Repetitive Brit abroad.
The difference an artist can make to a tents atmosphere is quite startling. From a civilised mix for Dorian to the lowest common denominator for Jamie T. Its fair to say the lager and kebab stalls in close proximity to the tent did a roaring trade as a large crowd gathered. It beggars belief as far superior acts received smaller viewing figures.
The set kicked off at rapid speed as the band launched into James sound, an inner-city rockabilly, if you will. On first listen, he stands out with his unorthodox rhythm, hail of lyrics and nasal vocal style. Very soon though, T comes across as a bankrupt mans Mike Skinner who manages to get away with it, although as the crowd indicates, Jamie T must speak for the youth can afford foreign festivals and all the drink that goes with it. It's a good crowd to win over; they have plenty of disposable income.
'If You Got The Money' got a singsong but the lyrical content of that song always seemed to be too cocky and arrogant to warrant great affection, but again, if the punters love it, give them it.
And the punters did indeed love it, as the mass of folk watching the show from atop the toilet portakabins would prove. In the UK, this behaviour would be rewarded with an ASBO but it was encouraged in Benicassim.
'Stella' brought the gig to a close which is at least fitting as that particular brand of Belgian beer has probably ended many a night for the patrons involved.
There wasn't much of a difference between any of the songs and it all got too similar early on. The set may have been loved by many but this reviewer would have preferred it if it was Jamie T who said "I ain't getting on no plane fool."