Live Report: The Teskey Brothers tug on heartstrings at Electric Picnic

Things are slow, sweet and genuine in Rankin’s Wood, as The Teskey Brothers offer a break from the headbanging, inspiring the crowd to sway left and right instead of jumping up and down.

Hailing from Melbourne, Australia, brothers Josh and Sam Teskey’s soulful vocals and blues rock sound make for an intimate, laid-back set.

Josh Teskey. Credit: Gary Ibbotson

The mix in the crowd sees the duo’s diehard fans singing every word back to them, while newcomers slowly grow into fans and wish they too knew the words.

As Josh’s powerful voice thunders around the tent, his prowess earns him cheers from the crowd more than once- it’s far easier to show approval that way, rather than trying to keep up with him.

These displays are matched by Sam’s lead guitar playing, which ranges from simple (but well placed) strums to the distinctively complex journeys up and down the guitar neck that are synonymous with the blues genre.

Sam Teskey. Credit: Gary Ibbotson

Though the individual talent of the brothers would undoubtedly be enough to carry a performance, they are joined onstage by several other musicians, including a saxophonist and a trumpeter.

These additions contribute to the sets entirely unique sound, as they harmonise with the vocals and create a warm bed for each track.

Though in general the performance is calmer than many at the festival, their emotionally charged sound creates a set as impactful as
any, that leaves fans breathless.