Fuzzy and Ten Pound Crew brought the beats to Brisbane with the fresh outdoor festival Parklife. Taking place at the RNA, the line-up featured a collection of both international and local talent.

I arrived in time to hear Grant “Daddy G” Marshall from Massive Attack fame, drop some dub grooves and hip hop rhythms whilst the punters steadily trawled into the beer garden, grabbed themselves a drink and stood back listening in appreciation.

My excitement grew with the realisation that Hybrid (Mike Truman and Chris Healings) would be performing next. Hybrid played an emotive set, beginning with broken beats, and progressing into a more energetic, 4/4, electro influenced sound. My only criticism would have to be that, in my opinion, Hybrid is more suited to a later time slot. Despite this, the crowd was dedicated and couldn’t get enough after they opened with their classic remix of The Orb’s “From A Distance”.

After alternating between the dance floor and the beer garden, I thought it was time to check out what the rest of Parklife had to offer. I was beginning to get too comfortable at the Life Stage and knew that if I didn’t make a move soon, there would be no dragging me away. I entered the Local Stage to hear the sound that is Statler and Warldorf. A live electronic act, Statler and Warldorf have gained a solid fan base through extensive touring and numerous festival performances. The unmistakable heavy bass lines and vocals were as strong as ever. Unfortunately I couldn’t bear to stay at the Local Stage for too long, as the heat was sickening. Too bad for Statler and Warldorf, who were definitely my favourite local act for the day, even though what I heard was only an indication of what was to come.

Next was a quick stop to watch Ugly Duckling, who delivered their signature quirky rhymes and infectious beats. By now the sun was blaring down and the fear of sunburn (and the fact that I have seen Ugly Duckling before) saw myself heading back to catch the end of Hybrid (which ran overtime) and the beginning of MC Chickaboo. A talented lyricist, with an incredible stage presence saw the crowd lapping up the rhymes and beats including the Timo Maas classic “Shifter”. Chickaboo remained on stage to accompany Rennie Pilgrem whose broken beats provided the crowd with easy listening and danceable music.

DJ/Artist/Producer Kaskade aka Ryan Raddon dropped a soulful mix of catchy, lush and sometimes slightly cheesy house including the 2003 release “Its you, Its me” and a remix of Collette’s’ “What will she do for love”. Despite the fluff, I found myself dancing and enjoying the relaxed environment. The time of day was perfect for a dose of lazy tunes.

Crazy Penis was the next act on my list. The beats were pleasant but nothing exceptional. I decided it was time to head back to the Life Stage and secure a seat (and a drink of course) in the beer garden. DJ Sneak had hit the stage and the crowd was getting down to his Carter style house set, which I thoroughly enjoyed despite Sneak dropping the occasional remix of Top 40 garbage.

The last man on my list was of course Nick Warren. Warren delivered, beginning with some dark and progressive sounds, his track listing including LCD Sound System “Tribulations” (Tiga remix) and Pryda “Aftermath”. Overall, an impressive and typical set from Warren.

Musically, I enjoyed my day. However the lack of seating and shade left me feeling drained. If Parklife returns next year (and I hope that it does) my suggestions would be to consider the layout of the festival in terms of comfort and sound. Other than that, a nice way to welcome the spring sunshine and festival season.