2011 Review

After an early morning storm, the weather for Sprung Fest seemingly was going to be favourable for the Aussie hip hop massive.

Early proceedings from Dunn D and Mdusa started things off right. Diafrix bounced around on the main stage with an island edge and party vibe. Alternating back to the underground stage, the competitors of the Real Talk MC competition took to the stage followed by Mantra - criminally early in proceedings - delivering a very energetic set to the early comers. Brisbane graf king Kasino treated the crowd to a speed painting display to a soundtrack provided by fellow king DJ Katch, followed by my personal darkhorse of the event Joelistics.

The next round of the Real Talk comp' took place with mainstage preparation interfering with the ability to hear the rappers followed by the Resin Dogs set. The Resin Dogs hitting hard from the start with Katch cutting up  an intro to the set, which saw Koolism’s MC Hau joining DNO to handle MC duties for the full funk assault. The introduction of a new vocalist to the group was somewhat marred due to sound levels not being favourable, before bringing it back with Hau performing a solo track and changing proceedings to more rock-based rhythms.

Hydrofunk signees Beats Working also paid a visit from down south to grace the stage and represent the crew. Vegas Aces and a DJ set from Katch followed by the energetic Lowrider, Real Talk MC comp wrap up - which saw Sunshine Coast rapper Kudos take the win over Triple Nip - before a set from local Dwizofoz. M-Phazes and 360 also rocked the crowd as expected - not even a 20-minute storm delay could dampen proceedings. Obese rep Illy then took to the stage with the crowd eating from the palm of his hand.

The Funkoars rewarded the welcoming crowd with a mix of old and new tracks as well as special guests Vents and K21. Local legend Lazy Grey also rocked a short ,but solid set with the help of Jake Biz and Overproof P, which included a special appearance from Bias B before Drapht closed out proceedings with the crowd moshing uncontrollable when ‘Jimmy Recard’ dropped.

The overall feeling leaving the festival is that despite the weather this was a welcome highlight of the many different styles developing in our burgeoning hip hop scene, with all acts putting on great performances and a great turnout - congrats to the Clockwork Enertainment crew..