Simple Things 2012 In Review

Last.fm were over in the West Country for Bank Holiday weekend for the superb Simple Things festival (our photo gallery can be found HERE). Cementing its place in Bristol’s calendar for the second year running – with over 60 acts on 8 stages – we were recruited to host award winning venue Thekla 1 (that was on a boat, no less).

Thekla 1 opened with local talent The Blood Choir filling out the stage, whilst the likes of electronic pop act Talk In Colour, melodic indie band Cuddles and ghostly dream pop Boy Friend followed – ensuring the day got off to a good start.

Three Trapped Tigers swiftly followed and were a firm favourite with the crowd, with an obligatory mosh pit at the front. Frontman Tom Rogerson thanked everyone for turning up (quite a contrast apparently from when they played here a few years back) and provided confirmation that the instrumental noise-rock trio will only get bigger and better.

Another highlight came from London three piece Factory Floor. Their hypnotic drones enveloped the crowd and no-one was left standing or disappointed from start to finish. Up next was UK rap lyricist Ghostpoet (read our interview with him from Simple Things HERE), who soundtracked the boat with beautiful songs from last years debut Peanut Butter Blues and Melancholy Jam not long before experimental American duo Yacht closed the stage.

Other highlights for many was Grimes at the O2 Academy. Unsurprisingly rammed to the rafters, Grimes filled the venue with songs from her debut Visions. Over in Lakota highlights included a Numbers label showcase with Canadian DJ Lunice impressing with his bumpin’ high-energy set spanning everything from 2-step, juke, house and hip-hop, followed by the ever on point Rustie who went b2b with Hudson Mohawke. We couldn’t not mention DJ Zinc who got the crowd well and truly pumped up before everyone eagerly awaited a rare appearance from headliner Squarepusher back in the O2 Academy. We can’t wait for next year already!