Various - Summer Sundae (Part 1: James Morrison, A Hawk And A Hacksaw, DJ Format)
[Summer Sundae]

Festivals are commonly being seen as fair-game by sponsors and the corporate world in general to promote their interests and ride upon the popularity of music, rodeo style.

However, one event since the turn of the millennium has embraced the commercial side enough to stay afloat and grow as forum for some of the more understated and genuine acts out there, but has managed to retain integrity and patrons are free to roam without that constant feeling that you are attending an Advertising Convention. The set up is compact with the two campsites close to the festivities, meaning that even those arriving late have little more than a three minute walk to join the thick of the action.

The organisers deserve a Phil Jupitus sized pat on the back for the timings, largely ensuring that the acts on the four supporting stages do not clash with the Main Stage showdown. The latter forum is masterfully opened by the rising indie/soul purveyor James Morrison, whose ‘Undiscovered’ debut album could slowly win him a reputation as the white Stevie Wonder. The crowd grows, as intrigued early arrivals are drawn into the rhythm whirlpool and emotive vocal stride given off in numbers like the plodding, previous single ‘You Give Me Something’ and the bubbly soul/pop exposé of ‘Wonderful World’. This helps to lighten spirits and relax minds, with Morrison’s calming presence receiving a friendly reception.

The former Neutral Milk Hotel drummer, Jeremy Barnes and his sidekick Heather Trost go under the guise of A Hawk And A Hacksaw, to provide some fiddle and accordion fuelled, musical diversity for the more discerning pallet. The only percussion around was delivered from the jangling court jester hat of Barnes, as an ambient vibe with freewheeling interludes provided by Trost, evokes intrigued expressions from gatherers. A chilling reworking of Derroll Adams’ protest song, ‘Portlandtown’ is the most vocal inclusive and it gives Barnes a chance to display his slightly coarse and blues based singing style. A festival needs some off-kilter variety and it is certainly provided here.

After this bluesy/ambient and folklore parade, some frivolous gyration is called for and who better than the groove master himself, DJ Format to provide it? Format’s reputation for spectacular fun shaking, Ugly Duckling influenced hip-hop with MC Abdominal gave him a platform from which to launch his dance, hip/hop and blues funk gelling solo career. His hour long set at the indoor stage spanned his entire range and while the tempo built up a little too slowly for many, when the spin-star hit a groove he kept going and reluctantly had to end proceedings while he’s still climbing. This is done much to the chagrin of the crowd and himself.