Almost 22 years since the release of the debut hit album ‘One Touch’, the Sugababes are back and they mean business.
Further to their electrifying performances at Glastonbury, Victorious and a myriad of other festivals earlier this year, the iconic and original trio made up of Mutya Buena, Keisha Buchanan and Siobhan Donaghy are on tour for the first time in ten years since they last toured as MKS (Mutya Keisha Siobhan)
With stellar support from rising star Kara Marni who put on a fantastic display which included ‘Trippin’ – a monster of a track that samples Amerie’s ‘1 Thing’. ‘Over You’ and a very heartfelt rendition of Coldplay’s ‘Fix You’.
Kara gave a well-rounded and captivating performance and really helped pave the way to get the party started for a fantastic night of live music.
An elated crowd welcomed the Sugababes to the stage who kicked off proceedings with a sultry and cool rendition of ‘Push the Button’ which was followed in quick succession with ‘Red Dress’ and the brilliant ‘Hole in the Head’.
The trio have always been renowned for their impressive harmonies and their supercool attitudes, track by track, this was a masterclass in pop perfection with every member giving a high energy and an accomplished performance
Hit after hit, the girls showcased their epic back catalogue of their best-loved hits which sat effortlessly alongside some deep cuts and tracks from their MKS days which included ‘Flatline’ and ‘Love Me Hard’.
The Sugababes elated the crowd with tracks like ‘Ugly’, an emotional ‘Too Lost In You’, an impassioned rendition of ‘Stronger’ and ‘2 Hearts’.
One of the highlights of the set was a cover of Sweet Female Attitude’s ‘Flowers’, which was followed by ‘Round Round’ and the electrifying ‘Freak Like Me’. The band closed the set with fan favourite ‘About You Now’ which really set the 02 Academy in Bournemouth alight.
Melodic and magnificent in equal measure, the Sugababes effortlessly showed their pop pedigree thanks to their top-notch performance skills and their captivating and endearing stage presence.
25 years ago today, The Verve released their best-selling seminal album ‘Urban Hymns’ which ended up being one of their most recognisable and revered albums and received both critical acclaim and commercial success in equal measure.
Just one year earlier, the band was at breaking point, jaded from touring and in need of some much-needed respite. Frontman Richard Ashcroft needed to decompress and rejuvenate himself, physically, mentally and creatively – a reset was required and this ultimately led to the collection of songs that we now know and love as ‘Urban Hymns’ today and showcased era-defining tracks like ‘Bitter Sweet Symphony, ‘The Drugs Don’t Work’, ‘Lucky Man’ and ‘Sonnet’.
Some have argued that ‘Urban Hymns’ was the epitome of the swan song of Britpop’s cultural hegemony and I think it’s fair to say that the Britpop era was arguably on its way out as the nineties came to an end.
Fancy a deep dive into this incredible album? Take a look at our favourite facts about ‘Urban Hymns’ that you may not have known.
1) There was originally more material that could have been used than was eventually used on the album. Richard Ashcroft had an abundance of material to choose from, but after careful consideration, the 13 tracks on ‘Urban Hymns’ were the ones that eventually made the grade.
2) ‘Sonnet’ was never originally intended as a single – the band weren’t keen. The record label had approached the band wanting a fourth single to be released from the album, but collectively the band didn’t agree and didn’t want to ‘milk it’. As history shows, a compromise was reached and ‘Sonnet’, a powerful and emotive song that truly speaks to your soul was released, but as a limited edition.
3) ‘Urban Hymns’ could well have been a solo album. Richard Ashcroft pondered the idea of creating ‘Urban Hymns’ as a solo project. However, after much reflection, he vetoed that idea and decided to use the body of work for the band’s third album.
4) The album cover of ‘Urban Hymns’ is iconic and was designed by Brian Cannon and was shot in London’s Richmond Park.
5) Liam Gallagher features on this album on two tracks which include ‘Space and Time’ where he provides handclaps. The Oasis legend also contributed backing vocals on ‘Come On’, the final track on the album. Ironically, ‘Urban Hymns’ ended up knocking off ‘Be Here Now’, from the top of the album charts upon the week of its release and spent a total of five consecutive weeks at number 1.
6) There’s a hidden track which comes after the album closer ‘Come On’. You’ll have to wait precisely 6 and a half minutes (easier in the CD days!) but patience is a virtue and some things are worth waiting for, especially when it comes to the secret track, the fantastic ‘Deep Freeze’.
7) ‘Bitter Sweet Symphony’ never made it to number 1, despite it being one of the most distinguishable and most-loved songs of the decade. It did reach a very worthy number 2 position, but in fact, it was ‘The Drugs Don’t Work’ that was the best-selling single from the album which did attain the much-coveted top spot.
‘Urban Hymns’ is a triumph from start to finish thanks to its unabating candour, soul searching and complexity and remains a staple of an era-defining piece of modern British culture. It is quite simply, a masterpiece of exquisite musical vision.
For those holding on to the last of summer head to London’s iconic rooftop bar, Madison this weekend and be transported to the magic of the White Isle.
The City’s most stylish roof terrace has been transformed into an Ibiza-themed paradise. Expect boho chic furnishing, palms, and Balearic beats courtesy of the talented 10-person troupe: The Ibiza Orchestra. Incorporating a mix of brass, strings, singers and a DJ, this is the perfect way to end your summer.
Dance the night away to classic non-stop anthems while taking in the best views of the city skyline, and as the London lights twinkle below, indulge in some of Madison’s superb sips. Alongside the ever-popular Aperol Spritz, this new Madison menu delivers a selection of fresh, beach inspired creations guaranteed to give you all the Ibiza vibes. Here’s an exclusive preview of the top tipples they’ll be serving:
Aperum
A zesty mix of Aperol, Appleton Estate 12-Year-Old, Supasawa, ginger beer and mint
Pinaperol Colada
Reinventing a classic with Aperol, Koko Kanu, Wray & Nephew, Coco Lopez and pineapple juice
Ginger Lady Spritz
Swap your herbal tea for Madison’s Aperol, Aloe Vera juice, Prosecco, ginger and lemongrass cordial, plus crystal ginger cocktail
Exotic Negroni
For those with more bitter taste buds, try this irresistible mix of Campari, Mezcal, Pussanga Liqueur and Vermouth
The Ibiza Orchestra will be hosting this one-off event at Madison on Friday 30th September, bookings can be made here
The End Of The Road festival has been captivating festival goers since its inauguration in 2006, thanks to its quaint location in the heart of the countryside on the Dorset/Wiltshire border, its boutique vibes and its carefully curated lineup of music.
Located at the scenic Larmer Tree Gardens, this festival offers a wide range of musical talent on offer and has been instrumental in showcasing talents like Tame Impala, Father John Misty, Sleaford Mods, Little Simz and more.
Thursday
With an eclectic lineup over four days, Thursday saw Texan psychedelic trio Khruangbin provide a cosmically delicious performance that was atmospheric and exhilarating in equal measure. The Houston band effortlessly fuses together an intoxicating mix of psychedelia, Middle Eastern soul, jazz-funk, reggae dub and more.
There were rousing renditions of tracks like ‘August 10’ and ‘Maria También’ as well as some electric interpretations of Dick Dale’s ‘Miserlou’, Spandau Ballet’s ‘True’ and a funk-laden version of Tina Turner’s ‘What’s Love Got To Do With It’.
Another standout was post-genre American artist Sudan Archives who put on a dynamic and well-rounded performance playing her fiddle with a dizzying panache.
At the close of ‘NPBQ’ she hollers that she just ‘wants to have her ti*tties out’, the excitement for the first night of ‘End of The Road’ is clearly palpable and is rubbing off on everyone, especially Brittney Parks.
Friday
Friday saw performances from Seattle indie-folk rockers Fleet Foxes, and London-four piece Automotion who put on a high energy and compelling performance complete with impressive driving guitar work.
Mali’s Tinariwen which included some pretty nifty guitar work from leader Ibrahim Ag Alhabib who cut a resplendent and majestic figure and got the crowd going with his undulating rhythms.
Post-punk rockers Porridge Radio put on a passionate yet vulnerable display at the Garden stage, but it was the magnificent Soccer Mommy who was the standout act of the night with her candid storytelling and shoegaze-driven guitars that drew in quite the crowd over at the Big Top stage.
‘Bones’ was an absolute triumph, but the overall set was a dreamy waltz through Allison’s impressive body of work.
The genre-gnarling members of Black Midi served a typically avante-garde, frenzied and vociferous set over at the Garden stage. Their rock opera album Hellfire was performed almost in its entirety asking the crowd to vape collectively to create a smoke machine effect – and why not?!
Fleet Foxes were a worthy headliner for Friday, they sounded fantastic and their harmonies were rich and deep in equal measure.
This was an intricate and impressive performance and was absolutely worth waiting for after Covid halted their plans to play at last year’s festival.
The set was stellar in every way, with the inclusion of ‘Can I Believe You’, ‘Phoenix’, ‘Drops in the River’ amongst others.
Saturday
Saturday saw solid performances from the likes of Kevin Morby, The Magnetic Fields, The Weather Station, Los Bitchos and more. Alabaster Deplume added a serene and celebratory vibe to Saturday’s proceedings.
Without a doubt, the endearing Perfume Genius was a magnificent addition to End of the Road. Despite worrying about falling over (don’t talk about it – thoughts become things and all that jazz!) he strutted like the peacocks that have been walking around the Larmer Tree Gardens for years!
An abundant and accomplished performance, Hadreas is akin to a flamboyant Vegas showman, especially with the electrifying ‘Queen’.
Of course, it was the magnificent Pixies that drew the largest crowd of the festival thus far. Kicking off proceedings with an exhilarating rendition of ‘Gouge Away’ closely followed by ‘Debaser’, ‘Hey’, ‘Planet of Sound’ and the ultra-savage ‘U-Mass’.
Whilst the newer material was well-received, it was those classic Pixies hits that got the crowd going. The influential indie-rock pioneers showcased their incredible back catalogue with vigour, panache and class.
Sunday
From Kurt Vile & The Violators and Lucy Dacas to the brilliant Yard Act and Willie J Healey, Sunday was yet another monumental day of music at End of The Road.
Bright Eyes provided an impassioned and emotional performance with heartfelt tracks like ‘Lover, I don’t have to Love’, ‘Bowl of Oranges’ and ‘Persona non grata’. Melodic and melancholic in equal measure, Conor still managed to captivate the audience despite a few digressive interludes.
Aldous Harding closed Sunday at the Garden Stage in a magical and ethereal way. An emotional and hypnotic performer, you truly feel a sense of serenity when listening to her sing and her whole set is a remarkable and thrilling affair.
Harding along with several other spell-binding and riveting acts showcased once again why the End of the Road has endless appeal and is one of the most visionary, culturally-rich, enlightening and exploratory festivals in the UK.
The coveted Mercury Music prize has always been one of the most prestigious prizes in music, but with tonight’s ceremony looming, let’s take a look at who might take home the illustrious title.
12 incredible artists and acts have been shortlisted for the prize which has previously been awarded to the likes of The xx, Arctic Monkeys, Alt-J, Dave, Wolf Alice, Skepta and last year’s winner, the very wonderful Arlo Parks.
The contenders and their albums are:
Fergus McCreadie – Forest Floor
Gwenno – Tresor
Harry Styles – Harry’s House
Jessie Buckley & Bernard Butler – For All Our Days That Tear The Heart
Joy Crookes – Skin
Kojey Radical – Reason To Smile
Little Simz – Sometimes I Might Be Introvert
Nova Twins – Supernova
Sam Fender – Seventeen Going Under
Self Esteem – Prioritise Pleasure
Wet Leg – Wet Leg
Yard Act – The Overload
All twelve would be worthy winners, but it has been suggested that Self Esteem, Little Simz, the Nova Twins and Wet Leg (the later two groups were shortlisted by our Music Editor in our ‘One’s to watch in 2022’ round-up earlier this year) might just clinch the prize.
However, don’t underestimate the likes of Yard Act or the brilliant Jessie Buckley & Bernard Butler whose album ‘For All Our Days that Tear the Heart review’ has been lauded as a mesmerising and impressive body of work that garnered both critical acclaim and commercial success to take home the prize.
All of the nominees apart from Harry Styles will perform live at the ceremony and the winner will be determined by the judging panel which includes Annie Mac, Anna Calvi, Jami Cullum, Jamz Supernova, Loyle Carner, and Tshepo Mokoena.
Today is an exciting day for David Bowie fans. It’s been revealed that musical and style icon David Bowie is to be honoured with a stone on the Camden-based trail that honours artists and trailblazers from around the globe.
The announcement comes in the lead-up to the global release of Brett Morgen’s new Bowie documentary ‘Moonage Daydream’ – an experiential, cinematic odyssey about the universally acclaimed musician which will be in cinemas from the 23rd of September.
Bowie’s stone on the Music Walk of Fame will be laid opposite Camden Town Tube Station and will be in the company of other music legends including The Who, Madness and Amy Winehouse.
The stone will be unveiled in a star-studded ceremony outside on 15th September, with friends, collaborators and fans of the ‘Life on Mars’ singer paying tribute to the London-born artist, widely regarded as one of the most influential musicians of all time.
Bowie’s phenomenal musical credentials need little introduction, with timeless hits including ‘Starman’, ‘Rebel Rebel’, ‘Space Oddity’ and ‘Let’s Dance’.
During his 54-year career, his record sales were estimated at over 100 million records worldwide undoubtedly making him one of the best-selling musicians of all time, with 11 UK number-one albums.
Bowie was known for innovative sounds and visions constantly reinventing himself over the years. David was particularly lauded for his groundbreaking work in the 1970s and had strong connections to London.
Born in Brixton, Bowie performed at Camden’s Roundhouse, just down the road from where the stone will be laid, three times in 1970 with his then newly formed band ‘The Hype’.
Founder of the Music Walk of Fame, Lee Bennett said: “David Bowie is a global influence, one of the ultimate influencers and sooner or later, we had to have him on The Music Walk Of Fame.
Our intention is for this to be the highest honour a music figure can receive in the UK and beyond, the unveiling of David’s stone ensures that legacy. We have huge plans for the future, but for now, let’s celebrate one of the greats of music.”
The stone unveiling will coincide with the release of ‘Moonage Daydream’ which has been described as an experimental cinematic odyssey, that explores Bowie’s creative, musical and spiritual journey.
Fans can expect to see never-seen-before footage, performances and music, the film is guided by Bowie’s narration and is the first film to be officially sanctioned by Bowie’s estate.
Victorious has gone from being an under-the-radar late summer festival to one of the major players in the UK festival scene.
Music Festival has always boasted some of the most eclectic lineups in live music and has previously seen acts like Rudimental, Royal Blood, Manic Street Preachers, The Charlatans, Years & Years and Blossoms.
The festival site is just a stone’s throw from the seafront at Southsea and is renowned for attracting festival-goers of all ages.
This musical extravaganza is one of the highlights of the UK festival calendar and this year saw the likes of the Stereophonics, Becky Hill, Paolo Nutini, Bastille and Sam Fender performing to a sold-out crowd.
One of the best things about Victorious is that there’s something for everyone, whether you are into indie, pop, folk or dance, there’s certain to be a huge selection of acts that you will be adding to your ‘must-watch’ list.
Friday
Scottish rockers Primal Scream kicked off the entire Victorious Festival 2022 with a storming set which included some of their most-loved tracks like ‘Movin On Up’, ‘Country Girl’ and the infectious ‘Rocks’. Bobby Gillespie and the band were on fine form and proved their live credentials once again with a fantastic set in the sunshine.
The Common stage also saw great performances from Anna Calvi, Soak and Self Esteem, but one of Friday’s highlights was from indie rockers James (who we reviewed in Porto earlier this year) who provided a stellar set which included ‘Come Home’, ‘Sit Down’, ‘Beautiful Beaches’ and of course the festival classic ‘Sit Down’ which was one of the entire weekend’s highlights.
Naturally, Tim Booth was at his flexible best, dancing as if his life depended on it as well as crowd surfing twice. Luckily, the crowd didn’t let him down, and neither did he.
Tim and the rest of the band were on top form, although the omission of tracks like ‘Say Something’ and ‘Laid’ were slightly disappointing, but when you have a back catalogue as extensive as James, something has always got to give!
Bombay Bicycle Club were on their unusual top form with a jam-packed collection of songs which included ‘Eat, Sleep, Wake’, ‘Shuffle’ and their reflective cover of Selena Gomez’s ‘Lose You To Love Me’.
Friday’s headliner was the incredible Stereophonics who are no strangers to the Victorious stage. Their set was pretty much the same as what the guys played when they supported Pearl Jam at BST Hyde Park earlier this summer and was a masterclass in performance from frontman Kelly Jones and the band.
Fans were treated to rousing renditions of hit after hit which included favourites like ‘Maybe Tomorrow’, ‘The Bartender & The Thief’, ‘Pick a Part That’s New’ and ‘Just Looking’ as well as tracks from their last album ‘Ochya!’ which came out earlier this year.
Friday night’s festival was closed out with a spectacular firework display which provided a colourful and thrilling end to a high-octane night of music.
Saturday
The second day of the Victorious Festival is always a pretty stellar one and Victorious 2022 was no exception.
It saw some incredible performances from the Sugababes (which coincided with the Royal Navy carrier HMS Prince of Wales passing by – is this royal approval or a mere coincidence?!), We are Scientists and Irish rockers Inhaler who delivered an energetic and dynamic set with tracks like ‘It Won’t Always Be Like This’ and ‘When It Breaks’.
Another Victorious veteran came in the shape of Ocean Colour Scene which included some epic guitar playing from Steve Cradock who was resplendent in a cricket jumper, looking effortlessly cool as always.
The set from Ocean Colour Scene was first class and was packed full of their most-loved hits which included ‘The Riverboat Song’ ‘One for the Road’, ‘The Day We Caught The Train’ and ‘Hundred Mile High City’.
Saturday also saw performances from The Wombats, White Lies, Declan McKenna all of whom served electrifying sets to the enraptured crowd.
Bastille’s set was first class and with tracks like ‘Back to the Future’, ‘Flaws’ and of course ‘Pompeii’, it’s easy to see why.
Paolo Nutini was another Saturday headliner, it was difficult to choose between Bastille and Paulo who delivered an incredibly strong set that effortlessly demonstrated his capabilities as a lyricist and vocalist.
Fans were not disappointed with his setlist, but the omission of ‘New Shoes’ in its entirety did ruffle a few feathers from those wanting to hear it live. However, Nutini’s set was a well-rounded, crowd-pleasing affair and was a strong way to close Saturday for Victorious.
Sunday
The Libertines kicked off day 3 of Victorious with a bang, this is a band that doesn’t disappoint. Fans were treated to a set list chock full of favourites which included ‘Up The Bracket’, ‘Don’t Look Back Into The Sun’ ‘What Became of the Likely Lads’ and ‘Can’t Stand Me Now’ which really got the crowd going.
One of my favourite things about this band is the chemistry between Pete Doherty and Carl Barât – both of which put on stellar vocal performances throughout their short but sweet set.
Sunday also saw some superb performances from Sam Ryder who closed with a spectacular rendition of ‘Spaceman’, Editors, Amy MacDonald and Metronomy who dazzled the crowd with tracks like ‘Right On Time’ and ‘Love Letters’.
Whilst there’s no doubt that the Castle Stage was heaving with fantastic performances, two of the standout performances from not just the final day of music, but from the entire festival came from the Castle Stage and the Acoustic stage from Embrace and James Walsh respectively.
Both acts were absolutely incredible; showcasing their impressive back catalogues as well as effortlessly including newer tracks, with world-class sets that truly charmed the crowd.
Embrace who have just released their 8th studio album ‘How To Be A Person Like Other People’ were on fire and fans were treated to sublime performances of ‘Gravity’, ‘Ashes’ ‘Come Back To What You Know’ amongst other beautiful tracks.
James Walsh (Starsailor) has a voice that you could listen to for hours. His understated, intelligent and heartfelt performance had the crowd in the palm of his hands.
His sincerity and tenderness when delivering a song are second-to-none and he has a very special quality that is both captivating and endearing in equal measure.
Songs like ‘Alcoholic’ and ‘Silence is Easy’ are absolutely exquisite and it was a real pleasure to hear them performed with just a guitar in such an intimate setting.
Sunday was one of the busiest days of the festival and with a lineup of Becky Hill, Anne-Marie and Sophie Ellis-Bextor on the Castle Stage, it’s easy to see why.
All three acts provided an energetic and exhilarating set which got the crowds on their feed. Nothing But Thieves provided a rockier end to the pop proceedings with a barn-storming set which included ‘Impossible’ and ‘Real Love Song’.
Suede was one of the final acts to perform on the main Common stage with frontman Brett Anderson delivering hit after hit like ‘Metal Mickey’,‘Animal Nitrate’ and ‘Trash’ before closing with ‘The Beautiful Ones’.
His commitment to delivering a high-octane performance cannot be denied, but he did bizarrely have something close to a meltdown mid-set when he started telling members of the crowd to ‘f**k off’.
Sam Fender’s star continues to rise, not only did he receive huge plaudits for his performance at Glastonbury, but this year alone, he’s supported both The Rolling Stones and The Killers proving that he’s quite possibly one of the biggest musicians in the UK right now.
In a fantastic set of almost 90 minutes, Sam treated the gargantuan crowd to tracks like ‘Seventeen Going Under’, ‘Will We Talk’, ‘Getting Started’ ‘Saturday’, and of course ‘Hypersonic Missiles’ which closed Victorious 2022 accompanied by an electrifying display of colourful pyrotechnics which culminated another amazing weekend of live music down on the south coast.
If you’re looking for entertainment for your next event, you may want to consider hiring a tribute band. Tribute bands are becoming increasingly popular in the Midwest for a few reasons. Keep reading to find out what makes tribute bandshigh-quality entertainment for upcoming events!
They Offer A Unique Experience For Fans Of The Original Artist
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This can be a particularly appealing option for fans unable to see the original artist live. In addition, tribute bands often put their spin on familiar songs, which can add an element of surprise and excitement to the concert experience. As a result, tribute bands offer fans an enjoyable and affordable way to enjoy high-quality entertainment for upcoming events.
Tribute Bands Can Be Found In Every Genre
Tribute bands can be found in every musical genre. Whether you’re looking for a country tribute band, a rock tribute band, or even a classical tribute band, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in the midwest.
And because tribute bands are typically made up of experienced musicians, you can expect them to put on an exciting and energetic show that keeps you entertained all night. So if you’re looking for a fun and unique way to enjoy your favorite music, check out a tribute band the next time you’re in the midwest.
Tribute Bands Often Have A Large Following
Tribute bands often have a large following. They may have developed a cult following among fans of the original artist, or they may be trendy in their own right. Either way, they can draw a large crowd to an event.
They often provide a fun and nostalgic way for people to enjoy music from their favorite artists. Whether you’re a diehard fan of the Beatles or want to listen to classic rock, there’s sure to be a tribute band you’ll enjoy watching.
Tribute Bands Provide An Affordable Option For Event Entertainment
Tribute bands high quality entertainment for all upcoming events are often hired to play at weddings, corporate events, and other private functions. One of the main reasons for their popularity is that they provide an affordable option for event entertainment compared to hiring an original artist or band.
Tribute bands are typically less expensive to hire because they do not have the exact overhead costs of an original artist or band. Tribute bands often have lower performance fees than original artists or bands. As a result, tribute bands can be a cost-effective option for event planners looking to provide high-quality entertainment for upcoming events on a budget.
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Imagine if 20 of London’s best bars were to pop up in a beautiful Georgian garden slap bang in the middle of London and bring you the al fresco cocktail experience of your dreams?
Well, you don’t have to imagine it anymore thanks to the genius team at Cocktails in the city who have transformed Bedford Square Garden into the ultimate summer cocktail paradise during August and September.
Food and Drink
Dubbed the London Summer series, it’s a delicious medley of street food, cocktails and live entertainment and a must-visit for fans of all things al fesco who want to make the most of the UK heatwave. Whatever you want from a drinks festival, Cocktails in the city deliver in abundance. Whilst you dawdle around the beautiful garden sampling the finest cocktails that London has to offer, you can also indulge in lip-smackingly delicious street food too. Gorge on the Bento box of your choice from Sticks ‘N’ Sushi or tuck into Cafe Pacificos’s Tacos and Burritos, loaded with a sensational guacamole and perfectly crunchy corn chips. And for those wanting something a bit more gourmet, Oficina 00’s show stopping pasta dishes which include fried ravioli and panko lasagna will have you queuing up for a second serving.
In addition to seriously bop-inducing live music, there is also the option of swaying your way around the garden courtesy of the silent disco . You can also learn a new skill (and also cool down) by taking part in the popular ice carving workshop, and the best part? You can use that ice in a bespoke cocktail that you can make yourself in the interactive cocktail making masterclass.
Music and Entertainment
If you’re able to drag yourself out of the comfy garden chairs, a game of shuffleboard where groups of up to 8 can participate definitely beckons for the more competitive amongst us whilst sparkly festival makeovers and pampering, courtesy of Chambord and Iris add a touch of glamour and sparkle to the day. As if that’s not enough, there are tasting stage talks aplenty throughout the day that you can pop into if you want to learn about different flavors, pick up some tips from the experts and be immersed into the world of cocktail making.
Get Involved
So if you’re in need of a summer plan, GRAB YOUR TICKETS now for the next installment of the Summer Series which is taking place 11th- 13th August. It’ll be a Summer Series with a twist, an ‘International Edition’ which promises to transport you around the globe with a diverse food and drinks offering. The best bit? If you attend you will have a chance to win a trip to St Lucia as well as other many other amazing prizes throughout the weekend!
Spending the weekend at Barn on the Farm Festival, Gloucester…
Last month I made the journey from Norfolk to Over farm in Gloucester to experience my first Barn on the Farm festival, and I can safely say that my first experience won’t be my last, because WOW – what a weekend!
Ben and I packed up with festival snacks and baby wipes a plenty and set off Friday lunchtime, we arrived at the festival and pitched up our tent (with extra thanks to our neighbours for their help haha!), we made our way to the arena to check out the layout.
On Friday afternoon we were treated to a beautiful performance by Plested on the intimate barn stage – we only discovered Plested at the festival and have been firm fans ever since; we can’t get enough of Worthy of You and Either You Love Me Or You Don’t – get them both added to your playlist; you won’t regret it!
After a couple of duck wraps for dinner and a quick change from travelling we headed over to the main stage to catch James Bay as the sunset and it was such a magical set – just one man and his guitar, blowing the audience away song by song – what a night!
After a rather rainy start Saturday morning (what’s a UK festival without a little rain, huh?), we went in search of coffee and some breakfast buns (the food and drink offerings at the festival were GREAT– think boutique food & gin carts!), Saturday afternoon was for wood fired pizzas and acoustic sets from Maverick Sabre (just as incredible as you’d imagine FYI!).
As the day went on we caught acts from Amber Run, Cassio and headline act Bombay Bicycle Club. Ben and I adored the festival, it was so well laid out, there was a really lovely vibe (super family friendly too), intimate performances from some of the best up and coming (and established) alternative acts. We’re hooked and can’t wait to return to Barn on The Farm in 2023!
