IT’S Barney’s big day out – Bands Day at the cricket club. The first Saturday in July again brings Barnard Castle’s own one-day music festival.
Six bands will form the line-up at this year’s event on Saturday, July 6, starting at noon and ending at 8pm.
David Robinson, whose brainchild Bands Day was, said: “We hope we’ve got something for everyone musically. I am sure there will be some terrific sounds and if the weather stays kind it should be a superb day for everyone.”
There is reason to arrive early because the day begins with Barney’s own Geriatric and Pacemakers. They feature the superlative vocals of Mackenzie Kellett backed up by Ethan Manders on base, Finlay Hunton on lead guitar, Tommy (Scouse) Griffiths on rhythm guitar and Dave Harper on drums.
Sunderland band The Alibi follow, playing classic rock down the ages, with indie group Dakota likely to feature hits from Oasis and the Stereophonics and Renegade Jukebox with high octane covers warming up the afternoon.
The last two acts promise to have revellers dancing in the aisles (or at least on the cricket outfield).
The Glamned, from Chester -le-Street, are renowned for their driving glam and punk rock from the 1970s.
“Get your spandex jump suit out of the wardrobe,” urged Mr Robinson.
The top of the bill act are The Understudies, from South Shields, who have built a huge following in the North East in the last seven years.
“They’ll play an eclectic mix of rock, pop, punk, indie and new wave and we expect it to be a smashing climax to the day,” said Mr Robinson.
Food, provided by the Crown, at Mickleton, will be available throughout the day and there will be a bouncy castle and other attractions for some of the younger pop pickers. Tickets are available at £7 in advance or £9 on the day and at £4 for children and OAPs.
