ONE OF Reading’s grassroots festivals has battled the weather and finished for another year, featuring home-grown talent alongside internationally-acclaimed artists.
Readipop Festival kicked off on Friday, with highlight sets from Marisa and The Moths, where fan favourites Skin and Pedestal have never sounded better than on the festival’s Readipop stage.
Of performing to a crowd who were new to the band, lead vocalist Marisa Rodriguez said: “It is an honour, though it’s always nerve-wracking.
“It means a lot to us to play on the main stage in our home town alongside Sleeper, who we love– I wish we could stay for longer, but we have some other festivals to play this weekend, so we’re sad to leave.”
Big Jay kicked off Friday’s comedy and cabaret offerings, introducing the outrageous Ada Campe and Charlie Partridge, before Roni Size took to the main stage for one of the highlights of the weekend.
Reading’s own OSP played a set which fizzed with energy, with band member Silqe saying after the show: “I feel grateful that I had such a great time on that stage– the crowd gave us so much back.
“For any performance, but definitely for a festival, you come to get involved like that.”
The second day of the festival was called off due to high winds and heavy rain causing safety issues, with Professor Green tipped to headline.
As well as some of Saturday’s performers, Readipop’s own AAA Takeover was moved to Sunday, showcasing talented young musicians taking part in the outreach sessions provided by the charity.
AAA’s Ami brought confident, capable rap which radiated exuberant energy at the Little Top, followed by K. Kayne, who also joined her on stage for a duet.
Speaking after her set, Ami said: “It was amazing– the crowd always shows you so much love, they’re so hyped and it makes it so enjoyable for the person on the stage.”
Reading Rock Academy’s Luminaria brought wistful, melodic rock style showing a mixture of shoegaze and hard rock influences, with strong vocals and almost throwaway delivery.
Following their set, the group said: “We’ve all been with Reading Rock Academy for about a year, and they asked if we wanted to join a band, and we said yes.”
Band member Archie said: “We have a real mixture of different music tastes, and it can be very divided, but it all comes together.
“It’s an amazing opportunity to do something you love and to get your name out there, too.”
For more information about Readipop’s year-round work, visit readipop.co.uk
