I’m ‘too young’ for these artists – but two performances restored my faith in festivals
I’m ‘too young’ for these artists – but two performances restored my faith in festivals
I m too young for these - At the heart of the festival, a woman in front of me declared, “I’ve seen Kings of Leon 13 times so far. State Fayre will be my 14th!” Her enthusiasm caught me off guard, prompting me to reflect on my own limited festival history. While my experiences are confined to a few events—Reading Festival after my A Levels and a drum and bass night in Bristol—those memories are far from glamorous.
Our chat began when she asked if the two water bottles on the ground were mine. I confirmed they were, noting the sweltering 37-degree heat. This level of consideration felt almost unfamiliar to me, as if I had stepped into a different world. The festival’s atmosphere, however, soon revealed its charm, pulling me into a space where music and connection felt effortless.
A New Experience
State Fayre, a fresh festival in Chelmsford, Essex, offered a stark contrast to my past. Rock, country, folk, and Americana-inspired acts filled the lineup, blending genres in a way that felt both authentic and invigorating. The venue itself, once a familiar site for the V Festival, now exuded a relaxed, country-themed vibe. Cowboy hats, the aroma of BBQ, and a towering ferris wheel created an environment that felt more like a gathering of friends than a mass event.
Despite being the youngest attendee, I found myself energized by the festival’s vibe. The crowd, though seasoned, carried a respectful energy, allowing space for movement and expression. It wasn’t the chaotic late-night crush of previous festivals, but a more harmonious blend of camaraderie and shared passion. This contrast made me reconsider my own assumptions about what a music festival should feel like.
The Lineup
Friday’s headliners were Kings of Leon, whose performance was a revelation. The band’s catalog, which I once thought I knew well, felt fresh under the festival lights. Alanis Morissette graced the stage on Saturday, her presence electrifying. Her songs, like “You Oughta Know” and “Sex On Fire,” resonated deeply, bridging a nine-year gap between their release and my birth.
For me, “Sex On Fire” was more than just a nostalgic trip—it was a mirror to my childhood. The lyrics, which once echoed through my teenage years, now felt like a shared language with the crowd. Even as a 22-year-old, I could see why the song has become a staple for generations of music lovers. The energy was infectious, and the band’s performance left me wondering if this track could redefine how we end our nights rather than start them.
Stephen Wilson Jr., a rising country star, brought a personal connection. I had only heard snippets of his music before, but his set at the festival was a full immersion. As he walked through the crowd while belting out his new hit “Gary,” I realized how much his artistry had evolved. The viral success of his earlier work, like “4runner,” had already made him a familiar name, but the live performance solidified his place as a standout talent.
Emotional Resonance
The festival’s ability to evoke emotion was undeniable. One of the highlights was Skunk Anansie, a band I hadn’t encountered before. Their frontwoman, Skin, opened the set with a powerful rendition of “All I Want,” and her words, “it’s not about right and left, it’s about right and wrong,” captivated the audience. Though I couldn’t fully grasp the 90s punk ethos, her performance felt like a glimpse into a world where music transcends boundaries.
“My sense is, if we’re going to air on the side of matriarchy or patriarchy, air on the side of matriarchy.”
Her set featured a montage of iconic moments, from Grammy wins to her memorable interview quote. The blend of nostalgia and modernity in her music made it clear why she remains a cultural touchstone. Even as a young person, I could relate to the themes of empowerment and identity she conveyed, proving that artistry has no age limit.
Another standout moment came when Razorlight took the stage. Their performance was a reminder of how some bands can transport you back to a specific time. Watching their set, I was struck by the contrast between their 2000s heyday and the current festival scene. Yet, their energy and charisma still felt relevant, proving that certain acts have a timeless appeal.
Why This Festival?
What set State Fayre apart was its ability to honor both tradition and innovation. While the lineup leaned heavily on millennial artists, it also gave emerging talent a platform. Brenn!, for instance, used his viral TikTok following to share his gravelly voice and storytelling with the crowd. His rendition of “4runner” was a reminder of how social media can amplify music beyond its original reach.
Even the casual acts had their moments. A local artist performed with a heartfelt rendition of “Hands Clean,” accompanied by a backdrop of Skin’s quote, “wholeness over wellness.” The performance wasn’t just about the music—it was about the message, the connection, and the collective experience. It made me think about how festivals can serve as more than just entertainment; they can be a space for growth and rediscovery.
As the sun set and the lights came on, I found myself in a different place than I had expected. The days of feeling out of place at festivals were gone, replaced by a sense of belonging. Whether it was the familiar melodies of “Waste a Moment” or the raw power of a Skunk Anansie set, the experience was a reminder that music has the ability to unite people across generations. I didn’t catch the 8:00 vinyasa yoga or the 9:00 run club, but the first act I witnessed left me just as relaxed and inspired.
State Fayre proved that festivals can still feel magical. The blend of old and new, the respect for the craft, and the unfiltered joy of live performance made it a standout event. For someone who once felt too young to appreciate certain artists, it was a moment of reconnection. Music, after all, doesn’t care about age—it only needs to be felt.