30 July 2023 , 16:55
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From Romford… to Junction 2’ flashes up on the big screen behind Essex boys Underworld during a typically thundering headline set.
They didn’t have far to travel - it’s about a 90-minute drive away - but a huge - and very appreciative - crowd is delighted they’re here. Their only 2023 UK summer festival slot, the techno legends don’t disappoint, kicking off with Juanita 2022 to soundtrack the last of the Friday night sunshine.
When the last rays have gone it’s time for the big beasts of Dark and Long (Dark Train) and Rez/Cowgirl - two timeless classics. And the Colour Red and Born Slippy.NUXX complete the set, which is pretty much as long as the drive back to Romford would take!
At just gone 10pm it feels early still but Boston Manor Park in west London has been a lovely venue for the big festival return. Back here for the first time since pre-Covid, it’s definitely busier than 2019 but the friendly atmosphere hasn’t been lost.
Bigger and better applies to the staging, too, which is still a superb mix of the big Bridge stage - the one under the M4 - the intimate Woods, nicely tucked away behind trees and the new kids on the block - Grid, Quad and Blackout. Welcome back, J2, you fully deserved Underworld.
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