01 June 2024 (gig)
05 June 2024
The Great Estate Festival, held in the enchanting grounds of Scorrier House in Cornwall, is a gem in the UK festival calendar. Known for its eclectic mix of music, art, and family-friendly activities, the 2024 edition of the festival promised diverse entertainment and lived up to every expectation. We went along for the Saturday and were offered a blend of rising stars and established acts, all set against the backdrop of a charming, historic estate
From the moment you arrive at Scorrier House, and enter through the “Secret Door” the enchanting atmosphere of The Great Estate Festival is immediately evident. The festival grounds are a seamless blend of natural beauty and artistic whimsy, with installations and decorations that transport you to a different world. The layout is thoughtfully designed, with various themed areas catering to different tastes, whether you're looking to relax in a quiet woodland corner or get lost in the energetic vibe of the main stage.
The family-friendly nature of the festival is a standout feature, with a range of activities for children, including craft workshops and storytelling sessions. This inclusive approach ensures that everyone, from the youngest festival-goers to seasoned music lovers, has a memorable experience.
We checked out a few bands while we were there. Starting the day with a burst of energy, Absolutely Anytime set the tone for what was to come. This indie-pop band delivered an engaging performance that immediately resonated with the audience. Their set was filled with catchy hooks and infectious rhythms, drawing in the early crowd and getting them moving.
A highlight of their performance was "City Lights," a track that perfectly captured the band's vibrant spirit. The lead singer's charismatic presence and the band's tight musicianship created an atmosphere of pure enjoyment. Absolutely Anytime proved they are a band to watch, bringing a refreshing energy that kick-started the day on a high note.
As the afternoon progressed, Pale Blue Eyes took to the stage, offering a dreamier, more introspective sound. Their blend of dream-pop and shoegaze created a mesmerizing atmosphere, with lush soundscapes that washed over the audience. The trio's ability to craft immersive, textured music was evident, making their set a standout moment of tranquility amidst the day's hustle.
Songs like "Honeydew" showcased their talent for combining haunting vocals with reverb-drenched guitars and hypnotic rhythms. The performance was a serene interlude, allowing festival-goers to lose themselves in the music and the picturesque surroundings of Scorrier House.
As evening fell, the stage was set for My Baby, a band known for their eclectic fusion of blues, funk, and psychedelic rock. Their performance was a dynamic and exhilarating journey, captivating the audience from start to finish. The band's synergy and stage presence were exceptional, with lead vocalist and guitarist Cato van Dijck delivering a mesmerizing performance.
Tracks like "Remedy" and "Uprising" stood out, featuring extended jams and infectious grooves that had the crowd dancing and swaying. My Baby's ability to blend various musical genres into a cohesive and electrifying live show made them one of the day's highlights, leaving the audience craving more.
The pinnacle of Saturday’s line-up was undoubtedly The Darkness. This band, with their flamboyant stage antics and hard-rocking sound, brought a sense of theatrics and high energy that was the perfect culmination of the day’s musical journey. From the moment they burst onto the stage with their hit "Black Shuck," it was clear that the crowd was in for a treat.
Frontman Justin Hawkins, with his trademark falsetto and extravagant outfits, commanded the stage with the ease of a seasoned rock star. The band’s set was a mix of their classic hits and newer material, all delivered with the kind of showmanship that has made them festival favourites. "I Believe in a Thing Called Love" had the entire audience singing along, a euphoric moment that epitomized the communal spirit of the festival.
The Darkness’ performance was a masterclass in rock theatrics – from Hawkins’ guitar solos to the synchronized headbanging of the crowd, every moment was designed to entertain. They closed the night on a high, leaving the audience buzzing and craving more.
Saturday at The Great Estate Festival 2024 was a testament to the event's ability to curate a diverse and engaging lineup that appeals to a wide range of musical tastes. The festival's setting in the idyllic grounds of Scorrier House added to the magic, providing a unique and enchanting backdrop for a day of outstanding performances.
Todays bands that we saw each brought something special to the stage, contributing to a day that was both varied and cohesive. From indie-pop anthems to dreamy soundscapes, genre-blending jams to rock theatrics, the day offered a rich tapestry of musical experiences that delighted and entertained at every turn.
The Great Estate Festival continues to shine as a premier event in the UK festival scene, offering an experience that is as much about the setting and atmosphere as it is about the music. For anyone seeking an escape into a world of creativity, community, and musical excellence, this festival is a must-visit.
