With reports suggesting a washout weekend, the Friday of Indiependence saw revellers enjoying the weather while it remained any bit dry, (albeit still far from tropical conditions). With a changeover of a sponsors, the much-loved Bacardi arena was replaced by the smaller, sheltered Garden Stage, while the Jaeger Big Top became the second largest stage at the festival. The decision to bring the house venue under cover was wise considering the forecast, but the absence of the old Bacardi layout was obvious, and sorely missed.

Turbowolf

The Bristolian band slaughter the Canadian Molson Main Stage on night one; the alt-rock band’s impressive display piquing the interest of many passers-by. A band that are not to be ignored, the guitars ascend into the overcast heavens as they delivered gritty, aggressive rock. Solid Gold proved to be the most danceable hit of the night, with throwaway riffs and unusual vocals. Overall, the set was thoroughly entertaining, and return to this side of the ocean should be imminent for the band.

Grant Nicholas

Feeder frontman Grant Nicholas brought his mellow rock stylings to the main stage early Friday evening. His presence is unimposing against the heavy throb of dance music from the opposing tents, but the crowd he draws is reasonably sized. Soul Mates, from his debut solo album Yorktown Heights, sounds as delicate as ever. “C’mon, I wanna see some hands!” is less of a demand and more of a suggestion from the jovial Welsh musician. The crowd engages with Hope, a rambunctious acoustic frolic, met by waving limbs and rubber-legged jiving. Nicholas is by no means an extravagant performer – anyone who turned up solely to mosh to Just a Day would have to leave disappointed – but what the show lacks in antics, it makes up for in authenticity.

Jape

Jape’s live set is an experience in itself. Consider the feeling of being submerged head first into a basin full of water and tye-dye t-shirts, and you’re practically there. Don’t expect murky, watered down tunes, mind. Performed with the utmost clarity and a dazzling array of lights, Jape is the jewel in Friday’s crown, from the sticky sweet synth of Floating to the magnetic energy of Seance Of Light. The sound swims through the tent, enveloping hardcore fans, while managing to snare in even the most passive of listeners. Richie Egan & Co offer a kind of music that is truly unique, and live performances that are no different.

Basement Jaxx

Who better to be Friday’s closing act than dance heavy-weights Basement Jaxx? The twosome develop into master puppeteers during the set – bodies flail and dance with little to no decorum. Songs were met with the kind of enthusiasm and rapturous screams usually reserved for young boy bands. Newer tracks like Never Say Never sees crowds turn madding. When they indulge the crowd with Raindrops, the atmosphere is one that would rival any sweaty club in Ibiza – not bad for a damp tent in Mitchelstown. Romeo is another fun rendition of an old favourite. Considering they’ve been on the go since the nineties and are still delivering gold-calibre performances, it’s a wonder they aren’t booked to play every year.