Valley Fest started in spectacular style. Doreen Doreen, the renowned Bristol band, travelled the few miles south to a Somerset farm by a lake to entertain hundreds of festival goers.
As the sun went down on the revellers, the lights went up on Doreen Doreen and their fans were treated to their favourite songs all done in the inimitable Doreen style. Despite a sound setback the band quickly recovered and the valley echoed with the sound of their crazy covers and musically gifted mash-ups.
video contains explicit lyrics.
In Tipi Valley – a series of tipis joined together to make a shelter over a large dancefloor and stage, the audience was largely composed of families with small children who enjoyed the Broken Brass Ensemble, a set of clean cut boys from the Netherlands with the most amazing trombones. Their funky and energetic act quickly drew festival goers and the tipis filled with dancers as the boys played their set.
Later, Zutropia treated us to the mellow sound of Algie Lacuna as we lazed around on bean bags bathed in lights sipping elderflower champagne.
There’s plenty of glittery stalls and fun things such as body art if you need to get in the swing. The festival has a great laid back friendly vibe, with plenty of families enjoying the festivities and camping and the Ring O’Bells from Compton Martin supplying great cider and drinks.
Apart from music, Valley Fest’s other focus is food. There’s the traditional festival food of course – great crepes and burgers naturally – and along for the ride are local friends Yeo Valley and Boston Tea Party with plenty more treats promised over the weekend from the Pony and Trap and the Pump House.
Friday Night Review by Sophia Beyer
