Greenbelt 2010

Just back from my second Greenbelt. Around 1979/80, various friends told me I should go, and sure enough I should have gone - U2 played. But having come to it late, the festival certainly continues to deliver at all sorts of levels.

Richard Rohr - who manages to be innovative, Franciscan, Emergent, spiritual and still lead retreats gave some inspiring words. Stanley Hauerwas provided a fascinating analysis of 'America's God', and the music, comedy and talks all could have filled the days.

An extra treat was when an unbilled Tom Hollander turned up for the day and joined in the 'in conversation' with James Wood, the writer of "Rev". 900 of us watched 12 mins of clips first, and that was the first time they had experienced audience reaction in that way. Lots of real Revs there and we liked it. The big surprise for them was the cheer for Colin.

All this and the best range of food stalls I have ever seen - including the fabulous Tiny Tea Tent. Nights were cold, but the experience was great.

Greenbelt 2010

The lineup for this year's Greenbelt is taking shape nicely. As an arts festival with Christian roots, it's never been afraid to take some risks in who it invites along. Eye-catching names already on the bill include Clare Short, Peter Tatchell and David Morrisey, although I think a lot of people will also know Simon Mayo and Janey Lee Grace from Radio 2. Oh and Roger McGough will be sharing poetry. Christian speakers include Richard Rohr, Rob Bell (he of the Nooma videos), John Bell from the Iona Community, Lucy Winkett and Stanley Hauerwas.

The headline musical acts aren't yet announced, but Athlete and Royksopp last year show the standard they aim for. Having said that, the smaller gigs are also excellent, so it's worth checking the lineup page regularly.

All this plus creative worship from all points of the Christian compass and comedy from Milton Jones. Well worth checking out

Belated chat about Greenbelt Music

I realise that I never fulfilled my promise to go back to the music we enjoyed at Greenbelt 2009. It's old news, but hey it's good news.

Mainstage enjoyed some big names. Lots of people raved about Röyksopp. As their website states, "Röyksopp is an electronic and chillout music duo based in Bergen, Norway." As I said to my old friend Tim (who I met after a mere 20 year gap) it was very impressive, but I just didn't get it.

Other mainstage acts included Cornershop, who are making a comeback, long after their big hit with a Fatboy Slim remix of Brimful of Asha. Indie and Indian mix together. Did a great version of Norwegian Wood [in Hindi?] with a real sitar player!

Duke Special, who I saw supporting Crowded House, did a great set in his eccentric style. Vaudeville extravaganza was one description. There were moments of rock, folk-rock, Edwardian music hall and more. Great theatre. Apparently he used to do music for YWAM!

We stayed the distance to see Athlete on Monday evening. Much better mix than their Radio 2 gig from Blackpool, so well done the Greenbelt crew. Good new songs from the new album Black Swan, as well as favourites such as El Salvador, 24 Hours, and of course Wires closed the show. Well worth staying for.

In smaller venues, it was possible to catch some great sounds. Martyn Joseph doing a little gig in the CD tent was brilliant as ever. The Performance Cafe provided a space with food, good coffee and some warmth on a cold wet day. Eddie Johns sang folky/acoustic songs which felt from early 60s folk revival era, especially with his slightly fragile voice. Lyrics harked back to another era too - crossing seas and talk of streams and fields. I liked it. Jazzelation gave us late night mellow jazz, which was a bit weird around 5pm. Quality sound, and great vocals though.

Big highlight for me was Yvonne Lyon. Scottish singer-songwriter wih a voice to fall in love with. Bought her latest album and intend to get the set. Well worth checking out.

That was only scratching the surface. I have to say that the quality and range of music was fantastic - I only checked out the acoustic and rock stuff (but then I would). Best value music festival of the summer (and then there's all the other stuff!!)