Relocated from north to east London this year, Mayor Ken Livingstone's annual racial awareness festival has grown in size and stature. Its ability to attract big name acts and a sizable crowd all for the price of the bus fare is no mean feat. This year's line up features seasoned reggae campaigners Misty In Roots, UK hip-hoppers Black Twang and daisy age legends De La Soul.
A brief sojourn around the huge site reveals a plethora of stages showcasing music from a huge range of countries and cultures that represent the capital's diverse population. A walk in the park this afternoon takes in Africa, India, Ireland and Cuba to name but a few and there's a massive, mixed crowd attending to mirror what's on offer.
Back at the main stage, mid-afternoon is greeted by the arrival of Tony Allen (drummer with Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti) and his band. A loose-limbed groove machine, they jam their way through a set bathed in welcome sunshine and, as a result, a predominantly horizontal crowd. Busy doing nothing more than sipping on a drink or sampling some 'herbal' cigarettes the gathered throng are, in the main, happy to let Allen's dextrous, percussive rhythms wash over them despite the MC's plea for them to get busy.
By the time Black Twang arrive several thousand more revellers have turned up and the party atmosphere is in full swing. Flying the flag for UK hip-hop it's a shame that their sound is lost in the great outdoors. The wind blows, taking their beats with it, but frankly nobody seems to mind.
The Mayor himself pops out for a brief speech and introduces this year's big draw, De La Soul. Having never really cut it as a live act the trio are still greeted as all conquering heroes and manage to get everyone on their feet. Luckily for them their decision to play the back catalogue makes good sense and with good vibes aplenty their shortcomings go largely unnoticed. An over reliance on audience participation is evident and their delivery is more exuberant shouting than smooth lyrical flows.
Today however it doesn't really matter, the fact that their very presence has ensured a good attendance is admirable enough. Now that most festivals are corporate brand-a-thons leaving you wondering exactly what is the best lager in the world, it's refreshing that for one day music can help to bring people together for an important cause and a meaningful message. For that respect is due.
