Mullumbimby
17 – 20 November, 2016 :
Driving into Mullumbimby the first thing you see is a giant mountain as you come over the hill. For me it always gives me a warm feeling, a sense of pride to be living in the north coast of NSW. As you drive through town there are many buskers and people dancing in the street.
The festival kicks off on Thursday night at the Civic Hall with limited tickets sold to the lucky ones. Friday see’s many venues like the Court House, Middle Pub, The Bowls Club, St Martins, Drill Hall, High School and many cafes open it’s doors for a great weekend of live music.
Unfortunately I was unable to make the Friday night due to unforeseen circumstances but the word around town was local guy Bobby Alu was a crowd pleaser and the newly discovered Tash Sultana blew the roof of Mullumbimby.
Finally arriving in town Saturday afternoon I picked up my passes and had a quick scout around town. The vibe was great with live music being heard across town and street performers keeping the crowd entertained.
First up I caught Hat Fitz and Cara at the high school. This duo are certainly favorites in the festival scene. Next it was over to Poinciana Café to see the lovely JoJo Smith. I first discovered JoJo at Mullum a couple of years ago and since then I always make sure I catch her sets. There is something about JoJo that keeps you wanting more. From her cheeky smile to her jokes and raw talent she is certainly an act never to miss.
Up next at the café was local man Yeshe who is originally from Germany but locally known in the northern rivers and for his assortment of musical instruments. A chilled out set with many singing along to his own version of ‘No Woman No Cry’.
Skunkhour had the High School rocking out for the last performance of the night. After a long time between gigs the band reformed and have been playing many gigs in the local area.
Sunday was a spectacular day with the famous street parade kicking off at 11am in the main street. Many musicians playing all sorts of instruments and people dancing to the beats. It was the first time in years that Harry Angus had not led the parade. He certainly was missed but everyone had a ball and certainly would had done Harry proud.
I managed to catch a few circus performances by Spaghetti Circus and entertainment from The Pitt Family Circus. It was then time to browse the markets and treat myself to a much needed Shiatsu session.
It was then onto the High School to check out Yirramal, a young man from North East Arnhem Land. I caught Yirramal when he performed an intimate solo set at the recent Bellingen Winter Music Festival, so it was a pleasant surprise when he came out on stage with his band and rocked out to a Youthi Yindi hit. Yirramal certainly knows how to get the crowd to their feet and dancing to every song.
Declan Kelly was next on my list. Declan is well known and respected around the music scene. Playing in bands such as King Tide and often joining Bobby Alu and OKA at many gigs. With his huge smile and many musical talents, Declan and his band had the bowling club jiving along.
Cycling on my pushbike around town, I was undecided where to go next so decided to checkout Matt Andersen at the Civic. WOW, this guy gives you goose bumps, what a voice! The Civic was packed out with people getting turned away at the door. Matt certainly knows how to get the crowd involved Matt had the crowd singing along to ‘People Get Ready’ with the men singing certain lyrics and the ladies singing their part it certainly put a smile on many faces.
After pulling myself away from Matt’s set I caught Jordie Lane at the Village Vanguard. Not seeing Jordie for a few years I could certainly see a difference in his musical talent and style.
It was then back on my bike to the high school to see Nattali Rise. This petite lady certainly has a huge voice and so much energy. With her lyrics conveying messages of positivity, peace and that we are all one it certainly gives you a reality check about how important this plant and we are.
Last up for my festival experience were Bobby Alu and Greg Sheehan. With Bobby on drums and Greg on whatever he had to bang on they certainly created an energy that was electrifying, they had the crowd dancing and laughing. You can certainly see them both growing together from the last performance. Two talented and amazing souls certainly show you what music is all about and that anything is possible.
Mullumbimby Festival is certainly on my yearly festival list, such a great community vibe, a family friendly festival and everyone there for the same reason; the love of live music and entertainment.
Reviewer and Photographer : Julie Lowe
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