It’s time to set our sights on Primavera Sound 2024
With festival season just around the corner, it’s time to set our sights on Primavera Sound 2024. Returning to its beloved one-weekend fiesta in Barcelona’s Parc Del Fòrum from May 30th to June 1st, Primavera is nothing short of a haven of musical delights and cultural convergence.
Picture this: Lana Del Rey crooning, Pulp rekindling Britpop nostalgia, and SZA showcasing her unreal vocal range. And that’s just the headliners. With a lineup that reads like a who’s who of contemporary music, this year’s roster includes Disclosure, FKA Twigs, Justice, Mitski, The National, Phoenix, PJ Harvey, Vampire Weekend, and an impressive variation of talent.
Now, before the UK festival fangirls start screaming about just how life-changing Glastonbury is or the hedonistic charm of Reading and Leeds, let’s take a moment to appreciate what sets Primavera Sound apart. For one, it’s in Barcelona. A city full of tapas and weather that doesn’t require a pocket poncho.
But Primavera Sound isn’t just about its dreamy location and perfect weather, it’s a bastion of inclusivity, the festival has committed to gender equality with a lineup that is 42.36% women, 42.36% men, and 15.28% mixed projects. A testament to their dedication to showing the amazing diversity in the music industry.
Primavera Sound has hit the trifecta: stellar lineup, commitment to social responsibility and a picturesque setting. So, whether you’re a die-hard fan of Troye Sivan or eager to discover emerging Spanish talents like Aiko El Grupo, this festival promises to be an unforgettable kickoff to the summer.
Top 5 Sets to Check Out at Primavera Sound 2024 :
Charli XCX
Charli XCX has been redefining pop music since her breakout with the SOPHIE-produced ‘Vroom Vroom’ in 2015. Her latest music video for ‘360’ is a star-studded affair, showcasing her knack for blending the mainstream with the avant-garde.
Charli’s recent experimental turn has led her into the DJ scene. She recently participated in a Boiler Room session, which has been hailed as a ‘cultural reset.’ Who knows, we might even see a secret DJ set from the pop princess turned house music star at the Cupra x Boiler Room stage at the festival.
Renowned for her experimental flair within the realms of pop and the 'queer' scene, Charli seamlessly navigates between the industry's major players and her loyal circle of collaborators. She embodies the type of artist Primavera celebrates, as she is driven by authentic audience acclaim rather than the stereotypical industry ‘buzz.’ For those who appreciate groundbreaking pop music, she is a must-see performer.
Lana Del Rey
Lana Del Rey is a staple in modern pop culture, known for her melodies and cinematic style. From her 2012 debut ‘Born to Die’ to her 2023 release ‘Did You Know That There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd,’ Lana has consistently delivered chart-topping hits, blending American culture with personal stories, creating this almost unparalleled experience.
Lana Del Rey is an essential act at this sun-soaked festival, embodying the essence of summer with her signature sound and presence. Nailing the summer vibe, her music brings a nostalgic feel that takes us back to memories from her breakout year in the Tumblr-fueled era of 2012.
With her dreamy and hauntingly beautiful lyrics, Lana creates an atmosphere that captivates audiences. Her timeless songs resonate with fans of all ages, making her a must-see for anyone looking to bask in the golden sunset of Parc Del Forum and immerse themselves in a world of poetic reverie.
Lana's anticipated performance at Primavera comes five years after the release of ‘Norman Fucking Rockwell!’ This is one that her die-hard fans have been eagerly awaiting.
Amyl and the Sniffers
Amyl and the Sniffers deliver one of the rawest, most energetic performances in punk rock today. Behind their tough exterior lies a band driven by a yearning for love and connection, perfectly encapsulated in songs like ‘Security.’ Their punk ethos and raucous live shows make them a perfect fit for Primavera’s eclectic lineup.
If you haven’t experienced Amyl and the Sniffers live, you’re missing out on one of the rawest, most energetic performances in punk rock today. Amy Taylor and her band have built a reputation on their electrifying stage presence and relentless touring schedule.
You’ll enjoy them if you like IDLES or another Australian band The Chats. Their music offers a mix of socially and politically charged themes alongside lighter humorous cuts.
Royel Otis
Royel Otis brings a delightful blend of summer-esque pop and indie joy, close to the early stuff from MGMT. The Australian duo is known for their choruses and euphoric live performances. They are almost always infectiously fun which is so refreshing in a sea of the usual often melancholy indie bands.
Their hit “Oysters in My Pockets” is the indie anthem you didn’t know you needed. And it would be daft to not mention their infamous cover of the 2001 Sophie Ellis-Bextor track, ‘Murder on the Dancefloor,’ which has hit over 35+ million streams on streaming platforms.
The Last Dinner Party
The Last Dinner Party has already made waves with just a handful of singles. Produced by James Ford, the band is poised for their biggest breakout year yet in 2024. Despite a short professional career so far, they’ve signed with Island Records and garnered a significant following and praise after their debut single, ‘Nothing Matters,’ reached the top 10 Billboard charts in the US.
Their fresh take on art pop and post-punk makes them a band to watch in the industry. Few others are perfecting the new alternative sound they're creating. Their impressive early success demonstrates this, making them an ideal addition to Primavera Sound.
It’s going to be a great *sweaty* one — grab a last-minute ticket and join us in Barcelona for what’s sure to be the highlight of the summer!
Feature by Lucy Holden
