Niels Destadsbader enjoys home match in Deerlijk

A sweltering Thursday evening marked the start of the three-day festival. The new concept clearly caught on, although the number of spectators left something to be desired. “But those who experienced it were full of praise afterwards,” say Wim Buyck and Henk Verbeke, the duo that launched the first edition of BuikRock in 2019.

“We had a better turnout on Friday. The Dolfijntjes kicked off in a grandiose way, Tourist LeMC conquered hearts and Wannes Cappelle and his Zesde Metaal showed why the group can count on so much appreciation in Flanders. The main course, however, was reserved for Arsenal. The band more than lived up to its excellent live reputation, with an impressive set that reverberated for a long time,” according to the organizers.

Third time BuikRock also means a third time Niels Destadsbader on stage. He brought a steaming set in his own municipality, with even mayor Claude Croes on stage. With his brand new bride Evelyne Baert – both in their wedding outfits – he was allowed to do their heartfelt opening dance again. Ereburger Niels served as guest singer during the song, the audience joined in happily.