BY EVIE MASON
Although Buckle and Boots does not feature the biggest names on its lineup, it undeniably does feature big talent. As I look back on one of my favourite weekends of the year, it is fun to reminisce on the acts that made it so memorable – whether that be unexpectedly or undeniably.
The first act of the weekend that we caught was Maggie Baugh – we were sad to miss previous sets, such as Gary Quinn’s, but we were struggling to pump up our mattress in the rain! It was not the most enjoyable moment of the weekend, that’s for sure, but Maggie’s set certainly lifted our spirits. After her previous triumph at last year’s Buckle and Boots, Maggie Baugh had big shoes to fill this year. But, with her bad-ass spirit, exceptional violin playing and a cover of Eric Church’s ‘Springsteen’ that had everyone singing along, Maggie was a definite highlight of the weekend and in my opinion, is a star in the making.
Although I was looking forward to seeing Micheal Ray (despite really loving Carly Pearce!), I was genuinely pleased to see the addition of Eric Paslay to this year’s lineup, who I have been a distant fan of for years now. During his set, I was pleasantly surprised to realise that I knew most of the songs in his set, and I was especially pleased to learn that Paslay actually wrote ‘Angel Eyes’ which was recorded by the band Love and Theft, which I’m sure had some success on UK country radio, along with ‘Friday Night’.
The third headliner of the weekend, and my potential favourite, was the Country Orchestra, which I just adore every time they perform! The whole thing is such an interesting and unique concept, with the unusual but beautiful fusion of orchestral instruments and country music. Using artists from across the weekend, familiar songs and faces feature on the stage, just feels genius – it brings the crowd together for a final sing along and dance. It feels like one big party and ends the weekend so perfectly.
As for artists across the weekend, it’s impossible to name them (and even see them) all, so next year I will definitely make sure to plan out my days better so not to miss anyone I’d like to see. However, some personal favourites were Hayley Jensen, Matt Hodges who was also great in the Country Orchestra set, Alan Finlan and Zoe Unsworth – I just loved her cute outfit and version of Chappel Roan’s ‘The Giver’! The after parties are also so much fun and play hit after hit, which is perfect for the end of the night.
Although I rave about the overall vibe and aesthetic of the festival, it is impossible to also deny the talent that grace the stages at Buckle and Boots.