WITH the sun setting over St Peter Port at the end of a glorious week of sunshine, the punters at this year’s first Funk da Rock were nicely primed for an evening of sounds that took place at the Halfmoon on Saturday.

I arrived when Parched, first band up, were into the final third of their session. This is a young four-piece, formed only six months ago.

They play an eclectic mix with reggae and funk influences – my late arrival precluded hearing the full range of their repertoire.

However, what I did hear, coming to the end of their set, were three impressive pieces of improvisation. Atmospheric music on the deep side of ambient is how I’d describe it – most enjoyable and for no less reason than the guys seem to be very good musicians. I look forward to seeing them again.

First band up were Parched. (Picture by Mark Windsor. 0783086)

Funk da Rock’s Halfmoon location was sporting a stage for the first time and this meant that everybody in the audience – which was now swelling considerably, had a better view of headline band Gay Army. With noise restrictions applying, the band was able to play only until 10pm with little or no opportunity for encores.

I’m still not totally familiar with the guys’ music but I have to say I really enjoyed them on this showing – there was an energy about them which I for one had not experienced before.

The feel-good mood generated by a beautiful summer’s day may have helped, but maybe the guys were just able to play their socks off because they had been given a good sound.

They played a mix of old and new numbers and kept the audience entranced for the whole of the session.

Respect for local people’s need for relative quiet after 10pm meant that Gay Army finished quickly and precisely – melding into the appreciative crowds quicker than a roadie could pick up and stash a vintage Les Paul guitar.

The Half-Moon was buzzing by this time, with more and more people coming through the entrance – not in time for the bands but in time for the men on the vinyl, Limey Banton and MC Demmas Jay.

Gay Army line up for an assault on the senses. (Picture by Mark Windsor. 07830738)

With another engagement to go to, I was unable to stay for the duration, but judging by the atmosphere which was now rapidly being generated inside, the punters were in for a good night.

Chief organiser Sam Evans had once more done everyone proud and, thanks to the generosity of the performers and volunteers – playing or helping for little or nothing – more money was raised for charity – this time for the Mines Awareness Trust.

Funk da Rock stands as a modern, cutting edge entertainment entity, which blends music and pleasure with the more thought-provoking issues that it helps raise money for – entertainment that isn’t mindless.

Congratulations all round.