The week prior was filled with anticipation, anxiousness, and joy; but I was still not prepared at all for what Brisbane’s St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival had in store for me. Mother-fucking brilliance, that’s what; bands, booze, and mother-fucking brilliance.
First things first; the lineup. And holy sweet Jesus, what a lineup. Japanese Wallpaper, Flume, Smith Street Band, FIDLAR, Violent Soho, Hermitude, Purity Ring, DIIV, Shamir, and St Jerome’s list of glory rolls on. Not only did these bands make the lineup, but each and every one also delivered an absolutely killer set.
The youngest member of Laneway, Japanese Wallpaper’s Gab Strum, kicked off the afternoon with good vibe tones, which soothed, yet excited the crowds with xylophones, soft beats and a melodic voice.
FIDLAR. Need I say more? If they’re not on your ‘must-see’ list already, fucking add them. You’ll question your life everyday onwards if you don’t. The heavy, skater punk four piece will have you dancing like a maniac, and ringing your boss during the set to quit your 9-5.
Although you’ll get knocked around at both The Smith Street Band and Violent Soho, I can pinkie-swear, cross my heart, and sell my soul if it convinces you that the bruises, broken phone screens, and bloody noses are 100% worth it. These dudes know how to bring it.
Bringing the night to a close was Flume and Purity Ring, and although I should have been saddened the night was coming to an end, I couldn’t feel anything but Laneway’s trance of good vibe music. Flume lifted the amped-up crowds higher with his signature songs, while Purity Ring mellowed the dawdlers out with their calming, yet intoxicating tones.
Throughout the day, I will admit, that I missed a few bands on my schedule due to the people and bars scattered about. But don’t get me wrong; the people weren’t swarming, they were splendid. It’s rare to go to a music festival, in this day and age, and not find a bunch of wannabes who think they’re there for the music, but are actually there for the Insta snaps. Laneway was filled with genuine music enthusiasts, friendly faces, and solid rockers—anyone who wasn’t keen to party, never bought a ticket.
And the bar queues weren’t long or pushy either—I just got caught in a grueling dance rave…by myself (no regrets). The drinks at the bars, however, were a tad pricy. I’m talking $10 for a cheap beer, and dearer for spirits. So, a sneaky tip from me, just on the DL, be sure to take a flask…or something else.
St Jerome’s Laneway Festival is an unforgettable day. And although I don’t regret my lone rave, you’ll regret your existence if you don’t ever give it a go!