— Sarah Ford contributed with this article.
Lovebox festival transformed London’s Victoria Park on Friday, July 16th. You stepped out of the country’s capital and in to a place far away – where everything goes and anything could happen. For the weekend, it was no longer just a park, but 18 acres of pure music love and craziness.
A giant tree house added to the festival fairytale, becoming a perfect place to sit and soak up the atmosphere. There were retro fairground rides, many people in eccentric fancy dress, and huge multi-coloured sculptures dotted randomly around, making the festival like no other.
The fans were treated to well established acts like as the Maccabees, Chase & Status and Ellie Goulding. Those still under the mainstream radar also graced Lovebox, including Tinashe, Newham Generals, and The Big Bang Club. This is what made the festival great. A wide variety of acts and genres came together, creating a day that won’t be soon forgotten.
The Main Stage hosted top class acts, all giving great shows that both hardcore fans and potential new fans could enjoy.
Ellie Goulding gave a solid performance for someone so new to the festival scene. What she lacked in experience, the Hereford girl made up for in heart and enthusiasm. You could tell she really wanted to be there and was taking it all in. The audience was transfixed on every word she sang. With lyrics wise beyond her age of 23, she sang well known tracks like “Starry Eyed” and “Guns and Horses”, but also lesser-known album tracks.
For headliner of the night Dizzee Rascal, Lovebox was like a homecoming. The east London cheeky chap clearly enjoyed every second performing back on familiar turf. This gave him a cocky-yet-lovable confidence that made his performance more exciting. His energetic show mixed old and new material, with a heavier focus on his 2009 Tongue ‘n’ Cheek album.
Kicking off with “Jus’ a Rascal” it was clear that his set would be awesome. The crowd were jumping as he rolled out hit after hit, “Dance Wiv Me”, “Holiday”, and “Bonkers” to name just a few.
For a different vibe, acts playing the Relentless Tent aimed to get the crowd jumping and loving it – safe to say this goal was met. It felt like a bubble had been created where it was impossible not to have a good time and enjoy the beats. Standout performances were definitely from Crookers, Doorly, and Sinden who took it the tent to another level.
Friday’s Lovebox was only the beginning, however. It could almost be guaranteed that the rest of the weekend was going to have the same energy, fun, and overall brilliant atmosphere as the opening day.
This is definitely a festival for everyone. With ten different stages both large and small, there is something to suit all tastes. Whether you are old or young, into indie, dance or electro music, or if you just fancy a fun day out with friends – this is the one for you.
Bring on Lovebox 2011!