenty of arty crafty activities in the marvellous
Angel Gardens to keep them occupied the adults could sit back, relax, drink Pimms and enjoy the
music - how perfect is that?
As there wasn’t much happening Thursday we were happy to hang around the tent and chill. After
a great nights sleep we began Friday with an amble into the arena to munch on delicious and
woweee, reasonably priced burritos. Kids happy in the nest of hammocks we sat in the sun and
enjoyed the vibe.
Musically there wasn’t much on the line-up that leapt out at us but we were pleasantly surprised by
the Dub Pistols followed by Frank Turner - local boy done good. Although some of his set seemed
a bit 6th form sing-a-long he got everyone going and made us feel we were part of a local family
gathering, sadly coming to an end at a very sprightly 9.30. If this was intended for families to take
children back for bed... that was missed on ours who moved onto the Bradley Bubble tent to take
in the Jim Jones Revue. Having mellowed out watching Frank, Jim Jones cranked it right up getting
the party going in earnest. Leaving the tent heaving we headed up to the Hidden Hedge to marvel
at the installations and light shows before curling up in front of the open fires dotted around the
site. For most Blissfielders the party went on in the Hidden Hedge well into the next morning. For
us no matter what Saturday had in stall we’d had such a great day on Friday that anything more
was a bonus.
The Saturday bonus came in the form of outstanding Under the Driftwood Tree, Treetop Flyers,
Imperial Leisure and Fenech-Soler all of whom put in performances that outshone the nights
headliner Tricky. Fitting with the dress up theme ‘Out of This World’ we glammed up in glitter
and green face paint but the anticlimax was palpable. Tricky was disappointing, not even a
stage invasion could up the interest and people drifted away to see what was happening in the
marquees and beyond. We retired to our camp, satisfied with our previous nights exploits and left
the teens to rave on beyond the hedge.
All the stewards were refreshingly cheerful and chatty. Hurrah for the absence of heavy handed
bag searching that goes on at the bigger festivals forcing you to buy over-priced beer in the arena.
People were free to carry alcohol into the arena and anywhere they wanted plus on-site bars very
reasonably priced - great attitude all round.
I’m totally sold on the idea of smaller boutique festivals. It’s a great place to unwind, take in some
new sounds and give your children the freedom to enjoy their own festival experience in a safe and
friendly environment. As one of our friends said “if you’ve never been with your kids it’s a great ‘dip
your toe in’ kind of festival.”
Blissfields festival... what can I say except it did pretty much everything it said on the tin. Relaxed,
friendly, unpretentious, safe, pocket-sized festival filled with sunshine and smiley faces - totally
blissful! Well done Paul and Mel Bliss you’ve created a real gem.
Being our first small scale boutique festival we weren’t quite sure what to expect but we had smiles
on our faces the moment we arrived. No cars stacked up trying to park, no wrist band queues, no
strong arm security, just happy people setting up camp. The organisers had said “you can see your
car and the main stage from your tent”. And you absolutely can at Blissfields. No long haul, walking
for miles to catch the last song of a much anticipated band. Everything felt within easy reach on a
site you could walk the length of in 15 minutes.
We were camping with 3 other families and all our children aged between 3 and 12 played happily
on a site that felt safe and self contained. With plenty of arty crafty activities in the marvellous
Angel Gardens to keep them occupied the adults could sit back, relax, drink Pimms and enjoy the
music - how perfect is that?
As there wasn’t much happening Thursday we were happy to hang around the tent and chill. After
a great nights sleep we began Friday with an amble into the arena to munch on delicious and
woweee, reasonably priced burritos. Kids happy in the nest of hammocks we sat in the sun and
enjoyed the vibe.
Musically there wasn’t much on the line-up that leapt out at us but we were pleasantly surprised by
the Dub Pistols followed by Frank Turner - local boy done good. Although some of his set seemed
a bit 6th form sing-a-long he got everyone going and made us feel we were part of a local family
gathering, sadly coming to an end at a very sprightly 9.30. If this was intended for families to take
children back for bed... that was missed on ours who moved onto the Bradley Bubble tent to take
in the Jim Jones Revue. Having mellowed out watching Frank, Jim Jones cranked it right up getting
the party going in earnest. Leaving the tent heaving we headed up to the Hidden Hedge to marvel
at the installations and light shows before curling up in front of the open fires dotted around the
site. For most Blissfielders the party went on in the Hidden Hedge well into the next morning. For
us no matter what Saturday had in stall we’d had such a great day on Friday that anything more
was a bonus.
The Saturday bonus came in the form of outstanding Under the Driftwood Tree, Treetop Flyers,
Imperial Leisure and Fenech-Soler all of whom put in performances that outshone the nights
headliner Tricky. Fitting with the dress up theme ‘Out of This World’ we glammed up in glitter
and green face paint but the anticlimax was palpable. Tricky was disappointing, not even a
stage invasion could up the interest and people drifted away to see what was happening in the
marquees and beyond. We retired to our camp, satisfied with our previous nights exploits and left
the teens to rave on beyond the hedge.
All the stewards were refreshingly cheerful and chatty. Hurrah for the absence of heavy handed
bag searching that goes on at the bigger festivals forcing you to buy over-priced beer in the arena.
People were free to carry alcohol into the arena and anywhere they wanted plus on-site bars very
reasonably priced - great attitude all round.
I’m totally sold on the idea of smaller boutique festivals. It’s a great place to unwind, take in some
new sounds and give your children the freedom to enjoy their own festival experience in a safe and
friendly environment. As one of our friends said “if you’ve never been with your kids it’s a great ‘dip
your toe in’ kind of festival.”
Blissfields festival... what can I say except it did pretty much everything it said on the tin. Relaxed,
friendly, unpretentious, safe, pocket-sized festival filled with sunshine and smiley faces - totally
blissful! Well done Paul and Mel Bliss you’ve created a real gem.
Secret Garden Party - Hannah Moore
Once upon a time there was a head gardener who dreamt of creating a festival that would be like no other. A temporary community that would be free, irreverent, friendly and engaging. A fantasy playground filled with music and laughter, fun and frolics.
Way back in the depths of winter I was invited to join the Secret Garden Party.... a very special type of party I was told. I know the secret now and am torn between keeping it that way and announcing it to the world... this could be the ultimate festival experience. This is not just about music - headline acts aren’t the A-listers you’d find at other festivals, but is about much more. It’s a whirl of colour and vitality untainted by commercialism where you can wallow in a sensual feast like no other.
At first glance this festival looks much like any other but we soon discover a multitude of treasures on our journey through the garden. Strolling from our tent past Pootopia (yes even the loos at SGP are heavenly) and onto the The Artful Badger, an intriguing wooded enclosure complete with tree houses and cobwebbed interactive artworks. Then onto the Collo-silly-um an amphitheatre made of straw bales, home to mud wrestling and human pyramids. Chuckling to ourselves we continue under trees adorned with hanging clocks, tin-can sculptures and trees wrapped in multicoloured felt. We find a stage nestled in a tree, decorated beautifully with driftwood. Over a grassy verge there’s a stage shaped like a boxing ring and a DJ announces the “world dance-off championships’” Leaving it’s thumping beats behind we step back in time to find the Feast of Fools stage where we’re encouraged to “Step right up, step right up, to a fairground of tricksters”. But our attention is drawn to a dazzling lake guarded by a gigantic dragonfly, and cheerful chaps taking a dip or peacefully messing about in boats. We’re now immersed in this crazy garden and any thoughts of the outside world have totally disappeared.
The theme for the year is ‘Origins and Frontiers’ but seems to have been interpreted as ‘anything goes’. Secret gardeners dress-up like no other festival. From shop bought to hand made, lampshades for hats, gentleman foxes, ladies with parasols to toadstools and road signs. A brilliant cacophony of colour and creativity.
Eager not to miss a thing we stroll between stages from the Crossroads playing blues legend Skip McDonald to The Folk Lodge and the brilliant newbies Under the Driftwood Tree. While the Great Stage tempts us back to the lakeside to witness the legendary Blondie belt out a set filled with 80’s new wave classics. Next up are the magnificent techno masters Leftfield. Only in this crazy mixed up world would they sit side by side and have a packed crowd delirious with pleasure. As the sun goes down the night is filled with a procession of fire and the giant dragonfly, on it’s plinth in the center of the lake, is engulfed with flames, while all around fireworks light up the sky. But this isn’t the end but a signal that the night garden is opening its doors for a party that will last til dawn.
Exhausted from the excesses of the night before, we spend Sunday afternoon chilling at the Great Stage beside the lake. We take in the sounds of Alabama 3, complete with precocious dancing children, and the brilliant Bees who get the sluggish audience up and dancing. This is followed by the craziest paint fight I’ve ever witnessed making us laugh so hard as the multicoloured powder pours down.
There are way too may treasures to possibly take in at SGP - we missed the talk about The crisis of civilization, the Dirty life drawing and the Never Ever Theatre’s show Shitfaced Shakespeare. Humour permeates throughout the garden. High in a tree a sign surrealy declares “Don’t read this, it’s private!” Another reads “Free mass uncertainty - queue here and wait for something to happen!” There’s so much going on in the packed programme but we’re encouraged to use it as a guide and not be chained to must-sees. All around there are things going on... giant Hungry Hippos and crazy walk-about theatre, croquet for the ladies and a phone box that allows you to talk to gardeners across the site. We can only agree and simply wander the site through the myriad of different stages and just live for the moment.
The venue is a perfect size, everything within a 10 minute walk and never feels crowded despite accommodating 23,000 people. There’s a great food selection and a brilliant secret emporium filled with hand crafted goodies from animal hoods and frilly knickers to teaspoon necklaces.
As the sun sets on a glorious afternoon we ponder by the lake and ask ourselves if this could get any better and come to the conclusion that it possibly couldn’t. Such an amazing setting filled with so many cheerful uninhibited people, so many things to delight, how could it.
With this thought in ours heads, wearily we head back to our tents. En route we stop at the Centre Camp - a kind of 1930’s tea room complete with dance floor and stage. Intrigued by the sound of the next band we stick around for the Destroyers. A frenzy of swirling Balkan beats is played out by a band of 8-9 men all in drag on fiddles and ukes, and everyone is up and jumping. Somehow we’re persuaded to do a double speed conga and musical statues, of all things. A truly bazaar end to a crazy day.
In it’s programme The Secret Garden Party sign off by saying;
“Outside The Garden, we live for the future and dream about the past.
But for this one weekend, we live in the absolute present.
So let your phone run dry and your mind run free and your body run wild.”
A wonderful sentiment and so very true. Thank you, Head Gardener, for including us in your Secret Garden Party, you’ve created something very special.
Way back in the depths of winter I was invited to join the Secret Garden Party.... a very special type of party I was told. I know the secret now and am torn between keeping it that way and announcing it to the world... this could be the ultimate festival experience. This is not just about music - headline acts aren’t the A-listers you’d find at other festivals, but is about much more. It’s a whirl of colour and vitality untainted by commercialism where you can wallow in a sensual feast like no other.
At first glance this festival looks much like any other but we soon discover a multitude of treasures on our journey through the garden. Strolling from our tent past Pootopia (yes even the loos at SGP are heavenly) and onto the The Artful Badger, an intriguing wooded enclosure complete with tree houses and cobwebbed interactive artworks. Then onto the Collo-silly-um an amphitheatre made of straw bales, home to mud wrestling and human pyramids. Chuckling to ourselves we continue under trees adorned with hanging clocks, tin-can sculptures and trees wrapped in multicoloured felt. We find a stage nestled in a tree, decorated beautifully with driftwood. Over a grassy verge there’s a stage shaped like a boxing ring and a DJ announces the “world dance-off championships’” Leaving it’s thumping beats behind we step back in time to find the Feast of Fools stage where we’re encouraged to “Step right up, step right up, to a fairground of tricksters”. But our attention is drawn to a dazzling lake guarded by a gigantic dragonfly, and cheerful chaps taking a dip or peacefully messing about in boats. We’re now immersed in this crazy garden and any thoughts of the outside world have totally disappeared.
The theme for the year is ‘Origins and Frontiers’ but seems to have been interpreted as ‘anything goes’. Secret gardeners dress-up like no other festival. From shop bought to hand made, lampshades for hats, gentleman foxes, ladies with parasols to toadstools and road signs. A brilliant cacophony of colour and creativity.
Eager not to miss a thing we stroll between stages from the Crossroads playing blues legend Skip McDonald to The Folk Lodge and the brilliant newbies Under the Driftwood Tree. While the Great Stage tempts us back to the lakeside to witness the legendary Blondie belt out a set filled with 80’s new wave classics. Next up are the magnificent techno masters Leftfield. Only in this crazy mixed up world would they sit side by side and have a packed crowd delirious with pleasure. As the sun goes down the night is filled with a procession of fire and the giant dragonfly, on it’s plinth in the center of the lake, is engulfed with flames, while all around fireworks light up the sky. But this isn’t the end but a signal that the night garden is opening its doors for a party that will last til dawn.
Exhausted from the excesses of the night before, we spend Sunday afternoon chilling at the Great Stage beside the lake. We take in the sounds of Alabama 3, complete with precocious dancing children, and the brilliant Bees who get the sluggish audience up and dancing. This is followed by the craziest paint fight I’ve ever witnessed making us laugh so hard as the multicoloured powder pours down.
There are way too may treasures to possibly take in at SGP - we missed the talk about The crisis of civilization, the Dirty life drawing and the Never Ever Theatre’s show Shitfaced Shakespeare. Humour permeates throughout the garden. High in a tree a sign surrealy declares “Don’t read this, it’s private!” Another reads “Free mass uncertainty - queue here and wait for something to happen!” There’s so much going on in the packed programme but we’re encouraged to use it as a guide and not be chained to must-sees. All around there are things going on... giant Hungry Hippos and crazy walk-about theatre, croquet for the ladies and a phone box that allows you to talk to gardeners across the site. We can only agree and simply wander the site through the myriad of different stages and just live for the moment.
The venue is a perfect size, everything within a 10 minute walk and never feels crowded despite accommodating 23,000 people. There’s a great food selection and a brilliant secret emporium filled with hand crafted goodies from animal hoods and frilly knickers to teaspoon necklaces.
As the sun sets on a glorious afternoon we ponder by the lake and ask ourselves if this could get any better and come to the conclusion that it possibly couldn’t. Such an amazing setting filled with so many cheerful uninhibited people, so many things to delight, how could it.
With this thought in ours heads, wearily we head back to our tents. En route we stop at the Centre Camp - a kind of 1930’s tea room complete with dance floor and stage. Intrigued by the sound of the next band we stick around for the Destroyers. A frenzy of swirling Balkan beats is played out by a band of 8-9 men all in drag on fiddles and ukes, and everyone is up and jumping. Somehow we’re persuaded to do a double speed conga and musical statues, of all things. A truly bazaar end to a crazy day.
In it’s programme The Secret Garden Party sign off by saying;
“Outside The Garden, we live for the future and dream about the past.
But for this one weekend, we live in the absolute present.
So let your phone run dry and your mind run free and your body run wild.”
A wonderful sentiment and so very true. Thank you, Head Gardener, for including us in your Secret Garden Party, you’ve created something very special.
Playgroup Festival - Becky Barnes
Playgroup Festival
Stepping into Playgroup Festival was like entering an enchanted forest. Hidden in the woodland of Eridge Park near Tunbridge Wells, this small and friendly Festival oozed creativity, charm and character with Festival-goers pulling out all the stops with their animal costumes. With carefully crafted stands, stalls and stages and all-round decoration there was many an adventure to be had (hidden rooms within wardrobes and hands-on workshops,) and lots of room to be cosy and unwind (plenty of sofas and an abundance of cushions.)
The line-up was bursting at the seams with Brightonian talent (and rightly so) with talks, magicians, poetry and cabaret alongside the music. There was a prevalence of large and danceable ensembles such as Carnival Collective and Kalakuta Millionaires and this was contrasted with chill-out cinemas open until the early hours.
Notable performances came from The Correspondents, The Electric Playboys Club and Skinny Lister with the absolute highlight being the electrifying and energetic set from improvisational 2-piece AK-DK.
AK-DK use looping and all sorts of corgs bnb keyboards-connected-to-several-pedals-technology as a backdrop to a drum kit for each of them. This experimental approach in which they invite musically talented friends to join them on stage is risquC) and could be potentially wanky. Yet, their down-to earth, warm interaction with the audience and with each other, alongside their incredible improvisational talent made the performance. Particularly impressive was when they were joined by vocalist Bunty who performed solo at the Festival also.
The food at Playgroup was reasonably priced, great quality and of good variety. Breakfast favourite was the vegetarian bap (same place did a cracking nut roast) and for coffee and cake it was Grandmabs place (complete with all the staff dressed and acting as Grandma.)
For me, Playgroup put the emphasis on making your own Festival experience. Much as the name suggests, Playgroup set an environment in which to be free, to relax and to play. There were instruments, there were dressing up boxes and there were competitions. It was very family friendly, probably because everyone turned into a big kid!
Playgroup is exactly what Brighton needs to channel all its creativity. Keep up the great work guys!
Stepping into Playgroup Festival was like entering an enchanted forest. Hidden in the woodland of Eridge Park near Tunbridge Wells, this small and friendly Festival oozed creativity, charm and character with Festival-goers pulling out all the stops with their animal costumes. With carefully crafted stands, stalls and stages and all-round decoration there was many an adventure to be had (hidden rooms within wardrobes and hands-on workshops,) and lots of room to be cosy and unwind (plenty of sofas and an abundance of cushions.)
The line-up was bursting at the seams with Brightonian talent (and rightly so) with talks, magicians, poetry and cabaret alongside the music. There was a prevalence of large and danceable ensembles such as Carnival Collective and Kalakuta Millionaires and this was contrasted with chill-out cinemas open until the early hours.
Notable performances came from The Correspondents, The Electric Playboys Club and Skinny Lister with the absolute highlight being the electrifying and energetic set from improvisational 2-piece AK-DK.
AK-DK use looping and all sorts of corgs bnb keyboards-connected-to-several-pedals-technology as a backdrop to a drum kit for each of them. This experimental approach in which they invite musically talented friends to join them on stage is risquC) and could be potentially wanky. Yet, their down-to earth, warm interaction with the audience and with each other, alongside their incredible improvisational talent made the performance. Particularly impressive was when they were joined by vocalist Bunty who performed solo at the Festival also.
The food at Playgroup was reasonably priced, great quality and of good variety. Breakfast favourite was the vegetarian bap (same place did a cracking nut roast) and for coffee and cake it was Grandmabs place (complete with all the staff dressed and acting as Grandma.)
For me, Playgroup put the emphasis on making your own Festival experience. Much as the name suggests, Playgroup set an environment in which to be free, to relax and to play. There were instruments, there were dressing up boxes and there were competitions. It was very family friendly, probably because everyone turned into a big kid!
Playgroup is exactly what Brighton needs to channel all its creativity. Keep up the great work guys!
© Copyright 2011 GoFestival Guide