Gigraphy Galleries - 2000trees, Day Four

By Sophie Ditchfield

Panic Shack

I kicked off the final day of the festival with a performance by Panic Shack, an alternative/indie band hailing from Wales. Their music is characterized by an infectious energy and a raw, unapologetic edge, with lyrics that often express anger and frustration, particularly directed at the privileged middle-class white male. Their sound is a blend of punk attitude and indie charm, making for a dynamic and engaging live show. However, despite their fiery performance,

I felt like the set didn’t quite reach its full potential. Perhaps it was the size of the stage or the festival setting itself, but it seemed like something was missing. Panic Shack’s music thrives on a connection with the audience, and I couldn’t help but think they would be even more impactful in a smaller, more intimate venue. A space where the crowd is closer, the energy is more concentrated, and the band’s message can resonate on a deeper level. It’s a shame because they clearly have a lot to offer, and I’d love to see them again, but in an environment that truly complements their style and allows them to fully shine.

Dune Rats

Next up on the Main Stage were Dune Rats, a band I had the pleasure of seeing last year when they toured with Fidlar. Based on that experience, I knew I was in for a wild ride. This Australian rock band is easily one of the most energetic acts I've ever encountered, bringing a level of enthusiasm and chaotic energy to their performances that's truly infectious.

Even though I wouldn’t count myself as a huge fan of their music, Dune Rats have a way of making you forget all that when they hit the stage. There's something magnetic about their live shows that makes them impossible to resist. Their ability to turn any gig into an unforgettable experience is remarkable, and I would never pass up the opportunity to see them perform, no matter how I feel about their music on record.

The Mysterines

The Mysterines were up next, riding the momentum of their recent performance with Catfish and the Bottlemen earlier that week. It's no wonder they’ve become a staple on so many festival lineups this year—after seeing them over the weekend, it’s clear why they’re in such high demand. Their presence on stage is commanding, and their sound, a gritty blend of rock and alternative, resonates deeply with audiences, pulling you into their world from the very first chord. The set began with a bit of a hiccup, as lead vocalist Lia Metcalfe appeared to be dealing with some issues with her microphone. However, she handled the situation with remarkable poise and professionalism, making adjustments without missing a beat. Her ability to manage technical difficulties so discreetly is a testament to her experience and stage presence.

Despite these initial setbacks, once the sound was sorted, Lia’s incredible voice took center stage, cutting through the air with raw emotion and power. Her vocals are the perfect match for the band’s punchy guitar riffs, which were especially highlighted during their performance of “The Last Dance.” This track in particular showcased the band’s ability to craft songs that are both powerful and haunting, with melodies that linger in your mind long after the last note fades.

Lonely The Brave

Afterwards, I made my way over to The Cave to catch Lonely The Brave’s set, which had been generating quite a bit of buzz and seemed like it would draw a large crowd. As I approached the tent, it was clear that this was one of the more anticipated performances of the day. However, my excitement quickly gave way to disappointment as the set unfolded.

From the start, I struggled with the layout of The Cave. The tent’s design left a lot to be desired, particularly with a large steel pillar positioned awkwardly in the middle of the pit. This obstruction not only blocked the view for many in the audience but also seemed to be where lead vocalist Jack Bennett spent much of his time performing. It was frustrating, as it created a disconnect between the band and the audience. Instead of feeling immersed in the performance, I found myself constantly trying to catch a glimpse of Bennett around the pillar.

To make matters worse, the sound quality was subpar. Bennett’s vocals, which are usually so powerful and emotive, were barely audible over the rest of the band. The mix was off, and it was difficult to fully appreciate the music when the lead singer’s voice was being drowned out. Given how integral the vocals are to Lonely The Brave’s sound, this was a major letdown. I can only hope that the next time I catch them in concert, the sound quality and stage setup are much improved, allowing the band to deliver the kind of powerful performance they’re known for.

Kid Bookie

After spending most of the weekend exploring different stages, I realized I hadn’t made it back to the Forest Stage, so I decided to head over and catch Kid Bookie’s set. This was an artist I’d been hearing a lot about, and the anticipation was high. Thankfully, this time, the hype was fully justified—Kid Bookie delivered a performance that exceeded all expectations.

From the moment he stepped on stage, it was clear that he was pouring his heart and soul into every aspect of the show. His passion was palpable, and you could see how much he was enjoying himself, feeding off the energy of the crowd. The entire set was electric, and it was impossible not to get caught up in the enthusiasm he brought to the stage. Watching him, I couldn’t help but think that he deserved a much larger platform; his talent and presence were more than enough to command a bigger stage. Overall, Kid Bookie’s set was a breath of fresh air, blending genres in a way that felt both innovative and authentic. His passion, energy, and respect for his craft left a lasting impression, and I’m certain this won’t be the last time I see him take the stage. If anything, it’s only a matter of time before he’s headlining bigger stages and reaching even larger audiences.

Creeper

Creeper. Where do I even begin? They delivered a performance that was nothing short of spectacular, just as they always do. It’s almost becoming a guarantee with them—every single time they step on stage, they absolutely nail it. This set was no exception.

The anticipation in the air was palpable even before the band appeared, and when Darcia made her appearance to hype up the crowd with a reminder that England was on the verge of bringing it home in the Euros the next day, the energy in the audience soared. From there, Creeper launched into "Further Than Forever," kicking off their set with the kind of theatrical flair and intensity that has become their trademark.

They closed the night with “Cry To Heaven,” a track that encapsulates everything that makes Creeper such a compelling band: emotional depth, dramatic flair, and a sound that’s both powerful and haunting. As they left the stage, the crowd was left wanting more, cheering and calling out for an encore that never came. But that’s part of the magic of Creeper—they always leave you craving just a little bit more, a testament to the strength of their performances and the connection they have with their fans. Looking ahead, I’m genuinely excited to see what Creeper has in store for the future. They’ve already achieved so much, but it feels like they’re just getting started. With their unique blend of goth-punk and theatrical rock, combined with their relentless drive and creativity, I have no doubt that they’re poised to accomplish even greater things in the years to come.

Don Broco

After a day filled with incredible performances, I made my way back to the main stage to witness the main event of the night—Don Broco closing out 2000trees 2024. The anticipation in the air was almost tangible, as fans gathered for what was sure to be an epic finale to the weekend. However, just as we were about to enter the photo pit, we were informed that we wouldn’t be allowed in until the seventh song due to the extensive pyrotechnics planned for the set. This sparked a frenzy among the photographers, who bolted into the crowd, all vying for that perfect, elusive shot of the fireworks.

For me, this set was especially meaningful. The first time I saw Don Broco live was when they supported You Me At Six on their Cavalier Youth tour back in 2014. It’s incredible to see how much they’ve grown over the past decade, both in terms of their sound and their identity as a band. They’ve evolved from an energetic support act into a powerhouse headliner, and seeing them close out 2000trees 10 years later felt like a full-circle moment. It’s been a journey, not just for the band, but for the fans who’ve been there since the beginning.

As soon as Don Broco took the stage, they kicked off the night with an explosive start—literally. The first three songs were accompanied by dazzling fireworks that lit up the night sky, creating a spectacle that perfectly matched the band’s high-octane energy. A few confetti cannons added to the celebration, showering the crowd in a colorful burst that only amplified the excitement. It was a visually stunning way to start the set, setting the tone for what was to come.

The energy in the crowd was electric. The entire set was a whirlwind of activity, with mosh pits forming left and right, crowd surfers riding the waves of people, and even a few walls of death that took the intensity to another level. Don Broco’s music has a way of energizing the crowd like few other bands can, and they fully embraced the chaos, feeding off the relentless enthusiasm of their fans.

As expected, they chose to close the night—and the entire weekend—with “T-Shirt Song,” a fan-favorite that has become something of an anthem for the band. The moment the opening chords rang out, the crowd erupted, and soon, a sea of t-shirts was swinging in the air as everyone danced and sang along for one final time. It was a moment of pure, unbridled joy, a fitting end to a weekend filled with unforgettable performances.

As the last notes of “T-Shirt Song” faded away, and the band bid their final farewells, it was clear that Don Broco had not only delivered a phenomenal closing set but had also cemented their place as one of the top live acts in the UK. The energy, the spectacle, and the connection with the audience made it a night to remember. For me, it was a perfect conclusion to 2000trees 2024, and a powerful reminder of just how far Don Broco has come in their journey.

As the final notes of Don Broco's set faded into the night, I found myself reflecting on the weekend that had just passed. It was one of those experiences that felt paradoxically long and short at the same time—packed with so many unforgettable moments, yet over in what seemed like the blink of an eye. The atmosphere, the music, the people—everything came together in a way that left me wishing for just one more day of festivities. The weekend had been an exhilarating whirlwind, and as much as I was ready for some rest, a part of me didn’t want it to end.

2000trees is more than just a music festival; it’s a community, a gathering of like-minded people who come together to celebrate the music they love in an environment that feels truly special. It’s a festival that has carved out a unique place in the hearts of those who attend, and it’s easy to see why so many bands return year after year. There’s a sense of belonging here that’s hard to find elsewhere—a genuine camaraderie that extends from the stage to the crowd, and even behind the scenes.

The fact that so many bands are eager to return year after year is a testament to just how special 2000trees really is. It’s a place where artists and fans alike feel valued, where the music is at the forefront but the experience as a whole is what truly makes it memorable. It’s not just about the big headlining acts, though those are certainly a highlight—it’s about the discovery of new bands, the shared joy of live music, and the sense of community that permeates the entire festival.

As I left the festival grounds, a bittersweet feeling washed over me. The weekend may have come to an end, but the memories made and the friendships formed will last much longer. And as much as I was ready to return to reality, I couldn’t help but look forward to next year. 2000trees has a way of getting under your skin, leaving you eager for more, and I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the next edition.

So, 2000trees, this isn’t goodbye — it’s see you next year. I’m already counting down the days until we can do it all over again.