Blissfields 2014 was a whirlwind of sun, rain, dancing and amazing performances by some of the UK’s most exciting new artists. Here are my Top Five Moments from the festival.
5. Dub Pistols on Thursday at the Hustle Den
On the first night of the festival I headed to the Hustle Den and was seriously impressed by the winners of the ‘Road to Blissfields’ competition who performed there, particularly Portsmouth based The B of the Bang. The highlight of the evening was definitely the headline set by Blissfields favourites Dub Pistols. Their connection with the crowd was fantastic and there wasn’t one person in the audience who could refrain from dancing to their catchy ska music.
4. Chloe Howl on the Wild Stage, Saturday
I’d been looking forward to seeing Chloe Howl live for such a long time! Her performance was amazing and she had a really strong connection with the crowd, who sang along to every song with enthusiasm. Chloe played a range of new tracks, which will be featured on her upcoming album, and well-loved fan favourites.
3. Wolf Alice at the Wild Stage, Friday
The Camden based group were another hotly anticipated act, with crowds surging forward to be at the barrier for their performance. It was a great chance to see one of the UK’s most exciting new bands perform older tracks such as ‘Bros’ and newer material such as ‘Moaning Lisa Smile’.
2. Guinness World Record Attempt
Photo via Blissfields Facebook page
To coincide with this year’s wildlife theme, the festival’s organisers encouraged guests to take part in a world record attempt for the Largest Gathering of People Wearing Animal Print. Festival goers who had chosen to take part lined up wearing an amazing array of animal printed clothing! Each participant had to be checked by the adjudicators and photographed on their way into the arena. Despite the grey weather, everyone was really excited to be involved. Luckily, we managed to break the record! Participants will be receiving an official Guinness World Records certificate shortly.
1. 2ManyDjs on the Wild Stage, Saturday
Photo via Blissfields Facebook
In an earlier article, I admitted I was sceptical about having DJs as headliners for the Saturday of the festival. However, I was hugely impressed by the set. 2ManyDJs, well known for their work under the name of Soulwax, remixed a range of newer tracks such as Disclosure’s ‘White Noise’ as well as audience favourites such as Blur’s ‘Girls and Boys’. Their set, which lasted almost two hours, was the perfect way to bring the music on the mainstage to a close. There was a great atmosphere; everyone in the audience was dancing and it was clear that revellers were enjoying the performance.
Tickets for Blissfields 2015 will be available this autumn. See the Blissfields website for more information.
