Unnerved by having to compete with other events such as TRNSMT, Glasgow’s FiestaxFold ('freak out let's dance') party treated the Scottish crowd with a soulful and spirited gathering of musicians such as Earth, Wind & Fire, Roy Ayers, Emeli Sande and Ana Matronic. Personally, as a fan of soul, R&B, blues, jazz, and everything in between, this was the event to go to... and it did not disappoint.
In one of Glasgow’s many frequented locations, this year's Fiesta Fold was held in Kelvingrove Park, amongst its winding footpaths, various statues and monuments, and of course the park’s unique vantage point outlooking the cityscape. Navigating through the throngs of people and festivities the event was surprisingly accommodating of different parties – a whole family could picnic while listening to a DJ's set of Stevie Wonder mixes while a group of friends could break out their haphazardly executed dance moves beside a couple catching a tan in the sun. The crowd was a mixed bag which was quite a pleasant sight to see from Scotland's music fans – the more, the merrier.
As a primarily food-oriented human being, I had in mind a simple plan of attack to sate my hunger during FiestaxFold – walk past all vendors, meanwhile taking in the sights (as you should in a festival, or in Kelvingrove, or in a clear sunny day), and buy from the most smell-enticing vendor (the one that makes you exclaim in caveman-like nonsense at the outrageously sinful scents of decadence and indulgence that’s likely worth at least three sessions in the gym). In my hunt for the best, there was no denying Glasgow’s own travelling food truck, Fire Dog (although, pairing only diced bell peppers and tomatoes does not constitute the naming of ‘salsa’ – I felt just a bit sour from that false advertising).
It goes without saying, really, that the music was outstanding. I could only catch the main acts (although I couldn’t stay for Earth, Wind & Fire which was heart-breaking) from the afternoon onwards, but there wasn’t one performer that lowered the bar at all. If there was one to mention, the only discernible downside to this festival was the scorching heat, making the crowd identical in their perspiring, glistening and overly sun-baked skin, but the staff was rightfully prepared for even this, having coolers at every turn stacked with iced water bottles at the ready – and what’s more important than hydrating on a hot summer’s day?
Seeing the Pointer Sisters on the first day, I was awestruck by their musical presence onstage – no excessive lighting or outfits necessary, but simply the essence of soul, family, and music. Quite literally in astonishment throughout their whole set, I was completely captivated by the performance. And with De La Soul following after, the set was animated and interactive, keeping the crowd as involved as the performers – a complete presentation of the spirit of hip-hop, this was one of my favourite performances of the day (which is hard to say with that kind of line-up).
The main stage was one major, extravagant thing, on its own, with world-renowned acts and their developing dialogue with the audience, but the block stage had a pulsing, tireless atmosphere that you could only fully appreciate in person. Preferring the main stage acts myself, I didn’t get to enjoy the other side of the festival, but I could always see everyone breaking out every dance move possible in the heat of the sun, cool drinks in hand, and most of all, the music playing non-stop.
Not knowing what to expect from their first year, FiestaxFold had created a perfect environment that was infinitely fuelled from its own buzz and excitement. The event was enjoyed by an audience of all generations, shown by the crowd of toddlers to grandparents, yet everyone had the energy and enthusiasm equal to the performers.
As a festival that brought out from the woodworks Scotland’s soul, disco, funk, R&B, and hip-hop fans, I think everyone can say that, as well as this music scene in Scotland being very much alive, 2018’s FiestaxFold was a definite success.
Photos by Caroline McGregor
Comments