The second instalment of Harvest Rock is back in the Adelaide parklands, bigger and better than even the first. After last year’s wet weather, the event organisers ensured plenty of astroturf would keep the mud away if it did rain. Luckily, this weekend we were blessed with glorious weather after a brief early shower at daybreak on Saturday.
The layout was also changed around, moving the Harvest Stage to the opposite side of King Rodney Park, which allowed an expansive VIP area to overlook the action on stage. The food areas were grouped together: a wine region enclave, a food truck area, and local produce in the Wildwoods Village. This contained a seated restaurant, Africola, and the Yes Chef stage. This was a more interactive stage, with bands such as Ocean Alley and Bad//Dreems serving up sausages to the audience, as well as wine discussions with local winemakers.
The crowd were well behaved, and a very efficient cleaning crew kept the venue clean and tidy for the whole festival. Over at the Grape Escape area, there were yoga sessions, a flower mandala, a healing sanctuary, a music stall and clothing shops. Young kids were not forgotten either, with the memorial Quentin Keenihan Inclusive Playspace transformed, including musicians and workshops to keep them entertained all day. On each of the main stages, Auslan interpreters were enjoying themselves while signing for the hard of hearing.
Which brings us to the music. On Saturday, on the main Harvest Stage, we had Australian acts Bad//Dreems, Rolling Stones Revue featuring Adalita, Tex Perkins and Tim Rogers covering classic Stones, Bernard Fanning and Ocean Alley. Over at the more intimate Vine Stage, Charlie Collins, Jade Bird, Ladyhawke and Warpaint all gave memorable performances. When Chromeo hit the stage, the crowd erupted into enthusiastic dance before Thelma Plum‘s more laidback set and Flight Facilities familiar sounds.
But it was Nile Rodgers and Chic who stole the show as the sun set on Harvest Stage. Their infectious enthusiasm and energy as they played hit after disco hit had the crowd singing and dancing along for a full hour of nostalgia. This was then followed up by Jamiroquai, in an exclusive Australian performance, who had the audience in the palm of his hand. His voice was pitch-perfect as he led the crowd on a veritable journey through his catalogue of hits. A perfect way to close the evening.
Sunday was a slightly cooler day, but the energy on stage was just as strong. The Lemon Twigs were one band that was mentioned several times as having a fantastic set opening on the Vines Stage. The crowd meandered between the two stages with Julia Jacklin, Built to Spill, Chet Faker, and Babe Rainbow all keeping the mellow vibe going. Vera Blue upped the energy levels mid-afternoon with her golden locks, black angel wings and coloured set, keeping things alive. Likewise, Baker Boy in his distinctive yellow tracksuit and Santigold with her white linen outfit were outstanding. Indie rock band Bright Eyes were another crowd fave, but Sparks stole the show with their quirky performance on the Vines Stage. The two brothers, Ron and Russell Mael, have been performing for over 50 years, and this was the first time they have played in Adelaide.
Adelaide-born musician Paul Kelly took to the main stage as the full moon rose in the east, accompanied by his nephew Dan Kelly, also from Adelaide. His familiar catalogue gave the audience something to sing along to. Meanwhile, Tash Sultana did what they do best with an array of instruments and loop pedals. Closing with a version of “Jungle” as the bats flew overhead was a magical moment.
Finally it was time for Beck to take the stage. A massive two level stage was the perfect playground for Beck and his band. With his curly blonde locks and military style black suit, the youthful looking Beck was clearly in his element, opening with “Devil’s Playground”. He teased and sauntered though his 90 minute set, while the crowd lapped it up. It was a perfect way to end a perfect festival.
FIVE STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
