Brownstock 2012 : festival review

The event was Headlined by Labrinth on the Saturday and Futureheads on the Sunday, the former's mix of guitar anthems and piano based talents impressing no end, and his epic 'Earthquake' anthem tearing down the house. 

The Futureheads performed their classics, intermingled with some of their new edits from latest album 'Rant', however for me it was all about the Good Shed dance dome hosted by Ibiza Rocks stalwart Doorly. The Yorkshire big hitter presented his beloved Pigeon Hole label to an astounded audience, with a little help from Radio 1's jockey of discs Zane Lowe; who played anthem upon anthem to the delight of the uproarious crowd. His edgy selection of tracks were a highlight of the festival for me; his energy and charisma on the mic maintaining the crowd's excitement. Grandmaster Flash was also on hand to elaborate on Zane's amazing set by giving us a trademark mix with some seriously epic scratching thrown into some classic tracks.

The site itself was mesmerising to say the least. There was a silent disco tent which had many a festival goer bopping along in their own solitary world, and the treehouse stage - which was a new addition, and the talk of the festival. Built into two oak trees within the festival fields, the stage itself saw over 50 local acts perform to a packed crowd and an amazing view. The Piano Bar in the festival campsite was another quirky and unusual addition to the festival, with its sitting room theme complete with board games and homemade cakes. The stage opened with a cabaret show on the Friday night, with burlesque dance performances. Then during the weekend this tent was packed full of musicians and festival visitors alike. Another new installation was The Stumble Inn, which gave a more house orientated edge to the festival. No Artificial Colours and Saytek headlined this tent. 

Other highlights of the weekend were the hilarious Cuban Brothers, with their famous swagger and break dancing antics. Their interaction with the fan faithful was brilliant as always, and was always going to be a sure fire winner to get everyone going. The ever so funny Angelos Epithemiou meanwhile made his debut DJ performance, whipping everyone into hysterics as he blended tracks including Russia's national anthem and Status Quo, as well as performing his hilarious stand up routine.

It's safe to say that the Brownstock legacy was certainly in full force here; not only did the Brown family program the festival perfectly with all the amazing acts, they also handpicked the selection of food emporiums - not to mention the decor and layout of the site itself. You have to give a big hand to the family, who never leave a stone unturned in order to create the best atmosphere possible.

Brownstock Festival 2013 will take place from 30th Aug to 1st Sept 2013.

Photo: Tracy Morter

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