The clouds finally broke yesterday afternoon as Frank Turner spectacularly opened the main stage at this summer’s one-off Strummer Of Love Festival, bringing some much sought after sunshine to Blackdown Hills.
The singer-songwriter put in a high-spirited performance and lit up The Clash City Rockers stage with his unique brand of rousing folk-punk. Off the back of a spotlight performance at the London 2012 Opening Ceremony, his high-energy solo act had the rapturous crowds punching the blue laden sky.
“I’ve been looking forward to Strummer Of Love all summer” Frank Turner said after the performance, “It’s a win, win situation. I love Joe Strummer and the people who run the event are some of my best friends. It’s a little damp but that wouldn’t have stopped Joe and it hasn’t stopped me! We are all going to have a great time this weekend.”
Strummer Of Love, a one-time only, unique festival to commemorate the tragic death of legendary Clash front-man Joe Strummer, is now in full swing in the heart of Somerset’s outstandingly beautiful countryside this weekend.
Festival organiser Trish Whelan said: “It’s been an incredible start to the festival with the atmosphere buzzing and everyone getting into the true festival spirit. We’ve already enjoyed a truly wonderful show from Frank Turner, and now with the likes of Seasick Steve, The Pogues, Basement Jaxx and Joe’s best friend Mick Jones and his Justice Tonight band yet to come it’s set to be a truly sensational weekend.”
In honour of Strummer’s world views, all profits from the festival will go towards the ongoing support and development of Strummerville: The Joe Strummer Music Foundation, which was set up by his friends and family following his untimely death.
The event marks the 10th anniversary of the singer’s death, and features a host of globally renowned performers. Limited day tickets are still available at £50.
Words by Josh Taylor