Find local news in Kent

Home   Maidstone   News   Article

Ramblin' Man Fair 2017 at Mote Park, Maidstone, begins with Saxon as headliners for Friday- but what's going on today?

09:44, 29 July 2017

Despite torrential downpours threatening to dampen the mood, Ramblin' Man Fair kicked off last night, delighting thousands of fans.

The area has been completely revamped for the festival, which brings together rock, prog, blues and country across four stages.

Last night saw crowds gather to enjoy Graham Bonnett, Last in Line, Y&T and Saxon as the third year of this event began.

Graham Bonnet opening the show
Graham Bonnet opening the show

First up was Graham Bonnett - the name might not ring a bell for those of you who are not seasoned rock fans, but you'd definitely recognise some of his back catalogue, having performed in bands including Rainbow, after the departure of lead vocalist Ronnie James Dio in 1979.

He delivered a powerful and energetic set, no mean feat for a 69-year-old, but it got the crowds enthused and ready, despite the soggy start to the evening.

Following him was Last in Line, a metal band from the US.

Last In Line
Last In Line

Following on with the Dio connection, this band was formed after his death in 2010 from the members of his original group.

Incredible vocals and brilliant song choices made this such a great set, and an emotional one too.

The band's bassist Jimmy Bain died in January, so 'Starmaker' was dedicated to him in a touching tribute.

Y&T
Y&T

Y&T then took up the helm - flying over from California to bring their powerful sound to Mote Park.

Power is definitely the right word to use for these guys, with screeching guitars and impressive musicianship, their prowess on stage blew everyone away.

Ending the night were metal gods Saxon.

Opening with the title track of their 2015 album Battering Ram, these giants stormed through an incredible set list, taking the audience back to the 1980s, when they made their name.

The audience were fully enthralled - they were the perfect choice for the end of the first night.

Fans enjoying the music
Fans enjoying the music

What's going on today and what should I see?

Headlining tonight is American rock band Extreme, who are not to be missed as they combine influences from Led Zeppelin to Van Halen and Queen. You'd have definitely heard 'More Than Words'. - They'll be on the Planet Rock Stage at 9.15pm.

Other highlights today include Kyle Gass (you might know him as one half of Tenacious D) who will be on the Grooverider stage at 4.05pm, and Whiskey Dick, stomping country rockers with enviable beards, they'll be on the Four Roses Bourbon Outlaw Country Stage at 3.15pm.

Acts also performing include Black Star Riders, Reef, Screaming Eagles and Rival Sons, but you can read the full line up and times here.

It's set to be another brilliant day so keep checking here for updates.

This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies - Learn More