The Isle of Wight Festival rocked Seaclose Park in Newport between 13 and 15 June 2008. Peformances from The Police, N.E.R.D. and KT Tunstall were among those to win over the crowd. Here, S & A WHITEWOOD review the event and you can see some pictures from the weekend.
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(photo courtesy James Gillham)
As ever, there was good weather for this year’s Isle of Wight Festival and the Island seems to bring out the best in everyone, as there is always a good atmosphere - even when you are surrounded by 60,000 others. Security personnel seemed much more reasonable than in previous years and at times even showed a sense of humour.
All the bands lived up to their reputations, with some producing their unique sounds better than others. Playing to a very full house, The Police showed just how great their music is and how just a talented three can entertain to the full - having now heard them live, “Message in a bottle” will never be the same again.
Having the Big Top as well as the main stage was a blessing, as it gave everyone a chance to choose what to listen to. At times, the Big Top proved as popular as the main stage. One of these acts was The Sugababes, with crowds thronging 50 deep outside the Big Top. With Eco Island in mind a real effort went into this year’s festival, with food not travelling so far, bikes for hire and the use of corn starch tent pegs. Environmental consultants Proper Productions had a team on site to guide more into eco-working. Several marquees had solar powered lights and the chill out zones (especially the one provided by BT (now the festival’s main sponsor)) were very popular.
BT also provided free phone calls, internet use and a chance to watch Euro08 on TV, for times when the music was not to your choice, or just too loud!