Words by Dave Jones.
I have fond memories of Ramsbottom festival from when I reviewed the event for Now Then Manchester magazine a couple of years ago. Hosted by Ramsbottom Cricket Club and surrounded by the rolling Pennines, whose adorning forest provides a beautiful amphitheatre, there is always a rich and diverse bill that bubbles with promise.
My approach the last time around was to steer clear of the headline acts – who this year will be Public Service Broadcasting (Friday 16th), Gaz Coombes (Saturday 17th) and Fun Lovin’ Criminals (Sunday 18th) – as other journos would be all over them. I wanted to see the bands and artists lower down the bill to try and get a local flavour of the festival. I found a band called Walk, who were the stars of the festival for me. Harp and a Monkey ran them a close second and I understand both bands are still doing well. There was also a hurricane which did nothing to dampen the spirit, which speaks volumes for this durable and evolving festival.
Once again, I will be looking at the less obvious acts and especially local ones, as Ramsbottom has an admirable record of supporting them. Finally, I have a confession to make: I will be checking out Julian Cope who I have seen more times than I, or he, can remember, just to see what the lad is up to these days. It will be special, as always.
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Ramsbottom Festival runs from 16-18 September, 2016, taking place at Ramsbottom Cricket Club.
For more information on the line-up and tickets, visit their website, ramsbottomfestival.com.
Ramsbottom Cricket Club
Acre Bottom
Ramsbottom
Greater Manchester
BL0 0BS
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