By Mel
Situated approximately 35km from Nelspruit, nestled in the picturesque forest that is Kaapsehoop, a party-hungry crowd came together for Rock the Horse Trails Music Festival. Organised by well-known Lowveld Music guru, Andrew Kay and hosted by Kaapsehoop Horse Trails the festival promised good music and good vibes. The fact is that this festival exceeded all expectations.
Focusing mainly on the vast talent from Nelspruit, the line-up featured seven bands and various DJ’s to take the party late into the night. Even though the cold and wind tried to deter a very eager crowd, nothing could stop this festival from turning into a night that would not soon be forgotten.
Starting off the festivities, all the way from Pretoria, the rather new Hollowbody. A two-piece acoustic act that played mostly American Pre-war blues and folk music. Although Thomas Taljaard is not new to the Lowveld, it was the duo’s debut to Nelsparta and are planning to visit the Lowveld again.
(photo by Mel Davids)
Second in line was the fresh young sounds of Gossip Girl. These youngsters have been making their way into the Nelspruit music industry with a big bang. Lead vocalist Christine Glass had the crowd in awe with her big voice and sweet persona, showcasing their wide range of music from Hozier right through to 21 Pilots. Even the Afrikaans hit, ‘Lisa se Klavier’ was no challenge for this dynamic band.
Next up, Voodoo Kudu, who, as usual, brought the good old Rock to the show. Lead guitarist, Brett Coates, had the crowd’s attention with everything perfect shred. Ending off their set with ‘Rocking in the Free World’, the band set the atmosphere for Goat n Hare, who was up next.
(photo by Mel Davids)
In their true nature, the Goats performed a rocking set. It is with sadness that Goat n Hare publicly announced that Rock the Trails was their last gig. We have seen Mamma Jam and the Goats grow over the years. We wish each member the best for their future ventures. Thank you for the love and the music.
(photo by Mel Davids)
Following their lead, the man himself, Andrew Kay and The Dead Rockstars. In spite of his hard work preparing this amazing festival, he still managed to take the stage and bless his audience with a spectacular performance. It has been a while since we have seen Andrew on stage but it was so good to have him back with his bluesy swagger that we have missed so much.
(photo by Mel Davids)
Jonathan Peyper was next in line. Jonathan, and old Nelspartan, who has returned to his hometown after building his reputation as an insane blues/rock musician. Jonathan delivered a very tight and engaging set that showcased both his guitar and vocal talents.
(photo by Mel Davids)
Ending off the bands was Soul Taxi. After the split of Gibraltar last year, some of their members combined with some new ones got together to form Soul Taxi. From the first guitar strum, they had the crowd dancing and singing along to every song.
(photo by Mel Davids)
No longer feeling the cold after a couple of drinks and dancing, the crowd was ready to party some more as the DJ’s took over the stage. DJs Dv8, Ashroom and BongoJust had the party going until the early morning hours.
So the end came to the first Rock the Trails Festival. A well organised and well attended the first festival. Rumour has it that there will be more to come, in all hopes that this would become an annual festival in Nelsparta. Be sure to keep your eye out for the next one. If the first one is anything to go
by, the next one can surely not be missed.
