Yesterday we launched this years SMILEfest with acoustic sets from local talent at The Cellar & if this is anything to go by SMILEfest 2014 may just be the best one yet!
Naomi Rush kicked off proceedings with a selection of original songs and covers including Radiohead’s ‘ Karma Police’. Her haunting vocals could be heard from outside the venue by people going about their business in the sunny weather, setting up the day nicely.
Groove Room took to the stage second. The fun atmosphere created by this band could be felt throughout the venue. Their cover of Estelle’s ‘American Boy’ went down a treat with the swelling crowd.
By the time solo artist Henry Wacey played at 2pm a crowd had gathered in the venue. Henry performed a set of original songs with a rock element. Despite a sore throat he played a full set, and received a good reaction from the audience.
Next up were The Rabsons, by the time they hit the stage the crowd were well & truly warmed up. As well as a few originals, these cheeky lads covered Linkin Park’s ‘In The End’, and well, surely everyone loves that song…
The eagerly anticipated Kai Knightly took to the stage at 3pm. Originally from Estonia, Kai came to the country to pursue his music career. He played a variety of originals and covers of the popular tracks ‘Wrecking Ball’ by Miley Cyrus & ‘Radioactive’ by Imagine Dragons.
Southampton favourite James Herrity graced our stage, armed with a guitar and a following of skateboarders, playing original songs written by himself and also a couple of tracks by his band Civil Eyes of which guitarist Alex Dunning joined him on stage.
The penultimate act of the day was Solent’s own third year Music Promotion student Emma Hunter. She belted out some amazing tracks, showcasing her incredible vocal abilities. Her beautiful rendition of Paramore’s ‘Only Exception’ sent shivers through the audience.
The Lilly Whites closed the show for us with covers such as ‘Little Lion Man’ by Mumford & Sons and the well known up beat track ‘Twist and Shout’ which rounded the day off perfectly.
A great time was had by all who attended and performed, enjoying delicious food in the increasingly rare sunshine, sound tracked by organic local talent.
SMILEfest 2014 is officially upon us!
Keep an eye out for the likes of Kai Knightly and James Herrity playing at other events throughout SMILEfest 2014!
Review: Amy Williams
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