There’s something special about outdoor gigs. Whilst it can be painful standing for a long period, the togetherness of everyone embracing great live music as the sun sets cannot be beaten. For the second year running, a summer of outdoor concerts began for me by attending Bedford Summer Sessions to catch two iconic 90’s British bands – The Coral and Supergrass.
Held in the beautiful setting of the Victorian-esque Bedford Park, it was a warm summer evening, with drinks flowing, food a plenty and a crowd that clearly knew they were in for a fun night of Britpop nostalgia, and rock ‘n’ roll.
After picking up my passes from the Box Office, I headed in through ‘The Retreat’ area, briefly taking in what was on offer in the space before heading through the grassy archway into the main arena. The first support act, Willey J Healey had already been on, and whilst there was a break for a set change, it allowed time to explore all the stalls placed near the back of the arena.
Most of these were food stalls and a bar, offering everything from pie and mash through to pizza, fish and chips, burgers, ice cream and pick ‘n’ mix. There was also a merch stand near the sound desk, not so easy to get to, because of crowds, selling branded clothing and other items from the bands. Off to one side, away from most of the other stalls was one for the University of Bedfordshire. Here you could have a free spin on a large wheel to win a prize. These were tote bags full with various items. In mine, I had a travel mug, a power bank, a USB stick, pens, a sticky grip for phones, and some leaflets promoting various courses. After that excitement, it was time to find a spot close to the stage as the next act were about to begin their set.
The Coral set the scene with indie vibes
First up were The Coral, who brought their signature dreamy, jangly, summery sound to the stage. I’ve got one of their later albums, and handful of other songs on various compilations and whilst I didn’t know every track in their nine song set, it didn’t matter, the catchy melodies of the songs were enough to draw you in.
The band treated the crowd to some of their best-known tracks, including “In the Morning” and “Dreaming of You” which got the biggest reactions of the night. They even threw in a cover of The Doors’ classic “People Are Strange,” which also went down well.
There’s something effortlessly cool and relaxed about the band. No theatrics, just solid musicianship and a confident, understated stage presence that lets the songs speak for themselves.
Supergrass are more than ‘Alright’!
After another break, then it was time for the main event – Supergrass and they absolutely delivered.
From the moment they walked on stage after a burst of Blockbuster from The Sweet, there was an instant jolt of energy. It was clear from the opening chords and drum beats of ‘I’d Like to Know’ that this was going to be a proper rock show, and they didn’t disappoint.
The set mostly featured songs from their debut album I Should Coco, which was released 30 years ago in May 1995. This included songs like “Caught by the Fuzz” and “Strange Ones.” as well as feel-good anthem “Alright” (one of my personal highlights) and the soaring “Moving.” I was excited to hear “Grace” performed as that’s always been one my favourite songs.
The 19 song set wrapped up with a riotous encore of “Sun Hits the Sky”, very apt for the very hot day it had been and “Pumping on Your Stereo,” which had the entire crowd bouncing along. It’s a song built for live gigs, and it was the perfect way to end the night.
A Rockin’ Night to Remember
Even if I didn’t know every single track, the atmosphere, energy, and sheer joy of live music made it a fantastic experience. Both bands reminded me just how good British guitar music was (and still is), and it was a treat to see two well-matched acts sharing a bill.
Last year’s visit to Bedford Summer Sessions, was all about the strong female artists, this year has been about guitar rock ‘n’ roll, with McFly taking to the stage the following night. It’ll be interesting to see what direction the event goes in next year and how it can be topped?
