Bingley Weekender was a bit of an unknown, stepping in at short notice when Bingley Music Live was cancelled. Right from the announcement there was a good sense of anticipation as the social media team did an excellent job of building the buzz in the lead up to the festival..
Upon arrival there was a nice queue forming, however as 4pm came and went there became an air of confusion as we waited in line in the hot sun. It was around 40 minutes later that the eager and somewhat restless public were permitted access with not much by way of explanation.
We later found out it was health and safety-related around the main stage and couldn’t be avoided, minor teething problems for a four-stage /three-day festival.
The first band was a surprise change of running order – Saint Agnes were playing a day early. However, the surprise was not an unwelcome one; the band put on a great performance and went on to be one of my Friday highlights. This quickly appeased some of my, and no doubt others’ fears about the festival.
Next up was Louis Berry on the main stage. The festival was well organised in this regard; it was easy to move from stage to stage and see most acts, and definitely, see a few songs from every band. Berry treated us to a solid set of pop-rock with a harsher edge.
After that came the absolute highlight of Friday for me – Venus – is a band I can see going a long way. The all-female band dominated the New Music Stage. GK’s powerful vocals create an unforgettable impression. I wouldn’t be surprised if they were on the main stage next year, keep an eye out for the Leeds based band.
IDLES were mesmerising on the main stage as guitarist Mark Bowen strutted about in his boxer shorts. Delivering yet another high energy performance that turned a crowd of teens and families into a mosh pit straight out of a punk venue.
Whilst the headliners, Ocean Colour Scene are not exactly my cup of tea they delivered the hits and kept the crowd bouncing to close out the opening day in style.
