Fontaines D.C.

This was an amazing performance from all of the bands, all were great and curated brilliantly bringing up the energy through the day. The first 3 openers I wasn't really aware of but liked, its always good to discover new bands. Kneecap raised the energy levels and were electric to watch. I'm still skeptical as to how much they're Palestinian beliefs are genuine or a gimmick, but their energy and showmanship were unquestionable. Time will tell if this was a performance for the ages or they'll implode into a millie vanillie type sham. Amyl and the sniffers have no such questions to answer on authenticity. They were punk personified and yet still have an endearing personality that connects with the audience. My only criticism is the lead singers vocal range is a little one note, yet she makes up for that with her charisma. As for Fontaines, they're growing before our eyes. They finally looked like a stadium ready rock band, largely due to the frontman looking more relaxed and engaging with the crowd. He looked a true rock star and held the crowd in his hand. The set itself did suffer from a lack of energy in the middle that was a little lengthy and lost the vibe a little. Arctic Monkeys did this when touring their 3rd album, it seems both bands were going through a transitional period where their sound evolves. Having Kneecap and Amyl build up energy which Fontaines matched for three songs, only to then go into stadium rock was disappointing. However they soon recovered and the rest of the set was electric. The break for an encore- honestly, we know you are coming back so quit with the encore gimmick artists!- was poignant because of the political message, but a little clichéd. The crowd knew they were returning so instead of feavoured chanting, they just stood about a bit. More lost momentum. That said, the last three songs were banging. Yet I still think 'Favourite' should be the closer. People were hugging each other- and strangers! A rocking protest concert!