We’d been keeping the last bank holiday in August free in anticipation of a call from Farm Fest X. This didn’t come but we did get the call from the event organiser at Hooten Lodge who were looking for a live band to play at their 90s and 00s festival.
As the sun dipped behind the trees of Hooten Lodge, a palpable buzz filled the air—a throwback to an era that defined a generation—the 90s. August 2023 saw a remarkable music festival that transported attendees back in time, reliving the anthems and spirit of an unforgettable decade. And for us, as a band fortunate enough to grace the stage, it was an electrifying experience like no other.
Set 1 kicked off with a thunderous roar as we launched into the iconic “Song 2,” setting the tone for an evening of nostalgia and high-energy performances. The crowd erupted into a frenzy as we transitioned seamlessly from hits like “Teenage Dirtbag” to the infectious tunes of “She’s Electric” and “Alright.” The infectious energy was undeniable—singing, dancing, and an overwhelming sense of unity amongst thousands of fans united by their love for 90s music.
Moments turned into memories with each chord of “Park Life” and the anthemic “Don’t Look Back Into The Sun,” transporting everyone back to a time where music was more than just sound—it was a cultural movement. The crowd’s fervour reached its peak during “Last Nite” and “Dakota,” creating an electric atmosphere that reverberated through the Lodge.
Set 2 was a rollercoaster of emotions, weaving through hits like “Mr. Brightside” and “I Bet That You Look Good on the Dance Floor.” The audience’s enthusiasm never wavered, pulsating in harmony with every beat and lyric. “Common People” and “Sex On Fire” transformed the venue into a swirling sea of euphoria, where age seemed irrelevant, and only the music mattered.
And just when it felt like the night couldn’t get any better, the encore was a crescendo of anticipation and exhilaration. With bated breath, we unleashed “Seven Nation Army,” culminating in a moment of collective euphoria that resonated long after the final note had faded into the night.
Hooten Lodge’s August 2023 music festival wasn’t just a concert—it was a pilgrimage, a testament to the enduring legacy of 90s music and its ability to transcend time. For us, being part of this monumental event was a privilege—a chance to transport ourselves and the audience to a bygone era, reliving the anthems that shaped a generation.
The success of the gig was somewhat tempered by the knowledge that we’d be losing our drummer to surgery that was going to leave his kick pedal foot in plaster for the next three months. Get well soon Andy.
