my glasto must-watch moments
More than a week has passed, the dust has settled (into our pores), and serotonin levels have just about returned to normal after a very long and treacherous week in the office. So, what better thing to do than to share some heart-felt highlights and must-watch moments from my time on the farm.
1. Fontaines D.C.
Glasto often presents us with tough choices, and this year was no exception. The scheduling overlap of Fontaines D.C. on the Park Stage and Idles on the Other Stage was a particularly heart-wrenching dilemma for fans, myself in particular. However, as someone who has had the Dublin boys as the soundtrack to their year, there was no chance I would be missing this, and the packed crowd indicated a similar thought process for many others too.
The setlist was a well-curated mix of old favourites and new tracks, showcasing the band’s evolution over the years. Opening with the brooding intensity of ‘Romance,’ a new track from their upcoming album, the band quickly shifted into high gear. Classics like ‘Big’ and ‘Boys in the Better Land’ were met with roaring cheers, while new songs such as ‘Starburster’ demonstrated the band's continued relevance and ability to captivate their audience with fresh material.
Frontman Grian Chatten’s interaction with the crowd was minimal, but his commanding presence more than compensated for the lack of between-song chatter. His occasional “y’alright?” was all the engagement needed as the boys let their music do the talking. Their no-nonsense approach is well-established, focusing on delivering raw and powerful performances rather than indulging in extensive crowd chat.
While the band's aesthetic and presentation have evolved, including more stylish and theatrical elements, the essence of Fontaines D.C. remains unchanged. They continue to deliver confrontational and high-energy rock that resonates deeply with their fans. This performance was a testament to their enduring appeal and their ability to maintain the raw edge that first garnered them attention.
The was undeniably one of the highlights of the festival. The crowd's enthusiastic response and the band's dynamic performance underscored their potential to ascend to even greater heights in the music world. With a new album on the horizon, Fontaines D.C. are poised to continue their ascent, potentially claiming a future headline spot at the Pyramid Stage. For now, their performance at the Park Stage stands as a powerful reminder of their place in the pantheon of modern post-punk greats.
2. LCD Soundsystem
The New-Yorkers took to the Pyramid Stage reflecting a band almost as large as the audience itself. However, it soon became clear that such a large group of members would give the ‘livest’ performance I’ve ever witnessed.
With moments of members merely sat on their seats just glaring at the sea of people, it gave the sense of a slow start to the set. However, as time went by, I began to realise the ecosystem that this group really is and the sense of unity that comes with it. With 13 people on stage, it makes you question the necessity for such when a backing track could be a more feasible option. But no, each individual played a designated role and was equally valued no matter how big or small that role might be. This in itself created an aurora of love and cohesion which spilled out into the audience and created an unforgettable atmosphere, and this all added to the reason why we were all there – to be in the moment and have fun.
As the halfway mark approached, the intro to ‘Losing My Edge’ creeped in and we were greeted with a wave of off-script jilts, like when Doyle took to the synthesiser to blast Daft Punk’s iconic sample from ‘Robot Rock’ - a tease to LCD’s classic hit ‘Daft Punk Is Playing At My House’? As the set continued the energy grew into a gigantic crescendo of unity, love, raw voices, and a sea full of tears. During ‘Home’ and ‘All My Friends’, the audience became a choir that belted in unison like never before. The sun was setting, illuminating the Worthy community and reinforcing the iconic status of the Pyramid Stage and all of the meaningful history that lay before it. After watching Glastonbury from home for over a decade, this set couldn’t have been a better cherry burster.
3. IDLES
IDLES' Glastonbury set was a raw, emotional rollercoaster that perfectly encapsulated the band’s fierce spirit and political fervor. As the lights dimmed on that balmy Friday evening, the atmosphere shifted from one of anticipation to palpable intensity. Staring deep into the eyes of the audience whilst propelling his microphone round and round in the air, the post-punk Bristolians initially seemed like a figure to fear. But as the set progressed, it became clear that underneath the chaotic energy lay radical messages of love and unity.
With their new album ‘TANGK’ released in May, IDLES had a lot to prove, and they did not disappoint. The influence of Radiohead collaborator Neil Goldrich was evident in tracks like "Idea 101," where sleepy piano chords and Talbot’s sombre vocals created an ominous yet captivating atmosphere. The set was politically charged, with left-wing messages perfectly timed for the upcoming elections. Talbot’s call for unity was highlighted when he led the audience in a chant of "Viva Palestina," which erupted into a mosh pit, symbolising both chaos and solidarity.
The performance was a masterclass in commanding presence and emotional depth. His camp hip-swinging and baby pink hair juxtaposed with his aggressive delivery created a unique blend of harmless violence and heartfelt sincerity. Talbot’s authenticity shone through when a young boy named Flynn made his way from the crowd onto stage. Flynn thanked his dad for bringing him to the set, a moment that resonated deeply with Talbot, who openly wept, showcasing his own struggles and triumphs as a young father.
The set was a testament to their ability to convey powerful messages through music. Talbot’s banshee wail to his deceased mother, the anti-monarchist chants during "I’m Scum," and the visual impact of Banksy’s raft installation critiquing right-wing views on immigration all contributed to a performance that was both deeply moving and emotionally resonant. The climax came with the song "Rottweiler," as the words "CEASEFIRE NOW" flashed on the screen, leaving the audience in a state of cathartic reflection.
Talbot's ability to turn his personal trauma into anthems of love and resistance was on full display. The set was a powerful reminder of the importance of authenticity and expression in music. IDLES are not just performers; they are a force of nature, challenging societal norms and encouraging their audience to question and resist. Their Glastonbury performance was a poignant example of the transformative power of music, leaving an indelible mark on all who witnessed it.
4. King Krule
King Krule and his daughter on the Park Stage. Credit: Sophie Barloc for Loud and Quiet
King Krule, the moniker of south London artist Archy Marshall, delivered a set at Glastonbury that was as heartfelt as it was captivating. Despite his distinctive deep, warbling voice not being to everyone’s taste, his decade-long career has earned him a dedicated cult following. This year’s performance at The Park Stage showcased an artist who has grown more emotionally open and connected with his audience.
Throughout the set, Marshall's engagement with the front rows was a highlight. His quiet jokes and eye contact with fans brought an intimacy to the performance that is rare in festival settings. Songs that are typically introspective and meditative transformed into lively, hip-swaying grooves, demonstrating Marshall’s ability to adapt his music for the live stage.
One of the standout moments of the weekend came during a beautiful rendition of ‘Seaforth,’ a track from his 2023 album ‘Space Heavy.’ Marshall brought his five-year-old daughter Marina on stage, dressed in a pink ball gown. As she danced and swayed alongside him, the audience was treated to a tender, magical scene under The Park’s rainbow lights. Marshall’s laughter and visible emotion during this moment added a deeply personal touch to the performance, leaving a lasting impression on all who witnessed it – I still shed a tear just thinking about it now.
5. Avril Lavigne
Nestled on the Other Stage, Lavigne's set became an emotional trip back to 2008, capturing the essence of a time when ‘brat’ was a thing way before Charlie XCX caught on. The sky turned electric shades of pink and orange as flares filled the air, setting the perfect backdrop for a night of nostalgic low-waist belts, fishnet tights, and dogtooth mini-skirts. 8-year-old me would have actually died.
From the moment she stepped on stage, it was clear that this was more than just a concert; it was a reunion with an old friend. Opening with "Girlfriend," the energy was incomparable. And what’s more, to be surrounded by boisterous boys in England shirts shouting, "I’m the motherfucking princess!", it was more than clear that this was the right place to be. It had taken Avril 22 years to get to Worthy Farm, and the thousands of voices singing back to her proved just how much she had been missed.
Her presence was both powerful and tender. She moved slowly across the stage, her voice strong yet filled with a vulnerability that resonated deeply with the crowd. There was something incredibly special about being part of this massive sing-along, surrounded by people who, like me, had grown up with her music. Every song was a reminder of the rebellious, carefree days of youth.
One particularly touching moment came during "I’m with You." The crowd didn’t need any prompting to join in; everyone was already belting out the lyrics with heartfelt emotion. The plain, direct nature of Lavigne’s lyrics struck a chord with the audience, many of whom found themselves reflecting on their teenage years. It was a powerful reminder of the simplicity and honesty of her music, which spoke directly to the angst and dreams of a generation.
As the set continued, the atmosphere was filled with a sense of unity and shared history. The arrogant brilliance of tracks like "What the Hell" and the evocative rock ballad "My Happy Ending" transported us back to a time when life was simpler, yet every emotion felt monumental. By the time she ended with "Sk8r Boi," the audience was a sea of joyous, nostalgic faces. Avril Lavigne’s performance at Glastonbury was more than just a concert; it was a celebration of a time when brat was a thing way before Charli XCX. It was a reminder of the power of music to capture the essence of an era and bring people together. As the final notes echoed through the night, it was clear that Avril Lavigne had not only captured our hearts back then but continued to hold them firmly in her grasp.