Knockanstockan Festival, Blessington Lakes

A big crowd has gathered for Friday's 5pm start - by the time we arrive at nightfall, the party is in full swing. As we struggle to put up our tent in the dark, the terrifying post-rock of And So I Watch You From Afar... can be heard from Stage One.

On Saturday morning, Peter Pureheart 'N' Soul (Circus Tent) rev up the party mood again. After a steak sandwich from the Big Red Bus, we head to the Main Stage to bask in the funky indie pop of Ivan St John. His first album Up To Snuff is out in September. We're looking forward to it.

Back at the Circus Tent, Anto White veers from rock to country and back again whilst in the chill-out area Daithi O'Dronai loops his violin and plays it like a guitar.

The Hot Sprockets make a huge impression in front of a big Main Stage audience. Tracks like 'Sleep Shake' will definitely land them on our radios: it's simply a matter of time.

However, for us the band of the festival are Saturday's headliners, The Candidates. Incorporating saxophones, trumpets, keyboards and trombones, they have it all. Ruth Kennington's vocals are particularly impressive.

Well, that's what we thought... now you tell us who's YOUR favourite band from the Knockanstockan weekend. The winning act will win a photoshoot with Graham Keogh - Hot Press' very own beloved snapper!

To cast your vote, simply click here, select your favourite act, and hit 'VOTE' - simple!