Standout Peformances at Glastonbury: Five Artists Who Stole the Spotlight
Now a week on from Glastonbury 2024, the excitement has settled, and reality has set back in after yet again a triumphant weekend on Worthy Farm. Marquee headliners commanded the iconic stage with dazzling performances. Newly emerging bands across every stage at Glasto, displayed convincing potential as future headliners on the Pyramid stage. In typical Glastonbury style, iconic flags were prominently displayed once more, crafting that legendary sense you receive when visiting the festival. Throughout this piece, we will spotlight the standout bands over the weekend. From the headliners to the afternoon slots, Glastonbury certainly lived up to its reputation.
The KS
From Earlestown to Glastonbury, the KS did not fail to exceed expectations on their first appearance at the festival. Ever since releasing a flawless debut album, "I Wonder If The World Knows?" The indie group has amassed a solid fan following. A jam-packed Woodies stage just after noon on the final day of the weekend was the case for the band's set, and we understand why. Jamie and the band delivered a phenomenal performance to kick off the Sunday. The energy-packed "Icarus" opened the set with flair, immediately stating the band's presence. "Hoping Maybe," performed in the middle of the set, provided an enthusiastic sing-along for all. "Sarajevo" closed an exceptional midday slot, igniting the audience with energy. It will be incredibly surprising if the boys from Earlestown do not return to Glastonbury after a stellar first year on the farm that has surely expanded their fanbase to higher levels.
Fontaines DC
Dubliners in Fontaines, D.C., are undoubtedly heading in the right direction towards a future headline slot on the Pyramid Stage. The Irish post-punk band returned to Glastonbury after a sublime set on the other stage in 2022. This time, the band returned to headline the park stage on Friday. Emotions were sky high from Grian during this performance, who displayed powerful waves through a compelling voice in his thick Dublin accent, carrying a sense of intensity and urgency. Thousands packed out the other stage for this performance. A pivotal moment that gained huge attention was the transition from the opening song of the unreleased track "Romance" into the classic "Jackie Down the Line," a genius move from the band. New songs became a recurring motif, and during the performance, three new hits from the upcoming album were performed, most notably "Starburster", which closed a gripping set. Raw energy and intense passion were displayed throughout, and Grians captivating stage presence enhanced these feelings. Fontaines, D.C., certainly showed Glastonbury what they are about.
Coldplay
Now the record headliners of the Pyramid stage, performing on the prestigious stage five times over the course of their music career, dating all the way back to their first stint at the top of the bill in 2002. But this was arguably the band's finest performance to date at Glastonbury. To open a historic performance, surprisingly, was the beloved classic "Yellow." This turned out to be a brilliant decision. Chris Martin instantly engaged with the crowd; emotions rang out from across the field immediately. Xylobands, we're displayed again through the crowd, syncing with songs during the night, creating a visually stunning effect and ultimately enlightening the atmosphere. Special guests also played a factor in making this performance fantastic. Little Simz joined Chris on stage to exclusively perform an unreleased song that the two have collaborated on. Heartstrings were pulled when legendary actor Michael J. Fox came onto the stage during a phenomenal performance of "Fix You", which the crowd played a monumental part in. There was an outpouring of feelings. To end a record-breaking fifth-time headline, Coldplay played new song, "feelslikeimfallinginlove," a fitting end to a record breaking show.
Kasabian
Kasabian has gained a reputation over the years for the outstanding output the band provides at live performances; groundbreaking sets follow wherever the group plays. However, since the disbandment of former frontman Tom, questions have been raised about whether Kasabian can keep performing at a relentless pace and still keep bringing that raw energy to every crowd. In short, the band has demonstrated they are more than capable of still performing at an outstanding level. Sergio immediately set the tone with a high-octane display of Club Foot to kick off what would be a mind-blowing set on the Woodsies stage on Saturday. This was the band's first return to Glastonbury since their headline set in 2014, and they have now made a convincing case that they can make it back to these levels. Multiple pyros ignited an energy-packed crowd to end the set with the all time classic "Fire." For what was a secret set, there was really nothing secretive about this; Kasabian made Glastonbury fully aware of who they are.
The Last Dinner Party
Since forming in 2021, the all-girl group Last Dinner Party has made the music world aware of their presence; the release of the euphoric single "Nothing Matters" gave the band an immediate platform. Followed by a debut album filled with a captivating blend of brilliant melodies, accompanied by evocative lyrics. A massive crowd witnessed the group's debut on the farm. Abigail's vocals shone through the whole duration of the band's songs, and the and the guitar riffs were also sublime during this set, elevating their music to another level. A mature showcase of talent and fantastic music gives the band the air of seasoned Glastonbury veterans.