Bearded Theory Festival 23rd-26th May, 2024: Music, Creativity and Community.

 

 

WORDS AND IMAGES PAUL EVANS

 

 

Catton Hall in Derbyshire with its sprawling fields and historic charm provides a perfect backdrop for the award winning 2024 Bearded Theory Festival. As always, the festival line-up is one of the best of the summer. It’s an eclectic mix of high hitting headliners and bands on the cusp of being just that. It’s a special festival where everyone comes together in a friendly and relaxed environment to enjoy the wide range of music, from rock and indie to folk, reggae and electronic music. Really looking forward to this.

Firstly, it’s muddy, very muddy, but it adds to the experience and the atmosphere is still one of camaraderie and joy, Bearded Theory’s hallmark. From families with young children to groups of friends and soloists, the festival attracts a broad demographic and a little mud isn’t going to put them off having a good time. Secondly, there’s just not enough time to see every band you want to see as the range of musical styles and quality of bands on offer is sublime.

It’s Friday and I’m heading to the Woodland stage to see a blistering set of swaggerful, raw rock ‘n’ roll energy from His Lordship.  James Walbourne’s electrifying guitar work and vocals, combined with Kristoffer Sonne’s and Dave Page’s thunderous rhythms captivate the huge crowd standing amongst the trees.  It’s tight, high-energy and with their engaging stage presence and a blistering “Jackie works for the NHS” they create an electrifying atmosphere and have the crowd dancing and singing along. I’ve been trying to catch them live for a while now and they don’t disappoint. It’s a pretty good way to start the festival.

 

 

The main stage arena is full. The crowd waiting for the fearless, provocative Bob Vylan. The set begins with subdued yoga meditation before Bob and Bob’s fierce performance creates an electrifying atmosphere, transforming the set into both a concert and a call to action. It’s a relentless barrage of high-energy tracks that blend punk, grime, hip-hop and scathing lyrics which resonate deeply. It’s a performance that is as confrontational as it is captivating, the duo’s synergy immediate and powerful, with Bobby’s fiery presence commanding the stage and Bobbie’s relentless drumming setting an unyielding pace. I speak to plenty of people in the next few days and this set of explosive punk energy and gritty social commentary is always mentioned as one of the sets of the weekend. It seems Bob Vylan didn’t just play a gig, they delivered a call to action, leaving an indelible mark on everyone who witnessed their set.

 

 

 

A quick run through the mud and I’m at the Pallet stage, just in time for a band I’ve loved since the early 80s, Manchester’s legendary Chameleons. As expected, it’s a mesmerising journey through post-punk brilliance. The band delivering a captivating performance with Mark Burgess’s haunting vocals merging with Reg Smithies lush, intricate guitar work on absolute classics such as “Swamp Thing”, “In Shreds”, “Tears” and ” Up the Down Escalator”.  It’s a powerful, timeless set that transports me back to the band’s heyday, their ability to evoke deep emotions still blowing me away after all these years. The audience, a mix of devoted fans and curious newcomers, responding enthusiastically to the masterful blend of nostalgia and timeless artistry of every song.

 

 

 

From the moment Dexy’s launch into the spellbinding “Tell Me When My Light Turns Green” on the main stage it’s clear that the songs of Dexy’s Midnight Runners have lost none of their musical vitality. Kevin Rowland’s distinctive voice and charismatic stage presence bringing each classic song to life, somehow making the large festival setting feel surprisingly intimate. The band’s rich instrumentation, featuring guitars, brass, violin and keyboards creating a soulful and dynamic sound. Tracks like “Geno” and “Jackie Wilson Said” have the crowd dancing and singing along, their infectious rhythms and soulful melodies striking a chord.

 

 

 

Raw energy and powerful riffs replace the soul of Dexy’s back on the Meadow stage as Therapy’s? Andy Cairns’ gritty vocals and engaging stage presence, combined with thundering bass and relentless drumming create an electrifying atmosphere. Highlights include “Screamager” and “Nowhere” which have the audience bouncing and singing along. It’s another dynamic, memorable performance. Therapy? proving their enduring appeal.

 

 

 

 

From the moment Future Islands’ frontman Samuel T. Herring strides onto the dark stage, I’m engrossed. His charismatic presence undeniable as he immediately draws the crowd into the band’s world. His distinctive vocal style, characterised by its heartfelt delivery and occasional growls, adding depth and intensity to each song. His energetic dance moves, theatrical gestures and genuine connection with the crowd bringing an added layer of engagement to the set. In the dark the band’s lush synths and driving bass lines create a soundscape that is somehow both nostalgic and contemporary. Tracks like “Seasons (Waiting on You)” showcase their ability to blend catchy melodies with poignant lyrics and as is normal for me I close my eyes for a minute and breath in the emotional, uplifting atmosphere. It’s a stunning way to end the day and a set I’ll remember for a very long time.

 

 

 

For me. Saturday’s first band is the lush, shoegaze soundscapes of Hull’s BDRMM. Their ethereal blend of reverb-drenched guitars and introspective lyrics on tracks like “Momo” and “Happy” showcase their ability to create hauntingly beautiful melodies layered with textured instrumentation. The atmospheric lighting and the band’s immersive sound merge to create an otherworldly, reflective experience. It’s no mean feat getting to play at Bearded Theory, but I predict even bigger things for these guys. A band to look out for.

 

 

 

 

Green Lung deliver a powerful set filled with blistering Sabbath guitar riffs and eerie, atmospheric synths showcasing their ability to blend dark, lyrical themes with intense, dynamic arrangements. Frontman Tom Templar’s commanding presence and soaring vocals captivate the audience, creating an electrifying atmosphere. It’s heavy, dark, blows the cobwebs away and I like it. A refreshing blend of post-punk energy and witty lyricism follow Green Lung in the form of Do Nothing. It’s a tight and dynamic set, frontman Chris Bailey’s charismatic stage presence and clever wordplay engaging the audience, while the band’s tight musicianship keep the energy high. With their infectious grooves and sardonic charm, Do Nothing leave the crowd eager for more.

 

 

 

A key aspect of Bearded Theory is its strong sense of community and inclusivity. The festival strives to create a welcoming environment regardless of age, background, ability or musical taste. As I wander over to the main stage to catch Wargasm I look around the crowds and think nice one Bearded Theory you’ve definitely ticked that box. Wargasm take the main stage by storm. They unleash a barrage of relentless riffs and thunderous beats while frontwoman Milkie Way continuously prowls the stage, her fierce vocals and energy commanding your attention. With unapologetic attitude and electrifying stage presence, Wargasm’s seamless blend of punk ethos and metal intensity creates a visceral experience that reverberates around the main arena long after their set ends. The band are a force to be reckoned with and solidify their reputation as one of the most exciting acts currently on the scene.

 

 

 

 

Unfortunately, it’s not the veil of night as next up is a journey through the dark and atmospheric realms of The March Violets. A band intrinsically linked to the Sisters of Mercy and the original 80s Leeds goth scene. It’s a set of haunting melodies, brooding lyrics supported by an industrial drum machine. Tracks like “Snake Dance” and “Walk Into the Sun” showcase their musical mastery of the genre, while frontwoman Rosie Garland’s mesmerising vocals still add an enchanting allure. It’s a dynamic and atmospheric performance creating a timeless experience that takes me back to London’s Bat Cave and Manchester’s Banshee night clubs.

 

 

 

 

From the moment frontman Perry Farrell steps onto the stage, clad in his trademark eccentric attire, we know we’re about to witness something special from Janes Addiction. Launching into the set Farrell’s vocals are still powerful and his charismatic stage presence immediately draws the audience into the band’s world. Back in the late 80s and early 90s the band’s eclectic mix of punk, metal, and funk influences created a sound that was both unique and timeless. Tracks like “Jane Says” and “Been caught Stealing” have the crowd singing and dancing, the songs infectious melodies and introspective lyrics striking a chord in the present day. Original guitarist Dave Navarro‘s is back with the band tonight. His virtuosic playing a highlight of the performance, his intricate riffs and searing solos weaving through the band’s sonic tapestry with precision and flair. It’s a journey through the realms of alternative rock and psychedelic exploration as the band deliver a set that is both electrifying and soul-stirring. Tonight isn’t just a concert, it’s a spiritual experience. The band’s ability to channel raw emotion and existential angst through their music creates an atmosphere of transcendence and it’s obvious why the band are of the most enigmatic and beloved bands in alternative rock.

 

 

 

 

Last day and the muds back, but people are still smiling. So all is good. As I arrive at the Woodland stage a thunderstorm is on the way and the stage is closed. Disappointed, as I really want to catch the lo-fi indie sleaze of Viji, but fortune smiles and with no impending doom now forecast the stage reopens. Phew. The London-based singer-songwriters set is full of vibrant energy and catchy melodies. Viji’s heartfelt lyrics and lo-fi infectious hooks remind me of the American precursor to grunge bands. Which is a great thing. The charismatic stage presence makes me feel immediately connected to the music and Viji’s blend of dreamy pop and edgy lo-fi showcase a unique artistry, leaving a lasting impression on me. Thank you, thunderstorm. I’ll be looking out for more tour dates after this.

 

 

 

It’s been a long few days and to pick me up at just the right moment along comes Les Savy Fav. Why have I not seen these before? I’ve never seen photographers rush out of the pit so fast in my life as frontman Tim Harrington’s wild antics and unpredictable stage presence is in your face straight from the start. Within seconds of the set beginning, he’s at the barrier, then wandering around the crowd with an incredibly long microphone lead, singing to babies and chatting before he clamours up 20-foot-high speakers to continue singing. It’s a set that is as chaotic as it is captivating, Harrington’s crowd engagement turns the set into a thrilling, interactive experience. The bands raw, dynamic sound and their ability to blur the lines between performance art and concert make for a truly memorable festival highlight of post-punk energy and an unforgettable spectacle. The music was pretty damn good too.

 

 

 

In contrast on the main stage Dry Cleaning’s performance is a hypnotic display of minimalism and Florence Shaw’s deadpan, spoken-word delivery.  Witty, observational lyrics cutting through the air, create an intimate, introspective atmosphere. The band’s hypnotic rhythms and brooding melodies produce a compelling, thought-provoking set. It’s a unique sound and a charming performance and befits their reputation as one of the most intriguing acts in contemporary music. In a similar, but more dynamic vein Desperate Journalist’s blend of post-punk and modern indie sensibilities create an enchanting and immersive experience. It’s an electrifying set with Jo Bevan’s amazingly commanding vocals, alongside the band’s tight instrumentation, passion and energy drawing me and the large crowd in.

 

 

 

Dinosaur Jr are like marmite. Some people really don’t get the lo-fi wall of sound, whilst others, myself included, find it engaging and emotional. Whilst I hear rumblings of discontent from some of the crowd, for me the performance tonight is classic Dinosaur Jr, a masterclass in alternative rock. The band unleash a torrent of powerful riffs merged with beautiful, melodic solos and laid-back vocals which shine throughout the set. Although even I found the solos on the first few tracks too loud when an effect pedal was kicked in.  Lou Barlow’s dynamic bass lines and Murph’s relentless drumming providing a solid foundation for J. Mascis’s wall of sound. It’s both an intense and exhilarating set with “The Wagon” and “Freak Scene” memorable and revelling in nostalgic energy. They even did their own line check too.

 

 

 

When I first saw the Bearded Theory line-up I thought it was a brave decision to have Amyl and the Sniffers headlining on the last night. They are undoubtedly one of the best live bands around at the minute and I’m sure even bigger things await, but they are still relatively unknown compared to Future Islands and Jane’s Addiction. It was a great, great decision though. What a way to end what has been a stunning weekend. The Australian quartet delivering an adrenaline-fueled punk rock spectacle as you would expect and look completely at home on the big stage.  Frontwoman Amy Taylor as always, a force of nature from the moment she bounds onto the stage. Her electrifying presence and relentless energy commanding your attention, making it impossible to look away. Amy prowls with feral intensity, snarling vocals cutting through the air like a knife.  Guitarist Dec Martens, bassist Gus Romer, and drummer Bryce Wilson providing a tight, thunderous backdrop for Taylor’s explosive delivery. Tracks like “GFY” and “Security” showcasing the band’s ability to blend catchy hooks with raw punk aggression, creating a sound that is both ferocious and infectious. Amyl and the Sniffers not only meet but exceed the high expectations of the Bearded Theory headline slot tonight. Their set a masterclass in punk rock performance, demonstrating just why they are one of the most exciting and dynamic live acts on the scene today.

 

 

Bearded Theory  exemplifies what a music festival should be: a celebration of music, creativity and community. It’s provided a diverse and enriching experience for all of us who are lucky to have attended, leaving us with lasting memories and a sense of connection. As the festival continues to grow and evolve, it undoubtedly will remain a key event on the UK festival calendar, cherished by those who value creativity, community, and a love of music. Next years tickets will be on sale pretty soon and I’ve heard a rumour of who one of the headliners are already. You don’t want to miss out!

Long live Bearded Theory and long live Rock ‘N’ Roll.

 

 

 

 

FOLLOW BEARDED THEORY

Follow His Lordship

 

Follow Bob Vylan

Follow The Chameleons

Follow Dexy’s

Therapy?

Future Islands

Follow BDRMM

Follow Green Lung

Follow Do Nothing

Follow Wargasm

Follow The March Violets

Follow Janes Addiction

Follow Viji

Follow Les Savy Fav

Follow Dry Cleaning

Follow Desperate Journalist

Follow Dinosaur Jr

Follow Amyl and the Sniffers