Chappell Roan and Bring Me the Horizon rock circle pits at Reading and Leeds festival
Thousands of teenagers and music enthusiasts flocked to Leeds festival to witness the electrifying performances taking place across various stages. The festival, which has transformed from a rock-focused event to a vibrant hub for an eclectic mix of artists, drew attendees looking to kick off the festival season in style.
Among the standout acts was Manchester’s dance-influenced “pop poet” Antony Szmierek, who set the tone for the weekend with his infectious energy and uplifting message. Drawing cheers from the crowd, Szmierek’s performance resonated with many attendees looking to embrace the festival spirit and make the most of the experience. His transition from special needs teacher to dazzling wordsmith added layers of depth to his performance, connecting with the audience on a personal level.
Other notable artists included Skye Newman, who infused raw soul into her set, dance producer Sammy Virji, and New York-based one-man electronic band Harrison Smith, aka the Dare. Their distinct styles and engaging performances left a lasting impression on festival-goers, showcasing the diversity and talent present at the event. Amy Taylor’s raucous punk rock performance with Amyl and the Sniffers captivated the audience, while Trippie Redd delivered a poignant yet unsettling set that left many in awe.
As the festival progressed, the energy continued to soar, with Saturday seeing a significant increase in attendance. Co-headliner Chappell Roan commanded the stage with confidence, pulling in the largest crowd of the weekend adorned with pink cowboy hats. Her captivating performance, complete with a fantasy castle stage set and a visually striking outfit, showcased her ability to address meaningful topics such as LGBTQ+ issues and feminism through her music. Irish singer-songwriter Hozier followed suit with a powerful performance that resonated with the audience, particularly with his closing song “Take Me to Church,” which ignited the crowd.
The final day of the festival brought a wave of rock music, with Sheffield pop-metal band Bring Me the Horizon headlining the event. Their postmodern set, featuring a captivating visual display and a commanding performance from lead singer Oli Sykes, kept the audience mesmerized. Additionally, emerging artists like Wunderhorse made a significant impact, showcasing their talent and capturing the audience’s attention with their unique sound and stage presence.
Overall, the vibrant atmosphere and diverse lineup at Leeds festival highlighted the wealth of talent in the music industry and provided attendees with a memorable experience. From electrifying performances to thought-provoking lyrics, the festival offered something for everyone, solidifying its reputation as a must-attend event for music lovers of all ages.