Chilfest

My second visit to Chilfest featured a slightly less impressive lineup than last year. Nevertheless, the excellent setup, good selection of beers (including plenty of 0% options in my case), and strong attendance once again proved that Chilfest is a festival well worth supporting.

After Friday's tribute acts, it was time for the original artists to take centre stage on Saturday. Tony Hadley got the crowd going with a set packed with Spandau Ballet classics, while also taking time to thank his former bandmates. Next up were Toploader, who mixed their own hits with excellent covers of Mr Blue Sky and The Whole of the Moon. As always, Dancing in the Moonlight remained a crowd favourite.

The Christians delivered a solid performance, as did Fun Lovin' Criminals, despite the absence of Huey Morgan. Kid Creole, accompanied by his new Coconuts, somehow managed to stretch four songs across 45 minutes, but remained highly entertaining for a performer just shy of his 76th birthday.

Headliners Level 42 then took to the stage and delivered a very strong set, focusing mainly on their greatest hits. Mike Lindup's vocals were spot on, particularly during Lessons in Love, while Mark King demonstrated that he has lost none of his remarkable bass-playing ability.

And with that, another Chilfest came to an end. Overall, it was a slightly above-average affair compared with last year, but considering the ticket price and the importance of supporting a local Hertfordshire festival, it remains an event that is well worth attending.