The best way to end the weekend
The media flock to Chelmsford over Stafford, simply because it's nearer to London, with the impression given by some that the Midlands version is the poor relation. On this occasion Stafford got the good end of the stick in terms of major headliners, as I'd be stunned if somebody could put up a good argument to say the Killers deserve to close a festival over Foo Fighters. This set was everything a festival headline performance should be, as despite there being new Foo Fighters material due within weeks, this was all about the classics from right across their career.
I've made no secret of the fact I'd like a return to playing the full rock version of 'Everlong' rather than the stripped down rendition that has become so popular, however I do accept that to open a set with it in this way works brilliantly. Grohl appeared on stage alone, and returned the dedication favour shone to him by Gary Lightbody earlier that evening. His band mates joined him for a thunderous end to 'Everlong', before the full band launched into 'Monkey Wrench'.
'Breakout' followed, with one of the two new songs 'Cheer Up Boys (Your Make Up Is Running)' next.
Singles 'My Hero' and 'Times Like These' were played, before Grohl brought his mum up on stage as the band played 'Up In Arms'.
The hit singles kept on coming with the immense 'Learn To Fly', 'DOA' and debut single 'This Is A Call'.
Before 'Best Of You' Grohl told the crowd that the band would be back in November to promote the forth-coming album, with the only other taster from that coming at the start of the encore with new single 'The Pretender'.
It was then time for one of those fantastic, genuine surprises that festivals can throw up.
"We don't often do covers," Grohl announced, "but we played this one the other day (Jo Whiley Live Lounge appearance on Radio 1). Some of you may know it..." as they proceeded to perform an excellent version of Arcade Fire's 'Keep The Car Running' which was unquestionably one of the major highpoints from the weekend.
Their final act was to tear through 'All My Life' and another excellent festival gig was under their belts.
It's easy to forget that Foo Fighters have been around for over a decade, but on the strength of this set they're currently on the top of their game.