Friday and, finished work, I was excited for the musical extravaganza of a weekend that lay ahead. First stop was Richmond Live, a small and friendly enough festival in a park on the river. Although I'd specifically travelled to see one of my favourite bands, headliners The Chapman Family I was pleased to catch fellow Tynesiders, Athletes in Paris' earlier set. The five piece (a kind of Little Comets meets Maximo Park meets Friendly Fires) moved energetically about the stage, the singers distinctive North East accent apparent in all songs. These guys are a great festival band and well worth catching live.
Although the clouds had looked threatening all evening, it was only when The Chapman Family took to the stage that the heavens opened. Black-clad singer Kingsley, who had dispensed with the ruffles in favour of a Pop Sex Ltd t-shirt had predicted (and possibly hoped for) as much. This was the first time that I'd seen the band play a big stage and, looking more than comfortable, it was obvious that this is where they belong. Tracks from new EP 'Cruel Britannia', firm favourites from album 'Burn Your Town' and the odd new tune were all delivered masterfully. As some of the young crowd surged forward a select few danced around in the rain, mostly oblivious to the band, but transfixed by a flying glowstick.
Sunday saw a trip to Stockton Weekender. Unable to go on both days, I was determined to get there early and took my place on (not at) the bar, as Goy Boy McIlroy were setting up on the smaller Vela stage. From the off, I knew they were going to be my kind of thing. The frontman-posessed jumped from the stage, scaled speakers and rolled the floor, all the while his amazing vocals unfaltering, bearing an uncanny sonic resemblance to one of my musical heroes, Jim Morrison of The Doors. I noticed quite a crowd that had gathered, some definitely firm followers. Throughout the day, favourites of mine, Hyde & Beast and Symphonic Pictures impressed as always. As did local lads Weird Shapes. Not so, though, The Milk and Ocean Colour Scene who left me rather cold on a hot summer's day. But headliner's James played to an enthusiastic and appreciative crowd, myself included and ended the weekend on a real high. I must thank Kingsley Chapman for recommending Goy Boy McIlroy to me, as they made the whole Stockton experience one I will not forget. But don't take my word for it, check them out live and thank me later!
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