Review – Glastonbudget Festival, Saturday 27th May 2023

Oasish. Photo (c) Kevin Gaughan

Reviewed by Steven Hellyar

Glastonbudget 2023 review overview

Glastonbudget 2023 review Friday

Glastonbudget 2023 review Sunday

Steve writes:

Glastonbudget over the Bank Holiday weekend was an incredible music festival that truly captured the essence of live music and good times. The atmosphere was buzzing with life, and the performances were nothing short of amazing.

One of the standout acts of the weekend was The Mercians, whose bright clothing and energetic stage presence made for an unforgettable show. Their uplifting beats have already landed them in the top 5 on iTunes, and it’s easy to see why – their talent and charisma are simply undeniable.

The Mercians. Photo (c) Kevin Gaughan

What really set The Mercians apart was their commitment to engaging with the audience, making for a truly unforgettable experience. Plus, it’s inspiring to hear that they’re using their platform to spread awareness about mental health by visiting schools around the country.

The Mercians. Photo (c) Kevin Gaughan

Another highlight of the festival was Georgina Lilly, whose soulful voice and rendition of classics like Son of a Preacher Man had the crowd swaying and singing along.

What really stood out was her unique blend of 60s grooves, which added a whole new dimension to her performance. It’s no wonder that the man dressed as a Mexican couldn’t resist joining in with his maracas!

Georgina Lilly. Photo (c) Kevin Gaughan

In the afternoon, I managed to bump into the great Young Elton, and what a show he put on! In his glittery attire and sparkly cap, he had the crowd absolutely mesmerized over in the big tent.

Young Elton. Photo (c) Kevin Gaughan

He told me he first became interested in Elton John’s music when he found a book at school at the age of just 6 years old, and he’s been hooked ever since.

Young Elton has also worked on cruise ships, which is where he first came across the famous song we all know as “Rocket Man.” Glastonbudget has been his biggest audience yet, and he had a great time performing for such an enthusiastic crowd.

R&D Project. Photo (c) Kevin Gaughan

Next up was the R&D Project, whose lead singer had a sparkly guitar that added to the whole experience. Their piercing sound attracted crowds from all over the park, and even the guy dressed as a (rather hairy) Pamela Anderson joined in, which the band recognized and decided to dedicate the next song to – a clear sign that they have a great sense of humour!

The Foster brothers also made an appearance, and I have to say I was impressed. This was the first time I’d met these two, and they were in sync with each other, very well presented, and created a lot of attention both at the LoCo stage and later on in the VIP tent. They never stopped smiling and seemed to enjoy playing to the crowds.

The Foster Brothers on the LoCo stage.

Kevin adds:

Glastonbudget staples, Oasish, were on the Main Stage and played a little earlier this year, sounding a LOT like Oasis, what I love about this band is the humour and lead singer, Paul’s mannerisms, always have me in stitches and leave me wanting more.

Oasish, Photo (c) Kevin Gaughan

Following on from Oasish were another Glastonbudget staple, the great Kazabian. Again, sounding like the real thing, they also put on a great show. Last year I saw them in the Big Top tent, which I much prefer, as we were able to have a good mosh in the more intimate (although still huge) marquee.

Kazabian. Photo (c) Kevin Gaughan

Glastonbudget 2023 review overview

Glastonbudget 2023 review Friday

Glastonbudget 2023 review Sunday

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