Lowlands 2013 Day 3: Girl Power!

After a sunny day we wake up to grey clouds and rain. But by the time we make it to the festival site the sun is breaking through. Within no time I'm eating an omelet in the sun. Ready to take on this last day.

Lowlands 2013 Day 3, August 18 2013



Jacco Gardner
More and more people are hearing about the boy wonder from the town Hoorn in The Netherlands, who got his inspiration from the psychedelic bands of the sixties. His album Cabinet Of Curiosities is full of beautiful songs in the same style. Live this may seem to lead to a static performance, but fortunately this is not the case. Gardner is chatting to the crowd from time to time in a relaxed way. His presence is kind of innocent and disarmingly. His music is doing the rest and it is creating a magical atmosphere. His band is his reliable support with his friends from Lola Kite and Mr Cool himself, Jos van Tol on drums. Surprisingly the India tent is only half full, but I'm sure next time he will draw bigger crowds.



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Haim
Another hype are the Haim sisters. Just like Jacco Gardner they knew to create something of a buzz, without even releasing an album. Already they are getting bookings for festivals and club performances. According to the MC who's announcing her, they partied hard the day before. The girls do look a bit hung over and their set isn't always really tight. They sound a lot more rough on stage than they do on record. Guitarist Danielle knows how to handle her guitar, but her vocals don't always sound powerful enough. They help out drummer Dash Hutton on percussion a lot as well. Bass player Este Haim sounds pretty groovy despite her funny faces. All put together it is an interesting performance. Although not legendary it does sound promising. I'm looking forward to their album that is coming out in a few weeks. By playing many shows they should be able to grow more tight and sound better. I'm sure they'll be a different band within year.



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Noah and the Whale
We decide to check out Noah and The Whale. The band from London make harmless indie rock songs. The band's performance is like their music: nice, happy and a bit too correct. It does make for an enjoyable performance though. And of course you don't expect to find a "wall of death" at their show. Despite some nice songs you could wish for a bit more bite though.



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Alabama Shakes
Of course Alabama Shakes should already have been programmed last year. This year they are already considered big enough to perform on the big Alpha stage. The band does have Brittany Howard who can fill any stage and I mean that in the most respectful way. Her voice is so strong and her presence is overwhelming. It's a delight to watch her sing. The rest of the band have gotten tighter because of all the shows they played. They sound very laid back and have made peace that they are performing in Howard's shadow. It doesn't take long for the crowd to surrender to the intense soul and blues songs. Although the faster songs are less impressive they are a welcome variation and make for a merry intermezzo.



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Foals
We rush ourselves to the other side of the festival site to catch the second half of the Foals show. I'm really glad to have made that effort. Their last album won many people over including myself. Their show is a lot more rocking than I expected. It sounds bombastic from time to time but always tasteful. The band is focused and knows what a festival crowd wants: dancing. The tent is more empty at the end of the show than at the point we came in, but that's probably because many people were already making their way to the Alpha tent for Franz Ferdinand. Foals deserved a bigger crowd for their hard work and convincing performance.



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Franz Ferdinand
Indeed many people show up for the glorious return of the Scottish band. They have been away for a while but apparently not forgotten. I haven't seen the Alpha more packed this weekend. We cannot even get in for a good spot and decide to party outside. Since it's a huge party the band is throwing. They have so many songs that get a crowd to go wild. People are dancing and jumping everywhere, even on the slopes at both sides of the tent. New song 'Love Illuminiation' fits in seamlessly and already sounds like it's always been in their set. 'Can't Stop Feeling' is probably a homage to the late Donna Summer containing a similar hook. The band even mix Summer's hit 'I Feel Love' into the song. I don't think anyone expected this big welcome back for the band. But they showed to be totally worth the wait. I can't wait for their new album.



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Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds
So after this high, Nick Cave was going to close the festival. How was he going to top the party loaded set of Franz Ferdinand? By doing what he does best: play a dark and intense performance as if the devil himself is on his tail. Cave is all over the place in his usual fashion. Sometimes hanging backwards, his arms raised in front of him, like he's enchanting the crowd. Other times he's hanging over the front row, pouring out his sharp words on the first few rows. Or balancing skilfully on top of the fence, supporting himself by holding the hand of one of the fans. The terrific Bad Seeds know exactly how to back him up. Gently playing along in the slow and intimate songs, but wild and rough in the louder parts, sparing no one to enforce Cave's words.

This doesn't miss its impact. The performance is spot on. A vicious and evil 'Stagger Lee' follows the dramatic 'The Mercy Seat' and brilliant 'Higgs Boson Blues'. Songs of the new album sound just as strong as his best songs. 'Push The Sky Away' is dark, spooky and fills the big tent with silence. I've never heard a big crowd go so quiet. Many people were questioning if Nick Cave was a good headliner to close this last day. With this magnificent performance there's no doubt any more. He closes the set with the always gorgeous 'Into My Arms' which make this performance a perfect one.



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Still stunned from the performance we get ourselves some of the last bitterballen and some beers. So what about finally going to the Titty Twister? Another huge line!? Crap! Grolsch Beugelbar it is then.

Another good edition of Lowlands has come to an end. I really noticed an increasing number of people come here to party and music comes in second. The Lowlands organization seems to targeting that group more and more, which is a real shame. Hopefully music will never come in second for them. Or should I start looking at a different festival?

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Lowlands 2013 Day 2: Nevermind That Shaky Start

After a rainy night we wake up to the sun. My body has digested all the beers in a good way. Time for a pancake breakfast in the sun and the first music of the day!

Lowlands 2013 Day 2, August 17 2013



Nevermind
A cover project of the holy Nirvana album Nevermind by some Dutch bands. This may sound like blasphemy to some hardcore fans. I am a bit sceptical, but still want to see it. It starts off really bad. Dutch Hiphop act The Opposites asked some unknown band, that you wouldn't even let play in your garage, to back them up. They totally screw up 'Smells Like Teen Spirit' and 'Bloom'. I'm sure Mister and Missisippi are great at what they do, but they drain all the energy out of 'Come As You Are'. Fortunately DeWolff, Kensington and especially Elle Bandita show how to do justice to this legendary album. Moss close the set and know how to make the last songs of the album sound like their own. Although I love their music, I don't know if it's an improvement. These cover versions are available as a vinyl LP but I'm gonna leave that one alone and rather play the original.



Mozes and the Firstborn
The young dogs of Eindhoven garage rock band Mozes and the Firstborn are living the dream of young musicians: playing in a band, making a record and touring all over the place. They will even leave for the USA soon and are now playing Lowlands. I like their record for its energy, although I have to admit most songs aren't that special. Some of them are good though, have really smart hooks and sound catchy. The best thing about this band is that the boys play with such enthusiasm, it reflects in their music. On stage this is no different. It is a delight watching these guys enjoy every second of their performance. If they stick together and keep on playing this much, within a few years this will be a killer band I'm sure.



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Ben Zabo
A musician from Mali playing a blend of afrobeat, african funk and highlife. I'm game! Ben Zabo and friends are dressed in traditional clothes for the occasion. Except for the white guitar player who probably simply doesn't own one of those beautiful outfits. Zabo is a sound technician who worked with many great artists and learned how to do it himself this way. Music wise it isn't anything special, but Zabo is a charming person with a big smile on his face throughout the full show, the true African way. Their music is a perfect fit for this sunny afternoon. Especially the marimba player is stealing the show with some crazy solos. At one point he's even turning his instrument upside down to play it while lying on the floor. Zabo is a chatty person, introducing his songs with stories about Mali politics and how he's looking for a Dutch girl to marry. I'm not sure if he won any of the ladies over, but it sure was a good party

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Miles Kane
Since I'm going to see Miles Kane at least twice later this year, we try to make it into the X-Ray for Dutch punk rockers John Coffey. But again it's too full and so we decide to join Kane for a good rock show after all. You can leave that up to him. Although the Bravo tent is slowly getting less crowded, Kane is not to blame. He's giving it all like always. The sound is pretty awful, maybe because they use this stage mostly for dance music and dj sets. In the end everyone who is still in the tent is literally brought to his knees and is joining Kane in the final song 'Come Closer'.

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Unknown Mortal Orchestra
The second album II of Ruban Nielson's Unknown Mortal Orchestra or UMO, is still high on my year list. He can be a bit whimsical but is always good for some good music and lengthy jams. I still have a hard time getting used to his falsetto vocals, but it does fit the crazy music. Psychedelic guitar riffs and hypnotic jams suck you into his disturbing and confusing world. Sometimes he's playing like a maniac, other times pulling himself back into the dark at the back of the stage. Bass player Jake Portrait and drummer Riley Geare are following him skilfully with swinging grooves, keeping it tight. Again like Mikal Cronin yesterday it requires a bit of effort but it all pays off in the end.



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Editors
Much has been written and said about the shaky process that eventually lead to the new Editors album The Weight Of Your Love. Also about the so-called transfer into a big stadium act. Critics are now criticizing the band for the same reasons they used to praise them for a few years back: the way Tom Smith is feeling the music is now suddenly overdone, the guitar sound is now too bombastic and the band is spicing up their act with unneeded fireworks. I guess it's the price they have to pay for their success. Critics never seem to like bands who make it big and become mainstream. Tonight they are proving to be a great headliner. They stripped all the more quiet songs from their set and are treating us to a one hour big high. Hit after hit are turning on the crowd, until a big climax in last song 'Papillon'. This is what headliners do and Editors knows this. Yes, it's different than the time we saw them play small intimate clubs and yes the new album isn't their best. But songs like 'Munich' and 'Bones' still sound great and will kill any festival crowd.



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That was another great end of a fun day. Nevermind that shaky start, I'm up for some partying! Is that Titty Twister line even longer tonight!?

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Lowlands 2013 Day 1: Wet End Of The Day

Could it be true? Could this be my fifteenth Lowlands? If all calculations are right it is! This calls for a celebration, let's get beer and head to the first band.

Lowlands 2013 Day 1, August 16 2013

traumahelikopter
This punk band from the North of The Netherlands in Groningen are the ones to head of the program in the X-Ray. And many people have come out to see if they can tear down this stage out of corrugated metal. It's so full we can't get in right away. After a few songs we slowly make our way into the X-Ray. But we're still so far to the back that it's hard to get into their energetic songs. Judging from where I'm standing the people at the front started an early party and the first mosh pit of the festival.

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Deep Sea Arcade
We leave halfway traumahelikopter's show to be able to catch Deep Sea Arcade. Their album Outlands sounds nice and on stage they know how to lay down a good rock show. From time to time singer Nic Mckenzie sounds like the Aussie version of Liam Gallagher. However this band is exploring more of the sixties rock spectrum with a bit of psychedelica added to it. It does stay on the safe side, but some songs are quite catchy and the band is fun to watch.

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Seasick Steve
Time for some good old blues with Seasick Steve and his drummer Dan Magnusson. To my surprise I find Led Zeppelin bass player John Paul Jones on stage as well. Isn't that a great present!? After seeing the old bluesman several times I know exactly what I can expect. But it never gets old. He's telling his funny stories, playing his solid blues songs on his self-made guitars while Magnusson is going wild on drums now and then. Jones is adding an extra layer to the music and is giving the songs more groove. It's still impressive to see how this old dog can entertain a big stage like the Alpha.



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Tame Impala
Up next on the same stage is one of my favourite bands of the moment, Aussie psycho rockers Tame Impala. Slowly they are getting used to their role of big rock band, although this stage is still a bit too big for them. Like always they need to warm up, but after a few songs their sound is exactly the way it should be: fuzzy and full of reverb. Slowly we're leaving the planet for a trip into outer space. In a smaller tent like the Grolsch it would have sounded even better, but it looks like master mind Kevin Parker is getting used to his status. Songs like 'Elephant' and 'Solitude Is Bliss' are definitely working their magic.



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Sir Yes Sir
Belgian newcomer Sir Yes Sir are playing the small Charlie stage right after. This stage is now covered up as well with a roof, creating a dark and more intimate atmosphere. I was a bit disappointed with their debut album We Should Talk. Some songs just sound too smooth on it as opposed to some of the other more rough and less predictable songs. Maybe it's because of the sax? However live it all sounds a lot more exciting. The band is working hard and the sax is actually a nice addition live. Maybe I'll have another go at the album again.

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Beans & Fatback
At the Lima stage you know you can always find a band to dance to most of the times. Dutch band Beans & Fatback treat us to a steaming set packed with soul and old rhythm and blues. The group is full of energy and this is catching on with the crowd in no time. In the end everyone is dancing, a well deserved reward for the hard working band.

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Mikal Cronin
On his second album MCII Mikal Cronin proves that he's able to write very good pop songs next to the fuzzy and grungy songs that he did on his first album. On stage his no nonsense band are playing a solid show, that requires some effort by the ones who are watching. The band is very focused and therefore a bit introverted. Their somewhat nerdy look isn't exactly showing off a radiant stage performance either. But the music is making up for that. The songs sound great and the band is so into it, that it is a pleasure to watch. Sometimes it's nice when you have to put a little effort into music to find the true beauty of it. I decide to leave halfway nevertheless to catch the last half of the Jagwar Ma show at the Charlie stage. It has started to rain and the place is so full of people looking for cover that we just can't get in. Too bad since I left a good show halfway and cannot catch this show now. We try to watch it from outside, but this is no fun at all. We decide to keep our insides wet with some Grolsch instead.



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Nine Inch Nails
A few years ago Trent Reznor killed off his successful Nine Inch Nails project and sold all equipment and instruments. He probably had to invest quite a lot again when he reignited the project recently. With a new album coming up soon, they even earned a headliner slot on this first day. And the band doesn't disappoint at all. With only a small keyboard Reznor starts of the show by himself. Slowly the other musicians are moved onto the stage including a few screens. This turns out to be the setup for a very creative stage set and light show. The screens are constantly on the move and are used for lighting effects as well as video screens. The musicians are on different spots throughout the show as well. The set list is a nice overview of the NIN catalogue, including popular songs 'Wish', 'Only', 'The Hand That Feeds' and 'Head Like A Hole' back-to-back at the end of the set. To make things even better it closes with 'Hurt'. NIN made a lot of new friends today and proves the Lowlands organization right into putting the band on the bill as a headliner.



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We feel energized after that show to party for a bit longer. Hey! What's that enormous line doing in front of the Titty Twister!? And can someone please turn off the rain!

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Sniffing The Grass: A Lowlands 2013 Warmup

Although all indie-hipsters think Lowlands is not fun anymore because they think it's too mainstream, too busy and nowadays everyone is going, I think it's still a great festival. They all went to Best Kept Secrets earlier this year, that did have a nice line-up. But Lowlands sure has a nice program too, even for indie-hipsters. Maybe not a lot of headliners, but that only means there are more smaller bands and there's more to discover. And that's the problem right away: I don't want to make choices!

Friday
First choice right from the start: Traumahelikopter or Deep Sea Arcade. The Dutch punkers Traumahelikopter know how to tear down a tent, but ozzie band Deep Sea Arcade make this great psychedelic music. Maybe try to make both. Next choice: Theme Park or The Joy Formidable? Not to sure about either of them so will choose at the last moment. I know I like Seasick Steve's blues and he's always great to watch. I don't want to miss Tame Impala. Their live shows do get better and better and you know I adore their music.

Belgian band Sir Yes Sir released their first album earlier this year. I was looking forward to it, but it didn't quite convince me. Maybe live they will. I like Band of Horses and saw them earlier on Rock Werchter. Maybe try Beans & Fatback instead for some good old blues and soul.

Time for the biggest dilemma of the weekend. I think I'm going to run between the India and Charlie stages to catch both Mikal Cronin and Jagwar Ma I'll have to skip Bombino. De Jeugd van Tegenwoordig and Slayer are impossible to see that way. Ah, Slayer without Dave Lombardo isn't the same anyway. Industrial rockers Nine Inch Nails quit and then came back together. Trent Reznor may not know what he wants, but you know he throws a great show.



Pfff, if I have any energy left on this first day, time for some dancing? I'm sure it will involve some beers.

Saturday
Several Dutch bands will be playing Nirvana cover songs of their classic album Nevermind. Not sure if that is always a good idea, but worth checking out. I did see both one of Belgian's finest Balthazar and Dutch young dogs Mozes And The Firstborn before, so this is gonna be another tough choice.

Afrobeat from Mali? You don't have to say that twice. Ben Zabo I'll be there! I'm going to see Miles Kane later this year so will catch him there. John Coffey or Michael Kiwanuka then? I love Kiwanuka's soul but also heard good things about John Coffey. Damn choices!

I'm definitely going to see the great Unknown Mortal Orchestra who made one of the best records so far this year. Then there's finally some time to take it slow before Editors close the day. Well, not exactly close it, since the night is only just beginning.



Sunday
The World Orchestra sounds nice to start with but I also finally want to see our own Dutch wonder boy Jacco Gardner perform. I only caught the last ten minutes of Haim's show on Rock Werchter, so me and the girls definitely have a date today. Noah and the Whale are worth checking out and although I've seen Alabama Shakes perform a lot last year I can't get enough of their soulful music.

Foals came up with a great record and are supposed to be throw impressive live shows as well. Franz Ferdinand are about to release a new album. Do they still have that sparkle? Nick Cave isn't exactly the act you expect to close a big festival. But I love his music and he might just surprise us to be a great closing act.



It sure looks like a promising program with great bands to look forward to. Just take a look at their line-up and the block schedule. Of course like always there's also comedy, dance, movies and theater. For a non indie-hipster like me this is going to be one great weekend!

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Lowlands 2012 Day 3: It Doesn't Get Hotter Than This

We wake up to a simmering heat. Today will be the hottest day ever recorded in our country and it certainly is the hottest day ever on Lowlands. But who cares? This is still better than rain and mud, so time to get some eggs, coffee and juice to start us off.

Lowlands Day 2, August 18 2012



Moss
The big Alpha stage is only half full and it still is a mystery to me why Moss aren't playing the smaller Grolsch. Okay, they killed it there a few years back, but this band isn't a big stadium rock band. Their songs are working best in a smaller place. And this is exactly why their show isn't as good as it could be. The band is playing great though and it's obvious the songs are all little gems. But the big stage screams for big anthems and crowd pleasers. We get a glimpse of that at the end with their big hit 'I Love The Chemistry'. It's simply a matter of the right band at the wrong place.

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Orgel Vreten
What do you get when you put two Hammonds together and a crowd ready to party on the hottest day ever? A crazy sweat dripping hot Hammond beating. Thijs Schrijnemakers and Robin Piso, who's also playing for DeWolff, are scourging their organs making it impossible to stand still. There are no vocals and it's like listening to a long Hammond solo. That's exactly the weak spot, it does get a bit too much in the end. Still a surprise on the always interesting Lima stage.



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Pulled Apart By Horses
We may be hot but who cares? Let's see if we can take some hardcore punk rock at the hottest stage of the festival at the hottest moment of the hottest day. So Lowlands was hot? Mwah, not too bad. These guys definitely don't take it easy. They are playing their guts out, almost literally when singer Tom Hudson is puking off the stage just in front of the first row. It turns out he's doing that more often so it probably wasn't the heat. It's a high energy performance that will definitely have pleased a lot of the people that came to see them. After their show they run off to Lake Lowlands to take a well deserved jump into the water to cool off.

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Ewert and The Two Dragons
I have a break in my schedule and decide to go buy some records at the local festival record store. There's not a lot to my record collection, so I'm done pretty quickly. Why not take a peak at the Lima stage where Estonian band Ewert & The Two Dragons are playing? I heard many good things about them although it may a bit too light for my liking. I'm pretty sure of this after seeing them here at Lowlands. There's nothing special about their music and the band is looking pretty pale. Nothing is really happening on stage and the band members don't seem to put a lot of effort in it. Maybe it's the heat, but I'll skip them next time.

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Foo Fighters
I decide to watch Kyteman from outside the Alpha tent to save some energy for the big finale. Therefore I cannot say much about his orchestra's performance tonight. I leave my friends to ensure a spot in the pit at the front. I have seen Foo Fighters play several times but never from up close and definitely want to take this opportunity to get close this time. The band isn't wasting any time and fly right into it. They knock out hit after hit song and the heat is rising to incredible heights inside the tent.

Dave Grohl says it's probably the hottest Foo Fighters show ever, but the band recalls one other show that was even hotter. Later on Grohl says he doesn't care and thinks this really ís the hottest Foo Fighters show ever. I'm not too sure about that, but it definitely is a great one. For over two hours they are rocking the place, only to take it a bit more slow in the end, where Grohl is chatting more. There are great versions of a long spun out 'Monkey Wrench' and the original 'Everlong'. Afterwards I hear they had to cut the show short because of the heat. It doesn't really matter. It was the perfect close of another great Lowlands edition.



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Within no time this edition seemed to be over. Time was going by so quickly because of all the great bands we watched and all the fun we had. When the gods are on my side and the horrible ticketmaster/livenation ticket sale system is cooperative, I'm definitely back in 2013 for my fifteenth edition!

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Lowlands 2012 Day 2: The Party Is Heating Up

After a good start yesterday the sun is burning us out of our tents way too early. A bit sleepy we find our way back to the festival area, where a pancake is bringing back life into my body. Let's start this day slow.

Lowlands Day 2, August 18 2012



Phantom Limb
Not exactly my cup of tea, gospel and country. But singer Yolanda Quartey is gifted with a great voice, which she already proved when singing with Massive Attack. So it's definitely worth checking out. Only half of the British band are present today, but it still is enough to impress. The songs are mostly slow, which is perfect at this point of the day. Piano player Dan Moore and guitarist Stew Jackson do a good job supporting Quartey's soulful vocals. And when they join the singing, it results in beautiful harmonies. Like angels carefully waking us up.

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Eagles Of Death Metal
Time for some good old fashioned rock 'n' roll. This time it looks like Jesse Hughes and the rest of the band are actually sober. Unfortunately the sound is awful, which makes it impossible to hear the songs' groove. Maybe the sound isn't the only problem and is the band just not focused enough to lay down a good groove. This is noticeable from the crowd and this party never really takes off. Even their great version of 'Stuck In The Middle With You' doesn't work today. Of course Jesse 'Boots Electric' is his charming self, joking around and he's trying to get the love across. But it simply isn't good enough this time.

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Willy Moon
Maybe this rocker from New Zealand can put some swing in it. It certainly looks great. Willy dressed sharply in a suit even in this heat, while his female drummer is wearing only a bra. The female guitar player, looking like a hot sexy rock diva, is playing the rock licks. The casual DJ in the back ground is a bit out of place like his contribution to the music. While Willy and his ladies are rocking, the DJ is adding some samples and loops, but it feels like there's no thought behind them. Also the breaks in between songs take too long while Willy himself is trying hard to get a move on. It does have potential though and I would love to see him back when it's all running more smoothly.

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Two Door Cinema Club
Everyone seems to love this band from Northern Ireland, and what's not to love? They wrote some great catchy guitar songs like 'Undercover Martyn' and 'Something Good Can Work' that will go down very well on the festival stages. And they do, but I keep missing something. Their stage performance is too static. It's lacking believe and they don't seem to put a lot of heart in it. The band still can't convince me. Which is a shame since it could potentially make this place explode.

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Blaudzun
Johannes Sigmond or Blaudzun released one of the best records this year. It's full of nice indie songs leaning towards Arcade Fire. He already proved that he can play them in an intimate surrounding, but what about this big Grolsch stage? That's not a problem, just make the songs a bit bigger. And that's exactly what Blaudzun did, without doing harm to the songs themselves. What follows is a great show that stays interesting throughout the whole gig. But his band could be a bit more outgoing and challenging instead of just backing up the beautiful songs. The musicians are a bit pale in contrast with the extravagant Blaudzun.



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Triggerfinger
I could've gone to see Charles Bradley or Of Monsters And Men instead, since I've seen Triggerfinger so many times in the past years. But they never disappoint and you know what you're going to get: a full on smoking rock show with tons of energy. And this time is no different. This band is simply amazing and solid as a rock. So no surprises then? There's one: Dutch happy hip-hoppers De Jeugd Van Tegenwoordig join in to play their song 'Sexy Beesten' with them. The sound is pretty bad like earlier today, but this time it doesn't seem to bother the band or the crowd. They're going on a vacation now according to singer Ruben Block and they deserve it. Next time I'll see them it will be with a new record and probably as headliner.



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The Whitest Boy Alive
We go take a peak at the Whitest Boy Alive. When we get there it's clear that Lowlands has surrendered itself to the catchy summer tunes. We watch the full tent dancing to Erlend Øye and his band mates. We only watch a small part of the show, but it's clear that they are doing exactly what every one hoped for: loosening our hips and bringing good vibes.

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Krema Kawa
Time to end this great and hot day with a bang. You want it hot? You got it with Krema Kawa. The Belgian band aren't anything special but are at the right place at the right time: a sultry summer night at the end of beautiful day at the Lowlands festival when everybody just wants to dance. And this party band knows how to do that. And so we all dance to their funky and swinging grooves.

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Lowlands already was at boiling point today, but we have to get ready for the hottest day tomorrow. So we party a bit more, drink a few more beers and try to get some sleep before that golden ball relentlessly will wake us up again.

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Lowlands 2012 Day 1: The Party Is Starting Early

After thirteen editions you kind of know the drill: leave on time on Friday to beat the crowds at the entrance and within no time the tent is up and the first can of beer open. So we have plenty of time to explore the festival area to see what the changes are. We feel at home right away and are ready for the first band.

Lowlands 2012 Day 1, August 17 2012



Go Back To The Zoo
They made it from the India to the big Alpha stage in just two years. This was the result of their highly successful first album Benny Blisto. But the excitement has worn off after their disappointing second album and today it is showing why. The songs of the first album that is full of hits still are great, but the new ones can't come close. So although they are definitely playing more tight and convincing now, their set has too many weak moments. This is killing on a big stage like this. They want to start the party but only a few people are really joining them.

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White Rabbits
The description read "a mix of dEUS and Radiohead", which is enough to raise my interest. The band from Brooklyn do play a varying set with good songs, but their stage performance is too static and singer Stephen Patterson lacks charisma. A singer that is sitting down to play keyboard is never a good idea. It's just not enough to keep some of the crowd from leaving and stay until the end. I do think we're going to hear more from them and hopefully they can spice it up in the future.

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Refused
The hardcore punk-band broke up after their third record in 1998 and out of nowhere returned. Their status grew to legendary proportions in the meantime so I wanted to see it for myself. According to singer Dennis Lyxzén they ran out of fuel back then, but they are showing they have plenty at the moment. Lyxzén is all over the stage and their set is full of speed and solid convincing songs. It's good to have this band back to show those lame high school punk bands what the real deal is.



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Django Django
The hype around this funky surf band results in a full and hot Bravo tent. And they don't disappoint. Their highly danceable catchy songs make it impossible for people to stand still. Hit song 'Default' is greeted with many cheers. The nerdy band members in their homemade shirts(!) forget to light the fuse of this explosive mix of catchy music and a willing crowd though, which is a shame. But they are showing to have a lot of potential.



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Hot Chip
Since we're near the Bravo stage anyway, it's a good chance to check out Hot Chip. I wasn't impressed with their latest album, although I like their music. They continue where Django Django left off. though a few notches down,and we can keep shaking our moneymakers. They aren't exactly killing it on stage, but we're all having a good time with their swinging dance tunes.

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Bloc Party
The four members of Bloc Party had a rough time, which made it unclear what their status was for a while. Now they're back with their new album and a tour that includes many festivals. They are showing they still got it today. Kele is the always friendly and charismatic front man who's proving his voice is just great. So maybe they never really got close to their first album Silent Alarm, but they sure know how to entertain a big festival crowd. Hopefully they will stick around long enough and prove they can still write great songs.



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Alberta Cross
A few years ago Alberta Cross were playing the same small Charlie stage after releasing Broken Side Of Time, which was my introduction to the band. I thought I would see them back on a bigger stage. They are proving today that they definitely deserve that bigger stage. Singer Petter Ericson Stakee's voice is very clear and their rootsrock songs sound great. The band is looking energetic and the short set they are playing, because Bloc Party ended later, should definitely get them bigger crowds and a better spot in the line-up. Hopefully their new album Songs Of Patience is going to help them.





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The Black Keys
Who would have thought The Black Keys would be a festival headliner a few years ago? They have suddenly grown into a big band that is closing the full Alpha stage today. They did add two more musicians to enlarge their sound, which is very effective. And with so many great songs they are not disappointing. Especially the El Camino hits 'Gold On The Ceiling' and 'Lonely Boy' are great crowd pleasers. They show that they can even handle this big a stage with only the two of them. The duo do look like they are playing on routine and singer Dan Auerbach could look for more crowd interaction. Maybe they still haven't fully adjusted to their new status. The two are proving they are worthy of it though.



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Not a bad start of the festival at all. Where the party at?

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Lowlands 2012 Day 2
Lowlands 2012 Day 3

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Sniffing The Grass: A Lowlands 2012 Warmup

Hopefully we can continue our nice-festival-weather streak at the Lowlands festival this year. Fortunately all stages are in tents, so we have even more reason to go inside and watch one of the many bands in case of bad weather. Not that we need more reasons of course. With so many stages we have to make choices again. Let's see what the possibilities are for me. See the full line-up over here and the time schedule over here.

Friday

Go Back To The Zoo shot to the top in no time. They made it to the biggest stage this year and are the ones to open the festival there. Not a bad start I guess. Otherwise we can always catch a bit of funk and ska with The Black Seeds.

First dilemma coming up: Ed Sheeran, who played a good set at Werchter last month that unfortunately we didn't see, or White Rabbits, the indie rock band that get such positive response. Another choice right after that: legendary hardcore band Refused, or Howler's garage rock?

At least we'll catch some feel good rock music with Brian Fallon and his The Gaslight Anthem. Or maybe see the catchy and weird music of Merrill Garbus in her tUnE-yArDs. Django Django are one of this year's hypes and are supposed to put on a great live show. If it's a let down we can always go for some old-fashioned blues rock with Graveyard.

Time to dance with Hot Chip followed by Bloc Party who hopefully will have some great new songs to show case. I love Alberta Cross' roots rock who are playing the small Charlie stage. The Black Keys have grown into a headliner and I'm sure they can live up to that status and close this day with a bang.

The first day is a busy one, so hopefully we'll have enough juice left to party a bit more.



Saturday

Let's start the second day slow with some country and soul, Phantom Limb seems perfect for that. Then we'll get dirty and high with Jesse 'Boots Electric' Hughes' Eagles of Death Metal and their sleazy rock. Grease it up people! And why not keep that going with Willy Moon?

Two Door Cinema Club are getting bigger and bigger, but still haven't convinced me. Time to give them another shot. Blaudzun doesn't have to convince me any more with his hypnotic and beautiful music. Kasabian never really got to me, but I'm willing to give it one more try.

Triggerfinger are always good for a loud and impressive rock show. Although I have seen them so many times already and at the same time Charles Bradley is pouring out his soul. And the only band from Iceland who don't make annoying arty-farty itchy music, Of Monsters And Men, are playing as well. This is gonna be a tough call.

The Whitest Boy Alive should definitely loosen up our hips and otherwise Krema Kawa will, with their crazy mix of funk, ska, latin and African highlife. The Walkmen are probably the ones to send us off into the night. Maybe a few beers in the Titty Twister?



Sunday

Moss are opening the last day for us. They impressed a few years ago and I'm sure they can repeat that again on the big Alpha stage. If not there's always Splendid with their easy listening summer tunes. Let's see what Zulu Winter are about. Are their pop tunes not too polished and light for me? Maybe catch some Sleigh Bells or two swinging Hammond organs at Orgel Vreten? We'll see what we're in the mood for when we get there.

We may get tired by now but Pulled Apart By Horses should keep us awake. Hopefully Colin Benders and his The Kyteman Orchestra can stun us once again. The Jarman Brothers and their band The Cribs are hot at the moment, so we're going to take a look there. Then it's time for the big climax of the festival when Foo Fighters will play a two and half hour rock set that will blow our mind. Hopefully we are able to get up close and see Dave Grohl and his mates work up a sweat.



Like always it's a full program with some interesting choices and some great headliners. So another year with plenty to enjoy. Good company and vibes do the rest. Can't wait to sink my teeth in one of those cold beers. See you there? Read more!

Lowlands 2011 Day 3: Taking It Easy

When you're partying it's time for the last day before you know it. A bit of coffee to get us going (that DE coffee really is horrible) and we're on our way for day three!


Lowlands 2011 Day 3, August 21 2011
Looking at the program this is gonna be a relaxed day. Which is good because our bodies are aching from head 'til toe and we could use some rest now and then.



Frank Turner (Ronald Says 8 out of 10)
First up is the man I heard a lot about. He used to play punk but traded his electric guitar for an acoustic one and...kind of still is playing punk music but with an acoustic ring to it. Which works really well. Not all songs are equally appealing especially when they're turning into Scottish folk. But the songs that are more melodic are quite good. He looks comfortable on stage, is chatting away making funny comments and his voice is just really powerful.

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De Staat (Ronald Says 8 out of 10)
With their first record they dropped a bomb on the Dutch music scene and filled up the Grolsch stage two years ago. This year with their second album they make it to the biggest stage. And they play a good set. Not all songs are real crowd pleasers; they are good but maybe not that rocking as the older songs. However they balance their set nicely and put down a good show. "The Machine" seems to have a bit of a slow start in 'Back To The Grind', but it still impressive to see it laying down the groove for the song. And 'Ah I See' is a great way to close their performance.

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The Kills (Ronald Says 7 out of 10)
You never know what you're gonna get with Alison Mosshart and Jamie Hince. They're off to a good start, the dark and a bit cold songs sound good and rock bitch Mosshart is going through all her poses. It's far from party music so the crowd is not exactly jumping. Then a beer hits Hince's guitar. He seems to kind of ignore it, but at the end of the song he's pretty pissed (and for a good reason). It takes the fire out of the show and they finish it on routine. Too bad with such a promising start.

Official Website | MySpace | Facebook | Spotify



Happy Camper (Ronald Says 9 out of 10)
I've mentioned this project many times on my blog so I won't go into details about the story behind it. All guest vocalists are present today, so the songs get the interpretation they deserve. The Lima stage is the perfect setting, the weather is lovely and it ends up in a dream for initiator Job Roggeveen. It is showing once again how strong his compositions are.

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Interpol (Ronald Says 7 out of 10)
With this band from New York you can't really go wrong. Their dark music is always impressive and they play a very tight set. But I can imagine that for many it isn't really appealing to see those static musicians on the dark stage. Of course they also play songs off their last album that simply isn't as good as the other three. Fortunately the end of the show is the best part where 'The Heinrich Maneuver' and 'Slow Hands' come up and where they close the set with the great 'Obstacle I'.

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Karnivool (Ronald Says 6 out of 10)
I was making sure not to go see The Offspring and decided to go see Karnivool. I heard many good thing about them and especially the part where people say they play Tool-like compositions triggered my interest. But it's a disappointing show. The music is complex and creative but nothing near Tool. The musicians have no charisma at all and singer Ian Kenny's vocals sound alike most of the time. The songs and set list are lacking variation because of that and it makes this show a hard one to sit out.

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And so Lowlands 2011 comes to an end. But not before we party out our last bits of energy. Maybe the program wasn't that great on paper but we had a great weekend with many good performances in the end. Lowlands 2012 anyone?

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