12/09/2018
Being from the area, I love when festivals come to South East London – an occurrence that seems to be happening more and more in recent times – so when I heard that GALA was moving from Brockwell Park to Peckham Rye, basically on my doorstep, to say I was excited would be an understatement.
Much like with all festivals on these shores, or in fact all conversations ever in the UK, the weather was the morning topic with the forecasts predicting a day full of rain and thunderstorms – not exactly an anticipation builder. However, the weather on the day was the complete opposite, meaning a whole host of prayers were answered. The skies were a crystal clear blue and the sun was absolutely scorching, score!
Now in its third year, GALA is definitely starting to make a name for itself and with names like Norman Jay and Horse Meat Disco attached to the event, it’s not hard to see why! As we walked into the festival it felt as though we had been transported into another world and I had to keep reminding myself that we were still in Peckham!
The layout was excellent with three wonderfully designed stages and an incredibly efficient bar, which repeatedly served us in record time – why can’t all festival bars be this quick?! The food on offer was a delight with us choosing to go for one of Slow Richie’s special burgers – a Peckham favourite – followed by Nonna’s gelato, the perfect tonic on such a blazing hot day. P.S. I’m still eagerly waiting to see Morley’s turn up at a festival!
Musically, we were treated to a carnival of House, Disco and Funk –all music that is good for the soul, I mean, how can you not dance when you hear some soulful funk music? Add in a helping of sizzling sun and a ton of smiling faces and even Ebenezer Scrooge would find it hard to have complaints.
Artists such as Mr Scruff, Midland and Honey Dijon more than lived up to expectations before we made our way to the main stage for the final time where, with a backdrop of colourful lights and huge bouncing balloons, Derrick Carter took us to the final destination on a journey we wished didn’t have to end, as he closed the show with an infectious set packed with soulful, funky music that had us shuffling until the night fell.
They say ‘three is the magic number’ and GALA certainly proved that with an incredible event, after an up and down first two years. Great food, beautiful music and incredible vibes – GALA is a new(ish) kid on the block that has laid down an impressive marker and we’re excited to see the further growth they’re sure to show next year.