Review: Festival No. 6 ft. Mr Scruff, Flaming Lips & Irvine Welsh in Portmeirion

Saying goodbye ain’t easy, but seeing off the festival season at the uniquely eccentric and beautiful Festival No. 6 certainly cushions the blow. Not only did rolling hills serve as a backdrop to the main stage, a short walk took punters to Portmeirion village which emanated a charming little Italian town – to surreal effect. A human chess board could be found here with the Central Piazza just ahead, which played host to pop-up street theatre, spoken word, poetry and talks; a conversation with Irvine Welsh being a highlight. Friday proved to be surprisingly sunny, causing punters to flock to the Stone Boat where Mr Scruff played a typically hip-moving soul and funk set, while others chose to enjoy his grooves by the swimming pool, overlooking the breathtaking estuary. For folk wanting a bit of exploration, the magical Woodlands close by was as good for a hike as for a rave in one of the pop-up stages, namely Greg Wilson and PBR Streetgang. Marking 50 years of The Beatle’s Sgt Pepper, on Sunday a spirit-lifting themed-carnival weaved its way through the village, culminating in a marvellous performance from The Bootleg Beatles. Honourable mentions go to the superb comedy (David O’Doherty: you win) and numerous workshops too; teaching you proper Northern Soul dancing and Welsh creative writing. The festival’s programme was an exercise in taste and diversity, showcasing up and coming acts like alt-rockers Superfood, and of course the established like Mogwai’s expansive post-rock and Bloc Party’s high-octane set. Sunday headliners The Flaming Lips were eccentric as always, delivering a feast for the eyes (rainbow tentacles and Coyne riding a unicorn) as well as ears with their much-adored psychedelic rock. An approving roar came from the crowd as the band revealed balloon-lettering that read: ‘F^&k Yeah Portmeirion’. A statement echoed by the whole festival, no doubt.