London’s Victoria Park was once again transformed into a vibrant hub of live music as All Points East returned for its 2024 edition. With a line-up boasting a wide range of artists from the introspective to the electric, the festival delivered another unforgettable day of performances, culminating in a powerful headline set from Mitski. The day was filled with compelling acts that set the stage for the much-anticipated main event, providing attendees with an eclectic mix of sounds and styles.
Kicking off the day on the CUPRA North Arena, the indie duo Good Neighbours charmed early arrivals with their mellow melodies and heartfelt lyrics. Their set was the perfect opener, gradually drawing in the crowd with tracks that beautifully combined soft acoustics with poignant storytelling. Following them on the East Stage was Strawberry Guy, who brought his dreamy soundscapes to the forefront. His lush, ambient tracks, such as “Mrs Magic” and “F Song,” provided a gentle yet captivating atmosphere, immersing the audience in his ethereal world.
As the afternoon progressed, the energy began to shift. Sibling duo Wasia Project injected a dose of youthful exuberance on the West Stage with their unique blend of indie pop and R&B. Their performance was marked by smooth vocals and groovy beats, with tracks like “Petals on the Moon” getting the crowd moving. They were followed by the enigmatic Ethel Cain on the East Stage, whose haunting presence and deep, resonant voice captivated the audience. Her set was both eerie and emotional, with songs like “American Teenager” and “Family Tree” leaving a lasting impact on those in attendance.
Later in the day, the multifaceted Suki Waterhouse took to the CUPRA North Arena stage, bringing her own brand of sultry, cinematic pop to the festival. Known for her work in both music and film, Waterhouse did not disappoint, delivering a performance that was as visually striking as it was sonically engaging. She played tracks from her debut album, I Can’t Let Go, which blended nostalgia with modern sensibilities, creating an evocative soundscape that resonated with the crowd. As well as treating fans to some tracks from her upcoming album Memoir of a Sparklemuffin, which is due to release on the 13th of September. As the evening approached, beabadoobee brought a surge of youthful energy to the festival. Her mix of ’90s-inspired alt-rock and modern indie-pop had the audience singing along to every word. Beabadoobee’s set was a masterclass in blending grunge influences with a contemporary twist, with hits like “Take A Bite” and “She Plays Bass” receiving an especially warm reception.
A hometown favourite, Arlo Parks delivered a standout performance that was intimate yet powerful. Her soulful voice and deeply personal lyrics created a sense of connection with the audience that was palpable. Performing tracks from her critically acclaimed album Collapsed in Sunbeams, Parks demonstrated why she is one of the UK’s most exciting young artists. Her performance of “Eugene” was particularly moving, with the crowd singing along in unison, creating one of the day’s most memorable moments. Melodic’s penultimate act, Towa Bird, electrified the audience with her guitar-driven set, filled with raw energy and a rebellious spirit. Bird’s performance was a refreshing dose of rock and roll, standing out in a day dominated by indie and pop acts.
Finally, as the sky darkened and anticipation reached its peak, Mitski took to the stage for her headline performance. While there are no images available to capture the magic of her set, those in attendance were treated to an unforgettable experience. Mitski’s performance was a masterclass in emotional depth, with each song delivered with a raw intensity that left the audience in awe. From the melancholic “Nobody” to the anthemic “Your Best American Girl,” Mitski’s set was a cathartic journey through her expansive catalogue. Her ability to convey such a range of emotions through her music is unmatched, and her performance at All Points East will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the festival’s highlights.
In all, this year’s All Points East once again demonstrated its ability to curate a diverse and engaging line-up, with each act bringing something unique to the table. From the gentle sounds of Good Neighbours to the electrifying energy of Towa Bird, the day was a testament to the richness of today’s music scene. But it was Mitski’s hauntingly beautiful set that truly brought the day to a close, leaving the audience with a sense of awe and fulfilment as they left Victoria Park.
Photography by Megan Wales-Harding.
