Willowstone Festival part 1/2
July 13, 2010 No Comments
Yeeo! (C) Gary Moore 2010
When people think of the UK festival scene they think 100,000+ people at Glastonbury but our little island comes up with such things as the Willowstone festival in Killyleagh, a million miles from Donington and the like. Upon arrival at the field to set up for the night, a relaxed atmosphere was already set in motion due to festival-goers chilling out and enjoying a few beers, soaking up the beautiful view of Strangford loch. The diverse range of people inhabiting the campsite set up for an interesting night of banter. The festival set up was unique with its very calm setting, friendly staff and almost family orientated feeling…
When entering the walled garden I quickly realised that this was a very eco friendly festival with a “hippy” commune feel to it from the range of people selling jewellery and trinkets from family tents and a variety of organic foods on sale – definitely a far cry from the commercialised feel of other festivals in the UK. The Answer straight off their sell-out show in the Ulster hall and enlighted support slot of the world revered AC/DC should really be performing on a much larger stage than the inflatable one erected at the top of the field on a shallow incline – if anything a slightly off putting choice of location for all today’s bands.
The Red Admiral's frontman enacting his best Liam Gallagher impression (C) Gary Moore 2010
The first act of the day coming on shortly after lunchtime are The Red Admirals the crowd are uninspired as is to be expected this early in the day .The 3-piece band play with an enthusiasm of just being able to run through their set without any hitches, sounding like a Snow Patrol from down the peninsula, infusing the swagger of Brit rock favourites Oasis. A small crowd has gathered next to the stage consisting of friends of the band and family to spur on these local favourites.
That's a mean acoustic guitar pose from Scorpion Jack right there (C) Gary Moore 2010
Second to the stage is Scorpion Jack – a two piece band consisting of an acoustic guitar/vocalist and a traditional Bodron player. They have apparent chemistry on stage engaging in interplay with the crowd. The style of music is rooted in Celtic tradition. The highlight of the set is definitely “error 404”, which they cite as a reflection on computers and the downfall of technology – a clever contrast in traditional instruments with the theme of modern technology. The overall performance appeals to the crowd and adds a welcome enthusiasm, heightening the sense of anticipation for the next band on.
Ruby Colly... concentrating very hard (C) Gary Moore 2010
Third up is Ruby Colley – her brand of classical music acts as little more than background music to the other events and various drinking sessions. As is often the case with classical music, it creates an atmosphere but doesn’t exactly make the crowd come alive. Although as uninspired as the crowd are they seem to take appreciation of her musical talent and playing abilities, watching attentively for the entirety of her set.
This Colenso Parade guy appears to have his own face printed several times on his guitar strap... or Maybe it's a Beatle. Either way, that's an ego and a half (C) Gary Moore 2010
Colenso Parade Take to the stage with vigour and enthusiasm, brandishing matching guitars and attire. From the minute they hit the stage they engage with the modest crowd that has congregated, joking and playing around. The stand out performer is the second guitarist who has plenty of energy and enthusiasm as he bounces around the stage. They power through a series of indie tunes all the while full of confidence and swagger, sounding like a Irish take on bands like The View and the Killers, while infusing pop/punk elements in the style of Blink 182 and Fall Out Boy. Their technical proficiency never really comes into question, even as they cover up a few technical hitches with banter, creating a feel-good atmosphere.
Katie and her carnival striking some awesome singing poses - meanwhile the one on the left appears to be undertaking a ventriliquist role (C) Gary Moore 2010
This helps set the tone for the experimental and unusual “Katie and The carnival” and it seems that she has indeed brought the carnival. The influx of unusual instruments such as a double bass, various washboards and maracas etc, lead to a very unusual and distinguished sound that combined with the lead singer’s visceral and powerful voice, creates a very refreshing experience.
Certain members of the 5-piece group seem to have less to do and lurk behind the impressive front-woman. Even though this type of loud, brash and often clunky music doesn’t always work, it has today roused the spectators into a true carnival atmosphere. This is a band that could easily fit intothe pages of Q or NME magazine.
To Be Continued…
By Kyle Lemon