Despite it being absolutely baultic, the Leith based music festival, EH6 was a smash hit. On Saturday the 24th of November I watched and spoke with a massive amount of bands and acts in Leith theatre, and experienced a lot of acts I hadn’t known of beforehand.
There were many different sounds and genres being showcased on this day, from chilled acoustic acts such as Jonny Ward and Amy Lou, both extremely talented singer/ songwriters, to the invigorating ska/punk act, Root System, it was evident there was a great variety of music being played on this day.
Kick starting the day in leith theatre with an acoustic set was Jonny Ward, playing first in the Thomas Morton hall. The music he played resembled that of the stone roses, oasis etc the set was well executed and the performers vocals were outstanding, with it being the start of the day, the crowd wasn’t huge but those who were there seemed to be warmed up nicely by this performance. I hadn’t heard much of Jonny Ward prior to seeing him live at EH6 but I really enjoyed his performance and original songs.
The next few bands to follow this act were an experience to say the least. SUPA & Da Kryptonites , a 9 piece band inclusive of a small brass band and multiple vocals as well as guitarist, keyboard player and a drummer, played a set packed with notes of jazz, ska, punk soul and funk. This unique, high energy group gave the performance their all in every way, from interacting with the audience to trying to get everyone involved in a dance. Following this act, was ska/punk act Root System. Much like SUPA & Da Kryptonites, it was an experience to watch this act and the insane levels of energy put into the performance.
Next up was Sunstinger, a band truly resembling the 90’s indie rock era. The band of four took a couple of songs to settle in to the set, but when they got comfortable, they smashed it. Playing original songs such as Even When and Polarized, Sunstinger were portraying a mix of genres and sounds from indie to grunge.
The versatility and range of acts was a massive selling point and positive aspect of this festival, it allows you to discover an entire new range of music and artists. Shambolics and Vida followed this with two ridiculously impressive performances. Both bands played a set that warmed the audience up and got everyone moving, just in time for our 2 main headlining acts.
First to get the crowd riled up was Shambolics, an indie-alternative group who are definitely making a name for themselves and who already have a great following. The band were well loved, with each song accompanied by the audience singing along, especially their most well loved song When She Goes Home.
Vida, a band originating from Alloa, followed Shambolics with a similar sound and presence. Playing a sensational set of new and older tracks, the band ultimately stole the stage. Stage presence, combined with the chat and connection the band had with audience showed just how down to earth and talented this young group are.
The second last act of the night, The Snuts, performed remarkably. Playing song after song that was getting the an audience reaction like no other. Opening with their newest single Seasons, was an exceptional way to start and this without a doubt was well received. Going on to perform Glasgow, The Matador and Manhattan project, the band were outstanding and the audience performed almost just as well.
Finally, our headline act Jake Bugg, seemed to meet the audiences expectations and beyond this. Opening with How soon the Dawn and following this with Saffron and Simple as this. I was taken aback by the performance and stage presence. Never having seen Jake Bugg before, and being a big fan I was afraid the performance might have shattered my love for the music and artist, however I was not let down.
I would urge anyone and everyone to take themselves to EH6 and festivals like this. A perfect set of venues filled with extremely helpful staff, and an array of exceptional bands and artists that broaden your horizons of music and genres. Combined with the enthusiasm and energy of the fans and music lovers that attended, made this event nothing shy of perfect.
Comments