Two days of festival hype, loud music and piles of people has drained me of plenty of energy for the closing day. But with plenty of great acts to come, let's forge on.
The lack of energy is evident in the unwitting choice of laid back bands to take on which ends up working in my favour, but all credit must go to Broken Social Scene for getting me back in the mood which would have not set me up for some wilderness dancing to Bagraiders or unparalleled amounts of fun with siren songstress Goldfrapp.
Farewell to you, epic festival. It is sad but inevitable, and as I leave the site and reflect, all up it was everything I could have asked for.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Monday, August 2, 2010
Empire of the Sun, 10.45PM Sun
There is no need to expect anything less than what Empire of the Sun will produce visually because whatever you can imagine will be matched and bettered.
Luke Steele lacks no fashion sense when it comes to his futuristic soldier outfit and prominent headdress. The stage dancers would also shine in the dark with their loud sparkly numbers. Its what can only be created within the heads of EOTS that is projected on the screen behind a large elevated performance platform and mixing desk surrounded by vertical lights.
Standing on the Shore, We are the People and a title that escapes me brings the happy crowd into their world and sounds nothing but solid. It also showcases some quick and impressive dancer costume changes.
What sound like many studio produced non album appearing tracks soon turn the display into an interactive DJ set that uses Luke's live vocals as the accent. The clever use of alternate microphones to alter his voice, a well structured feature.
Electronic ballad Without You brings the focus back onto the live element and loud cheers from moshing patrons reaffirms the support that this outfit has. Now focusing more on instrumental highlights a real cosmical feel is exuded before a short encore break.
This break works as a stroke of genius at re-igniting the crowd for a splendid display of more costume changes and stellar finale, Walking On A Dream.
Being the consummate professionals the only fitting farewell was a hand in hand linked bow.
Electronic pop fun at its full power!
Luke Steele lacks no fashion sense when it comes to his futuristic soldier outfit and prominent headdress. The stage dancers would also shine in the dark with their loud sparkly numbers. Its what can only be created within the heads of EOTS that is projected on the screen behind a large elevated performance platform and mixing desk surrounded by vertical lights.
Standing on the Shore, We are the People and a title that escapes me brings the happy crowd into their world and sounds nothing but solid. It also showcases some quick and impressive dancer costume changes.
What sound like many studio produced non album appearing tracks soon turn the display into an interactive DJ set that uses Luke's live vocals as the accent. The clever use of alternate microphones to alter his voice, a well structured feature.
Electronic ballad Without You brings the focus back onto the live element and loud cheers from moshing patrons reaffirms the support that this outfit has. Now focusing more on instrumental highlights a real cosmical feel is exuded before a short encore break.
This break works as a stroke of genius at re-igniting the crowd for a splendid display of more costume changes and stellar finale, Walking On A Dream.
Being the consummate professionals the only fitting farewell was a hand in hand linked bow.
Electronic pop fun at its full power!
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Richard Ashcroft, 10.04PM Sun
Without question, the most extraordinary thing I have witnessed when it comes to anything to do with live gigs. In true English Rock 'n' Roll style, legend Ashcroft plays only his new release single Are You Ready to a medium sized crowd and storms off stage.
It what seemed to be an incident that may have been provoked by front of stage fans, Ashcroft picks up stage equipment including his tambourine and microphone and heaved them in various directions. What's seems to follow is verbal abuse towards patrons and an aggressive jump from stage towards the mosh, where from my line of sight of Richard is lost.
The song ran its length and casually band members scattered. None of whom will be seen again.
Roughly 15 minutes pass, all the while a restless crowd cheers encouragingly for the set to continue and scream abusively in aggravation of what will consequently result.
The announcement is made that Richard will not be returning due to voice issues. As if anyone in the tent will believe that.
It what seemed to be an incident that may have been provoked by front of stage fans, Ashcroft picks up stage equipment including his tambourine and microphone and heaved them in various directions. What's seems to follow is verbal abuse towards patrons and an aggressive jump from stage towards the mosh, where from my line of sight of Richard is lost.
The song ran its length and casually band members scattered. None of whom will be seen again.
Roughly 15 minutes pass, all the while a restless crowd cheers encouragingly for the set to continue and scream abusively in aggravation of what will consequently result.
The announcement is made that Richard will not be returning due to voice issues. As if anyone in the tent will believe that.
Goldfrapp, 9.05PM Sun
Welcome to Goldfrapp's world, look forward to discovering it.
A backdrop that replicates something from a sci-fi movie set and costumes that pretty much follow suit. Through an eye catching silver lame, Goldfrapp enters centre in a black shimmering poncho that replicates something of a crow with its wings spread wide.
The green back lighting and industrial fans giving a great windswept look contribute to stage presence that has not been seen all weekend. A mystical look that has influences of world magic and mystery.
With single spotlight burning brightly upon this drawing figure, a great performance of Number 1 complimented by visuals that make me feel 'oh so glad' to be experiencing this event, no other stage performance has come close.
Brand new release, Believer, keeps the energy moving and the crowds energy risers to match. The fresh tracks & synth sound continues in high intensity for Alive and the performance of Rocket works this crowd and me into an amazing frenzy. Her performance experience shows and shines, brand new songs never sounded this good.
One of my most loved sounds, the dirty synth gets a real workout in Don't Stop This Train and with an awesome backing lineup who do nothing else but providing a sound that you can't help but love and move to.
Ride on the Wild Horse is played and has beautiful polish of your favourite digital track with every piece of vocal flair you would ask for in a live show.
That vocal flair is unwavering throughout Strict Machine and is convincing me on the spot that this the best live electronic performance I have ever seen. Sorry Delphic! Empire of the Sun will have to bring their A+ game to follow that!
Makes me wish my camera battery hadn't died so I could film the performance of final song Oh La La, such a shame.
A backdrop that replicates something from a sci-fi movie set and costumes that pretty much follow suit. Through an eye catching silver lame, Goldfrapp enters centre in a black shimmering poncho that replicates something of a crow with its wings spread wide.
The green back lighting and industrial fans giving a great windswept look contribute to stage presence that has not been seen all weekend. A mystical look that has influences of world magic and mystery.
With single spotlight burning brightly upon this drawing figure, a great performance of Number 1 complimented by visuals that make me feel 'oh so glad' to be experiencing this event, no other stage performance has come close.
Brand new release, Believer, keeps the energy moving and the crowds energy risers to match. The fresh tracks & synth sound continues in high intensity for Alive and the performance of Rocket works this crowd and me into an amazing frenzy. Her performance experience shows and shines, brand new songs never sounded this good.
One of my most loved sounds, the dirty synth gets a real workout in Don't Stop This Train and with an awesome backing lineup who do nothing else but providing a sound that you can't help but love and move to.
Ride on the Wild Horse is played and has beautiful polish of your favourite digital track with every piece of vocal flair you would ask for in a live show.
That vocal flair is unwavering throughout Strict Machine and is convincing me on the spot that this the best live electronic performance I have ever seen. Sorry Delphic! Empire of the Sun will have to bring their A+ game to follow that!
Makes me wish my camera battery hadn't died so I could film the performance of final song Oh La La, such a shame.
Broken Social Scene, 7.14PM Sun
Don't know jack about these guys but want to know more. Great, ear pleasent, fun rock.
Whitley, 5.29PM Sun
The chilled out nature of the day led me to sit aside the McLennan stage on the populated adjoining hill. The laid back expectation of this set, I feel, calls for a bit of laid back absorption.
An eerily haunting blue light emanates from within the tent accompanied by equally ghostly sound that introduces popular new release Killer.
Poison in our Pocket follows some not uncommon crowd banter from main man Levi and all feels balanced. Some humorous Splendour banter continues before leading into a set highlight version of Save Your Soul.
By the time fourth song Bright White Lights begins, the crowd has begun to bulge out all sides of the open sided tent and Whitley's choice of calling it a day and Splendour their last festival, seems a poor one.
Whitley's fantastic ability to engage an audience is evident as he slows the tempo down to draw everyone's attention to mid set cover, Dancing Queen.
As he describes as he was born in his mothers mould, the temperature continues to drop and what was a beautiful sunny day has become a clear cool night sky where spotlights shine with power and are easily visible from rising dust whilst licking surrounding aged eucalyptus.
Conclusion to the set comes excellently together with Head First Down followed by final hurrah All I Could Have Been. Now well energised for an evening of farewell fun.
An eerily haunting blue light emanates from within the tent accompanied by equally ghostly sound that introduces popular new release Killer.
Poison in our Pocket follows some not uncommon crowd banter from main man Levi and all feels balanced. Some humorous Splendour banter continues before leading into a set highlight version of Save Your Soul.
By the time fourth song Bright White Lights begins, the crowd has begun to bulge out all sides of the open sided tent and Whitley's choice of calling it a day and Splendour their last festival, seems a poor one.
Whitley's fantastic ability to engage an audience is evident as he slows the tempo down to draw everyone's attention to mid set cover, Dancing Queen.
As he describes as he was born in his mothers mould, the temperature continues to drop and what was a beautiful sunny day has become a clear cool night sky where spotlights shine with power and are easily visible from rising dust whilst licking surrounding aged eucalyptus.
Conclusion to the set comes excellently together with Head First Down followed by final hurrah All I Could Have Been. Now well energised for an evening of farewell fun.
Last Dinosaurs, 3.02PM Sun
Fondly described to me as a tidy little unit early in their set. Last Dinosaurs do express a tidy brand of indie.
An obvious advocate for safe sex, encouraging the crowd to inflate their condoms to use as decorative balloon venue apparatus, gimmicks are not required to keep the crowd interested.
Songs like The Weekend, Honolulu and The End shows these guys will soon become a solid unit capable of drawing larger Splendour audiences.
An obvious advocate for safe sex, encouraging the crowd to inflate their condoms to use as decorative balloon venue apparatus, gimmicks are not required to keep the crowd interested.
Songs like The Weekend, Honolulu and The End shows these guys will soon become a solid unit capable of drawing larger Splendour audiences.
Cloud Control, 1.39PM Sun
There would not be a better way to open up a third day at Splendour than in the glorious sunshine taking in the experimental rock of Cloud Control. Seems as though many are in agreeance.
With festival go-ers seemingly in a bright, fun mood this four piece festival debutant are dishing up the taste that could set the mood for an enjoyable day. Definitely a great way for me to ease into proceedings after a hectic second day.
Gold Canary and Soul Collector has the crowd bouncing and feeling free but the whole set has been delicately littered with aural highlights, well worth the look and keen to hear the album again.
With festival go-ers seemingly in a bright, fun mood this four piece festival debutant are dishing up the taste that could set the mood for an enjoyable day. Definitely a great way for me to ease into proceedings after a hectic second day.
Gold Canary and Soul Collector has the crowd bouncing and feeling free but the whole set has been delicately littered with aural highlights, well worth the look and keen to hear the album again.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Art vs Science, 8.58PM Sat
A Splendour favourite, Art vs Science haven't particularly pulled the crowd that would be expected, but what may be lost is numbers is not lost in enthusiasm.
The three piece act sets the standard high with quality sound production and intense lighting display that showers everyone and gives you nowhere to hide.
Songs New World Order and Australia displayed a real polish that many DJ groups lack. Songs Friend in the Field and new smash Magic Fountain prove that they have great songs in the bag that can get pretty much anyone moving.
If perhaps you'd like to meet these guys in a gay bar or converse with them in French you'd appreciate their rock edge as a drum and electric guitar heavy period peaks the set into an unequable high. Can't help but notice a few people sneak out though to catch Florence.
Despite the high energy performance, it was time to say thanks and farewell to Art vs Science before they had quite finished their set. And unfortunately happily, as the overall show had slightly disappointed.
The three piece act sets the standard high with quality sound production and intense lighting display that showers everyone and gives you nowhere to hide.
Songs New World Order and Australia displayed a real polish that many DJ groups lack. Songs Friend in the Field and new smash Magic Fountain prove that they have great songs in the bag that can get pretty much anyone moving.
If perhaps you'd like to meet these guys in a gay bar or converse with them in French you'd appreciate their rock edge as a drum and electric guitar heavy period peaks the set into an unequable high. Can't help but notice a few people sneak out though to catch Florence.
Despite the high energy performance, it was time to say thanks and farewell to Art vs Science before they had quite finished their set. And unfortunately happily, as the overall show had slightly disappointed.
Laura Marling, 6.57PM Sat
The most impressive reception seen all weekend, flavoured with a strong female presence welcomes Laura Marling to stage. A secondary applause welcomes backing band made up of Mumford and Sons members.
A cracking opening Devil Spoke sets the tone followed by Rambling Man and Ghosts. What way to get in the meandering crowd who now surge forward to become a part of what will become Splendour folk lore.
The Mumford boys exit to give Laura the purple lit stage who belts out a siren like song of the sea and beckoning the crowd to love with every bit more of their bodies after a sumptuous start.
With all the focus now upon her, the deliverance excels and makes me wish I could quote her back catalogue. Marcus provides strong backing next to the cellist from the heavens.
For the first time of the festival a cigarette lighter vigil is lit whilst Laura hits notes with her perfect bird like whistle. Enjoying this more and more as the moments pass despite my sheltered existence.
Half way through and it's amazing to hear her say that she is experiencing some technical problems. I am standing here admiring at her ability to stand alone and deliver. To be admired and envied!
As she finishes off her set her songwriting strength become evident. Her sound breaks down all geographical barriers and this London lass proves she is a child of the world, From the deep south of the US to the deep south east of Queensland, everywhere would be proud to call her their hometown girl.
Such a great way to come down from an incredibly hyped day.
A cracking opening Devil Spoke sets the tone followed by Rambling Man and Ghosts. What way to get in the meandering crowd who now surge forward to become a part of what will become Splendour folk lore.
The Mumford boys exit to give Laura the purple lit stage who belts out a siren like song of the sea and beckoning the crowd to love with every bit more of their bodies after a sumptuous start.
With all the focus now upon her, the deliverance excels and makes me wish I could quote her back catalogue. Marcus provides strong backing next to the cellist from the heavens.
For the first time of the festival a cigarette lighter vigil is lit whilst Laura hits notes with her perfect bird like whistle. Enjoying this more and more as the moments pass despite my sheltered existence.
Half way through and it's amazing to hear her say that she is experiencing some technical problems. I am standing here admiring at her ability to stand alone and deliver. To be admired and envied!
As she finishes off her set her songwriting strength become evident. Her sound breaks down all geographical barriers and this London lass proves she is a child of the world, From the deep south of the US to the deep south east of Queensland, everywhere would be proud to call her their hometown girl.
Such a great way to come down from an incredibly hyped day.
First Day Feature
Through many dramas that will become irreplaceable stories and highlights that are already irreplaceable memories, all in all today has been, dare I say it, irreplaceable. A fantastical journey across 2 states, numerous changes of mood and much aural delight.
Lows of the day:-
Awoke at 3.30AM
Flight delayed for plane maintenance
Flight touchdown delayed due to fog at Brisbane Airport
Missed Dan Sultan's set because of delay
Highs that made up for it:-
Sunny, pleasantly humid weather - so great to see sunshine
Saw most of Washington's set who was well polished for a first time festival artist
Foals - enough said
Blown away by the scale of event; size of space, amount of people, Ampitheatre in general - Black Rebel Motorcycle Club had a great following which makes me think I've missed out on more
The moment when watching LCD Soundsytem late in their set when I was finally able to let go of the last few weeks of worry including today's unfamiliar restlessness
Lows of the day:-
Awoke at 3.30AM
Flight delayed for plane maintenance
Flight touchdown delayed due to fog at Brisbane Airport
Missed Dan Sultan's set because of delay
Highs that made up for it:-
Sunny, pleasantly humid weather - so great to see sunshine
Saw most of Washington's set who was well polished for a first time festival artist
Foals - enough said
Blown away by the scale of event; size of space, amount of people, Ampitheatre in general - Black Rebel Motorcycle Club had a great following which makes me think I've missed out on more
The moment when watching LCD Soundsytem late in their set when I was finally able to let go of the last few weeks of worry including today's unfamiliar restlessness
Friday, July 30, 2010
Angus + Julia Stone, 7.46PM Fri
For the first time of the day I've set my eyes open the main stage, Ampitheatre. What a beast! It's prominence is undeniable, situated seemingly away from the happenings of the day, it really is an organism all on its own. The shear crowd size alone justifies the fact.
So, as I sit, on the side of a hill, contemplating the pure size of this event, the stage is being back lit with both artificial and atmospheric stars for brother and sister pairing Angus + Julia Stone.
A subtle instrumental piece opens proceedings as Julia creates their on-stage atmosphere with a strong harmonica piece accompanied by the boys.
Warm receptions are given to lovely early tunes only unknown to me as I hear others sing along, which is followed with a sweet rendition of And The Boys. And a perfect rendition of Big Jet Plane in front of deep blue starry night.
A slow homage to Grease makes a surprise but welcome appearance as Julia tributes You're The One That I Want.
A place we've all wanted to visit at some stage is made even more enticing as we are drawn amazingly down that Yellow Brick Road. Whilst the crowd is asked to join their journey, the crowds journey is unnoticeably drawing these beautiful artists while they present Wasted.
Enthusiasm heard in the long off distance as fans in the front rows belt out Just A Boy. Crowds on the hill slowly swell too. Maybe for the reason that it's a great set to sit and unwind to after a hectic first day. Maybe for Julia's sublime trumpet skills. Maybe to find a good spot for the remaining main stage acts Temper Trap and Ben Harper.
Peaceful is the only way to describe how they close up with vivid images of Santa Monica beach scenes. A graceful unified bow to exit and thank you Angus + Julia.
So, as I sit, on the side of a hill, contemplating the pure size of this event, the stage is being back lit with both artificial and atmospheric stars for brother and sister pairing Angus + Julia Stone.
A subtle instrumental piece opens proceedings as Julia creates their on-stage atmosphere with a strong harmonica piece accompanied by the boys.
Warm receptions are given to lovely early tunes only unknown to me as I hear others sing along, which is followed with a sweet rendition of And The Boys. And a perfect rendition of Big Jet Plane in front of deep blue starry night.
A slow homage to Grease makes a surprise but welcome appearance as Julia tributes You're The One That I Want.
A place we've all wanted to visit at some stage is made even more enticing as we are drawn amazingly down that Yellow Brick Road. Whilst the crowd is asked to join their journey, the crowds journey is unnoticeably drawing these beautiful artists while they present Wasted.
Enthusiasm heard in the long off distance as fans in the front rows belt out Just A Boy. Crowds on the hill slowly swell too. Maybe for the reason that it's a great set to sit and unwind to after a hectic first day. Maybe for Julia's sublime trumpet skills. Maybe to find a good spot for the remaining main stage acts Temper Trap and Ben Harper.
Peaceful is the only way to describe how they close up with vivid images of Santa Monica beach scenes. A graceful unified bow to exit and thank you Angus + Julia.
Foals, 3.45PM Fri
The anticipation of Foals was evident by the roaring cheers to signify the end of the last two DJ set songs. And their opening song energy delivered.
Cassius followed and quickly worked the whole tent into a frenzy with powerful beats and precise chords.
We Are People sustained very easily the mass' attention which then transformed the radio hit Miami into the mid set cruiser that everyone loves.
Foals' set is highlighted by the crowds welcoming screams of enjoyment and consequently clear endeavour to impress.
With You Know, a nice piece of funk feel is introduced. These guys continue to impress.
"Have you enjoyed Splendour?" was the question asked by lead singer, and with it melting into a rousing version of Theory In Your Head, the answer is yes Foals, we have.
The passionate set is closed up with a front man front of stage stand of solo drum perfection. And of course Step To Everything.
Cassius followed and quickly worked the whole tent into a frenzy with powerful beats and precise chords.
We Are People sustained very easily the mass' attention which then transformed the radio hit Miami into the mid set cruiser that everyone loves.
Foals' set is highlighted by the crowds welcoming screams of enjoyment and consequently clear endeavour to impress.
With You Know, a nice piece of funk feel is introduced. These guys continue to impress.
"Have you enjoyed Splendour?" was the question asked by lead singer, and with it melting into a rousing version of Theory In Your Head, the answer is yes Foals, we have.
The passionate set is closed up with a front man front of stage stand of solo drum perfection. And of course Step To Everything.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Woodford my Woodstock
There is no need for me to bore everyone with history, for why I am who I am and why I enjoy the things that I do but for as long as I can remember music has been a solid foundation of my life.
Witnessing live music (to me) is the epitome of the enjoyment of music.
It takes the whole craft to another level and presents you with the raw essence of what is pressed for eternity.
A raw moment such as this is a fleeting one, very unique and rarely captured. Photographs and sound files are gems to discover and are alternative historical snapshots. How amazing to possess something so special, something eternally chronicled for everyone - people who were there, people who weren't, people who wanted to be & people who didn't know they wanted to be until the moment had passed.
Selfishly the snapshots I will take this weekend will be for me.
My memory is poor!
So, I will endeavour to take snapshots of Splendour in the Grass. To me this is that once in a lifetime moment, my Woodstock if you will, a great collection of music and musicians, of people from far and wide, and also a rejuvenation of discovery as I open my eyes and mind again to creation and thought, something that has been missing for some time.
Please join me...
Witnessing live music (to me) is the epitome of the enjoyment of music.
It takes the whole craft to another level and presents you with the raw essence of what is pressed for eternity.
A raw moment such as this is a fleeting one, very unique and rarely captured. Photographs and sound files are gems to discover and are alternative historical snapshots. How amazing to possess something so special, something eternally chronicled for everyone - people who were there, people who weren't, people who wanted to be & people who didn't know they wanted to be until the moment had passed.
Selfishly the snapshots I will take this weekend will be for me.
My memory is poor!
So, I will endeavour to take snapshots of Splendour in the Grass. To me this is that once in a lifetime moment, my Woodstock if you will, a great collection of music and musicians, of people from far and wide, and also a rejuvenation of discovery as I open my eyes and mind again to creation and thought, something that has been missing for some time.
Please join me...
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