In an era of failing and faltering music festivals, the sheer success of the sold out Oakbank ‘Groovin the Moo’ was astounding. Especially if you consider the fact that it was in country South Australia. Nevertheless, the entirely flawless event went without a hitch, (save the traffic log jams on the insufficiently small country roads and the painfully long food queues.)
The crowd was in such a mood to party, people were walking for kilometres to the event and pre-drinking all the way. The mix of urban party crews and bogans was a hearty festive mix, but aside from a few trying to push through the packs, all were in good spirits.
Kingswood, while flogging a little too much tried and tested old school rock, still managed to pull it off. A straight forward, but very polished act catering to the drunken masses.
Charismatic king of Australian hip hop Illy is turning into an out and out superstar. With a huge turnout singing each chorus, the man is popular, especially amongst the fairer sex and he knows how to put on a show. The songs, to be fair, got a bit sameish but overall it was a solid show which got folks dancing.
Australia’s premier Hardcore cult act Parkway Drive drew a huge moshpit mid afternoon. This led into rising grunge giants Violent Soho who put on an anthemic, captivating show for the ages. Neighbour, Neighbour and one of the best Australian songs in years ‘Covered in Chrome’ threw the crowd into a frenzy.
While Karnivool and The Jezabels drew strong crowds on the outside stages, Peking Duck put on an electronica masterclass killing it for the dancers.
Wave Racer started a little too conventionally but gradually worked his way into his glitchy melodic textures. This sparkling sound he’s developed has led to his rapid rise through the ranks and arguably makes him the most unique electronica artist in Australia.
English rap royalty Dizzee Rascal sizzled on stage, working the audience like an absolute pro. With an array of party hits in his bag, this man was built for festivals. Flex, Dance wiv me and Holiday all went down like fine wine.
Headliners Disclosure were a perfect finish to the day for many. The clash with The Presets may not have been ideal for some, but that’s what you expect from festivals. Disclosure are masters of sophisticated electronica and actually have a vary array of quality tracks in their arsenal. ‘When a Fire Starts to Burn’ was an inspired start and finishing on ‘Latch’ was predictable. ‘You Make Me Lose My Mind’ was unbelievable, especially with the lighting.
That was a stunning finish to an amazing festival. A complete success
Reviewed by Gavin De Almeida
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