Lydney Town Hall, Sat/Sun 27th/28th September 2008

The fourth prog festival held by these chappies was quite enjoyable. My first one I must admit, many things seem to occur around this time for me, so I had some time away from the office, so I thought I would jolly well make the trip.

First thing was to book a hotel, so I did, but the buggers didn't open until 1pm so I missed the first two acts. I say missed, but I heard them play from outside as I was collecting a few autographs from several of my favourite prog stars. I saw the famous Croydon Mick, along with a few more regular faces I have seen on my travels. That French layabout Vinnie De Loux was there mingling with the prog celebs too, but I made my way in to catch those Polish bounders Quidam. I enjoyed their set, a mix of Genesis and light metal bands, but the frontman was a decent fellow and done a fine performance!

After the break, Magenta opened the evening session, and Tina again shone through with her delightful tones and third arm. Young cheeky chappie Chris Fry impressed the crowd with his fine work, along with Mr Reed on the ivories. With some songs from the new record, the set was a pleasing one to watch!

IQ on the other hand were as you would expect, with fine tunes such as The Wake, Seventh House, It All Stops Here, Awake And Nervous and Out Of Nowhere to finish off. With a new record on the way out, the band should still maintain their loyal fanbase, as two new songs made my feet tap along.

Sunday arrived, so I made sure I arrived with my trusty steed in plenty of time. I meet those fine musicians Thieves Kitchen outside, so I quickly said hello, and got them to sign their new record for me.

Glow UK opened up the day, with their nice blend of Pink Floyd meets Hawkwind sort of sound, they went down quite well with the punters. Next, Thieves Kitchen stunned the whole hall with just five songs. The lady sang, played a Theremin and a range of other instruments. A right Roy Castle I say! Best of all, a Mellotron graced the stage, so many punters blew kisses at it I might as well add.

New prog Kings Frost were next, and for me the band of the festival. New songs such as Wonderland were awesome, but Milliontown was the highlight of the performance. I needed a lie down after that.

Closing the festival were Tangent, joined with Swedish Scallywags Beardfish, who in their own right should headline next year. GPS was the song of the set in my opinion. Along with Oliver Hardy at the front, Tangent ended the night and the festival with a great Yes cover Yours Is No Disgrace, everyone was dancing along, and that was it!

Many thanks to the organisers who again made a great festival in the UK happen, must go to the next shindig!

Goodbye,

Pat Tishery