Wakestock Is Muddy On Toronto Island

Centre Island

Toronto, ON

on Jul 25 2008

Pete Richards (CHARTattack)

07/28/2008 12:35pm

Forecasters called for bad weather all weekend, but it didn't stop people from coming out in droves to Centre Island, as Wakestock 2008 delivered all that was promised over a weekend of extreme sports, music and lots of product promotion.

They were giving away free razors at the entrance, which probably isn't the best idea at a concert, though I didn't see anyone misusing them. There were also lots of tents and free samples of everything from sunscreen to Monster Energy drinks for people who never pass up freebies.

Friday was for the metalheads, as Throwdown, The Dillinger Escape Plan, Bury Your Dead, Cavalera Conspiracy and others played the Telus Main Stage throughout the afternoon and evening. For sports fans, Moto-X and skate competitions were held for sports fans as loud music echoed through the park for atmosphere. Everything was organized smoothly, with lots of port-o-potties that actually didn't smell too bad on the inside. I did notice they were using some excellent blue solution in the toilet water. It's a nice touch that didn't go unappreciated.

Rain clouds continued to threaten Saturday afternoon, before harsh rainstorms backed by thunder and lightning blew over the island midway through the day. People scattered to wherever they could keep dry, huddling under tents and locking themselves in port-o-potties, though most accepted getting drenched as an inevitability and got in the muddy, shirtless spirit. As quickly as the downpour came, the clouds passed and the sun shone again for those who didn't chicken out and head for the ferry to call it a day. It was pretty much a sloppy mess from then on as massive mud puddles were left in the wake of the storm and people switched into party mode. Though rumours were circulating that the festivities might be cancelled for the day, everyone scheduled to perform did — albeit a bit later than planned.

Classified hit the stage to people chanting his name and Hot Water Music kept things going afterwards. But headliners, RZA and GZA, were undoubtedly the highlight of the evening for hip-hop heads who stuck it out through the bad weather. They performed verses from all the classics you'd expect, including personal favourites "Liquid Swords," Wu-Tang's "Tearz" and "Shadowboxin'." RZA also showcased a bunch of new stuff to try on the crowd.

Sunday ended finale for the annual event with a bunch of bands on the Telus Main Stage and improved weather. Moto-X and skateboarding demonstrations continued and the women's wakeboarding finals made me feel emasculated while music fans came out to witness Crash Parallel, Dragonette, We Are Scientists and headliners Metric. Before you knew it, the weekend was over and things ended pretty quickly to respect the island's ferry schedule and make sure everyone got back on time.

Though the weather could have been better this weekend, the mud and rain just added to the festive spirit. Wakestock definitely lived up to the standards of those who paid to see the artists and athletes.