There’s nothing better than taking a trip to a crazy woods party far away and entering a leafy paradise filled with the dulcet tones of the underground on a sunny weekend in July. Farr Festival is a boutique event that has only been running for three years and has managed to maintain an intimate vibe whilst bringing in some world class DJs. This is how the organisers wish for it to remain, a secret between you and your friends, ‘an undiscovered gem’. It’s hard to find smaller festivals that have it all but Farr definitely look like they’ve achieved the right balance of music, vibe and location and it’s this combination which draws me to the festival. A place where like-minded people can fill their ears with some of the best house and techno around whilst also being introduced to fresh talent. After all, underground lives forever, mainstream lives for the moment.
After kicking the festival season off with Glastonbury, which seems to be getting better and better each year, Farr seemed like the perfect cure for my festival blues. The mystery of new festivals creates a warm buzz as you picture yourself exploring a realm of the unknown. I can picture a maze of tents enclosed by tall looming trees reverberating with the sounds of music that last till 6am each morning. However festivals are no longer solely about the music, they’re about meeting new people and discovering what else there is to offer. This year Farr has gone to the next level and added more daytime activities, which they lacked last year. I will definitely be paying a visit to the ‘Vita Coco Beach Bar’ to add a bit of Brazilian spice to my experience. What better way to spend a sunny afternoon relaxing on a sandy beach complete with palm trees and deck chairs sipping on exotic cocktails. A new underground venue called the ‘Fox Hole’ is one not to miss, however, it is only accessible with a fox hole transfer so be sure to keep your eyes peeled about how to get one. It will be showcasing exclusive one-off sets from Farr DJs and artists, an intimate experience you’ll want to be a part of.
With some of the finest underground acts playing, the eclectic and unique line-up brings together some of the best house, disco and drum and bass. The Futureboogie stage is looking hot featuring Bristol legend Eats Everything who blew the roof off The Beat Hotel at Glastonbury with his mixture of Detroit techno and classic house riffs. The Other Tribe are likely to put on a unique performance as the Bygrave Woodlands serves as the perfect backdrop for their unique fusion of tribal undercutting’s and house. Spectrasoul’s smooth baselines and ethereal vocals are also likely to echo beautifully through the scenery.
One of the best things about festivals is stumbling upon new music and broadening your musical tastes, which is exactly what Farr has to offer. The manageable size of the festival will enable you to see more therefore discovering new artists will be easy. The weather will allow more freedom to explore the quirky boutiques and interesting food stalls. Farr festival want you to make this experience your own therefore they choose to not give that much away before you visit, it’s this mystery and secrecy that intrigues me.
Farr Festival takes place from Friday 19th to Sunday 21st July in Bygrave Wood, Newnham, Hertfordshire. There are a handful of tickets still available so if you’re at a loose end this weekend and like the sound of the underground then see our Farr Festival Guide.
