Thursday
This was probably one of the best opening nights I can remember.
The music began at 6 in the Radio 2 tent. It was an explosive start from Frank Turner and his band. The former heavy metal / punk man played some scintilating songs about life, death and punk rock. There was a great songs about waking up the morning after a party in a strange house with strangers all around. The lyrics were fun, if littered with f****** too many times. The songs all catchy and memorable. The performance, minus his keyboard player away on jury service, was excellent. A modern day Billy Bragg.
The bluegrass band Cherryholmes won the day for the most notes per second! Some quite extraordinary playing from the Nashville based group. 'Pop' Jere leads the band on double bass. Mum plays mandolin, with the two sons on guitar and fiddle and the two daughters on banjo and fiddle; the youngest daughter only 16. Not sure what the songs were about as the lyrics didn't come over too well. The harmonies were superb, all sang around the same microphone. The playing was fast and technically brilliant. Cherryholmes are superb festival material creating a great atmosphere.
The next band Tunng are a strange mix of electronica and acoustic folk. Many strange rhythms and sounds emerged from the guy 'playing' the Laptop at the back. The percussionist had varied odd objects to hit and doubled on clarinet. The three acoustic guitars merged well and at times produced some lovely effects. The lead singer, Becky Jacobs, began by flashing her pink dress about in time to the opening song. Again, the lyrics were difficult to hear. The songs seemed to me difficult to access. However, as the set progressed, I began to see where they were coming from. There were a couple of beautiful songs in four part harmony, with some interesting effects from the Laptop and percussion. For me, 45 minutes was enough and I probably won't buy the CD. However, it was interesting to see the way that 'folk' music is progressing and changing.
At this point I went for fish and chips and cheesy chips for Jen and it rained heavily. I got wet and I missed the beginning of the set from Laura Marling and her band. She has a powerful voice and sings some good songs but she has no stage presence. At only 18 she has much to learn. She came on late and finished early. She failed to introduce her band or say any 'thank you's' to anyone. Jennifer thought she was brilliant. I wasn't so sure.
This was probably the busiest opening night I have ever seen. Met up with some Keelby friends and bumped into a couple of SNAK boys too! Enjoyed a few beers and waddled back to the B & B to write this. Apparently they do a great breakfast. Watch this space!