Festival goers flocked to Tiree for the sell-out TMF (Tiree Music Festival) with bands including Toploader, the Red Hot Chilli Pipers, the Vatersay Boys and Tiree’s own Skerryvore, taking centre stage against the island’s stunning skyline.
Now in its third year, TMF 2012 was bigger than ever before with a sell out capacity of 1250 as well as the new TMF Community Village and campsite which was home for the weekend for over 500 music fans.
TMF organiser and Skerryvore band member, Daniel Gillespie said: “TMF 2012 exceeded all expectations and it’s all thanks to each and everyone who came to Tiree from near and far. From the bands who performed to the volunteers who helped out over the weekend, the local businesses and landowners who supported the event and, of course, the amazing crowds, this was a truly unforgettable TMF. Thanks to everyone for their incredible support and for making TMF 2012 the success it was. Here’s to 2013!”
The TMF buzz started building on Friday when the campsite opened in glorious sunshine and a plethora of tents were pitched in anticipation of the weekend’s music offerings. On top of music performances, TMF 2012 included workshops and Circus Skills as well as Open Mic opportunities, amongst many other activities. There were also fun for the younger TMF fans with face painting and balloon modelling on offer. Also spotted enjoying the weekend’s entertainment were a group of Smurfs, Oompah Loompas and even a furry crocodile with some festival goers opting for a more ‘unique’ style of gigging attire.
Saturday played host to an array of artists including Face The West, Gunna Sound and Donald MacDonald & Islands. And across the water from Barra, The Vatersay Boys took to the main stage on Saturday night, wowing the crowd with an energy laden performance including the Sands of Vatersay, Oidhche Bha and the theme to Local Hero. And then came Saturday’s headliners – the Red Hot Chilli Pipers – who unleashed their unique brand of ‘bagrock’ on to the TMF followers. Mixing together the sounds of pipes with rock music including AC/DC, Coldplay and Snow Patrol, the Red Hot Chilli Pipers raised the (outdoor) roof with an incredible set, highlighting their worldwide popularity.
Like so many other music festivals this year, wet weather made an appearance but, despite the wind and rain on Sunday, spirits weren’t dampened. After all, TMF followers are made of stronger stuff! Sunday’s acts included Emily Smith, Crooked Reel, and Tiree bands Skippinish, Gunna Sound and Trail West with performances on the main stage, An Talla and on the TMF Community Village Stage. Skerryvore received a rousing response from their homecrowd. No doubt about it, Skerryvore’s homecoming was warm and welcoming – the rain even stopped for their performance! Sunday headliners came in the shape of Toploader, the anthem of the night belonging to their biggest hit ‘Dancing In The Moonlight’, which was made extra special as the band invited Skerryvore piper Martin Gillespie onstage to perform the track with them. Over the weekend, music filled the air, echoing the length and breadth of Tiree as the festival goers showed their TMF appreciation, celebrating one of the best festivals around.
