Big Feastival 2023 - Friday - Live Review

The first day of Big Feastival 2023 welcomed us back to Alex James’ idyllic farm in The Cotswolds, and the atmosphere was buzzing with excitement. With the summer still clinging on and the weather dry, the festival was ready to deliver its signature mix of music, food, and family fun. The crowd was in high spirits, and the ten thousand seats were filled with eager festival-goers ready to kick off the weekend in style.

The day began with Lightning Seeds, whose blend of alternative rock and pop set the tone perfectly. Ian Broudie and the band delivered a set packed with hits like Pure, The Life of Riley, Lucky You, Change, and Marvellous. While Three Lions was notably absent, the crowd didn’t seem to mind, singing and dancing along to every track.

Next up was Natalie Imbruglia, who faced logistical issues with equipment but still managed to perform three acoustic songs: Wrong Impression, Shiver, and Torn. Despite the challenges, her timeless vocals shone through, and her gratitude for the audience’s support was evident.

Baby Queen followed with an energetic performance that introduced many to her unique sound. Tracks like Internet Religion showcased her intriguing style, leaving the crowd wanting more.

Taking a break from the music, we explored the festival’s foodie offerings, which are always a highlight. Jamaican Jerk Chicken was our choice for the evening, and it didn’t disappoint. With so much variety available, deciding what to eat was the hardest part—a good problem to have!

Back on the main stage, Jake Shears brought glam rock to the festival with his flamboyant stage presence and catchy tunes. Performing hits like I Don’t Feel Like Dancin’, Take Your Mama, Laura, and Creep City, Shears kept the energy high with multiple outfit changes and a show full of surprises.

Example took things to another level, lifting the crowd with his fusion of hip-hop, electro, and dubstep. Tracks like Kickstarts, Changed the Way You Kiss Me, Watch the Sun Come Up, and Stay Awake reminded everyone why he’s such a dynamic performer.

Sub-headlining the day were The Vaccines, who delivered a high-energy set packed with indie rock favorites. Tracks like Post Break-Up Sex, Wetsuit, and If You Wanna had the crowd singing along, setting the stage perfectly for the evening’s headliner.

Closing out Friday was Sigrid, whose stunning vocals and catchy pop tunes were the perfect way to end the night. Performing hits like Don’t Kill My Vibe, Strangers, Plot Twist, and Dynamite, as well as newer track The Hype, Sigrid proved why she’s earned her place as a headliner.

Friday was a fantastic start to Big Feastival 2023, leaving us excited for what the rest of the weekend had in store.

Saturday at Big Feastival 2023 brought another packed lineup to Alex James’ farm, with mainstage acts including Newton Faulkner, The Cuban Brothers, Everything Everything, and Katy B. The evening culminated in a Faithless DJ set that got the crowd dancing before Tom Grennan took to the stage as the day’s headliner.

Unfortunately, we weren’t on site for Saturday’s festivities, but everyone we spoke to raved about the performances and the energy of the day. From Newton Faulkner’s acoustic charm to Faithless’ electrifying beats, it seems Saturday was another resounding success.