Bowl of Brooklands bringing in the crowds Bowled Over Bowled Over

• Published date: 17 January 2024
• Author: Taryn Utiger
• Publication title: Stratford Press

Fans came out in full force to enjoy the first two concerts of the summer series - Rock the Bowl on December 29 and a Summer’s Day Live with Dire Straits Legacy on January 3

Bam Campbell and Chuggy Walker were dancing under a backdrop of towering trees at Rock the Bowl and were in such great spirits Bam was even praising the foggy weather.

“I always love the atmosphere at the Bowl, even the mist today, it’s just beautiful, man. Just adds to the vibe, eh. We’ve got our Red Bands on and we’re loving it.”

The 22-year-old builders put Womad, Synthony and Six60 in their top three nights at the Bowl and say they’ll be back for as many gigs as possible.

Joss Bines was also soaking up the atmosphere at Rock the Bowl and like the young builders has seen some amazing artists there over the years, including Split Enz, Crowded House and Fleetwood Mac.

Now a musician in Taranaki’s chart-topping band Laconic Zephyr, Joss used to be a sales and marketing manager for Warner Music, MCA Records and Universal Music New Zealand. Her career took her into some of the greatest international venues, and she rates New Plymouth District Council’s Bowl of Brooklands as being among the best.

“The environment is what makes it. We’re surrounded by amazing scenery and open spaces. It’s tranquil and uplifting. I prefer outdoor venues. They’re a drawcard for me because the vibe is different, it’s better.”

Another drawcard for her this summer is Strawpeople, who will be wowing crowds with...