Packing punters in the park

SUMMER SOUNDS: NEW VODACOM IN THE CITY MUSIC EVENT A HIT AT BOTANICAL GARDENS Johannesburg Botanical Gardens comes alive for one of the summer’s first open-air concerts.

his past Sunday an estimated 12 000 city dwellers came together at Johannesburg’s Emmarentia Dam for Vodacom in the City.

Previously Vodacom in the City took place in Newtown. To accommodate larger crowds, this year’s instalment broke with tradition by setting up stage here. Organisers also opted for a day-time concert instead of a night-time event.

The distinct laid-back atmosphere was infectious as soon as visitors entered the gates. The park surroundings were perfect to watch Al Bairre, PHfat and Grassy Spark as well as international acts The Kooks, Milky Chance and The Cat Empire.

It was significant to see a large amount of under 18s, which indicates that music influences have shifted tremendously over the years. It’s quite a feat to have such strong support from young music lovers for artists who are rather

niche. At R495 a ticket many kids no doubt had to beg, borrow or steal to buy their tickets and it was interesting to see them appreciate this sort of concert event.

Grassy Spark won a competition that was part of the build-up to this year’s event which allowed them to open on the day. The skaband packed quite a wallop, and they’re certainly worth noting. Al Bairre provided breezy bliss before PHfat wowed the crowd – although with the lack of strobe lighting (because of daylight) they almost felt a little less boisterous.

The Cat Empire was an extremely fun band to get to know on the day. The Australian skajazz fusion band is infectious, and it’s clear why they were chosen to perform. If you haven’t heard them, do yourself a favour.

German duo Milky Chance was a clear crowd favourite. People visibly skipped to the stages to watch their set. The Kooks were surprisingly bland compared to the other acts, but that might also be due to the fact that when they finally took to the stage the day, for the most part, had run its course.

Johannesburg Botanical Gardens

Al Bairre, PHfat and Grassy Spark, The Kooks, Milky Chance and The Cat Empire