Admittedly, we were scared. There’s a big group of us that go every year. We were all watching the weather nervously, praying to our festival deities that the weather would improve. It did, then it didn’t, then it did again. I was told by about 500 people that “It never rains at Bearded”. I believed them. It’s never rained whilst I’ve been there, we were all confused. I’ve often heard it said (possibly by myself) that there are three things that make a festival: the people, the weather and the line up. We had two and a half I reckon. It rained, it was a bit muddy, but the festival has the best vibe, the people are great and in fact, I think a bit of mud improved the camaraderie. Also massive shout out to the awesome car park crew who we saw working tirelessly to tow people in (yep in) and out of the festival. We actually had the easiest journey in and out ever.
The line up: who wouldn’t enjoy that line up? I had over 30 female or non-binary artists that I wanted to see over the weekend. Here were my faves from the weekend (in no particular order):
I, Doris
I love that Doris texted me to say, “we’re playing the Something Else Tea Tent, but honestly if you have other people to see, we won’t mind”. Like we would prioritise anyone else over the fabulous I, Doris. A drummer and guitarist down but in full form. Witty, joyous and naughty, Doris and Doris gave us a massive performance. My friend asked me to pass on that she danced so much that she wet herself a little. I have never heard It’s the End of the World live and it was incredible. Really made me smile for the rest of the day.
Goat Girl
Go Goat Girl. There was so much happening that I can barely understand my excitedly taken notes. Loving the synthy soundscapes and groovy bass lines. Lead vocals alternating between the bass player, who was sometimes the keys player and the guitarist, combined with the drummer having a windchime, this created a massive array of sound for a 3 piece band. They were sure to promote their new album out on the 7 June. Based on the performance I reckon it will be great.
Jess Silk
I have been trying to see Jess for years and somehow the universe has prevented me from making it. It was worth the wait. Before I go into the performance, I want to comment on what a wonderful human she is. I’ve seen more of her anti-Tory, pro-human activism than I have of her music. An active member of the ‘We Shall Overcome’ movement, she recently played a gig at the iconic Station Inn, Ashton-U-Lyne to help Pauline Town with her incredible work supporting the homeless. Jess is fearlessly vulnerable, compassionate and so beautifully human. So why haven’t I seen her yet? It’s not for lack of trying I promise. She was playing the gorgeous Woodland on the equally wonderful Beans on Toast’s stage. Poetic protest folk. Her voice both gritty and sweet, akin to Frank Turner, her presence warm and inclusive. Just what I needed for my first show of the day. I was already a fan of her as a person but I’m digging the music and having the opportunity to see her live was special to me.
Slamboree
I LOVE SLAMBOREE. Have done for years. I once nearly died running across a muddy field at another festival, because I heard Kathika’s voice from a tent. A Bristol-based, epic rave band, combining circus with drum and bass and powerful vocals and rapping. This band is a spectacle for the eyes and a sonic adventure. Even with tired, mud-ridden legs I danced and danced and danced until I was broken.
HotWax
HotWax is another band I’ve been trying to see for years. I wasn’t missing them this time, so I was up and in the festival for 12 (it’s an achievement, trust me). Powerful grungey bass, pitchshifter on the guitar and a synth making gorgeous spacey sounds. Rip It Out was my favourite song but all of it was just brilliant, the noise and their presence filled that massive stage. This band woke me up and set the day exactly as I wanted it to be, which was loud and furious.
St Agnes
I walked into a busy Meadow stage, to a massive sound. I got strong Rage Against the Machine vibes from this East London based band, but Kitty moves across the stage like Gwen Steffani.
English Teacher
Filling up the Meadow with glorious guitars, keyboards, cello and drums English Teacher did not disappoint. Lead singer Lily Fontaine kept the attention of everyone in the packed tent with a mix of heartfelt spoken word and beautifully vulnerable singing authentically delivered in her broad Lancashire accent. Everyone in this band seems to be able to play every instrument with each member swapping out their main instruments for a keyboard here, a guitar there, depending on the needs of the song. The musicianship of this band is of an extremely high level as they seamlessly flit from the catchy rock guitar of The World’s Biggest Paving Slab to the almost classical / jazzesque tones of Broken Biscuits, the moving anthem of indecision, Mastermind Specialism, all the way to the Indie Rock masterpieces of Nearly Daffodils and R&B.
Just wanted to finish by commenting on the beautiful sunset which preceded the incredible fireworks. I was stood outside the meadow chatting to friends when we were overtaken by a moment of quiet, and gratitude for this perfectly located festival with a stunning sunset, great food, reasonably priced beer and the best people.
Then came the fireworks. I love the fireworks at Bearded! They went all out and this year, being a big birthday and all, I think they were all in for giving a massive show.
Well done Bearded Theory, you face your challenges, you overcame them with a party and a bang. We had a blast and we’ll see you next year.