Review: Stereophonics rock Dubai at Party in the Park

While the Party in the Park music festival, now in its second year, is held on a grassy slope just perfect for stretching out on a picnic blanket, everyone I saw there on Friday night was front and centre, rocking out.

The packed event saw families with children of all ages, as well as couples and groups of friends, testament to the popularity of live music in the UAE and to the popular line-up on what was — finally! — a breezy, fresh evening at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre. On the line-up were South African favourites The Parlotones, British indie rockers Razorlight, and Welsh favourites the Stereophonics.

Music was the main attraction, but the fun of the day was not restricted to the main stage — a giant, inflatable crash mat took the force of many partygoers jumping from a raised platform as well as BMX trick riders landing on it from a ramp. There were also stalls selling local artists’ work, food outlets, and stands with plenty of brands giving away free samples. In short — lots and lots to do.

A large South African turn-out supported their boys from Parlotones, who were on the final gig of a recent tour, and appeared inspired by A Clockwork Orange in their clothing. Razorlight — having taken time off the scene after a line-up change — put on a strong show led by Johnny Borrell. Hopefully talk of a new album coming is true this time; he needs to be back on the charts.

One band that has been on the charts for nearly two decades now, but look and sound as fresh as ever is Stereophonics. Celebrating the success of their latest album Keep The Village Alive, which hit the No. 1 spot on the UK chart upon release in September, they are headed out for a full tour supporting the album later this year. Lead singer Kelly Jones’ gravelly voice is as deliciously rough as ever, leading the crowd in what could be an anthem for Dubai-ites, Maybe Tomorrow, and its refrain, “I’ll find my way home”.