Big Session Festival 2010
Friday 18th to Sunday 20th June 2010De Montfort Hall, Granville Road, Leicester, England MAP
£75 for the whole weekend, child 5-15 £27.50
Sunday was always going to be a quieter day, and with the headliners finishing early at 6:30PM, it is just that. It is also the day that has the biggest folk presence of all, especially on the Big Top.
On the Indoor Stage Dervish are playing, and despite Pog finishing at the same time they start we only miss their introduction.
Unfortunately, despite being a band that has been doing this for over 20 years, and having played to almost a quarter of a million people at Rock In Rio in Brazil, they just don't cut it today. Their brand of very traditional Irish music just isn't too interesting, and despite their attempts, there is little to no energy between them and the crowd.
With a quick run across the site, it is possible to catch Jackie Oates playing her headline set in the Big Top. It seems a bit odd catching a headlining performance at quarter-to-four in the afternoon, but she produces a nice little set of laid back, more traditional folk songs, that fit well with the glorious sunshine bathing the site.
Frontman John Jones is the epitome of cool in his dark suit and shades, whilst guitarist Alan Prosser is jumping like a man half his age.
Jones is in good spirits, after a hugely successful festival, stating Oysterband are: "The perfect band for a recession. Miserable lyrics set to happy tunes."
Despite his cool luck, he appears extremely down to earth, even spending songs in the middle of the crowd, with a refreshing lack of security presence around him.
They make a fabulous end to a fabulous festival. Long may it remain a well kept secret on the festival circuit.
review by: Phil Grimley
photos by: Phil Bull
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