Despite a late change in venue, the debut of Cold Creek Campout near Fremont boasted nine West Michigan bands who brought their “A-game” on Saturday, playing for a small but enthused cadre of fans.
End of a Special Day: Cameron Strong’s Cold Creek Campout took place on property near Fremont. (Photo/Nathan Purchase)
Cold Creek Campout organizer Cameron Strong expected a drop in attendance after rushing to find a new venue for his first-ever October music festival, but as he also put it: “It didn’t drop the fun.”
Support our coverage of
West Michigan's music scene
Indeed, nine West Michigan bands played the day-long festival on Saturday, held on property outside Fremont after Strong was forced to relocate from Hart due to a miscommunication regarding use of the original site.
Photographer Nathan Purchase of Psychedelic Eyes Photography said while only 100 to 150 people turned out for the Saturday festival, the live music was outstanding.
Bundling Up: John Nowak of Desmond Jones. (Photo/Nathan Purchase)
“It was truly special,” he said. “The music from start to finish was incredible and every band brought their A-game.”
Those bands and artists included Hannah Rose and the GravesTones, Devin and The Dead Frets, Desmond Jones, Good Folk, The Smokin’ Dobroleles, Drew Phoria & Friends, Cosmic Knot, Eric Engblade and Flexadecibel.
“The small fest was a great intimate experience that let the patrons and musicians alike get to know each other throughout the day,” Strong said of the free event that also celebrated his 22nd birthday. “Most bands showed up early to support the rest of the acts and stayed to enjoy the time. The attendees were like a mix of Hoxyeyville and Wheatland (festivals).”
John Nowak, of the Grand Rapids jam band Desmond Jones, called it “awesome.”
“As soon as we got onto the property, we knew it was gonna be a special night,” he said. “Cameron worked so hard and we were all so happy it worked out. The sun came out and the music was top-notch. It definitely got chilly, but I was well-prepared. Seemed like everything went smoothly.”
Strong said “the night just kept getting better and better with each band not skipping a beat.” Concertgoers reacted favorably and left “wanting more. … Hiccups were expected, but for a first year, I have no complaints and a whole lotta love.”
PHOTO GALLERY: Cold Creek Campout photos by Nathan Purchase
