Wednesday at The Great Escape festival this year saw Peter Doherty‘s record label ‘Strap Originals‘ hold a showcase across the two stages on Brighton Beach.
Coming to fruition only 5 years ago, Strap have quickly gained a sizeable roster of artists including: Warmduscher, Real Farmer, GANS and previously, Andrew Cushin.
The Wednesday lineup, consisting solely of artists signed to the label, was split over the two “Deep End” and “Soundwaves” stages, both situated on the stone shore, just along from the famous Brighton Pier.
Artists Real Farmer and Junior Brother, from Holland and Ireland respectively, brought the weather with them as the sun shone down on the festival-goers throughout the day, as bands began to take the stage.
Peter Doherty headlined the ‘Deep End’ stage as a part of the launch of his new record ‘Felt Better Alive’, which came out on the Friday and is available now. He was joined on the stage by The Smiths’ drummer Mike Joyce, who has been a regular fixture on the European leg of Peter’s recent ‘Anywhere In Albion’ tour. Peter was also joined by another guest who is frequently seen on stage with him, Gladys the dog.
Peter was not the only artist celebrating a new release; Real Farmer, GANS and Junior Brother all have had new singles & EPs released recently.
Birmingham duo, GANS, now move onto their set on Sunday at Bearded Theory festival in Derbyshire, headlined by Iggy Pop and Manic Street Preachers.
The festival, situated on the picturesque shores of Brighton Beach, was host to a number of other great artists across the weekend, namely, Coach Party, Luvcat and Getdown Services. After the Strap Originals takeover on Wednesday, the festival splintered off into local bars and venues, creating a dot-to-dot atmosphere, giving local artists and venues a chance to participate in the weekend festival.
The Great Escape festival also offered opportunities for local BIMM students to participate in the festival as performers as well as bar staff and merchandisers.
