BACK with a bang is a phrase that will likely be thrown around a fair amount this summer.

Festivals across Scotland are making their return with Covid restrictions now, seemingly, in the rear view.

Doune the Rabbit Hole had to cancel in both 2020 and 2021, first due the pandemic and then from the uncertainty in its fallout.

But it came roaring back last weekend with four days at the Cardross Estate in rural Stirling.

The festival had to contend with its fair share of issues, with the odd scheduling faux pas meaning some had missed the chance to catch some bands.

Issues with electricity plagued some of the catering units, while water provision was patchy at times – although organisers were quick to address that.

Nevertheless, the feel of the event could not be disputed. A strong community ethos throughout, with families able to enjoy the festivities as much as anyone else.

The bands were also on form, with The Joy Hotel surely among the shortlist for band of the weekend.

Other top performers at Doune the Rabbit Hole included the likes of Poster Paints – spearheaded by the duo of Carla Easton and Simon Liddel – as well as Alan Carberry, Peaness and The Deep Blue.

She Drew the Gun also delivered an uncompromising set, with Friday headliner Amy Macdonald on form later that evening.

As well as The Joy Hotel, there were a number of incredible Saturday displays including Fauves, The Vegan Leather and Honeyblood.

Baccara also proved to be one of the biggest draws of the weekend as they stowed out the Whistleblower stage on the Sunday.

The duo, best known for their now infamous Yes Sir, I Can Boogie, gave the packed crowd not one but two incredible renditions of the track just for good measure.

Plans for 2023 will, no doubt, already be on the cards as Doune the Rabbit Hole looks to maintain its place as a massive date in the Scottish music festival calendar.

Anticipation will be high, indeed. Any hopes of topping 2022 will certainly require something special.