The sun awoke for a blissful three days. Across thirteen stages and multiple stalls, tens of thousands flocked to the 2024 Camp Bestival for three days of family centric delight. Music, entertainment and culture was the vibe alongside a calm and pleasant atmosphere. For the grandparent, parent and child the ambiance was catered for. Good manners prevailed and smiles adorned.
For a summary of each day have a feast.
A Quick Reel
Some of the highlights across the weekend:
Friday
We arrived at went straight to the main stage.
Hak Baker
Hak Baker is an English singer-songwriter and musician from East London, known for his unique blend of folk, grime, and punk influences. Growing up in the Isle of Dogs, Baker’s music reflects the gritty reality of urban life, often addressing themes of social inequality, mental health, and personal struggles. His raw and honest lyrics, combined with his distinctive voice, have earned him a dedicated following. Baker’s early life experiences, including his time in prison, have profoundly shaped his musical outlook, providing a rich and authentic narrative that resonates deeply with his listeners.
Baker’s musical journey began as a member of the grime collective B.O.M.B. Squad, where he honed his craft before transitioning to a more acoustic sound. His debut EP, “Misfits,” released in 2017, showcased his talent for storytelling and his ability to fuse different genres seamlessly. Songs like “Conundrum” and “Tommy” highlight his knack for capturing the essence of East London life, drawing comparisons to artists like Billy Bragg and Jamie T. As an artist, Hak Baker continues to push boundaries, using his platform to speak out on important issues while staying true to his roots.
Meeting the amazing Hak Baker
Ellie Sax
Ellie Sax is a renowned British saxophonist who has carved a niche for herself in the world of live music and entertainment. With a background in classical music, Ellie seamlessly blends her technical proficiency with a vibrant, contemporary style that has captivated audiences around the globe. She has performed at prestigious events and high-profile venues, including exclusive parties, international music festivals, and luxury brand launches. Her energetic performances and dynamic stage presence make her a sought-after artist in both the UK and abroad.
Beyond her impressive live shows, Ellie Sax has also made significant strides in the recording industry. She has collaborated with top DJs and producers, contributing to tracks that have garnered widespread acclaim. Her versatility as a musician allows her to traverse various genres, from deep house and electronic dance music to jazz and pop. This ability to adapt and innovate has cemented her reputation as a versatile and influential figure in modern music. Whether she is performing for a small, intimate gathering or a massive festival crowd, Ellie Sax’s passion for her craft and her ability to connect with audiences remain unparalleled.
The Magic Numbers
The Magic Numbers are a celebrated British indie rock band known for their harmonious blend of melodic pop and rock music. Formed in 2002 in London, the band consists of two pairs of siblings: Romeo and Michele Stodart, and Angela and Sean Gannon. Their self-titled debut album, released in 2005, was met with critical acclaim and commercial success, featuring hits like “Love Me Like You” and “Forever Lost.” This album established them as a distinctive presence in the British music scene, characterised by their intricate harmonies, heartfelt lyrics, and a nostalgic yet fresh sound.
Over the years, The Magic Numbers have continued to evolve their musical style while retaining the core elements that made them unique. They have released several albums, each showcasing their growth as artists and their ability to experiment with different genres, from folk to alternative rock. The band’s live performances are particularly notable for their emotional intensity and the strong connection they build with their audience. Despite changes in the music industry, The Magic Numbers have maintained a loyal fan base and continue to be celebrated for their authentic and soulful approach to music-making.
Fancy dress procession
Home to check on reality and our cats.
Then back again and again to the main stage.
Saturday
The Amy Winehouse Band
In 2024, The Amy Winehouse band continues to thrive, showcasing a remarkable lineup of talented musicians who carry forward the spirit and legacy of their collaboration with the iconic singer. Dale Davis, serving as the Musical Director and bassist, anchors the ensemble with his deep understanding of Winehouse’s music and his exceptional bass lines that have become synonymous with her sound. Guitarist Hawie Gondwe adds a layer of complexity and flair with his versatile playing style, seamlessly blending elements of jazz, blues, and soul.
On drums, Nathan Allen and Stuart Anning provide the rhythmic backbone, delivering the tight, dynamic beats that drive the band’s performances. The brass section, featuring saxophonists Dave Temple and Frank Walden, along with trumpet players Henry Collins, Dominic Glover, and Ben Edwards, injects a vibrant, soulful energy into the music, evoking the classic sounds of Motown and Stax. Bronte Shande’s vocals complement the band’s instrumentation, adding depth and harmony that elevate the live performances, ensuring that the spirit of Amy Winehouse’s music remains as powerful and poignant as ever.
The Amy Winehouse band, with its diverse and skilled lineup, not only preserves the timeless quality of Winehouse’s music but also brings new interpretations and vitality to her songs. Their dedication to live performance and authentic musicianship continues to captivate audiences worldwide, keeping the essence of Winehouse’s artistry alive and resonant in 2024. Whether through live shows, tribute events, or new musical ventures, the band members honour the legacy of Amy Winehouse, ensuring her influence endures in the contemporary music scene.
Meeting the wonderful Bronte Shande who grew up in Moreton, just outside of Dorchester.
Look out for an interview with Bronte coming soon.
Dick and Dom
Dick and Dom, a dynamic British comedic duo, are best known for their work in children’s television. Comprised of Richard McCourt (Dick) and Dominic Wood (Dom), the pair rose to fame with their zany, anarchic style and energetic performances. They gained widespread recognition through their BAFTA-winning show “Dick and Dom in da Bungalow,” which aired from 2002 to 2006. The show was renowned for its interactive format, quirky games, and catchphrases, engaging children with its irreverent humor and unpredictable antics.
Beyond “da Bungalow,” Dick and Dom have continued to entertain audiences through various TV programs, live tours, and radio shows. They have a knack for blending slapstick comedy with clever wordplay, appealing to both children and nostalgic adults who grew up watching them. Their enduring popularity is a testament to their ability to evolve while maintaining the core elements of their humour, making them a beloved fixture in British entertainment.
What lovely chaps. Soph and Sam shouted ‘bogies’. Fans of Dick and Dom will understand why.
Home again to the cats and then….
Sunday
As we arrived on Sunday morning we heard Should I Stay Or Should I Go by The Clash and so like a moth to a lightbulb we went to find. We came across the tail end of the set by a band from the Forest of Dean.
Red Hot Riot
Following the loss of a kilogram or two we chilled for a few hours and looked into the nook and crannies we had so far missed.
Then back to the main stage.
Sophie Ellis-Bextor
Sophie Ellis-Bextor is a British singer, songwriter, and model who rose to fame in the early 2000s with her distinctive blend of pop, disco, and dance music. Born on April 10, 1979, in London, Ellis-Bextor comes from a creative family—her mother is former Blue Peter presenter Janet Ellis, and her father is film producer Robin Bextor. She initially gained recognition as the lead singer of the indie rock band Theaudience, but her solo career really took off with the release of her debut solo single, “Groovejet (If This Ain’t Love),” in 2000. The track, a collaboration with Italian DJ Spiller, became a major hit, topping charts around the world and earning her critical acclaim.
Ellis-Bextor’s debut album, Read My Lips, released in 2001, solidified her status as a pop icon, featuring hit singles such as “Murder on the Dancefloor” and “Take Me Home.” Known for her distinctive voice, striking looks, and elegant style, she has since released several more albums, including Shoot from the Hip, Trip the Light Fantastic, and Wanderlust, each showcasing her versatility and ability to evolve with changing musical trends. Beyond her recording career, Ellis-Bextor has also appeared on various television shows, including the popular UK series Strictly Come Dancing. Throughout her career, she has maintained a loyal fanbase and continues to be celebrated for her contributions to the music industry and her charismatic presence both on and off the stage.
To finish off our weekend we made our way to the Big Top tent to see our old friends The Smyths.
The Smyths
For over twenty years, The Smyths have resurrected the music of The Smiths in the live arena, performing nearly 1000 shows across the UK, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, as well as at numerous festivals including Glastonbury, the Isle of Wight, and Bestival. Praised by Johnny Marr on Radio 6 and by Stephen Street, the Smiths’ producer, The Smyths choose to focus on replicating the live experience of a Smiths concert rather than relying on gimmicky props or clichéd visuals. They aim to recreate what The Smiths might sound like today, having played their songs to multiple generations—from the teenagers of the 1980s who are now grandparents, to their children, and onto the teenagers of today. The music of The Smiths remains as vibrant and significant now as it did at its inception. The Smyths celebrate The Smiths by emphasising the live experience and the electric energy of a band that continues to resonate with fans.
Each year brings new developments for The Smyths, and 2024 has brought some of their biggest shows to date, including headline performances at iconic venues such as Shepherd’s Bush Empire, Cardiff Tramshed, The Electric Ballroom in Camden, Newcastle City Hall, and The Ritz in Manchester, Camp Bestival in Dorset as well as a fourth tour of Australia. For those missing the live presence of the original band, The Smyths offer the closest experience you’ll get to being there.
A cracking set of all The Smiths classics and surrounded by an absolutely buzzing audience.
Then with wonderful memories of a great weekend we set off for home and all the realities that the day to day of the outside world has in store.
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