This is not the last Bluesfest after all, much to the relief of the thousands upon thousands of people who have enjoyed the festival so far. Who would want to give up this magic event that brings the world of incredible musicians to the most eastern edge of Australia while also shining light on our magnificent local talent.
Anticipation was high on Thursday afternoon as the crowd gathered and was welcomed to Arakwal Country in the Bundjalung Nation by the Arakwal Dubay Dancers. Good vibes spread throughout the site as friends were found and assembled, preparing for the weekend ahead. Admiring each other’s fun festival outfits, hairdos and hats. Everything is acceptable here from highly bejazzled platform boots to old worn-out thongs.
First band off the rank was Electric Cadilac from Jakarta, Indonesia, at the Delta stage, on their maiden voyage to Bluesfest. Delivering sophisticated execution of blues, funk and soul genres sharing their sublime musicianship with a new audience. Quickly garnering loyal followers, this will not be the last time we take this sleek ride.
Velvet Trip reeled me into the Crossroads with floating guitar riffs, energising beats and textured layers. All the ingredients for loosing yourself to dance. A great way to warm up the festival atmosphere. This Gadigal based act will headline in the future as their fresh take on psychedelic sounds infused with 80’s synths, smooth vocals and up to the minute grooves infects our souls through repeated radio play.
Amazing to see Budjerah go from playing small intimate gigs during covid times when he was just hitting the music scene to commanding the stage with an adoring crowd at the Crossroads. No one could be more deserving of this fast ride to fame. He has found freedom in his voice with flawless range, tone and exquisite vocal runs that sound effortless. Performing his recent hits, a few covers and some unreleased new material, Budjerah raised the spirit level of all in attendance. Going from a solo artist to a now 10-piece band this felt at times, like a big gospel church giving birth to the next big star of a generation. Sharing the gift of high intensity emotion Budjerah was clearly moved by the collision of a vast appreciative audience while being so close to home with family and friends at the show, a dream come true for this Bundjalung man from nearby Fingal Head.
Tom Morello brought Power to the People over two big nights. Giving lovers of Rage Against the Machine everything they came for including the chance to collectively declare ‘F*** you I won’t do what you tell me’. Masterfully paying tribute to the many musicians Morello has worked with, we were treated to Bruce Springsteen’s music and Audioslave amidst the RATM and Tom Morello originals that most of us were there for. Morello’s unique guitar handling skills transcend the usual patterns and chords shaping the air with original waveforms cutting through the ordinary and creating the extraordinary. Intelligent lyrics and thought-provoking imagery ask us all what more can we do to make sure the world is safe, fair and just for all.
Toto really had the last word last night with Africa after a nostalgic set of expertly arranged hits from a huge career to keep us all there till the end. Everyone knows and can sing that song even though it’s pretty hard to get the words Kilimanjaro and Serengeti out of your mouth in time to the music. Word for word the audience kept pace with Steve Lukather as he delivered the song we had all been waiting for.
Looking forward to getting back in there today for Miss Kaninna’s Bluesfest debut (2.30pm, Mojo), Gary Clark Jnr (7pm, Mojo) and festival favourites Here come the Mummies (10pm, Mojo). Woohoo!