One thing that you can’t control is the weather. With recent heavy rains in northern NSW, many were worried that this year would be another muddy Bluesfest. However, the weather has been glorious for the last week, including the Easter long weekend. With gravel being laid to ensure no muddy patches, festival goers this year have experienced stunning north coast weather.
Fanny Lumsden was a spark of sunshine herself, weaving stories of her tour bus and getting stuck in mud amongst her country influenced music. Soul blues band Fools captivated with a solid sound. A surprise act was Australian act Brad Cox. With a bit of a dig to himself, he emblazoned the rear screen with a large logo, “Who the Fuck is Brad Cox?” but by the end of his set I’m sure that he earned a few new fans. His down to earth country style with a stage that included fake plants and pottery was inviting and warm, much like his persona.
For those that missed some of the acts on the Thursday, there were repeats, with Budjerah, Cimafunk, Maoli and Velvet Trip among the many worthwhile acts to catch. With four stages, it is really a choose your own adventure experience, strolling and stopping at acts that appeal. The whole festival has a village feel, with plenty of food and market stalls, as well as a busking stage near the south gates.
George Thorogood and the Destroyers hit the Mojo stage late in the afternoon. His energetic and enthusiastic performance showed just why he has been so popular for so many years. Opening with “Rock Party”, he set the tone of what was to come. Hits such as “Who Do You Love?”, “One Bourbon, One Scotch and One Beer” and “Bad to the Bone” kept the crowd in raptures. Closing with a rousing rendition of “Gloria” he left the audience smiling. I did hear a few complaints about the screens set up at the rear of the tent not having much in the way of sound.
Seeing Tom Morello for the second day in a row was another treat for rock fans. Opening with ‘Soldier in the Army of Love” he played a solid set that delved into some Rage Against the Machine near the end, with “Killing in the Name” being a standout.
For contrast, over at Crossroads stage, Christopher Cross presented a laid back easy listening selection of music, including “Sailing” and “Ride Like the Wind.” Harking back to more blues related music, Gary Clark Jr was superbly understated, with a full backup band. Flipping the contrast back to pop rock, Toto presented a sing-a-long set including “Rosanna” and finishing with the ultimate classic “Africa”.
A chilled out set from The California Honeydrops finished off the night before heading home. For some reason it takes a good 90 minutes to exit the car park, but eventually the traffic moves and all that is left is good memories of great music. Two more days to go.
Bluesfest runs over the Easter Long Weekend just north of Byron Bay.
For more information and last minute tickets check the website here
