Review: Grapevine Gathering 2023 at Sandalford Wines
Grapevine Gathering 2023 at Sandalford Wines
Saturday, October 14, 2023
Last Saturday, Sandalford Wines was transformed into the vibrant stage for the 2023 edition of Grapevine Gathering. The atmosphere buzzed with life as the stellar line-up lived up to all expectations amidst a picturesque vineyard. With the local wine enhancing the experience, the day was ripe with great live music and scenic beauty.
Launching into the festivities, Teenage Joans set the stage ablaze with their punk-infused sound. Notable hits such as Ice Cream and Candy Apple resonated with the early-arrivals, who did not let the scorching hot sun dampen their spirits. This performance served as an unofficial celebration of the band's brand new album, The Rot That Grows Inside My Chest, making the experience even more special.
The Rions
Following suit, The Rions brought their indie-rock sound to the stage, captivating the audience with their infectious energy. Melodic tunes like Anakin and Nightlight provided a perfect continuation from the prior set, sustaining the vibrant energy established by Teenage Joans.
As the harsh sun began to dip below the horizon, the dreamy synth-pop of Cannons took centre stage. The ethereal vibes of Fire for You and Talk Talk created a dreamlike atmosphere, and the band’s stage presence left a lasting impression.
The festival then took a nostalgic turn with the pop sensation Vanessa Amorosi, whose powerhouse vocals transported the audience back to simpler times. Hits like Absolutely Everybody and Shine had everybody singing along with a sense of collective nostalgia. The younger crowd’s engagement during this set was a testament to how timeless Amorosi's music is.
King Stingray
King Stingray brought a distinct flavour to the festival, emerging as one of the evening's standout acts. Get Me Out and Milkumana served as showcases for their musical prowess, inciting animated responses from the crowd who danced along enthusiastically.
Stepping up to the plate after that incredible performance was The Wombats, who brought Sandalford Wines unglued with their contagious energy and indie-pop anthems. Anthemic tracks like Let's Dance to Joy Division and Moving to New York had the crowd singing together in unison and dancing the night away. Frontman Matthew Murphy's magnetic stage presence, combined with the band's iconic discography, created an unforgettable atmosphere.
Spacey Jane
Local legends Spacey Jane graced the stage next, delivering a set filled with sing-along anthems that echoed through the vineyard and created a warm atmosphere. Tracks like Booster Seat, Feeding the Family, and Good For You elicited enraptured responses from the crowd and brought the band’s top-tier musicianship to the forefront. What truly set this performance apart was the palpable camaraderie radiating from the stage, showcasing the incredible chemistry of the four band members. Whenever Spacey Jane graces the stage, their friendship becomes a captivating display and is an absolute delight for the audience to behold.
Sending off the evening on a high note, Hayden James dominated the stage with a lively set, setting the entire audience in motion. His acclaimed music served as the perfect crescendo for the evening and added an extra layer of energy to an already memorable night.
Overall, Grapevine Gathering stood out as an exceptional festival, exceeding expectations on every front. From the lively painting wall that sparked some questionable artwork, to the on-stage antics of Lucy & Nikki from the Happy Hour Podcast, the event offered an array of experiences that catered to all tastes. The line-up excelled in every way — and when paired with delightful wine, it made for a truly unforgettable evening.
HARRISON JONES
