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Turning on the Sun - June 2012

We left soon after 6am on Sunday morning for the Isle of Wight festival with coats and wellies at the ready, after all those stories we'd heard of rain and mud. But luckily it was a smooth ferry crossing, easy drive and helpful organisation. We looked up at the cloudy skies a bit nervously, but literally the moment we went on stage the sun pushed through the clouds, and remained strong for the rest of the day. We were in luck - the timing couldn't have been better! An increasing number of festival goers appeared throughout the set...

The show went off fine, with all the band members on great form. Nad Sylvan (singer from Agents of Mercy) joined us in all his gothic pirate finery for the last number, Watcher of the Skies. A fabulous performer, he held the floor with both his unusual theatrical approach and his superb voice.

My thanks to band and crew, Brian Coles and John Giddings. There was a great vibe between everyone. It was strange for me, as the last time I visited the festival was in 1970. At that time it was as a punter, with the extraordinary experience of seeing one of Hendrix' last gigs and also the first time I heard the amazing voice of Richie Havens, rising above the thunder of a night storm. This time it was my band on the main stage, and I hope we were able to spread something of the magic that once inspired me on that island...

 

 

Set List