{"id":28947,"date":"2022-08-18T10:05:53","date_gmt":"2022-08-18T09:05:53","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.musicinleicester.co.uk\/index.php\/?p=28947"},"modified":"2022-08-18T10:36:16","modified_gmt":"2022-08-18T09:36:16","slug":"review-western-park-festival-saturday-30th-july-2022","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.musicinleicester.co.uk\/index.php\/review-western-park-festival-saturday-30th-july-2022\/","title":{"rendered":"Review – Western Park Festival, Saturday 30th July 2022"},"content":{"rendered":"
<\/div>\n

Reviewed by Kenny Cassells<\/a> and Trevor Locke<\/a> with photographs by Kevin Gaughan<\/a><\/p>\n

It\u2019s been 2 years since the last one, but finally Western Park Festival<\/a> is back and this year it\u2019s the 10th anniversary of this family-friendly event.<\/p>\n

The festival has built a reputation for being well organised, diverse and entertaining for the whole family. Hosting live music across 3 stages, a variety of vendors offering homemade food and handcrafted wares, fairground rides for the kids (and grownups), a bar for the adults, poetry reading and even a dog show so the family\u2019s best friend can strut their stuff in front of enthusiastic and likeminded dog owners.<\/p>\n

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The Bandstand stage. Photo (c) Kevin Gaughan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

With free entry via a number of entrance gates and suggested donations (of \u00a33) going to local charities, the festival was set to offer all a fun-filled day with a relaxed atmosphere even if the weather was ominously threatening to throw a damper on the proceedings.<\/p>\n

One of the main attractions of the festival is the music, split across three stages (STL Valley Stage, Bandstand and Mainstage), the festival has become renowned for providing local musicians and bands with a stage to showcase their talents to a large and appreciative crowd. This year the selection on offer was vast and covered a variety of styles and genres from original material to covers, punk and rock to acoustic and acapella.<\/p>\n

We arrived at the festival via the blue entrance just in time to watch Alex Hopps<\/strong><\/a> perform on the STL Valley stage. Alex is a multi-instrumentalist singer-songwriter who entertained the early festival goers with his unique take on folk and Americana sang in his own gruff tone, it was a perfect way to kick off the festivities and set the standard from the off.<\/p>\n

We then proceeded to the Main stage where local band One Town Over<\/strong><\/a> were opening the lineup with their classic sound and melodies which hark back to that 90\u2019s West Coast sound pioneered by bands like Lifehouse, Counting Crows and Hootie & The Blowfish.<\/p>\n

Vocalist Mike Ahern has a stunning voice which is ably backed by the band, there is room for some lush harmonies in their music which would raise their sound to another level. Standout tracks from their original set were Six Years On,<\/em> a gentle acoustic number providing an uplifting platform for reflection on loves lost and times past, and closer Glide and Fade<\/em> which, with its captivating melody and songcraft, ensured the crowd were suitably warmed up for what was to be a great day of music on that stage.<\/p>\n

We stuck by the main stage for the next band, the fantastic Heartland Roots Band<\/strong><\/a>. Their set opener 2 Feet Off the Ground<\/em> was an uptempo introduction to what was coming and got everyone going from the off. The Heartland Roots Band are veteran musicians and it shows with their excellent musicianship, tight harmonies and catchy foot-tapping tunes. They have the perfect festival sound and one would have expected to see them further up the bill, none the less they played a blinder and were well received by the now ever-growing audience.<\/p>\n

Heartland Roots Band have their new album Something Better<\/em> out now and can be found on all the usual social media platforms. If you are into Country and Americana with a kick, then these guys are for you.<\/p>\n

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The Heartland Roots Band. Photo (c) Kevin Gaughan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

We continued our musical adventure with a trip over to the STL Valley stage where veteran punk rockers The Lost Future<\/strong><\/a> were entertaining the crowd with their vibrant, energetic and upbeat set of original punk tracks. Standout was their track about climate change What Have You Done?<\/em> which in typical punk rock style was able to convey a very serious and powerful sentiment through the medium of music and lyrics.<\/p>\n

Billed as potentially the band’s last gig, we certainly hope not, with the new wave of interest in punk brought about by the recent \u2018Pistol\u2019 series gracing our TV screens we hope that these punks continue to light up stages for as long as possible.<\/p>\n

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The Lost Future. photo (c) Kevin Gaughan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Upon stopping to take on some refreshment, our next stop was the Bandstand, located between the Main stage and the STL Valley stage.<\/p>\n

Events had kicked off here as early as 11:30am, where acoustic acts had been providing the crowds who gathered an alternative to the bands playing on the larger stages. We had already stopped to watch some fine performances from Bobby Dobson<\/strong> and Chris Bramley<\/strong><\/a> and now it was the turn of well-known local musician John Fryer<\/strong><\/a>. John is a regular at venues around Leicester and an accomplished singer-songwriter who kept the crowd entertained with his take on popular songs from across the decades alongside his own material.<\/p>\n

No stranger to Western Park Festival having performed here previously, John was well received and will no doubt be back to do so again.<\/p>\n

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John Fryer. Photo (c) Kevin Gaughan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

We hightailed it down to the STL Valley stage next to catch BASH<\/strong><\/a> who were performing their set of anthemic covers, all belted out in style by their lead singer, frontwoman Debbie Mack. We particularly enjoyed their take on The Cult classic She Sells Sanctuary,<\/em> a personal favourite of ours.<\/p>\n

BASH have a busy schedule of gigs over the next few months and we would definitely recommend spending an evening partying with them.<\/p>\n

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BASH. Photo (c) Kevin Gaughan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

After a quick break due to a last-minute commitment (performing on the bandstand as New Age Grace<\/a> (acoustic)) we took the opportunity to catch Revival<\/strong> <\/a>on the STL Valley stage. Revival brought a large slab of indie infused rock to the proceedings, reminiscent of early Oasis and Northern Uproar.<\/p>\n

Their wall of sound, energy and attitude were matched by their catchy songs and singer Daz Lynch\u2019s powerful vocals. New song The Broken Man<\/em> was a standout, featuring an electronic riff supplied by a backing track which the band used to propel the song and drive hard to its climax.<\/p>\n

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Revival. Photo (c) Kevin Gaughan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Back on the Bandstand, all vocal troupe The Simpletones<\/strong><\/a> were dazzling the crowd with their stunning harmonies, performing acapella versions of well-loved songs. Their synergy was evident by the way each vocalist had their set role in helping keep the songs on track.<\/p>\n

Vocally excellent and well received by the crowd, this four-piece acapella and Barbershop group were a welcome addition to the festival.<\/p>\n

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The Simpletones. Photo (c) Kevin Gaughan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Melonade<\/strong> <\/a>graced the STL Valley stage at 4pm and the 4 piece indie band gave a solid performance sending the crowd, who stood\/sat to watch, on a nostalgic trip back to the indie sounds of the noughties with a mix of covers and originals.<\/p>\n

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Melonade. Photo (c) Kevin Gaughan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The day was getting on and we were getting hungry so we headed towards the mainstage where we were able to try some of the food on offer whilst also catching the next band Snowflake Generation<\/strong><\/a> who were just opening their set. The Birmingham based band impressed the audience with their own blend of Indie Rock, driving beats were complimented by intricate guitar work and melodies catchy enough to rival Covid. Stand-out tracks were Better By Now<\/em> and their new single LDL<\/em> both of which impressed.<\/p>\n

Keep an eye out for this lot over the next few months as they have a bright future ahead.<\/p>\n

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Snowflake Generation. Photo (c) Kevin Gaughan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Some excitement was brewing over at the STL Valley stage where a good-sized crowd had turned up to watch Leicester-based hard rock band Borderline<\/strong><\/a>. We headed down to catch their set and were instantly impressed with their sound.<\/p>\n

Their lead vocalist had everyone that had showed up to watch eating out of her hand from the outset with powerful Lizzy Halesque vocals which showcased her dazzling range. The band gave a captivating performance demonstrating strong musicianship, songwriting and well-choreographed energy-filled performance of classic meets modern rock. Borderline promise much more to come soon and we can\u2019t wait.<\/p>\n

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Borderline. Photo (c) Kevin Gaughan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Trevor writes:<\/p>\n

Amber Saqladi<\/strong><\/a> began her set with a song called Save Yourself<\/em>, saying this was the first song she had ever written. She had an attractive voice that was easy on the ear, one with a warm timbre. Her set got off to a good start, I thought, and the rest of her songs went down well with the audience.<\/p>\n

Last year, in July, Amber was on a show with Andrea Kenney, at the Soundhouse. Our reviewer said, ‘ \u2026 she had the voice of Taylor Swift and \u2026 sang like an angel.’ Click here<\/a> for the review.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Amber Saqladi. Photo (c) Kevin Gaughan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

With five stages to visit, one did not hang around for long. Time for me to move over to the main stage. Luke Broughton<\/strong><\/a> gave a set of his songs delivering tunes laden with atmosphere and feeling. For his last song, he was joined on stage by the singer Mellow Harmony. A performance that was full of colour and feeling.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Luke Broughton and Mellow Baku. Photo (c) Kevin Gaughan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Calvin Jeffrey<\/strong> performed on the Valley stage. Now, he is a singer I have not seen for a very long time but I remember him well from years of previous performances. Calvin’s performance was rich in colour and commitment. An appealing set of songs delivered with fire and gusto evoking the rich rhythms of his musical background. Very nice to see him again, after all these years.<\/p>\n

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Calvin Jeffrey. Photo (c) Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Kenny continues:<\/p>\n

The fantastic Out of The Blue<\/strong><\/a> were next on the Bandstand. The five-piece combo brought their irresistible mix of rock and pop classics, featuring incredible 5-part harmonies and strong instrumental arrangements.<\/p>\n

Their set included well-known and loved songs from over the decades. It was their soundcheck which piqued our interest, their brief but excellent run-through of Crowded House\u2019s Weather With You<\/em> had us hooked from the start and they continued to impress throughout their set including a fantastic rendition of ELO\u2019s Mr Blue Sky<\/em> which they smashed and yes, they did \u2018that bit\u2019 and it was awesome.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Out of the Blue. Photo (c) Kevin Gaughan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As the festival drew towards its conclusion, local heroes The Jav\u2019lins<\/strong><\/a> closed the event with their headline set on the Main stage.<\/p>\n

Their Royal Blood meets Kasabian style was well delivered and received by the crowd who had gathered to enjoy what was a steady, professional and powerful performance which is what they have become known for.<\/p>\n

Their set was well crafted, even including a cover to engage with those less familiar with the local music scene. In true rock star style, the Jav\u2019lins treated the crowd to an epic encore where the best was kept to last and wireless systems put to the test. The perfect close to a great day.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The Jav’lins. Photo (c) Kevin Gaughan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

In summary Western Park 2022 was an overall success, with each stage being well attended and the crowd very receptive to the artists who performed and appreciative to have live music back. The staff were more than willing to cater to your needs and questions and we have to acknowledge the sound engineers on each of the stages who made sure the sound was excellent all day long. Roll on next year!!!!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The Jav’lins. Photo (c) Kevin Gaughan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Click here<\/a> for Western Park Festival’s Facebook page.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s been 2 years since the last one, but finally Western Park Festival<\/a> is back and this year it\u2019s the 10th anniversary of this family-friendly event.<\/p>\n

Click here<\/a> for our short vlog of the festival.<\/p>\n

If you would like to share this review, please help us by using the share buttons below instead of a screen print \u2013 thanks!<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

The festival has built a reputation for being well organised, diverse and entertaining for the whole family. Hosting live music across 3 stages…<\/div>\n","protected":false},"author":30,"featured_media":28960,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[321,134],"tags":[264,325,193,212,259],"class_list":["post-28947","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-321","category-festival-reviews","tag-acoustic-music","tag-country-music","tag-music-festival","tag-punk-music","tag-rock-music"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.musicinleicester.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/IMG_9739.jpg?fit=1001%2C668&ssl=1","jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/p73uhX-7wT","jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":10098,"url":"https:\/\/www.musicinleicester.co.uk\/index.php\/western-park-2016\/","url_meta":{"origin":28947,"position":0},"title":"Western Park 2016","author":"Trevor Locke","date":"10\/07\/2016","format":false,"excerpt":"Review of Western Park music festival 2016","rel":"","context":"In "2016"","block_context":{"text":"2016","link":"https:\/\/www.musicinleicester.co.uk\/index.php\/Music\/2016\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.musicinleicester.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/Western-park-Elysian.jpg?fit=600%2C374&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.musicinleicester.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/Western-park-Elysian.jpg?fit=600%2C374&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.musicinleicester.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/Western-park-Elysian.jpg?fit=600%2C374&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":6913,"url":"https:\/\/www.musicinleicester.co.uk\/index.php\/westernpark2015\/","url_meta":{"origin":28947,"position":1},"title":"WesternPark2015","author":"Trevor Locke","date":"06\/07\/2015","format":false,"excerpt":"Saturday 4th July The Western Park Festival Our photographer Kevin Gaughan spent the day at The Western Park Festival and here is his selection of the many acts that played on the four stages available at the event. 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