Saturday is MantonFest, the weather forecast is good so all looks set for another chilled and relaxing day out with some great music happening all the way through from mid-day to 11 at night in the glorious setting of Manton Watermeadow’s natural amphitheatre.
Topping this year’s bill are ‘Mercury’ one of the world’s most authentic Queen tribute acts, supported by T.Rextasy (returning to MantonFest after a few years) and the legendary Troggs, bringing ‘Wild Thing’ and ‘Love Is All Around’ all the way up the road from their home town of Andover.
MantonFest has always placed great importance on local acts and as well as The Troggs, Barrelhouse will be back again to grace the Manton stage with their earthy and original blues sound which is gaining ever more popular wide appeal. Straight Six, Clive Collective, CCRR (Creedence Clearwater Revival Revival), Manton’s own Skedaddle (making their ninth consecutive MantonFest appearance), Burbank, @59, Joe Martin and another Manton favourite Ed Witcomb will all add to the great charm and enjoyment of a summer Saturday in the beautiful setting of Manton’s natural water meadow.
Mercury are a big catch for MantonFest as they bring the excitement and music of Queen to audiences across the UK, Europe and even the Middle East in Dubai.
Now celebrating their twentieth anniversary they are widely recognised as Queen’s best tribute, even by Freddie Mercury’s mum, Jer Bulsara, who said: “Freddie was an original. He and Queen were the best. But now, in this new century, Joseph, Glenn & Mercury are the next best thing”.
T.Rextasy keep Marc Bolan’s music, style and legacy alive and are widely regarded as more than just a tribute band (“They truly help keep my father’s music in the minds of thousands” ~ Rolan Bolan Marc’s son) and even opened the 50th Anniversary Isle of Wight Festival last year. They electrified MantonFest back in 2014, they will do the same on another warm Saturday night in a few days time.
“Nine years” said organiser Roger Grant, “It doesn’t seem more than just the other day that we launched the first festival” he added “I think we’ve created a monster, but it’s a big friendly one that raises lots for the local community”.
MantonFest has always been more than just a music festival. It’s a relaxed day out for everyone of any age, and even pets (dogs!) are welcome. “I am very keen to keep the same carefree atmosphere, where festival goers can bring their own picnics and drink, where the children can run around the water meadow while their parents listen to the music.” said Roger.
“It’s run to raise money for various charities and everyone concerned with its running does it for free. This way we have raised thousands for good causes. I cannot thank our volunteers and committee enough, because without them there would be no Festival”.
