Unveiling the Unforgettable: A review of night 2 of the Churchill Park Music Festival

The Churchill Park Music Festival’s second night on Saturday, was a spellbinding journey into the indie/folk and rock soundscape, leaving music enthusiasts craving for more. This much-anticipated event, nestled in the heart of St. John’s has quickly become a pivotal highlight on Newfoundland’s festival calendar over the past two years, drawing crowds to the stunning park an unforgettable lineup of talents

Fourtnate Ones, a beloved local band carried the responsibility of kicking off the night’s festivities. With an air of excitement, they took the stage, and their energy became infectious. The crowd responded with enthusiasm as they wove their well-known tracks into the evening. The atmosphere they created was electric, setting the tone for what was bound to be a night of musical enchantment. Personally resonating with me was their renditions of “The Bliss,” “Lay Me Down,” and “Before You,” I found myself swept away in their soundscapes ( I was excited to see them perform as they are one of my favourite Newfoundland artists)

Fourtnate ones ( keyboard ; Catherine Allan , guitar: Andrew James O’Brien

Next The anticipation built as talk stepped onto the stage, an artist whose presence was eagerly awaited. Known for the chart-topping hit “Run Away to Mars,” talk brought an ethereal quality to the night. The addition of a Newfoundland tradition that truly endeared him to the crowd. The screech ceremony, involving a shot of screech, recitation, and the cod-kissing ritual, added a touch of local flair to welcome talk as a Newfoundlander . And let’s not forget his iconic croc kick that left an indelible mark. It was a performance that blurred the lines between artist and audience, forging an unbreakable connection.

Talks performance on stage

American indie rock band Cold War Kids stormed the stage next, a force to be reckoned with from Long Beach, California. Their raw energy and palpable enthusiasm resonated through the crowd, and their setlist was peppered with unforgettable moments. Their decision to open with “First,” a personal favorite, set the bar high for what was to follow. Their performance was a testament to the enduring power of indie rock, leaving a resonant echo that I long to experience again

Cold War kids took to the stage !!!

The Lumineers, the big headliner

But the crescendo of the evening was undoubtedly heralded by the Lumineers, the headlining act that this province had been eagerly awaiting. The moment they graced the stage, a collective hush swept through the crowd, replaced by electrifying energy as they opened with “Brightside” from their 2022 album. Their setlist was a treasure trove of classics and hidden gems, spanning 21 songs that took us on a sonic odyssey. From the iconic “Ho Hey” to the hauntingly beautiful “Ophelia,” every note was an invitation to delve into their world. As the final chords of “Stubborn Love” reverberated through the night, a bittersweet feeling settled in, knowing this exceptional experience was nearing its end.

As the only Canadian stop on their tour, the Lumineers made it abundantly clear that their journey to Newfoundland was not a one-time affair. Their fervor and the audience’s reciprocation hinted at more magical nights to come. As I reflect on the symphony of emotions and melodies that defined night 2 of the Churchill Park Music Festival, I am left in awe of the diversity and artistry that graced the stage.

In conclusion the Churchill Park Music Festival’s second night was a splendid amalgamation of local talents and international superstars, weaving a musical narrative that resonated deeply with everyone in attendance. It was a night of unity, where notes transcended barriers and created an atmosphere of pure euphoria. As a first-time attendee, the experience was nothing short of transformative. The festival’s allure has me counting down the days until its return next year, where I can once again lose myself in the harmony and rhythm of the Park’s enchanting embrace