The English synth pop artist and producer impressed me greatly with her enthusiasm, opening Day 2 on what became one of my favourite stages, for its intimacy.
Influenced by jazz and folk, the British artist disappointed somewhat, only serving to emphasised the lack of roots and Americana artists at this Festival.
One of my most exciting discoveries this year, the LA singer songwriter made imaginative use of vocal effects (with no fewer than three microphones) and loops, yet he also takes in folk influences. If you enjoy Bon Iver, I'd strongly suggest investigating this artist.
In contrast to Radiohead's that followed, the crowd for Savages was incredibly warm and generous, and Beth ditto's audience engagement made this the highlight of my day, and it was incredibly cathartic, escapist post punk.
This was easily the most eagerly awaited set of the festival, and few were disappointed with the wide-ranging setlist. In addition, A Moon Shaped Pool is a return to form after King of Limbs, and will be easily one of my top albums of 2016. That ultimately I came away with some disappointment partly reflected Primavera security's attempt to sabotage the set for VIP customers just before it started, but also the difficulty of presenting such nuanced music to a crowed of 50,000. Near the front, the low volume levels were less of an issue than for others, and the refusal of the band to be filmed conventionally wasn't a concern. Yet, their act is uncompromising: there was little attempt to engage the audience, other than of course within the music, and little concession to the fact that they were not playing at the 1700 capacity Roundhouse on this evening. Ultimately, I've had more moving Radiohead experiences sat listening at home, or travelling with headphones, than stood in Barcelona.
Coming directly after Radiohead, the smaller stage quickly became over-crowded, due to an exodus away from the Last Shadow Puppets who have received mixed reviews. Yet, these masters of electronics exuded a playfulness and sense of life that had been lacking over the past two hours.
The Baltimore dream pop group closed my Coachella this year, and for the first time I felt I really appreciated their escapism. Yet, on a larger stage, without the backdrop of palm trees and with a less sophisticated lighting setup, they entranced me less here; perhaps I was still perturbed by the Radiohead situation.
Introduction
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
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