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Guilfest 2009
Just like the weather this year’s line-up had a variety of moods and sounds. Amongst the highlights on the main stage on the opening day was comedy ensemble Tragedy an all metal tribute act to The Bee Gees who seemed to connect with the afternoon audience who reveled in some beautiful sun baked conditions. Former Wildhearts founder member Ginger graced the stage in a kilt and put on a strong set of songs that prepared the audience for the invasion of The Stranglers who effectively put on a greatest hits package full of songs that are now standards amongst lovers of punk rock, even without original singer Hugh Cornwell their performance was full of fire and power. Headliners Motorhead took the level up a further notch with their no nonsense brand of brain aching heavy metal, front man Lemmy who seems to have the secret of being frozen in time did what he does best which is just being Lemmy and is now rightly regarded as one of the icons of heavy rock. On the Ents 24 stage headliners Nouvelle Vague put on an eclectic mix of Bossa Nova into the covers of Talking Heads, Buzzcocks and Depeche Mode originals which resonated well with the audience.
Saturday’s bill was in equal measures both strong and varied, Florence Rawlings performance was both sassy and gritty and with her excellent backing band adept in playing soul, jazz and funk arrangements will appeal to fans of Amy Winehouse and the like. From future stars to past ones in the shape of Linda Lewis who turned the clock back over four decades highlighted the supreme range of differing musical styles both old and new. Toploader and Athlete both put in workmanlike performances but it was perhaps a revitalized Charlatans who put in a stand out set that seemed to compliment the last of the day’s sunshine. Musical icon Brian Wilson and all round creative
Genius behind one of the legends of pop The Beach Boys came on stage to a heavy shower that stayed throughout and was at odds to the sound of Wilsons brand of Californian sunshine. And what a set it was covering all the classics from the 60’s and 70’s which made the weather conditions just about tolerable.
Highlights from the concluding Sunday performances were that of The Beat, Wailers, and The Happy Mondays on the main stage, King Bees on the Rock Cave Stage, Fugative and Ironik on the Etns24 stage and some wry and hilarious observations from Andrew Bird and John Moloney in the comedy tent all maintaining the versatility and quality of this ever expanding festival.
For more pictures from Guilfest 2009 visit the
Guilfest Gallery
Reviewed by Tony Bartolo | Pictures by Russ Kirby |
