Ones to watch at Doune the Rabbit Hole festival

By ELAINE O’CONNOR
Published on 23/08/2012 12:29

You’ll often hear festivals billed as “more than a festival”, a claim often made on the back of an added burger van, big wheel or t-shirt stall. But in the case of Doune the Rabbit Hole, it’s a description that certainly holds more sway.

The organisers of this weekend’s musical retreat in the secluded Carron Valley have loftier ambitions than just putting on live music for the masses - although there’s nothing wrong with that in itself. In fact, the festival would appear to be just an extension of their plans to improve access to musical education and “make Scotland happier”.

So perhaps approaching a festival that’s all about exploration and free-thinking with a pre-planned list of bands to see isn’t quite in keeping with the ethos, but the fact remains that - alongside the spoken word stage, theatre workshops, art installations, environmental activities and film screenings - there are also some of Scotland’s finest musicians stepping up on stage.

It would be remiss of us not to suggest a few to watch...

Neu Reekie! w/ Teen Canteen

The Baino stage, Saturday

Teen Canteen make gorgeous, girl-pop harmonies which create the perfect soundtrack to a summer’s day - or, more likely, will make you at least feel like it’s warm and sunny while your wellies fill up with water. Despite still being newcomers to the scene, they’ve already roped in help from the likes of Eugene Kelly; a ringing endorsment of their sweet sound.

Holy Mountain

The Baino stage, Saturday

The Chemikal signings are topping the bill at the Baino on Saturday, so whether you’re there or not, you might be able to hear them anyway. With Holy Mountain, jaw-dropping riffage and white vests await. If you haven’t seen them, here’s your chance to sort it out. If you have, you understand.

Blurt Vs Fur Hood

The Baino stage, Saturday

Poet and puppeteer Ted Milton formed Blurt in 1979 and has been developing their experimental, avant-garde style ever since. Joining Milton are equally interesting Fur Hood, from Glasgow. This could be totally bizarre and amazing, or make you feel like running away. It’s worth the risk.

Rainbow Fisher

The Jabberwocky stage, Sunday

Former Rags & Feathers man, Tom Davis appeared with Rainbow Fisher earlier this year and a lovely collection of songs on the By The Sea EP. Indie-folk with just a touch of country (harmonica!), but in a good way, this will be a pleasant way to soothe your festival-ravaged body on Sunday afternoon.

North American War

The Baino stage, Sunday

International/Glasgow band (from California, Germany, Glasgow and Sheffield) North American War deliver jerkily excellent guitars, swoops of sound, pounding drums and plenty of discordant fuzz, all fronted with vocals which range from fabulously dry to intensely shouty. Should be good to see, then.

• Doune the Rabbit Hole takes place this weekend (Friday - Sunday) at the specially constructed Duncarron Fort in the Carron Valley. Tickets are still available - weekend and camping costs £98, Friday £30, Saturday £35 and Sunday £35. Organisers have warned that any drivers should book a pass for any vehicles as parking space will be very limited. More information can be found at dounetherabbithole.co.uk

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