REVIEW: 2000trees Festival, Friday
Co-written by our Co-Founders, Thom Earle & Kelly Rose
Bob Vylan by Joe Singh
A rollercoaster of emotion and energy on Day 2 of 2000trees
Returning to the vibrant heart of 2000trees on day two, amidst the crisp air of Upcote Farm, the festival's unique blend of camaraderie and musical magic was palpable. Anticipation for another day of unforgettable performances was electric. Day 2 of 2000trees 2024 wasn't just a continuation; it was a crescendo of emotion, energy, and powerful messages that resonated deeply with everyone present.
From BEX’s commanding presence in towering platform boots and with a bubble gun in hand, igniting the crowd, to the collaborative spirit between Problem Patterns and Other Half, and Sweet Pill captivating with their engaging presence and powerful set, day two unfolded as an unforgettable rollercoaster of emotion and energy.
The day left such an impact that we’re still reeling from yet another remarkable chapter in the alternative music scene at 2000trees 2024. Let’s now delve into the standout moments that defined this exhilarating day!
BEX
From all accounts, BEX cut an imposing figure as she kicked off the mainstage on Friday, her platform boots elevating her to towering heights. Her boundless energy was palpable as she showered the crowd with bubbles from a bubble gun, igniting an immediate mosh pit frenzy. If you missed BEX and her explosive performance at 2000trees, be sure to catch her headline show on November 1st at Omeara in London, promising the ultimate Halloween party of the year.
Photography by Gareth Bull
Mouth Culture
Opening The Axiom on Friday were Leicester rockers Mouth Culture. Drawing from a wide range of rock and pop influences, the group has forged an alt-rock sound that inspires both singalongs and mosh pits. Frontman Jack Voss exudes more swagger in his little finger than most of us have in our entire bodies. Essentially, they are the perfect band to kick things off on a 2000trees stage. The hype and excitement from those who caught their set were palpable throughout the festival, with many citing the band as one of their highlights.
Photography by Jez Pennington
SLøTFACE
You could hear echoes of SLøTFACE’s high-energy set all the way back in 2000trees' parking lot. The anticipation built as we drew closer, and we were immediately swept up by their infectious energy. SLøTFACE is more than just a band; they are a collective led by the formidable Haley, whose fierce charisma and undeniable talent command the stage. This collective is bolstered by a varied backing band and a team of talented writers, bringing a rich, diverse sound to their music.
Despite catching only a glimpse of their set, it was clear that SLøTFACE delivered a raucous and memorable performance, leaving the crowd buzzing and us wishing we’d arrived just a bit earlier. Their ability to leave such a strong impression in just two songs speaks volumes about their prowess and the electrifying atmosphere they create.
Photography by Carla Mundy
Problem Patterns
Problem Patterns aren’t just a band with strong messages in every song; each track is also an absolute banger. The Belfast queer punks filled the NEU stage’s tent with such energy and passion that it was impossible not to be drawn in by their pull. Witnessing their evolution and the enthusiastic crowd they drew was thrilling.
Their dynamic performances, where they run about the stage switching instruments and front-person roles, showcase their versatility and collaborative spirit. When we spoke to the band later at the festival, they explained that the changing of front-person roles allows the lyricist of each song to lend it an authentic voice. This switch between roles adds an extra layer of excitement and always keeps the audience on their toes.
A highlight of their performance was the introduction of their trans solidarity anthem “TERFs Out,” where they brought out their friends Cal and Sophie from Other Half to act as impromptu backing dancers. This was in response to the Norwich duo finding themselves in the crosshairs of Twitter’s TERF mob after calling them out. Solidarity and support for marginalised communities have always been central to punk, and it goes without saying that trans rights are human rights.
The combination of Problem Patterns' powerful messages and fierce, authentic delivery made for a standout set, reinforcing why they are a force to be reckoned with in the punk scene. It was a privilege to see them continue to rise and inspire with every performance. On top of it all, they are four of the loveliest people we’ve met.
Photography by Joe Singh
Other Half
Other Half once again delivered a set that was both awkwardly brilliant and thoroughly entertaining. Their quirky charm and raw talent always bring a smile. Having played the sister festival ArcTanGent last year, it was fantastic to see the trio packing the NEU stage at 2000trees this year. This popular stage always pulls a crowd, but it was heartwarming to see so many familiar faces in the tent.
The band’s set was a mix of fan favourites and rippers from their new album Dark Ageism. Classics like “Tiny Head” were screamed back with avengeance, while fresh tracks like “Pastoral Existence” sounded louder, rawer, and more intensely Other Half-y than ever live. To cap off an outstanding set, their (and our) new friends Problem Patterns returned the favour from their earlier performance, joining Other Half onstage to "regress like they mean it" and celebrate the joyous chaos of aging disgracefully by joining in on “Farm Games.”
Other Half’s ability to blend humour with compelling music makes their performances a joy to witness. Their set at 2000trees was no exception, leaving us all eagerly anticipating their next move.
Photography by Carla Mundy
Sweet Pill
We’re riding the Sweet Pill high, following their first UK tour closely. We caught their double sets at Outbreak Fest earlier this month and saw them just a week ago at a free show in a small venue in Reading, alongside the lovely SUDS. With each performance, they continue to impress.
At 2000trees, Sweet Pill delivered yet another standout set. Although the crowd didn’t seem too appreciative of their Greggs chat (which Kelly, another American, found amusing), the crowd enthusiastically sang along to every word and barked on cue during "Dog Song”. It was clear that the band's infectious energy and engaging presence has every audience hooked.
What made this performance particularly special was seeing the group deliver a different set from their Reading show. Choosing some of their most powerful songs like “High Hopes”, which felt right at home on the larger stage, Sweet Pill’s ability to adapt and captivate regardless of the venue size speaks volumes about their talent and charisma. Their set at 2000trees was a thrilling highlight of the day, leaving us eagerly anticipating what they’ll bring next.
Photography by Jez Pennington
Bears in Trees
Bears in Trees brought their uniquely heartwarming and joyful vibe to the 2000trees festival, creating a standout moment in the midst of a heavy afternoon. Their drummer George, an audio tech who’d previously recorded all the band's material, was seen setting up for everyone, a touching sight of a friend taking care of his friends.
Known for their “happy sad” songs, Bears in Trees continued to prove that “melancholy never sounded so fun.” Having caught the foursome in Bristol on their headline tour earlier this year, supporting their new album, we thought that show was fantastic—but this might have been the best we’ve seen them.
The group’s infectious energy was on full display, particularly when guitarist Nick announced, “we have a unique opportunity to mosh to a keytar solo today” for the track “Hot Chocolate.” The crowd enthusiastically obliged, effectively responding with a “dear pals, say less”. The burliest of dudes heard their call and sauntered towards the centre of the tent, ready for the cheeriest mosh you ever did see.
Bears in Trees are such a fun group, ferociously sincere group, and their set at 2000trees was a joyous, uplifting experience. It was a performance filled with genuine warmth and exuberance, solidifying their place as one of the festival's highlights.
Photography by Joe Singh
Bob Vylan
2000trees prides itself on creating unique lineups each year by not booking the same acts two years in a row. However, one notable exception is Bob Vylan, who have now played the festival three years running—and for good reason. 2000trees feels like home to Bobby and Bobbie, and they clearly thrive in its atmosphere. The buzz around the duo was palpable all day, culminating in an explosive set. With a stage adorned with Palestinian flags, they brought heart, honesty, and compassion to their performance. As Bobby rightly stated on stage, they are "the most important band in Britain." With a packed festival season ahead, there's no excuse to miss them.
Photography by Joe Singh
