The inaugural Feels Like Summer event looks like it’s going to be the place to be for old-school pop fans. British pop sensations Bananarama, who graced the cover of Buzz’s June issue, are set to headline, while special guest Bonnie Tyler will keep the party going throughout the day with the help of some exciting-looking supports.
Tyler, distinctive husky voice in tow, shot to fame in the late 1970s – now, 40 years on, she is set to appear in what will hopefully be the first of many Feels Like Summers. Best known for timeless karaoke staple Total Eclipse Of The Heart, Tyler is sure to make a big splash at Sophia Gardens; if her recent concerts are anything to go by, the setlist is likely to include deeper Bonnie bangers from the early It’s A Heartache to the unforgettable album namesake Faster Than The Speed Of Night. Whatever she chooses to grace the stage with, lovers of her brand of country-pop-rock will love every minute.
Elsewhere on the bill, you might not think that a health and wellbeing coach would be able to put on a good show. Well, Mr Motivator is poised to prove you wrong as he prepares to take to the stage earlier in the day. His ability to get the party well and truly started, as first seen in the annals of 1990s UK breakfast television, cannot be ignored. Cardiff Music Award-winning local DJ duo GRL TLK are taking a break from their usual club scene to join the schedule and are sure to get a warm welcome from the crowd. While not strictly pop-based, their club classics can be easily translated to the scenic setting.
You’ll be mostly focused on the music, but the food is important too. Pizza vendors will join forces with gin and prosecco bars to make sure you don’t risk all that dancing on an empty stomach. A final touch in the form of a retro roller disco makes it abundantly clear that this is not the organiser’s first rodeo when it comes to putting on events to remember.
Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, Sat 20 July. Tickets: £48/£25.50 under-18s/free under-5s. Info: feelslikesummer.co.uk
words Alex Keene