Bestival, review: Major Lazer were the highlight of the whole weekend
In a line-up that didn't include such strong headliners as the past two years
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Your support makes all the difference.Bestival’s main attraction is a renowned attitude of not taking itself too seriously. Curated by DJ Rob da Bank, and set in the hills of the Isle of Wight, it is simply a giant playground for overgrown kids with a balloon-stuffed tent for playing in, a giant Wishing Tree for climbing, and an inflatable church to get married in.
Disappointingly, the headliners weren't as strong as Stevie Wonder and Elton John of the past two years, and Chic featuring Nile Rodgers were a repeat from last year.
However, they did get everyone boogying under what was supposedly the biggest disco ball in the world. A calmer set came from London Grammar, with lead vocalist Hannah Reid singing with concentration that paid off. Her ethereal voice reflected off the nearly-full moon above.
Man of the moment, soulful Sam Smith, pulled up Disclosure's live set after Eliza Doolittle seemed to falter.
Outkast headlined on Friday night, pleasing the crowd but cutting their set short. Reliable Annie Mac led the HMS Bestival dance stage on Saturday, blasting one major anthem after another from the converted military ship. The light show made up for the quiet speakers.
Lesser known gems included instrumental dance act Bonobo and Lancaster-born DJs Bondax.
Knowing how to get the crowd involved, Caribbean-inspired Major Lazer were the highlight of the whole weekend.
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