Bestival 2016

Each year since its inception in 2004, the Isle of Wight’s Bestival has a theme. This year’s – simply titled ‘The Future’ – is one that that throws up an ‘interesting’ mix of costume choices from the crowd, from full-on tin-foil robot costumes, to gaggles of teenagers dressed as pensioners and a healthy dose of glittery make-up and metallic leggings.

The performances, on the other hand, spanning through pop, rock, grime, hip hop (and even a bizarre lunchtime set from 90s children’s TV comedy duo The Chuckle Brothers), means there is plenty of variation to the last big festival of the summer.

First up to draw an impressive crowd is Danish pop sensation MØ at the Big Top stage, providing the perfect warm-up to everyone’s Friday night. ‘Final Song’, with its catchy chorus and giddy instrumental, is one obvious crowd-pleaser, but it’s closer ‘Lean On’, that inevitably sets the crowd going. A strong performance from a singer with an equally as strong voice.

Later, on the small ‘Invaders of the Future’ stage, the night begins to fall over The Japanese House. Amber Bain’s eerie style is a welcome addition to a warm night and a setting sun. Her voice is twisted through a synthesiser, both part of the music’s charm and curiosity; her sound is, at times, an unusual and tricky one, but it works. As she ends on the slightly more upbeat ‘Cool Blue’, her set has been a mellow yet welcome respite from everyday existence.

On Saturday, Black Honey perform a strong early evening set, starting on a infectiously energetic rendition of ‘Spinning Wheel’ before ricocheting into a set of squeals and sprawling guitars. Izzy B Phillips has all the makings of the leader of a band set for bigger and better things.