International music star Alex Kapranos, of Glasgow-based Franz Ferdinand, made a surprise appearance at the FREE Firefly festival in the tiny village of Moniaive in Dumfries and Galloway on Saturday.
He joined his former band-mates from the Amphetameanies on stage in the marquee behind the Craigdarroch Arms for six numbers before mixing with the crowds.
The free one-day Indie festival was headlined by Trongate Rum Riots and the line-up also included Junkman’s Choir, the Amphetameanies and the Barstow Bats.
Intended as a low key event to fill a little of the gap left by the absence of Wickerman from this year’s festival calendar, the 12 hours of entertainment proved a huge success.
Organiser Jane Chalmers, who also sings with the Amphetameanies, said: “It was fantastic having Alex back with us and he just loved being on stage and joining in with his old band again.
“He really enjoyed the festival and spent a lot of time chatting with people, listening to the music and mixing with the audience.
“It was a superb day all round – there were lots of families in the afternoon and it was really jumping in the evening. I’d really like to thank everyone who took part in any way for making it so special.”
The bands that took part were varied in genre, giving the whole event wide appeal. It kicked off around 12pm with acoustic sounds and vibe up throughout the afternoon and evening.
The Glasgow-based Trongate Rum Riots have a nationwide reputation as rousing entertainers. Their style ranges from sweaty punk to dirty folk, with the occasional bluesy lick and Balkan riff.
Junkman’s Choir, are coming in from Ayrshire. The two-man band, which has previously supported the Pogues, describe themselves as having a global sound and playing a mix of Cajun, Country Sea Shanty’s and Rockin Reels.
The Amphetameanies, who played at Madness’s ‘House of Fun’ Festival, last year, through a personal invite from Madness themselves. They are one of the best and biggest names on the vibrant Scottish ska scene.
Others taking part included:
- The Barstow Bats – familiar to many in the region with a big following in Dumfries.
- Sister Fox, featuring Blackie and Chris Lord – pivotal people in the region’s music scene.
- Luciens Ghost, who have rapidly established themselves in Glasgow, playing venues like King Tut’s.
Then there was:
- Breezy and the Lost Leaders – are quickly making a name for themselves in Scotland, as something very special!
- John Coletta and the Humpff Family Revival – Scottish folk-a-billy; festival favourites
Roy Marchbank (last year joined the one and only Dweezil Zappa, onstage, at The Royal Festival Hall, London)
- The Oystercatchers – bringing melodic, Americana, bluegrass style.
- Darcy DaSilva – well known in the British folk scene.
- and Colin James, up and coming, local musician whose songs bring a retro 60s pop feel.
Firefly’s MC & DJ was Graham Watson aka Noky’s Disco.
