Samstock Oh Six Ruled!!!

Samstock was quite simply brilliant - so much so i forgot to take photos!!!

The music festival had a community vibe to it which was hard to be ignored - I would be more than willing to take my family in the future (let's face it... Charlie is a rock chick anyway - don't frown at me Shannon, you know I'm right).

As far as food went, we certainly didn't go hungry. We even had such delicacies as french toast AND pancakes!!! And bacon and eggs for tea on Saturday night - go reverse meal day!

I found myself drawn to the cafe stage more often than not - the acoustic sets were really appealing to me (hopefully not an early indicater of my impending adulthood). I also felt that the two best acts were on that stage... Calling Elijah and Steve Apirana and Derek Lind. Having said that, the overall quality of the acts were top notch - I can honestly say there was not a dud among them.

Brief comments on some of the acts which impressed (me):

Calling Elijah: Mark and Andy D have formed something special from the ashes (OK, a little dramatic I admit) of Mozelee. The combination of acoustic rock and rap is honestly unlike anything i have come across before, and it is a sound I loved! They have an EP coming out soon, and I am 99.2% sure that both Ally and I will have this on our shelves before long. Go to their myspace page (link on the website) for several of the demos they've recorded. Also, I was amazed by their opening number (think STOMP with everyday objects - it was awesome).


Derek Lind and Steve Apirana:

Blues i hear you say? Yes, yes, and YES! These guys were jaw-droppingly great - I noticed that some of the musos in the room listening were almost literally drooling with delight. It was obvious that at times they were making it up, and that was just brilliant. Best quote of the festival: "Sing in any key you like - it's blues". The best thing is, I'm pretty sure these guys are coming to Christian Centre in the next couple of weeks - stay tuned to find out.

Mephymology:

I would say these guys were the surprise hit, BUT Ro Callander has always had talent, and it's great to see he's surrounded himself with a band that suits - songs were rocking, bass was pumping, ears were bleeding - all in all an excellent act! These guys really knew how to play to the crowd - G's stage antics at times almost subsumed his bass playing.

Therom: How could I not mention these guys? A local act, hailing from Riverton I believe, I would love to hear these guys at church sometime in the near future.

Somebody's Cousin: I've known some of the guys from the cousin now for 10 years or more so it was a pretty bittersweet reunion at Samstock 06 due to the fact it was the last gig they played as a band. Having said that, they brought the house down, and there were more smiles than tears (although more than enough of both). We love you guys - expect "Bring back the Cousin" banners at next year's Samstock.

All in all it was an absolute rockin' weekend - man, things have come a long way since the first Samstock. After we come back buzzing, I expect that ICC will represent at next year's Samstock. Peace out.

Ray to the Dog