I read a news report recently that said people are turning away from music festivals these days. They’re frustrated by high prices and out of control crowds, the folks more interested in indulging in drink and drugs than listening to the music. They commented that these days people seemed more concerned with being seen and appearing cool than enjoying the event. Clearly none of the people surveyed had been to the Wollombi Music Festival.
I don’t blame them, because until the weekend neither had I. It’s not a festival that attracts big name international acts, or even the local household names. It doesn’t get effusive write-ups in the media. But it’s a great little event with a whole lot of heart.
Rather than drawing in the partying set, Wollombi caters for families. Mums and dads, and in my case aunties, can sit and watch the bands while little ones enjoy the Kidsfest entertainment. My three-year-old niece Lily is notoriously difficult to amuse, but the jumbo slide, jumping castle, sand pit, and craft station gave her more than enough to pass the time. My sister checked on her often, but the festival’s volunteers really had things covered.
And so we were left to take in the bands on the main stage and inside the Chai Tent. The latter was a relaxing space with lounge chairs, comfortable cushions, and a friendly dog, the perfect setting for listening to the relaxed acoustic musicians found there. On the main stage it was a more eclectic mix, but one that was still very enjoyable.
With a three-year-old in tow there was no way we could stay for the whole event, but I was really impressed by the quality of the acts I did catch. Rachael Brady delighted me with her cruisy folk pop stylings. Her music was sunny but full of soul, the perfect soundtrack for the balmy Saturday. Kurtis Gentle lured us down to the Chai Tent with his incredible guitar skills. He reminded me a lot of John Butler with his folky sensibility and amazing hand speed. And I’m always a sucker for a man who knows how to play a slide guitar. The Merchants of Venice brought us back up to the main stage with their ballsy brand of blues. They were fronted by Roshani Priddis, who’s definitely grown since her days on Australian Idol. I can’t imagine her singing about being a “dirty sexy bitch” back then! Newcastle band Benjalu followed up next and got the crowd singing and dancing. I wasn’t quite as enthusiastic as those devotees who knew every lyric to every song, but I really appreciated their Jack Johnson meets Dave Matthews Band sound.
While waiting for the next act to entertain us Miss Lily returned and insisted she was ready to go home. When a three-year-old makes such a statement, you listen unless you want kicking and screaming to follow. And so we made our exit, a little premature but excited by what we’d seen. The bands were first class, the crowd was warm and friendly, and my sausage sandwich lunch was delicious. That makes for a great day out in my books.
Image source: own photos