It would seem that we have waited all Summer for our usual one weekend of endless barbeques, shirtless dads and non-stop sun. We got lucky in Liverpool and the year’s hot weekend coincided with its brand new all-singing all-dancing outdoor festival. The L1 Festival was two very sleek stages outdoors in St. Peters Square and Art House Square and for much of the weekend both stages were filled with families, music lovers and curious Bold Street shoppers. On Saturday the sun came out and so did music lovers, and they weren’t let down, with many highlights to choose from. Laura J Martin on the Art House square acoustic stage charmed and delighted onlookers with her brand of off kilter pop. Using her flute as the main instrument she looped layers of hooks, underpinned by a Disney-esque backing. The vocals and structures nodded toward Kate Bush and Scott Walker. While on the Electric stage we were treated to Liverpool’s finest up and coming bands, including local legends The Vagabonds, playing their last ever gig. They were full of energy and delivered in style.

Sunday was a slightly more laid back affair with many choosing to bask in the early afternoon sun that watched over Art House square. We had the soft tones of Misery Guts to enjoy there, meanwhile on the Electric Stage more exciting new local acts played, such as Sound of Guns, who were determined to claim the title of loudest band of the weekend. The weekend seemed to pass by in a flash. Certainly a successful first weekend for the L1 Festival who must be thinking bigger and brighter things for next year after such an enjoyable festival.

 

 

For a full list of artists who performed at 2008’s Festival