"To write a cathedral, I'll need a ballpoint pen..."
It’s a glorious summer’s day, one of three so far in 2024 and we are basking in the grounds of Englefield Estate in Pangbourne, home of Professor X and temporary home to thousands of happy people. Happy people in a sea of camping chairs, quaffing lager (cider was sold out by 15:30pm) and generally having a very lovely time of it all. There isn’t any cricket being played in a neighbouring field and the Red Arrows aren’t painting the sky above, but they could be. It’s a beautiful day.
The reason we’re all gathered here in this wonderful estate is to see Elbow as part of the Heritage Live series of events. We are excited for this, but in truth, we’re more excited for what is to occur four and half hours before Mr Garvey and his fine troupe tread the boards.
At 4pm, Edinburgh-based musician Hamish Hawk and his band merrily take to the stage. Hamish with his stylish white-blond hair and taupe double-breasted suit, his band dressed like they are in Tame Impala wave and gleefully take their positions. They already have a sheen of perspiration across their brows. It’s really hot. The crowd are still way back, in their chairs. We waltz up to the barrier. There is barely anyone there to greet the man himself. But that’s fine. We are. True fans turn up and by the end of the one-hour set, Hawk is sure to have brought a lot more to his party.
