Underage Festival 2010: The Highs (and Lows)

This year the bands weren't afraid to break out the hits! We all appreciate the odd kooky cover at Underage, but ultimately we're simple creatures, just wanting to hear our favourites! Tinie Tempah caused a frenzy with 'Pass Out', while Professor Green made us swoon with 'Just Be Good To Green'...



This year the festival carried a message or two. Akala talked on the Community Music stage about atrocities happening across the world, and the clichéd phrases which Converse use suddenyl seemed to take on new life - music IS power when it comes to getting a message across. The presence of high-profile cancer charities and youth groups added to the warm and fuzzy feeling of a festival with a conscience.



The amazing line-up! Darwin Deez, Is Tropical, Sub Focus, MIA, Ellie Goulding… you could hardly accuse Underage of being an indie nation state with such a mixed crop and a wealth of street-teams and fans to back up even the smallest of artists!



The Berrocca rockers! Daisy Dares You was electric, despite telling Artrocker.TV that she’d had just 2 hours sleep! The energy from all performers, especially unsigned pop-metallers Don Broco, was unbelievable. Plus I’m pretty sure that Chiddy from Chiddy Bang didn’t stop to breathe. Once.



And finally a few wee disappointments! MIA eventually got round to highflying form with 'Paper Planes' - but her bumpy start was hardly fitting for a headline artist. It was an XXXNo in so many ways for Ms Maya.

Also disappointing was the turnout for Annie Mac’s DJ set. Artrocker.TV stayed for a listen, but due to some clashes, not many others enjoyed the delights of modern dubstep classics as Doctor P’s 'Sweet Shop'.