headliner Eat Static has the crowd in a frenzy at Off the Tracks

This year's late summer Off the Tracks festival marks the 20th anniversary event to have been put together by the usual team at Park Barn Farm. The word is obviously spreading. I met over the course of the weekend many loyal regulars returning to the event, but also many first-timers who appear to be having a very fine time indeed.



All commented on the cheery, happy vibe that permeates the venue. It was my first time back here for two years and happy to notice the increased size – a new café area, a few more stalls in the market area, and a new site for the real ale bar. All seem to contribute.

I arrive just in time to catch Oojami on the mainstage, a fantastic fusion of trad Turkish sounds, electric violin, pulsating five-string bass, congas, and of course a belly-dancer! Well, cue lots of enthusiastic dancing, cheering and smiles. I think the rest of the crowd thoroughly enjoyed it too. The band looked chuffed too and made an ideal start to the weekend.

Into the courtyard for some cool air and a fresh beer and checked in on Matt in the 'disco' barn playing, as ever, a delectable selection of tunes. Always surprising and eclectic, Matt has`been a regular feature here for many years.



Eat Static headlines and with Joey on his own tonight, even busier than usual, he did not disappoint. The marquee was packed and literally steaming in the humid night air with everyone dancing and bouncing about - stripped to the waist Joey pounded us into a frenzy with his brand of electric beats. What a great set.

Outside again, I heard groovy sounds emanating from the disco barn again and discovered the delights of Templehedz. It was rammed so we had to dance in the courtyard! A fantastic time with much silliness, crazy dancing, laughter and the like until the wee small hours. Everyone I met and spoke to was having a fantastic time, loving the venue, vibe, and the music. Oh what a night!

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