Review: Dot To Dot Festival

Another Dot To Dot festival has once again come to an end. The metropolitan festival came to Manchester on Friday (26^th) and it did not disappoint. Holding a variety of artists in numerous venues across the city, and with a big turn out the day it was an overall huge success.

As the sun covered the city, a large group of music lovers gathered across Manchester to listen to their favourite artists. Music from popular bands such as Amber Run, Sundara Karma and The Growlers could be heard throughout the day, along with a range of up and coming bands like Foxglove, Gurr and The Night Café.

Amber Run- Albert Hall

In tribute to the saddening Manchester attack, which took place earlier that week, the musicians were asked to lead a minute silence followed by a minute of noise. After the silence the Oasis song ‘Don’t Look Back In Anger’ could be heard being sung by everyone throughout the room. This lovely and moving idea made people stop to remember those who were affected in the horrific events and reminded music lovers to never be scared to attend gigs continuing to do what they love. Music is what brings people together and no one can stop that.

The festival is a perfect way to listen to some great music without the stereotypical muddy experience. Since it is located  in the middle of a city, all types of food and drinks are just a short walk away, so it is handy to be able to pop into shops and bars in between the acts. With the event running so smoothly and being so well organised, it’s clear why Dot to Dot is a recurring festival. There was very little queuing involved, which is always a positive!

Amber Run-Albert Hall

Even though the venues are within walking distance from each other, it is still hard to catch all the artists. To save time and to make sure that you do not miss out on your favourite acts it is a good idea to plan ahead. At the start the organisers hand out a list of all the venues with the time schedules. This is a great way to make sure no one misses their favourite artists on the day. It is also a good way to find out about new acts which some people may have not heard about before hand.

Larkins- The Ruby Lounge

Due to the festival holding a wide range of artists, some of the venues chosen were not the best for the music being played there. The sound in some of the locations did not do the bands justice as some of the rooms are not designed to hold that type of event. However, since the festival is on such high demand now it is understandable that they have to use whatever venues are on offer so more artists can be seen and a variety of music can be played.

Overall, Dot To Dot is one that should not be missed. The experience is completely different to that of other festivals and for those who want the festival experience with the camping and all the mud then this event is perfect. It will return again to Manchester next year to hopefully host another great day of music.