By DAN NICHOLS
EVER since the cancellation of long-time favourite yearly traditions the Big Day Out and Soundwave, music fans have been waiting for a new festival to rise.
A certain virus put paid to almost every event we had long looked forward to, but finally here in 2022 our heavy metal prayers have been answered.
Uncaged is set to be unleashed upon our ears and souls this Anzac Day weekend in Sydney (April 23), Melbourne (May 7) and Brisbane (May 24).
Headlined by the ever-popular Wolfmother, it’s safe to say that the Uncaged organised are looking to make a loud impression right off the bat.
The aforementioned Wolfmother will be joined by legendary Aussie rock acts You Am I, Killing Heidi, 28 Days and Bodyjar, among many others.
The new dates allowed the festival to add Kiwi rockers, and personal favourites of mine Shihad to the already impressive line-up.
Sydney’s Hordern Pavilion will now host opening night following the rescheduling of the festival due to spike in Covid cases at the start of 2022.
IMAGE: www.uncagedfestival.com/sydney
An interesting, albeit unfortunate, feature on the host of shows is it will provide one of the final chances to see Twelve Foot Ninja in its current form. Frontman Nik Barker will be exiting his role with the band following their 2022 tour.
It has been confirmed by the band that Barker will see out the band’s dates, as well as a proposed headline tour, before ending the now 15 year relationship.
Although I’m sure it will be with a touch of sadness, I for one won’t be missing one of the final opportunities to see one of Brisbane’s best rocking out in what promises to be a brilliant atmosphere.
Moving away from the headline acts though, it is Gold Coast-based band These Four Walls I am most excited to see play on such a big stage.
Having first been introduced to the Triple J favourites as they opened for all time favourite The Butterfly Effect, I’ve been itching for a second chance to see them live.
Unfortunately the world had others ideas but their inclusion on this monster bill had me signing up for the pre-sale from the get go.
Those who haven’t yet enjoyed what this band has to offer, a quick visit to their Youtube channel is well worth the effort. You can thank me later.
“Chaos” is an absolute banger (did I say that right kids?) in every sense of the word but for me it is “White Lies” and “Over & Over” that won’t soon leave your mind.
With the timetables likely to be released soon comes one of the great Aussie traditions of planning your day from that first set to the closer.
It goes down this time next week and I for one cannot wait.
Let’s hope Uncaged is well supported and able to become the new annual favourite.
We may receive a commission from any affiliate links listed below.
