I Survived Castlefest

As I write this, I'm sat in my parents' house in England where I'm spending a few days before I jet off back to Poland. Yep, the Castlefest blues have set in quite thoroughly by now! In short, the weekend was quite fantastic, there's no doubt about that, and waiting a year until next time - well that's simply too long.

So, before I get into details, the general good news... I broke the curse! For the past three years I have missed part (or a lot) of Castlefest due to illness but this year I made it from start to finish without a blip. Hurrah! Now, onto the detailed post...

I actually enjoyed camping. There, you have it in writing. I get super cold at night even in a house so camping tends to be tantamount to torture for me. I was lucky this year in that Heleen has a super insulating tent and her brother kindly drove us to the grounds meaning that I could bring enough fluff to create a veritable nest. The atmosphere on the campsite is always delightful so I was pleased that I could enjoy it in all aspects this year. I mean, having people of all ages sat around at all hours chatting, playing instruments etc... it's wonderful.

As for the festival proper, I actually got to look around a bit more than in previous years as I planned to see less in terms of music. It did mean that I had a bit more flexibility with going to extra shows (eg seeing Coppelius twice). It also meant that I managed to look around the traders a bit more. My bank account may not thank me for that! In all fairness, I only bought myself a couple of things and I am very pleased with them. I could, however, have bought a lot more. There are some unique things to be found and if you're into anything fantasy/reenactment/alternative then Castlefest is always a very dangerous place for your wallet!

And now, onto the musical aspects...

Opening Concert

I knew Coppelius' music and knew that they were supposed to have a good live show so I wanted to see them. That was how I went into the opening concert. I didn't realise quite how much I was going to enjoy them. In fact, Heleen (who didn't know them at all before) and I rearranged our plan for the weekend in order to see them again on the Friday. Both shows were absolutely awesome. Seriously, it feels that the band are having so much fun on stage and it is quite simply contagious. I also have a new respect for just how skilled these gentlemen are as musicians. Also cello. This weekend had a lot of cello. I'm a bit sad that they're taking a break now, to the best of my understanding, because I really do want to see them again soon.

We had planned on seeing Metusa and Prima Nocta during the opening concert but that didn't work out quite so well. We sat back a bit for Metusa but did listen. We decided to see Prima Nocta on the Saturday because we wanted a good spot for Saltatio Mortis. Okay, I wanted a good spot for them. They're a band I've listened to for quite some years and wanted to watch their concert from a good spot as it was to be the first time I saw them. Anyway, we ended up missing Prima Nocta on the Saturday too which was kinda sad but it was just too crowded.

I did, however, manage to see Saltatio Mortis and it was a great concert. As I discovered when asked by Heleen's mother, I don't really know how to describe their music if you don't already know them... bagpipe folk rock, I guess. Anyway, their show was great fun with enforced audience participation. That was a little less fun as I felt like my arms were going to fall off from clapping by the end of the evening! Oh, and the fire use was lovely. I mean it was effective, I guess, but it was certainly a good way of warming up before crawling to the tent! For all I'm describing this set in a rather tongue in cheek fashion, it was awesome and well worth the years of waiting. I was also increadibly lucky as I managed to get my scrapbook page signed by the band. I only painted about five pages this year due to time constraints (focusing on favourites I'd not done pages for before) and really didn't expect to get the Saltatio Mortis one signed but it worked out so yay. 

Friday

Friday opened, for me, with Adam Hurst's set. Adam Hurst is a cellist who I've listened to for a little while now and I really like his music. It's quite exceptional and really great to study or paint to. Seriously, he's one of only three artists that I (regularly and successfully) listen to while doing my university reading. So, as you can guess, I was quite excited for this set and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was nice to sit in the shade and just listen. I would have loved to lie back with my eyes closed and just listen (it's that kind of music) but I was so tired that I was afraid I might fall asleep and that simply would not do! Both Heleen and Winnie bought a CD so, as neither of them knew his music before, I think that's a great sign as to his talent and the quality of this performance!

After that we gravitated towards SeeD who Heleen and I have seen together before, a couple of times, in fact. We knew what to expect this time and we got it with a high energy performance. We didn't really expend much energy, truth be told, as the sun was intense and us ghosts had to hide in the shade. That didn't mean that we couldn't appreciate the music, however. The highlights of SeeD's performances will always be the crazy fast whistle passages and the song "Gathering Mushrooms". This set contained both.

Closing of the Friday was Faun's set. I decided not to take photos during the concert as, while they are lovely to photograph, I just wanted to enjoy the music (I actually felt this way quite a bit this weekend, which is odd for me). Anyway, enjoy the music I did. I think that we all know that Faun's shows are consistantly high quality and this one was no exception. They played basically all of the 'fan favourites' as well as treating us to a preview of their new album, coming out on the 19th of this month.... why not in time for Castlefest? I think one of the highlights for my group was the hilarity that ensued as part of the audience participation before Walpurgisnacht. My quote of the weekend comes from Oliver at this point: "Just the look of [Niel's finger] will make you sing like you are a very fertile elk". Of course, the other main highlight for us, as always, was Hymn to Pan which is just so powerful - and emotional - when you get a huge audience singing along. Faun also did a signing after the show and, as always, were charming.

Saturday

Saturday 'morning' started with a bit more energy than the previous morning with Pyrolysis' set. It was actually not in the morning but we'll ignore that fact. I've seen Pyrolysis play a few times now and, each time, they only increase in quality and in energy. I guess I'll write more about them later as I also saw them on the Sunday evening, late. However, it does bear mentioning that they very kindly signed my scrapbook after the show and were thoroughly lovely.

Having started the day with a bit more energy, it only stood to reason that we should have a bit of a chilled moment and this was courtesy of Kaunan. While they do play songs for dancing and the like we decided to sit in the shade and just listen and relax a bit. I have to admit that, as I was listening, I couldn't help but feeling that the music would go a lot better with a cold winter night and a roaring fire... I guess that's just a side effect of all this Nordic music! All joking aside, I do really like Kaunan's music and I'm looking forward to when they release a CD. I'm also hoping to see them again when they come back to the Netherlands in a few months.

Next up was one of my favourite bands, Cesair. I have actually lost count of how many times I've seen them since moving to the Netherlands - seriously, being able to easily access good music is one of my favourite things about studying in Amsterdam - but I always look forward to seeing them and have not been disappointed to date! This show was particularly interesting as, not only was it an enjoyable mixture of newer and older pieces but with quite a few guest musicians  which meant we had some different arrangements too.

After Cesair's set it was time for the burning of the wicker creation which, this year, was a dragon. I actually think this was one of my favourite designs for a few years! As always, it's a powerful moment and something around which the whole weekend centres. During the weekend people can make offerings and/or leave notes with things they want to leave in the past or focus on in the future. On the Saturday evening, the creature is burned and the offerings with it. This year we were closer than I have been since my first Castlefest (I was much too close that year, it was way too hot!!) which meant it was a different experience. I realised as the ash fell down like snow that I was literally being covered by people's unread secrets and wishes for the year ahead. That was actually very profound for me.

In the evening, Heleen and I decided we would go and check out Woodland as Adam Hurst had mentioned them to us the day before. We were joined by Winnie. None of us knew what to expect at all but at the end of the set we were all pretty sold. Quite literally, as CDs were purchased. Their music, inspired by the world of faerie, manages to escape the lyrical clichés that many other groups in that vein fall into while the music is simply lovely. As Winnie said, there is something quite inspiring about the sound and we both feel listening to the CDs may well inspire our own creative processes. It's great when you find music that has that effect. Oh, and I liked the light tech for this set too! We also briefly met the band after the show to get the CDs signed and they were absolutely lovely - you all know how highly I rate manners so it had to get a mention!

Sunday

Getting up early enough for The Moon and the Nightspirit was slightly painful, I have to confess and we might have been a little bit late to their set. It was definitely a good way to wake up though. There's something really quite peaceful about their music that resonates on a deep level. It was even worth standing in the rain to watch.

Next up was Shireen. I don't know quite how to classify Shireen in terms of genre. Their facebook page says Witchpop... whatever it is, there's a certain drama to the sound that is quite enjoyable and also quite different from most of the other Castlefest bands which still being similar in some way. I don't even think I'm making sense right now so if you understand me then you're doing very well! As well as their usual dramatic sound they looked striking on stage this year with large amounts of dark makeup. I finally bought their EP and am looking forward to, hopefully, a full CD some time soon.

After Shireen it was Irfan. Now, Irfan is another part of the Castlefest curse for me as I've wanted to see them the last two years but was ill during their set. Well, this year I finally made it. I started standing up the front but soon moved to sit back in the shade and just listen. I don't think I need to tell you how lovely their music is and the quality was just as high in the live performance as in their recorded CDs. Truly wonderful. I'm so pleased that they lived up to my rather high expectations and I will see them again soon, for sure. Something that is also really worth comment is how lovely the band members are both on stage and off; they are incredibly talented but come across as humble too. They also signed one my scrapbook pages and, to be completely honest, they were so kind about it that I was thoroughly overwhelmed.

The final act of the festival proper was Feuerschwanz. I was looking forward to seeing them too, as I had listened to their music a bit and was aware, like with Coppelius, that they had a good live show. However, I was so tired that I almost went back to the tent. Luckily, my talking about them had made Heleen curious and she wanted to stay for a couple of songs at least. Grateful to her because I soon perked back up and enjoyed their set so much. They are great performers who really get the audience involved. From having audience members on stage to act out the song to coordinating dance moves for the whole audience... it was a lot of fun. I didn't really expect to be on the wall of a mosh pit at a folk festival but it made me realise how long it's been since a real metal gig! Oh, and then there was the crowd surfing fruit (and sailor in a dingy)... 

However, even if Feuerschwanz closed the festival itself, it was Pyrolysis who played the final set, over on the camping. This was seriously an awesome way to finish the weekend as it was quite simply so much fun. Even the little blip whereby the amplification cut out didn't cause an issue. Everyone sat down on the floor for a while as the band played acoustically. It came back on mid song and everyone got straight back up and back to dancing. By this stage, a fair few people were on the tipsy scale but in the good fun, friendly way and that also assisted the evening to have an awesome atmosphere. Even I had a bit of a dance.... and I am aware that there is a video where this can be seen but don't think I'm linking you!



So, this was an exceptionally long post and I'm sure it ended up with a bit of verbal diarrhea but, long story short, Castlefest was awesome. Bring on next year!!



As always, I have some more photos on my facebook page here

Castlefest 2015

"I wasn't at the festival because I was very sick but, when I was there, I was trying to make Dafni dance" 

-Havanah's Castlefest according to Dafni 

From left to right, Heleen, Dafni, me.

This year's post isn't going to be quite the same size as those in previous years. I usually try and comment on every aspect of Castlefest and the bands I saw in order to satisfy my obsessive documentation needs. This year, there isn't so very much to say. I managed to get food poisoning (as did my poor mother) which meant that Castlefest was rather short for us both. We managed to go for part of Saturday although we left early and did little, and most of Sunday, although both of us were still pretty weak. We're not buying from that shop ever again!!!

I had planned to see quite a few different bands, with time to lurk around and look at the various things around and about. I had also planned to camp but, at 1 a.m. on the Thursday night it became quite clear that wasn't going to happen. After several hours feeling exceptionally trapped and sorry for myself with only twitter for company, I finally gave in and called a taxi. It was the right decision considering, as soon as I got to the hotel, I was really ill. It was the most expensive taxi ride of my life and also the one that I am most pleased I chose to take!

So, it was Saturday afternoon before I made it to the festival grounds and, to be honest, I only managed to catch a couple of bands that day and mainly sat around one of the stages. By the afternoon I was pretty dead and, much to my annoyance, I had to leave before the evening started. No wicker man, no Cesair main stage (although I did manage to see them the next day, indeed it was the only show I actually managed to stand for!), no Faun. I was pretty upset over missing Faun but I am pretty sure I'm going to see them in Essen to make up for it so all things balance out, I suppose. I can't make up for missing Dafni see her favourite band for the first time but there we go!

Cesair's Sunday set: The one show I actually managed to photograph properly!

I did manage to watch Rastaban with Dafni and attempted to force her to join in a bit... hey, someone needs to be that annoying friend who attempts to coerce participation. I attempted to continue my Dafni training at home when 'Arise' played on the CD to cries of "here we go again!"

The other highlight for me would have to be when I went to get my scrapbook painting signed by Finvarra and they were totally overwhelming in their kindness. Still can't get over how lovely they were, particularly when those paintings are, as far as I'm concerned, my little hobby for myself and nothing special at all. It was the last moment of the weekend for me and, quite frankly, it made it for me.

Photo taken from Finvarra's facebook page :-)

I didn't take many photos this year for obvious reasons but the few I did take can be found on my facebook page, as always!

Castlefest Winter Party

Saturday evening saw Thijs and me making our way to Hilversum for the first Castlefest Winter party thing. It was strange for something to be 'Castlefest' yet be in a theatre type indoor venue and in the middle of winter. Nevertheless, it was a lovely evening with some wonderful music, as always. This time I didn't take my camera as we weren't sure if it would be allowed so I have no photographs to share, sadly... and none for my scrapbook either which is even worse!! On the bright side, that also meant that I could bring a tiny bag and just have fun dancing (well bobbing) a bit without getting awful back ache. Seriously, Thijs' phone was too big to fit in my bag... it was bliss ;-)

Anyway, I digress!

We arrived part way through Jyoti Verhoeff's set (possibly because it took us so long to work out that Thijs' monster of a phone really wasn't going to fit in my bag). 

Next up was Shireen who I'd encountered at the Midwinter Fair some time ago back but didn't really know before that. I'd really enjoyed their set those few months back and, if anything, they seemed to surpass themselves. Theirs is a strong sound in every sense of the word and I will certainly be buying their EP when I have the opportunity (and spare cash), of course.

After Shireen came Cesair and I feel that I've written about them enough so that they don't really need much explanation! The set was really enjoyable with quite a few newer pieces as well as wonderful older numbers. Atiny Naya remains my firm favourite, however, and luckily it got a play too ;-)

Finally was Scrum with their fun rockyness. It's probably the last time I'm going to see the band with their lead singer Skottie which is a real shame but, I'll be honest, it was such a good show that it was a fitting 'end of an era'. Looking forward to seeing Scrum move forwards :-)

So yes... there is my incredibly short and unimaginative round up. What can I say? I'm tired.




This post is not for facebook because it was written in a sleep deprived trance... I don't even know if it makes sense. 

Castlefest review: Sunday

For introduction post and Thursday round-up click here, for Friday click here, and for Saturday click here.

Time, or rather lack of it, has meant that this final part of the Castlefest review 'series' comes about a month after it actually occurred. As such, this section will be even more rubbish than normal but it's unfair on the great bands of the Sunday not to give them a moment. In addition, Sunday was very much a day of three bands for me, Rastaban, Rapalje, and Finvarra so I've already written about them at some point!

I arrived slightly late to Rastaban's set even with my determined powerwalk... the shuttle bus needs to arrive in earlier, for sure! I really don't know what to say without repeating things I've written in previous reviews. This band never ever disappoint. Even though I was alone and therefore way too shy to dance, and using my camera as an excuse not to, the vibes of this band just get into you and they really do ask for the audience to become involved. Seriously, I cannot stress enough, if you haven't already got this band's album, give it a go and even more importantly, get to one of their shows if at all possible.

Talking about using my camera as a shy-shield... I actually got some of my favourite photos from Rastaban's set. The energy onstage, combined with favourable lighting, really lent itself to some lovely images. Of course, more importantly, it lends itself to the creation of an all round immersive performance. 

Having ranted on about their performance (as usual) I should give a moment to the important bit: the music. The set list for this show was great and there were a fair few of my favourite pieces as well as a couple (if I remember correctly) of newer pieces which herald a continuation of the high quality output of this band. Waiting for CD number two ;-)

I was able to meet the band briefly after the show which was a good way to round things off, I think! Really nice people and they also kindly signed my scrapbook painting for me.

After that there was only one other band I planned to see. Okay, I had planned to see a few more on the Sunday but by this stage the fact that I had been surviving on coca-cola was starting to catch up with me! So onto one of my complete favourite bands both because of their music and the fact that they're such nice people: Rapalje.

Having last seen them at Glastonbury, on a tiny stage, with a tiny audience, it was really, really strange to see them on a festival stage with a huge crowd once again. Although the band is the same the whole atmosphere of the show changes, as with any performance, so it was actually a little strange in a sense.

Something that's really nice about Rapalje is that my mother is a huge fan too. Seriously, their set was the thing she was looking forward to all weekend (although I'm converting her to a couple of other groups too!). It's great to be able to share the music and the experience of seeing the group live with her and to have that interest in common. I was really pleased that they played Loch Lomond, which is haunting, as my mother hadn't heard it live before, and also brought out the flaming bagpipes, again, because that was the first time mother saw them. I know I'm not really talking much about the band (I've done that before) but it's because, for me, it's not just the music but the people I'm lucky enough to share it with!

The other thing about Rapalje, that I mentioned briefly, is that they are really, really nice people. Meeting them after the show - what can I say, I had another painting to be signed - they are delightful. We spent quite a long time talking to William, in particular, and to David which was lovely. However, the fact is the four of them are down to earth, talented people and yeah, a wonderful show, as always.

After Rapalje we explored the site a bit more and stumbled across another one of Finvarra's sets. Not going to go into detail as I've already written about them but I guess the fact that I originally intended to watch half their set and ended up watching two of them say says a lot about them as a band!

So that is the short, delayed, and badly written, summary of my festival!

I have a lot more  photos on my facebook page and the bonus is that you don't have to read my ramblings there ;-)

Castlefest review: Saturday

For introduction post and Thursday round-up click here, for Friday click here.

Saturday

My plan for the morning was to go and catch the very start of Finvarra's set and then go to see Asynje
while my mother stayed at the former. I'd heard bits of Finvarra's music and wanted to listen to them live but as they clashed with Asynje I knew I was going to have to leave. Well, that didn't quite work out. In the end, I ended up so wrapped up in Finvarra that I ended up staying for the whole thing.

Finvarra, apparently play celtic folk with oriental aspects. However we catagorise their music it's really, really good! Gwen, their normal vocalist, was away on maternity leave and hence lead vocals were provided by Monique of Cesair but it didn't impact on the general performance at all.

The general performance was wonderful. The audience were up and dancing despite the heat - and it was boiling - and the combination of music and dance was the perfect way to start the day. Of course, I bought Finvarra's CD after this set and am currently listening to it. I would certainly go and see them in their own right at some point.

After Finvarra, and conveniently on the same stage, it was time for Zirp. Zirp are one of my favourite live bands because they are simply such good fun. Every time I see them I wish that I could get up and join in with the dance. Seriously, their music will drive me to dance again and that will be dangerous for anyone in the area! Anyway, I digress!

Their hurdy gurdy led folk music makes it impossible to stay still or, indeed, to be unhappy. Intricate melodies, driving tempos, there's something infectious about their music. Before their set, my mother commented on how empty the area in front of the stage was, questioning if Zirp weren't popular... her question was soon answered when they started playing and that space became the dance floor!

It's the only photo I have of all the band, okay! ;-)

My favourite piece that they play would probably be Bourrée Inkarnation and it's probably easy to just listen to them playing than me blathering on about them!

After their set I, once again, decided to try and get one of my scrapbook paintings signed and I was so so pleased that I did. The band were so appreciative of the drawing and it really gave me a chance to chat to them and I can certainly vouch that they are lovely guys! It was weird though as my little scrapbook sketch garnered more attention than I could have imagined with the band asking to have a photo with it. There's something strange about something that you created for yourself to show your respect for the artistry of another receiving so much attention in its own right but I was so pleased too, of course!!

The next band that I was lucky enough to catch was Cesair. Cesair are probably one of my complete

favourite bands. Their music has this magical quality to it and I love both their CD and the shows I have been lucky enough to catch. Although I only managed to see the one show this festival (there were too many clashes between good bands!), it certainly lived up to expectations. I won't go on too much about their show as previous posts have already said it all but once again, I can only say that I would highly recommend catching them live, if possible, and purchasing their CD.

Once again, after the set I went to get my scrapbook painting signed and had another rather large shock with how nice everyone was about the image, based on their CD cover. Fieke, in particular, was so sweet and that did mean so much to me. I also spent a bit of time, while hanging around the Cesair merchandise area, talking to a lovely lady from Amsterdam who was, similarly, lurking. Although I have no continuing contact with her, these little meetings, comings together of strangers, are what make Castlefest such a special festival.

Mother and I then planned to sit down at the back during Corvus Corax's set as there was a real shortfall of seats. I didn't know Corvus Corax particularly well but, having heard a few tracks and a lot of good things about their live show, had decided to attempt to see them but I wasn't that fussed about sitting and not prancing around (etc etc). However, a few tracks in it became clear that there was no way you could sit still, or stand still, during one of their sets. While the music wouldn't be my choice on my iPod, the live show was so loud, energetic, and engaging that it was thoroughly enjoyable. There is no doubt that they are skilled musicians, even if the style isn't quite to my taste, and, moreover, great performers. I may not go out of my way to see them again but I hope that our paths may cross, nevertheless!

Following their set came the burning of the Wicker Owl. Each year, there is some kind of wicker creature/figure with some symbolism that is, on the Saturday, burned with messages etc within it. I won't attempt to describe the whole process as you can see for yourself in the video below. However, what I will say is that it's a profound moment of unity. At that moment, everyone is joined and it is something quite special. 

Video from Castlefest's youtube channel

Following this was Faun. Now, Faun have been one of my favourite bands for many, many years now and I would say that every show of theirs is special. Okay, I'm a bit biased. However, there was something really special about this show. I don't know if it was because it followed the Wickerman ritual, if it was because it was the 10th anniversary of Castlefest, or if it was just an amazing crowd. The atmosphere, the energy of this show was much greater than I have seen before. Wonderful!

 

I was also lucky enough to meet Faun after the show, something that I have not managed to do before (although I've met Oliver when I've seen Folk Noir, previously, and Stephan with Zirp, obviously!). Pleased that I managed to meet them but even more pleased I was at that show. Looking forward to seeing them again soon!

I have a lot more photos on my facebook page, and Sunday's review will be up soon!

Castlefest review: Friday

For introduction post and Thursday round-up click here

Friday

Friday was the first day of the festival itself. My mother and I got up early and walked towards the unknown (i.e. a shuttle bus) and waited. The queues of people waiting by Hillegom station must have been quite the sight! Although I would have liked to have camped, as planned, the atmosphere on these shuttle buses was lovely and we were also lucky enough to have drivers who felt like putting on music for most of the journeys... got to get into the mood, right?

The first act I was lucky enough to see was Lisa Cuthbert. I first got into Lisa's music last year when I accidentally ended up listening to a small part of her set and found it truly beautiful and rather haunting. She has the most stunning voice with true emotional qualities. Her subject matter, and songs, are stunning too. Her CD, Paramour, is a concept album centred around the theme of the Magdalene Laundries which were religious run institutions in Ireland in which fallen women lived in awful conditions. I won't go into her music too much at the moment but will probably review Paramour at some point and would urge you to get it because it's a wonderful album.

Lisa's set this year included several sections in which she played solo and also played with a new band. Despite the fact they have only been playing together since December, if my memory serves, they worked together really well. It's exciting to see the project growing and developing. That said, I'm pleased that the set still does contain some of the stripped back sound that I really did fall in love with.

The highlight of this set for me was hearing my favourite, Gartan Mothers Lullaby, played live. It's such a simple, bittersweet sounding piece that truly does show off Lisa's emotional and vocal range.

After the set (which was spent mostly hiding in the shade) I went over to the merchandise stand to see if I could get my scrapbook drawing signed. This was the first time of meeting Lisa, and also her drummer, and it really must be said that she was lovely. She spent a lot of time with everyone talking about her music, life in general, and really bothered to make everyone feel special. And she did sign my drawing so I was pleased with that too!

After that great start, my mother and I gravitated towards the Forest Stage where Shantalla were playing. Indeed, my mother was supposed to go and see them and not Lisa Cuthbert but, hearing Lisa's performance while 'dropping me off'  the mother decided she wanted to stay too. We were lucky that we managed to catch the end of Shantalla's set and therefore got the best of both worlds.

Shantalla are a band that I vaguely know, and know that they're good, but don't really listen to. I did, however, really enjoy the part of their set that I managed to catch! I think it's really worth commenting upon the lead singer, Helen Flaherty, who, not only has a lovely voice, but has a real joyous energy on stage and brought a lot to the overall atmosphere.

After a brief detour to catch a few minutes of The Moon and the Nightspirit (too many set clashes!) it was back to the Forest Stage for Folk Noir. Although I really do like Folk Noir, I'll be honest and say that I didn't really manage to see all of their set as I had to go and sit down part way through it. One year I will be healthy ;-)

The parts that I did see brought all that I expect from that group, beautiful music with a somewhat nostalgic tone along with a presentation that is professional but not too stiff. There's something great about seeing this group perform live in that it rather feels that you are watching a group of talented individuals jamming together rather than a polished performance. There's that kind of intimate feeling and, perhaps, that is what makes this group stand out.

I'm really looking forward to the prospect of a CD release from the current Folk Noir line up as opposed to the early EP which is wonderful but simply not enough! I don't know if there's one in the works but it was mentioned last year so fingers crossed!

We then moved to one of the other stages to sit in the shade and listen to the next band on our itinerary, La Horde. Now, if you know La Horde you will know that there is no way you want to sit down and listen to them because they are a real party band. I honestly don't know how to describe
them as a band, or their music, other than feel good crazy stuff. From the expected tunes, played in unexpected ways, to tunes you wouldn't really expect at this kind of festival (I like to move it, for example), their sets are fun and unusual! I know there was one set that was planned to be a pyjama party, complete with pillow fight, and also, I've heard, a 'wall of hugs'.

After a bit of a break (listening to Euzen from a distance, and also catching the very end of Rastaban's set) it was time for Scrum. Now, last year, I was really disappointed by Scrum's set. I really do like their music and felt that, surely, this was because the sound tech was messed up. That said, I wasn't expecting too much this time, just in case. However, Scrum did live up to my original high expectations this time (re-enforcing my idea that it was the tech not them causing problems before).

Scrum play a mixture of traditional celtic folk tunes, with a rocky twist, and original pieces in that style. This results in a high energy, high impact performance. This is another band that is really easy to connect with as an audience. Although their musical performance is of a high and polished quality, there is an openness about their stage presentation that makes them seem as though they've just jumped up there for a laugh as opposed to being serious professionals. To be honest, with this genre with all its earthiness, you need to have that kind of attitude on stage. They were also lovely guys and signed my scrapbook painting even though I believe it caused some confusion as people couldn't work out quite what it was!

After Scrum, it was time for The Dolmen who are a band from Weymouth. Despite the fact I lived just down the road from there until a few months back I have only managed to go to their shows in mainland Europe. If any of my English friends are reading this, go see them, okay?

This late night set was full of people who really wanted to dance and have a wonderful time and with The Dolmen's music it was an easy thing to do! Although I was alone for this set I was approached by a fair number of people either to chat or to dance so thank you to anyone who absorbed me into their groups for a time. I think this was one of the most fun and friendly crowds of the festival so, for me, it's one of my highlights for sure and a brilliant way to round off day one!



I have a lot more photos on my facebook page, and Saturday's review can be read here!

Castlefest review

It's hard to believe that Castlefest was only one week ago. As always, it shoots by so quickly with an element of surreality that means that it is only days later that the brain finally starts to believe that it happened.

This blog post is somewhat later than my normal event summary posts as I've been unable to sit down and write, or sort through pictures. Indeed, as I type this I am still whittling down my 1000s of images to a few 'good' ones! I am also splitting it into a few sections (one post for each day) because it would be impossibly long otherwise!

Thursday

As those of you who are friends of mine on facebook (etc) will know, the start of Castlefest didn't exactly go to plan for me. A combination of cancelled flights and standing in queues waiting for KLM for hours, and my own weak composition meant that I was actually quite ill for most of the weekend and chose not to camp. I also ended up having to miss the opening concert which, sad as it was, did allow me some recovery time before the weekend proper.

However, I am happy to say that there was one lovely surprise - the whole festival being live streamed meant that I was able to watch the show from the comfort of the flat my mother was renting. Admittedly, I would never have chosen to do it that way but it was surprising how much of the atmosphere did carry through the computer screen. It also meant that, for the first time, I managed to see a live performance of Dikanda. Every single time I have planned to see them live I have been ill - I think I'm going to give up ;-)

For Friday's review, click here.

How can it be over already?

Well, well, well, Castlefest has happened once again. I simply cannot believe it. The last few days have been so amazing, as always, that my mind hasn't really had time to process the fact that they really did happen.

At the moment, I'm sat in the apartment that we're renting until tomorrow typing on my new computer (which isn't working properly so I can't get my photos off my camera... annoying thing). The point being, this is going to be a short post with my full post coming, probably, when I get back to England.

I don't really know how to summarise the weekend and a bit that has just passed. Surrounded by some of the most friendly people, beautiful music, amazing costumes, and an atmosphere that cannot be found anywhere else... that is Castlefest. I was also happy to meet up with a couple of people I had originally met last year, and meeting new people too - hi everyone :-D

In a lot of ways, this weekend wasn't exactly what I'd planned. I was unable to camp for various reasons, a last minute discussion based on ill health prompted by several hours standing in a queue at an airport (thanks KLM!). However, things also went well in unexpected ways. I got a couple of my scrapbook paintings signed and they drew quite a bit of attention from some the respective bands. I honestly didn't expect it and it was a little over overwhelming actually for something that I do for my own enjoyment to be so much the focus! Weird but in the very best way!

The other non-planned event was my first conversation in German with a native speaker. Because I'm self-taught 100% I've never had the chance to take the baby steps into conversation although my understanding is not bad. I also got to exercise my French a little too (I learned it since I was 6-7 and only stopped about a year ago yet I have never really used it in conversation... everyone seems to want to speak English)

Anyway, I'm rambling on a lot more than I had intended so I'll go for now. As I said, proper long post with photos and stuff is to come. I will probably have at least one generic blog post before then because I'm getting my flat keys tomorrow... eeee!

And life keeps on moving on

So it's apparently 2014 now. Who'd have thought it! Nothing's really changed which is no surprise after all true change is a steady process as opposed to a split moment. 

This morning, however, I did get something a bit new for the new year and that would be this beautiful little whistle to replace the one that my dad has nicked off of me (and not paid for, I may hasten to add!) It feels really strange to be playing high whistle again after two months of just low whistle. Just working out the right breath pressure and finger spacings again is a challenge. We're getting on quite well so far though.

New addition to the Havanah home orchestra.

Other than that it's continuing to attempt to improve my life! I'm working especially hard on the Dutch at the moment because, for some reason, the wind has got into my sails. I'm determined to have at least some conversational fluency by the end of my gap year and I'm immensely lucky in that I have a couple of friends who I know would be more than willing to help me with that should I throw myself at them!

Of course, the whole Amsterdam university application continues to hang over my head. I've heard absolutely nothing from them so far, which isn't the end of the world, but want to get myself ready for an interview. Although I am not confident that I will even get an interview I do want to be sure that if I do I have prepared myself the best I can so better to start early, right? I'll be going out for an open day in a couple of weeks too. Flying to Amsterdam and back in one day seems pretty daunting but I have to remind myself that it can't be as bad as the time I went to Glasgow and back to Devon by coach in one day (well in reality it ended up as 48 hours of being awake and traveling).

Whatever happens this year, I've got one thing arranged!

It's also about the time that I'm getting really ready to go off and travel. I am hoping to work my way from Budapest via Austria, Germany,  to Castlefest in the Netherlands. This had been my plan for a little while but I've been putting off arranging it because I'm not so sure that I want to do it alone. It's not that I mind being alone but I would rather have some kind of companion for this kind of trip. I'm going to start doing some arranging, however, and then see if anyone cares to join me.

Castlefest round up, 'new' house, and lack of internet

Tuesday, I returned from Castlefest to a house that is not suitable for human habitation. You’ll excuse me if I’m a little down about that. However, being someone who is generally optimistic, after an initial cry, I am looking forward to the future and am confident that I will get it sorted and will manage to regain some kind of normal life. While we’re on that note, I currently have no internet at home and therefore will only be able to access ‘things’ on my mobile or if I go to an internet café. Incidentally, I also have no mobile phone pick up at home.

I do plan on tweeting as often as normal as this is done from my phone, and will use internet tethering to blog. Sky will be round on the 23rd to set us up for real internet and, until then, my internet presence will probably be limited to twitter, blogging, and maybe facebook messaging.

Anyway, back to the interesting bit, Castlefest. What a wonderful, wonderful time I have had at this festival. Wild horses will not be able to stop me from returning next year. There were some wonderful bands and some wonderful people. I’ll probably do some proper write-up of the individual things once I have facility to upload photos and not just test but until then special thanks go to:

Cesair for putting on some of the most singularly amazing shows I have seen. You should also buy their new CD because it is beautiful in sound and in appearance.

Faun for making my dream of seeing you live come true and for being as awesome as I had hoped.

Folk Noir (and Matt Howden) for putting on a wonderful performance, and for being utterly lovely people, chatting with me for quite a while after the show.

Zirp for getting everyone dancing!

The people who attended for dressing up, being friendly, and generally making the whole thing atmospheric.

The volunteers. In particular those on traffic control at the campsite who spent each night with my mother and I while we waited for her taxi. Their kindness, good conversation, hugs, and pine mead was greatly appreciated.

On my way home again...

So, I'm guessing, that right now I am rather melancholy. I hate coming home after being away. I guess I am meant to be a traveller.

However, if you read my review of "Vox" then you will know that I have a thing for boats. I adore ships so much because a lot of my childhood dreams focused around, admittedly flying, ships. You can imagine that there is one bit of the trip, therefore, that I adore. Yes, a ferry is a bit tame (although my mother still gets sea sick), but I can still stand on the deck and watch the ocean go past even if I can't feel the rocking. It's pure magic... until I get earache.

The last time I went on a ferry was a few years back, 2009ish, on a school trip to France and Belgium for history. Aimee and I went on deck and had a great fun time. It was a great trip and Aimee's first time abroad. Reliving this is going to be extra special for me.

Something else that will make this trip extra special is that it is my first night-time ferry ride. I don't like night travel normally because everyone sleeps and I feel awkward and unable to read or chat or draw or the normal things I like to do. However, I can't wait to see the lights in the sea, watch the stars go by.

Knowing my luck it'll be raining.

On board "The Pride of Burgundy".
Aimee is far right, Muggins is behind the camera as usual.

Omnia

Omnia is a band that I have some problems with. In some ways I love them and then in some ways they make me a bit annoyed. That’s not their problem and, in a sense, I think it’s probably what they aim at with their music in so much as they want a response.

 I’ll get my negatives out of the way now so that I can focus on the (great) positives for the rest of the post.  I disagree with some of the views they hold and some of the ways they put them across. This isn’t the end of the world because we’re all entitled to our own views and it’s not the end of the world.

So, lets move on to their praises now, right?

By the time you are reading this I should have seen the band once already but this is their show on the main stage so this is why their little promo comes now.

Omnia’s music is something quite special. Although it’s not really possible to put them into a genre as they play such a wide range of stuff their music is always incredibly powerful and engaging. It calls to some innate spirit within and that’s something very special. This song, is one of my favourites for doing this. It’s magical.

Something else that’s worth a mention with Omnia is the way in which they say what they think and that they have opinions that they are not afraid to express. Yes, I know that this is exactly what I moaned about above but I think that if anyone puts forward strong opinions then there are going to be clashes with others. This song is one that I am conflicted about. I am not comfortable with the “Pope of Paganism” declaration, although within the context it makes sense and works. I don’t do drugs and don’t find myself a worse person for it. I also quite like the monarchy, live with it. All the same I like a lot of the views put across and I like the fact they have views.

One thing that I really love about Omnia is that I don’t think they are manufactured. They certainly make a big deal about this. Who can say if they are or not, but all I know is that when little songs like this come out then it makes me feel that they are certainly living the life they preach. Even if I might have my differences with their opinions I cannot help but admire them for being the way they are.

If you like Omnia then you can visit their website by clicking here. You can also read their, more or less, daily blogs on their facebook, which is where I nabbed the photo above from too.

Zirp

Even if I didn't like Zirp, with a name like this I would have to write about them. They are a four piece which gives hurdy-gurdy quite a prominent role (hurrah!). Actually, Stephan Groth of Faun and Folk Noir is their hurdy-gurdy player... he's going to be knackered by the time he gets to this set!

On their website they say that they "combine folk, rock, and pop with traditional dance music" and then say that their music (presumably!) is "extremely varied, harmonious and absolutely intoxicating". That about sums up what makes their music enjoyable. Their sound is unusual yet reminiscent of 'normal' folk music which means that it retains the power of that music.

I am only going to post one video here as I can't find any of very high quality. However, if you go onto their website (in German only), go over to the far right then there is a music player underneath the album cover with a grasshopper. 

Zirp also have a facebook page which is where the lovely picture above is from. It's also basically in German. If anyone wants/needs and translations of their websites etc then comment here or contact me elsewhere and I'll do it.

Folk Noir and Sieben

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Folk Noir is a project of Oliver S. Tyr of Faun (remember that band from Friday?) and Kaat Geevers from L.E.A.F, who are also fantastic but not playing Castlefest (boo!). They are joined by Stephan Groth, who is also in Faun now, and by Alex Schulz and play a kind of thoughtful, nostalgic folk music. Oh, did I mention that they sing in English too? 

I've not managed to get hold of their CD yet, which is rather annoying, so I'm relying on youtube. I detest buying CDs from abroad because of bank charges and shipping but I might have to cave on this one if I can't find any other way of buying it.

Anyway, they have a relatively new music video. This is not my favourite song that I have heard them play yet I could rant on about how much I enjoy it for quite some time. I think that says something! What makes me like this one? Other than the fact it has really romantic lyrics which would sell anything to me, the train sound rhythm is something that really stands out. It's unusual and really quite a fun idea without detracting from the song itself. The simplicity of the video itself is exceptionally effective too.

I'll only put one other video from Folk Noir before moving onto Sieben. This one is probably my favourite recordings of theirs. The way in which Kaat and Oliver's voices harmonise and interact is stunning and rather haunting. The song starts about twenty seconds in and is truly... well.... wow.

Folk Noir are playing with Sieben as they have before. I can't say that I know Sieben but from some googling it seems that he is a gentleman by the name of Matt Howden who plays violin, sings and does some clever technical stuff. According to the ever reliable (yes, sarcasm) Wikipedia, he is also British and from Sheffield which is where my father's side is from. Ooh, maybe I should look into him a bit more hehe.

From what I have heard of his solo work, I like the music but really don't know what to categorise it as in my head. It's enjoyable but in a strange way. I can't help but appreciate the use of the violin too, as a string player myself. There's some talented, technical, but unusual playing going on.

This music video is from 2010, so it's a bit older than those by Folk Noir above. By the way, if you're a Doctor Who fan you might not want to watch this clip... too many statues... you have been warned!

If you're interested in Folk Noir then you can visit their website, facebook (which is where I kidnapped the picture from), or youtube. I've only found Sieben's website so far but oh well!

Cesair

Cesair are playing a couple of times at Castlefest, hurrah!

Cesair is a bit like Rastaban for me in so much as I have not had great experience with them and yet I have fallen quite completely in love with what I have heard. Youtube is an exceptional aide to me sometimes!

This Castlefest is going to be a significant one for Cesair for a couple of reasons. Firstly, their CD is on sale as of the 2nd of August. This promises to be a truly wonderful CD and will, apparently, be on sale at the festival so I know what I'm going to be coming back with. Cesair have been releasing teasers for the CD on their facebook and on their website. I am excited.

They are also going to be playing a set with an orchestra and choir; this is the set that should be occuring when this post finds its way online. This is also really, really exciting for me, and, from what I have gathered, for them too. It's rather a one-off event and one that I am exceptionally pleased that I have the chance to experience.

So, now to the important bit.

The above is my personal favourite recording of theirs. I feel that it shows off their exceptional musical skill as well as their on stage energy which looks to be something quite special. Cannot wait to see them live. This was also the video that I showed to Aimee when going through a bit of a 'band introduction session' and we both came to the conclusion that if you're not won over by the first thirty seconds you're musically emotionless (and that it just keeps getting better from then on!)

I could find a lot of other recordings featuring the band but this is one that is on their website (so it counts, okay!) of their violin player, Sophie. Now, as a string person myself I'm always going to have a soft spot for fellow string players, especially when their playing is of this quality, but it would be plain criminal if I didn't feature her when she also plays 'cello.

Cesair's website can be found here, if you'd like to find out more (the picture above came from there). I would also recommend having a look at their facebook which is updated regularly

Faun

The main attraction of today has got to be the band Faun.

I don’t really know where to start with Faun. I don’t know when I discovered their music or how but I do know that the instant I heard them I fell in love and I own most of their CDs. They were the band that opened up the door of this whole genre, the band that first made me want to go to this festival. Be warned, you will get a video spam here but it will be well worth the time to listen.

Firstly I should give a short bio of the band... Faun was founded in 2002 and has been going strong since even though it’s had a fair few line-up changes. They play beautiful acoustic music as well as some more technical influenced tunes. I don’t know what it is that makes Faun extra special. Their vocals are stunning, calming, inspiring, and powerful. The percussion is quite simply amazing. The other instruments, which I can’t list because there are so many different ones, are so exciting even if I get really annoyed working out all the instruments present in each song or tune! Certainly, I have never found anyone to replace or better the band Faun, in this genre, and they are one of my favourite bands cross genre.

Anyway, onto the music!

I genuinely don’t know what to show you so I guess I’ll start with their new-ish music video for their album “Von den Elben” (Of the Elves). Although this album is a bit of a different sound to their previous projects, it’s still amazing. The song is called “This Cold Night” and is the story of a man who travels to his beloved’s house and she won’t let him in. Eventually, because of how cold it is she opens up and they spend the night together and everyone’s happy. The lyrics make the story a lot more beautiful!

This next song is called Isis and, again, has really poetic lyrics. It’s also a special song for me as it holds a few special memories. It was the first song I learned to play on the guitar about two years ago and it’s also the tune that I played (intentionally badly) during my examined play. My playing transitioned into a section of this song and just hearing this melody, and Oliver’s voice was enough to calm me down… for about a minute!

However, I don’t think I should just go on about Oliver’s voice because, lovely as it is, to overlook the women of the group would be a sin! The female vocals are always exceptionally strong as shown in this song, “Loibere Risen” which is one of my favourites and can be found on their album Renaissance.

And this video is the first one I saw by Faun and, as it was uploaded in 2007, that suggests I discovered them at around that time. I’d been looking for something like this in music for a long time, something otherworldly and magical, and listening to this I knew that I had found it.

If you like what you've heard then you can visit Faun by clicking here (available in English and German). If you didn't then you're crazy.

The photo at the top was commandeered from Faun's facebook page.

Rastaban

Today is the first day of Castlefest proper and, each day of the festival, a few posts should appear with a short bit about bands that I am seeing and how I first got into their music etc. I’m attempting to merge these posts with the times that I’m seeing the group (if I’m seeing them more than once then I’ll just choose one time) and, well, we’ll see how it goes.

Rastaban

This is going to be a short post considering I plan on seeing this group each time they play. I really don’t know what to say about their music. I stumbled across them. I haven’t forged great memories with them but I adore them.

I can’t describe their music. It’s special. Words cannot do it justice so I won’t try. Just listen.

"RASTABAN invites you to dance, to share emotions and to create a place in your every day routine to celebrate Life through the sound of their moving and energetic music."

-from Rastaban's website. Couldn't have said it better myself.