11 July 2019 (gig)
18 July 2019
It’s perfect. It’s the perfect festival in every way.
Set amidst the wild flowers, down in the valleys of Cheltenham, less than ten thousand people in attendance. I heard, more than once, people refer to it as a mini Glastonbury.
2000 Trees has long had a reputation of a small rock festival with a big community feel. But, recent years they seem to be locked in a competition with themselves to make it better year on year.
Already known on the festival circuit for its strong fan-base and loyal attendees. I’m surprised how hard it is to put into words the welcoming atmosphere that is persistent throughout. There are no pretenses, no posturing, no elitism.
I can only stipulate that the organisers got the formula right some years ago and make the effort each year to experience the festival as a punter (the Leader in Chief is visible all weekend chatting to his fans) patiently listen to patron’s feedback and have consequentially tinkered and modified until perfection was reached.
The three-day alt-rock festival starts on a Thursday. Band clash is minimised to the nth degree by a meticulously well-planned schedule, similar genres playing on alternating stages and an unbelievable 20-minute set-up time between bands. For sound snobs, the technicians do a ridiculously good job, with even delivery for those standing outside of the tented stages.
And the stages are wonderful. The Main-Stage is held in a mini bowl at the bottom of the arena, there are a further three large tented stages. Then, as if that wasn’t enough for ten thousand people, a smattering of mini stages throughout the arena and campsites which host starter bands and surprise sets from the headline acts alike. But my absolute favourite stage, as I’m sure many will agree with, is the Forest Stage; an acoustic set up in a festooned woodland – it’s a thing of magic, beauty and delight.
Line-up this year was slightly on the harder side. Frank Turner ran several surprise sets throughout the weekend on the biggest and smallest stages, Comeback Kid, Milk Teeth, AS IT IS, You Me at Six, Deaf Havana, Frank Iero and the Future Violents, YONAKA- the list goes on.
Stand out performances for us came from the haunting Brutus. Pengshui who are an odd Drum and Bass/hardcore mash up. Cancer Bats who always put on a full octane show. While She Sleeps who were note perfect. And of course, Every Time I Die, who played their Low Teens Album in full on main stage before screaming into their latest and greatest, the crowd went crazy for it.
The festival is amazing for discovering new bands you’d never even stumble come across on Spotify. The line-up lanyards even have a “For Fans Of” so you can look up what you might enjoy if you find yourself with a spare hour. My new favourites are LOATHE, crushing Liverpudlian metalcore.
Evening entertainment is another level. A silent disco every night across two stages. They even pioneered a silent Gig with hilarious Thrill Collins, whom describe themselves as Skiffle-Pop rascals and had thousands dancing in fits of laughter.
Facilities wise: - Most importantly, toilets are darn good. The arena is open, so you can bring your own booze, particularly great if you’re on a budget. Bars stock fair priced and delicious local larger, ale and cider along with all your usual wine and spirits. This year they had employed a reusable cup scheme. However, it was non-refundable unlike other festivals, so this did eat into your booze money if you weren’t keeping an eye on your vessel. Due to very dodgy phone signal, they employ a cashless scheme, but a top-up point is never far away. Food vendors get better every year, with many vegan and gluten free options which is always nice to see.
For an alt-rock festival it is wonderfully family friendly. With special campsites, areas and activities it sets a lovely tone for the young’uns. Staff are wonderful. Security seem to genuinely care that you are safe and having a good time.
The price of the festival cannot be disputed. A three-day ticket in 2020 will set you back around 150 but there’s 20% off right now with no cancellation charge if you change your mind before March. For an extra £90 you can upgrade to VIP where you get closer parking, separate campsite, an impressive goody bag, free drink and access to the VIP Bar and toilets.
I hope I’ve done this festival justice. It feels like a hidden gem that everyone should experience at least once.
Love you, 2000Trees.
PHOTO CREDIT – GARETH BULL
