Knock-an-Stock a Must See

Hey all,

Only back yesterday from a fantastic small music festival that one of our friends bands played at. It was based in a beautiful Wicklow village called Ballyknockan, sitting on the easterly bank of the Blessington lakes. We arrived late Saturday night to a small sports bar pumping out melodies and rhythm on a warm July eve. A marquee was erected outside and bands were also playing indoors to a packed house. The atmosphere was friendly and alive. We had missed alot of great acts from what I heard from many people and I'll be sure to make a full weekend of this one next year. It ran over three days from Friday through to Sunday and it was unbelievably well organised. A camp site was available a mile or two from the pub with parking and a particularly dry field for the recent weather we'd being having. Port-a-loos where clean, with toilet paper and ready available at both locations throughout the whole event. This was a extra bonus from my point of view. The music was a mixture of rock, indie-type, country-dirt and eclectic sounds from small upcoming bands from all over Ireland. Some of my personal favourites where Hot Sprocketts, Lord of the Black Mountain and The Fear Brothers. Staff were very friendly and helpful and always available. Buses ran from the pub to the camp site regularly and it was made very clear before they left.

We arrived back to the camp site at around 2ish and there was a big blazing fire, an outdoor marquee with music playing and people spinning fire poi under a full moon. Everyone was open, friendly and made you feel relaxed. I've being to Electric Picnic and Glastonbury and I have to say this set-up felt more homily than anything. When the sun came up the next morning I was greeted by the most amazing views all around. The camp site was elevated looking down over the wide expanse of the most spectacular Blessington lakes framed by dark evergreens. Behind sat the rolling lush green hills of Mullaghcleevaun interspersed with grey rocks. John Hinde worthy imagery surrounded us.

The next afternoon an earth angel called Nicky had here own hand-built tee pee open to anyone that was looking for some breakfast. She had it laid out with rugs and sheepskins and she was cooking a hearty veggie brekkie in the centre. This amazing girl was offering a place to relax, get a bite to eat and all for free. Thanks Nicky it was much appreciated.

I will be watching out for the next KnockanStock and I recommend to all kindred souls to do the same. I can see this one becoming a definite for our Irish Summer. I offer my congratulations and thanks to all the people that worked, organised, played or promoted this event.

http://myspace.com/knockanstock