The acoustics are abysmal and the line-up limp, yet little seems to dampen the spirits of the 15,000 odd screaming teens. Anita, 17, and Amar, 18, have traveled from Leeds especially to watch Jay Sean and are so excited to see Will Smith that they rush to the front, camera phones aloft before security gently guides them back to their seats.
But they are being short-changed. Indeed, it’s unsurprising organisers had to cut the advertised weekend in half before being forced to flog tickets for a tenner. Compared to 2004s stellar setlist (Jay Z, Beyoncé, Alicia Keys, Dizzee Rascal and Jamelia) this years marquee musicians are overwhelmingly also-rans. As innovative as Smith, Craig David and De La Soul once were, none have produced a relevant record in ages. Headline act Xzibit meanwhile is better known for hosting MTV’s Pimp My Ride than his Dr Dre produced west coast rap.
It’s not all bad, thankfully. Earlier in the evening Kano, Common, Lady Sovereign, Faith Evans and Floetry put on accomplished performances despite struggling to make themselves heard in the echoing acoustics of Earls Court.
Of far more worth interest though are the stands surrounding the main arena. The Jump Off team host fiercely fought emcee and break-dance battles while RWD magazine’s stage is concerned strictly with street sounds. Roll Deep, SLK, Ruff Sqwad, The Newham Generals and Ms Dynamite’s brother Akala enthrall a rapturous crowd with their grime-based beats and speedily spat rhymes.
After such an incredible inauguration it seems a shame that this years charity-ran UMF had to stumble so badly. There are so few opportunities to see black music festivals in this country that the mere existence of the event should be cause for celebration. Lets hope then next year sees better bookings, an enhanced sound system and improved incorporation of underground UK acts into the main stages schedule – perhaps then fans will really have something to get excited about.
**
A version of this appears in todays guardian www.guardian.co.uk
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