A ‘BUZZING’ community-run riverside music festival will be returning for the first time in three years at the end of the month.
Redbrook’s Live on the Wye takes place on the village football ground over the weekend of May 27-28 in aid of village good causes, and launches on Friday evening with a fringe event.
Some 12 bands have been booked to play the Wyeside festival, including Cardiff six-piece brass-house soul band Year of The Dog and Firestone UK Battle of the Bands Champions, Fire Fences, an energetic four-piece from South Wales.
A spokesperson posted: “With a short break since the fantastic success of our 2019 event, we are excited to announce that we will be back at the same place on the 27th and 28th of May.
“Over the years, you have helped us raise thousands of pounds for the Redbrook Village Trust which in turn supports a host of fantastic local causes including equipment for the school, upgrades for the playground, maintaining our green spaces and supporting village life.
“We are a high-quality community music event set against the stunning backdrop of the Wye Valley and bordering the beautiful Forest of Dean.
“Some artists have told us it’s the prettiest festival they’ve played… and one of the few you can arrive to by canoe!
“We pride ourselves on attracting up and coming bands across all music genres from Wales and beyond.
Run by the community with a reputation for being relaxed and family friendly, festival goers can expect local food, arts and crafts and the ‘Imaginarium’, an innovative programme for young people.
“It’s the kind of festival where you can sip lovely ales on the riverbank while enjoying some of the best emerging bands and service with a smile!” said the spokesperson.”
Things kick off on Friday evening (May 26) from 6pm with Wye Valley favourites The Godseys, who play a blend of Americana and country rock – “guaranteed to carry you down the Wye and into the Mississippi with their wonderful rich country twist!” - plus two other bands, followed by music in The Bell after 11pm.
Other acts booked to play the main festival include Cajun and Zydeco-influenced Rough Chowder; The Voice star Bronwen Lewis; West Country folk rockers Jonah’s Lift; “multi-talented” Bristol-based Louis Stone Band and Chepstow gypsy skankblues singer Lee McCrory.
Monmouth Male Voice Choir and Redbrook School Choir will also be appearing.
Tickets are required for the Saturday, available from liveonthewye.co.uk