I have to say that this was one of the highlights of our tour so far. The Wolvestock festival has been running for many years and is one of the best organised (and well attended) festivals we've played. What's more, it's free!
You may question the wisdom of the local Council paying money to host freebies for the population, but it's still miles cheaper than the multi-million makeover of our old market place, complete with fountains shooting up from the pavement, and an "arena" that is supposed to be for outdoor entertainment but is absolutely useless, being badly thought out and totally impractible. The kids can't even use the steps for skateboarding as they've placed steel bands on the steps and installed speakers which emit a buzzing that can only be heard by young ears. I can't hear it at all, but it drives my son crazy.
Back to Wolvestock. The organiser was on hand to welcome us and made us very welcome. We listened as the local dignitaries welcomed everybody at the opening ceremony and I had a wander around the site, which was packed with families out enjoying the live music interspersed with line dancing lessons. Being a free festival in a public park, there were very few people dressed in period costume, or dressed as gunslingers or indians, and I believe the festival was all the better for it. These festivals are about music aren't they?
As usual, there was a back line and drum kit available, so we were able to set up quickly and soon got into our stride. I swear I could hear an audible gasp of appreciation amid the applause as Nicki took to the stage.
There was some light drizzle as we started, but that soon eased and we entertained the considerable crowd to an hour of country tinged rock.
There is always a large space in front of the stage for the dancers. Most of the time the people were happy to sit and listen, but occasionally they got up and danced when we played a familiar song. As you know, Nicki is a talented singer/songwriter and we feature many of her own songs in our set. Occasionally we see people singing along because they've bought her CDs previously, and I always scan the crowd to see if people are paying attention and joining in. Without giving away any details (you have to see the show for yourself)there are a couple of places where we get a reaction, and I noticed quite a few smiles on the faces of the nearest people as they saw what we were doing. All good.
The PA was quite loud, and it's a great power trip to play a note on the bass guitar and feel the stage vibrate. I want more!
All too soon the show came to an end and we left the stage to a standing ovation. It was a good 'un. I hope we get invited back next year.
Loading out was straight forward. We set off for Northampton and the next stage of our marathon.
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