We’ve been going to 2000trees on a regular basis since 2011 and over that time, we’ve seen some incredible performances in the beautiful Cotswolds sunshine (and 2012’s muddy sludge). Before we start looking forward to 2023’s event, we thought we’d take a look back at some of the most special sets we’ve seen on Upcote Farm over the years.
Whittling down to five was very tough – meaning we’ve had to leave out the likes of Frightened Rabbit‘s headline sets, The Twilight Sad‘s electrifying shows and even Refused‘s legendary 2016 performance… Anyway, here, in no particular order, is our Top 5.
Kevin Devine plays Elliott Smith – The Forest, 2017
It’s hard to do justice to just how beautiful a setting the Forest Sessions is… Kind of a natural amphitheater tucked to the side of the site with a hand-crafted stage at the centre, it’s an intimate destination for some stripped-back (or, since it’s now been expanded – full-band) sets. We finished our 2017 festival watching Kevin Devine offer poignant and powerful renditions of Elliott Smith favourites. We’re not sure if it was the dust or hay fever but there was definitely something in our eyes during the likes of ‘The Biggest Lie’…
Maybeshewill – The Cave, 2013
Playing just before And So I Watch You From Afar, Maybeshewill packed out the Cave tent and delivered one of the all-time great sets at Upcote Farm. Loud, proud and performed to rapturous acclaim that took the band by surprise, there was a triumphant tone in the air that left everyone in awe of the Leicester math rockers’ all-encompassing sound.
Hundred Reasons – Main Stage, 2012
We remember reading in the following year’s programme how all of the 2000trees organisers were spotted in the mosh put as Hundred Reasons celebrated the 10th anniversary of their debut album ‘Ideas Above Our Station’. An incredible and important album for so many and a live force to be reckoned with, this set probably had the biggest singalongs of the weekend – and it will be a delight to see Hundred Reasons’ return this summer.
Turnstile – Main Stage, 2022
Riding high on the global success of ‘Glow On’ and following incendiary performances at Manchester Punk Festival and Glastonbury, Turnstile gained one of the biggest crowds we’ve seen for a non-headliner on the Main Stage and tore through a set of old and new favourites, inviting the youngest rockers (unfortunately our now 19-month-old Turnstile-obsessed toddler couldn’t make it) to join the party on stage. It felt like a communal celebration and a real outlet of joy after the tough few years before.
The Xcerts – The Cave, 2017
Along with Ben Marwood and Thrill Collins, The Xcerts must hold the record for most performances at 2000trees – and they’re welcomed with such warmth and adoration every time. We’ve seen the trio headline the Leaf Lounge tent, play the Main Stage and perform acoustic sets in the Forest and elsewhere but it’s this set – shortly after the release of ‘Feels Like Falling in Love’ (a ready-made set closer, complete with an acapella ending that the crowd were joining in with, with no need for prompting) – that might just be the most memorable.
What have been your favorite sets at 2000trees?
