Yet again we are lucky enough to attend this fabulous festival. Under the banner of Americana, you can and do get a varied line up, predominately having an obvious country feel. And the outfits of the people in the crowd are as varied! Set in a fantastic location with the stately home as a backdrop, you know it’s going to be special.

With a line up made of up-and-coming artists and bona fide stars, like headliners, Midlands and James Bay alongside with the virtual newbies, makes for interesting listening. On the main stage we were treated to some brilliant performances amongst them, the quirky Aussie, Fanny Lumsden, Mackenzie Carpenter, Halle Kearns – who had a very large meet and greet after – Erin Kinsey, Alana Springsteen and Seasick Steve, who again rocked the crowd with his mad cap homemade guitars and threatened to go into the audience and kick someone’s arse, whom I presume had had a little too much to drink. And of course, one of our personal faves, Elles Bailey, who despite having a bad case of the lurgies, gave a rousing performance again. On the very popular Front Porch Stage, with its old country feel, (I want one!), we enjoyed soul-tinged country from Rissi Palmer, and another one of our faves, First Time Flyers, who drew a really, really big crowd, and wow did they go down well, no surprise to us.

We could go on and on as there was so much to admire both musically and in the festival vibe. With reasonably priced drinks, and a good choice of food, the atmosphere was very laid back and friendly. Another great festival, with congratulations to all involved, and we look forward to whatever surprises they throw at us next year. By the way, this year’s festival was their largest attended, impressive – keep it up guys!

CHECK OUT THE FESTIVAL PHOTO GALLERY HERE

Photos by Geoff Griffe
Review by Jenny Griffe