Beneath trees alive with chirping birds, framed by forested mountains, Boyd Kosiyabongse, accompanied by his friends, is strumming a guitar and singing to a rapt crowd.

Sound like a dream? It's about to come true, with a outdoor concert set to run from 5pm to midnight this Saturday at Bonanza, a venue in the Khao Yai National Park.

The "KTC LoveiS Acoustic Winter Festival", is the first time that Boyd fans have been given the chance to camp out while listening to their musical hero. Camping is nothing new to Boyd, and an outdoor gig has been something that he's been keen to try for some time now.

Organisers Fresh Air have finally been able to grant his wish.

"The inspiration for the event was that campfire atmosphere, where friends get together to play music. The weather is cool, Boyd and his crew will be singing, it's going to be romantic," promises Vinij Lertratanachai, chief executive officer of Fresh Air. The stage, lighting and sound system have been designed to blend in with the natural surroundings and the music will ring out across the whole of Khao Yai, he says.

Boyd approached Vinij with the idea of a "winter acoustic" concert, where fans could kick back in the cool of Khao Yai with its picturesque backdrop.

 Boyd's musician friends from record label LoveIs are making the trip as well, and old songs "imprinted on the heart, but ones perhaps you've forgotten", are promised.

"We're talking reinterpretations of new and old songs to go with the chilly breeze and a moonlit setting," says Boyd. "Your favourite artists will perform at the festival plus surprise guests you just won't believe."

So far, the line up is impressive - names confirmed include Nop Porchamni, Pusaming Nohsawan, Pun Paibuljkiat Kheokao, Ben Chalatid, Rudklao Amratisha, Thee Chaiyadej, Modern Dog, Boy Thai, Cake, Flure, Lipta, Baew TK, Kung Sanova, Lolita, Shining Star, 7th Scene, Peerachon (made up of former the Innocence members), Champ and R&B 11th.

"Boyd told me that all the artists want to perform more than three songs, so there might be more time needed for the concert," says Vinij. "It could start earlier - maybe 4pm - to cover all participating artists."

On the catering side, concert organisers have ensured that there will be barbecue and snacks aplenty for the camping audience.

Tickets are limited to Krung Thai Card (KTC) members and their friends. For more information, please call KTC at (02) 665 5000 or visit www.ktc.co.th.

Lisnaree Vichitsorasatra

The Nation