by Emma Baker on the
Beardyman and more kicked off Kendal Calling 2015 with performances on the Virgin Kendalino Express.
The specially charted train, which ran from Manchester Picadilly direct to Penrith, featured live sets from comedy lyricist Micky P Kerr, Doves duo Black Rivers and beatbox maverick Beardyman.
As Kendal Calling festival-goers boarded the train they were welcomed with a party bag to celebrate the festivals 10th birthday, which included a slice of birthday cake and a tipple for the journey.
After Beardyman had welcomed passengers over the trains tannoy, Micky P Kerr made his way down the Kendalinos many carriages with his acoustic guitar.
Performing hilarious tracks about shoplifting from Morrisons (amongst other things), Kerr cited the recital as “the weirdest gig” he’d ever done.
Next up to perform on perhaps the smallest (but fastest) travelling stage in the world was Black Rivers, who brought a full amp set up on board, as they battled with the automatic carriage doors.
Performing three tracks in total, including upbeat number ‘Age Of The Innocent’, Black Rivers charmed the intimate audience, ahead of their slot tonight on the Main Stage at Kendal Calling.
As the train whizzed past the picturesque Cumbrian countryside, it was now time for Beardyman to perform in the surreal setting.
With a train related set made up of his signature beatboxing and live sampling, he pumped up the party train in time for its final (and only) stop at Penrith.
And as if by magic it was over. As he abruptly stopped mid-tune and said; “that’s enough, okay goodbye”, excited Kendal-goers left the train, in full knowledge that they had witnessed something quite special.
When asked what it was like to perform on the Virgin Kendalino Beardyman exclusively told Gigs And Festivals: “Today’s performance is definitely up there with the most weird”.