The African jazz stylings of Rus Nerwich and the ska-funk-reggae-rock of Captain Stu kept the eclecticism coming from the main stage, even while comedians as diverse as Afrikaans aficionado Melt Sieberhagen and surprise guest Rob van Vuuren provided the laughs in a best of the fest show.

Best of the fest

Best of the fest for many ? musically at least ? were Freshlyground. Judging from the huge turnout and rapturous response to the playful between-song banter by Zolani Mahola. Slick but clearly out to have a good time with high energy staples like 'Doo Be Doo', the set's highlight was an emotional take on 'I'd Like', which was surprisingly intimate and touching for an open air show with in excess of 10 000 punters.

Intimacy wasn't something Prime Circle sought. Theirs is a balls to the wall assault of electric guitars, drum destruction and Ross Learmonth's arena-sized voice belting out those addictive-as-heroin melodies, with songs like 'Out Of This Place' once again showcasing the quality of the sound rig at Rocking the Daisies.

Showcasing the quality of unique talent were Gazelle, with core members Xander Ferreira (in trademark chique Afrique garb) and Nick Matthews joined by six backing singers, dancers, marimba players, a DJ with a Robotech helmet, and a show so brilliantly over the top it would put any African dicator's flamboyance to shame (yes, even you Bob).

With talent like this mind-melting disco funk reggae collective wrapping up the spectacle on the main stage, it's little wonder that Matthews, like most of the crowd, felt at home.

Day 1: Robots, inflatable sharks and 2am car trouble

Day 2: Boardshorts, lilos, swimming and African dictators

In pictures: Rocking the Daisies '09