Words and Images by Libby Smith
For the third year in a row, The Downs was transformed into an incredible hub of music, art, and culture that can only be executed so perfectly by the one and only Forwards Festival. Boasting an astonishing two-day lineup of live music, discussion panels, and a diverse range of food and activities, I was extremely grateful to be back once again for an unforgettable celebration of what Bristol has to offer.
Both days began with a very successful entry process. I was through the gates in less than five minutes and immediately welcomed by all of the vibrant areas on offer this year. I must admit that I spent most of my time bouncing between the two main stages, ‘East’ and ‘West’. However, I was also drawn to areas such as the beautifully designed information stage, which hosted a range of captivating talks, as well as the various bars and food vendors. I even found myself in the ‘Kids Area’, a lively spot where people of all ages enjoyed board games, mini golf, entertainers, and skateboarding. It was genuinely impressive to see the huge range of food, drink, and activities this year compared to the last, which made it impossible to run out of things to do.
In just three years, the festival has built a reputation for curating star-studded lineups that leave you coming back every time, and this year was no exception. The Downs was truly blessed with the likes of Loyle Carner, LCD Soundsystem, Underworld, and so many more, not to mention the host of local up-and-coming artists that were given a space to share their talents, and activists who covered a range of topics from climate change and politics to insider knowledge on the music and creative industry.
Both days advertised an amazingly diverse choice of artists. From the masked Australian duo, Glass Beams, who filled the West Stage with their hypnotizing psychedelic rhythms, to the iconic Underworld who played their hit song, ‘Born Slippy’ amongst a fabulous old-school dance set, and the one and only Loyle Carner, who closed Saturday night with his mesmerizing spoken word tracks.
A personal favourite for me was Four Tet on Saturday, who played a spectacular DJ set that checked off banger after banger, making for an almost overwhelming hour of incredible energy that solidified how truly great Forwards is. Greentea Peng was also an unforgettable set, and I was able to capture some of my favourite photos I’ve ever taken whilst vibing along to her captivating and soulful tunes.
All in all, the weekend was a huge success, and not even the rain and thunder could stop the extraordinary force of Forwards. Having been every year, it is clear to me that they outdo themselves every time, providing a space for everyone and anyone to dance, listen, learn, and thrive. I left feeling fulfilled, and truly grateful that I got to experience the festival in all its glory once again.
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