Blissfields

A weekend of distinctive and rare music with an utterly beautiful atmosphere (thanks to the exceptional sunshine) sums up the tiny Winchester festival. The event had a buoyant vibe drawing in crowds from all walks of life. Families were well catered for with a well encouraged quiet zone for campers and a clean and well maintained site thanks to the well trained stewards. A very conscious and environmentally aware ideology resonated throughout the hands on workshops (for all ages) and stalls set up. Vintage and alternative clothing and jewellery, shisha tents and food stores were eclectic and rife.

However, despite the community vibe, the party did not stop throughout the night resulting in dazzling nights filled with characters, comedy, DJs and live acts. Musical highlights include Six Nation State who outshone all other incredible acts with aplomb. A stunning set with the kind of quality most fans have come to expect as a standard. Much anticipated artist Tricky brought much hype to the festival and got the crowds going, however not shining as a performance which may be put down to the logistics of translating an electronic ct into a live festival experience. Headliner Frank Turner failed to disappoint the masses of singalong fans and was also found joining in with the festival spirit found traipsing around the camp site later on.

Alternative music is what was expected but the try hard noise coming from hipster mush King Charles was outclassed by most other acts. Bands such as Stinger provided tons of charisma and emerging band Dead Red Sun resonated a sultry and experimental vibe, possibly lacking strength they are still a band who will no doubt progress into much more. Most surprising of the more underground acts was certainly Flight Brigade, providing an absolutely gorgeous and effortless folk style indie set.

Comedy was a massive highlight at the festival. Despite drunken hecklers galore, the talent was absolutely brilliant and definitely resilient. Highlights include the fantastic geeky stylings of Owen Niblock, Freddy Quinne and Matt Dyson.

Much kudos goes to the organisers of Blissfields for choices in acts, a well staffed site and maintained amenities. A collection of interesting sculptures, an all night fire, comfy tents and hammocks littered the site meaning adventures for all. The festival teemed with creativity, from the Hidden Hedge, a small hidden beautifully lit stage running all night, to the Bubble Bus, another 24 hour party area with a collection of DJs turn taking to party goers nonstop.

If you’re looking for a value for money and consistently distinctive festival where there’s time to hang back and take it easy alongside opportunity to get down and boogie, Blissfields will not disappoint.