Day 4 began with a trip to catch Round Mountain Girls, a lively folk-rock band who I had only caught glimpses of in the past, and was keen to see. I certainly wasn’t disappointed, and their high-energy performance has ensured that I will almost definitely be catching them again in future.
Next up was the Canadian folk troubadour, Steve Poltz at his first appearance at Bluesfest. A regular visitor to Australia, he had the crowd eating out of the palm of his hand with his witty and hilarious banter between songs.
Festival favourite son, Ash Grunwald was my following port of call, and as always, delivered a great set of his distinctive blues accompanied by Ian Peres and Bobby Alu.
More Canadians were to follow, with The Brothers Landreth taking to the Mojo stage to entertain their fans with their soulful alt-country chops.
Finnish internet sensations, Steve ‘N’ Seagulls returned to the stage to face a large crowd at the Delta stage and unleashed their special mix of folk, bluegrass and classic rock songs to the absolute joy of the assembled fans.
Ray Beadle returned, and this time he brought his ensemble to perform his Stax of Blues show. This was a powerful performance, and one which typifies the Bluesfest experience.
Another festival favourite and regular international guest, Michael Franti & Spearhead were up next, and they had their large, faithful fans singing along at top note, with Michael entering the audience area to sing and play before returning to the stage and inviting one of the audience members to get up with him and sing.
My night was then completed with the fabulous talents of long-time Bluesfest performers, Backsliders. I have always admired this trio, and as usual, they didn’t fail to impress, with Dom Turner’s expressive guitar playing, Rob Hirst’s tight drum playing and Joe Glover’s howling harmonica blending to create their distinctive blues sound.
The penultimate day had come to a close for me, and it was with great relief that I took my weary body back to my tent, and rested up after another fruitful, yet punishing day.
Round Mountain Girls Gallery:
Steve Poltz Gallery:
Ash Grunwald Gallery:
The Brothers Landreth Gallery:
Steve ‘N’ Seagulls Gallery:
Ray Beadle Stax of Blues Gallery:
Michael Franti & Spearhead Gallery:
Backsliders Gallery:
All Images: ©fullonrockphotography/Andrew Fuller
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