Festival Review: Loyle Carner - All Points East // Victoria Park - August 2024
A day of heartfelt performance and community engagement.
On August 17th, 2024, the sun-drenched expanse of Victoria Park blossomed into a vibrant musical sanctuary as the All Points East festival hosted a standout performance by British rapper and lyricist, Loyle Carner. Known for his introspective lyrics, unique sound, and a remarkable ability to blend hip-hop with elements of jazz and soul, Carner’s set was not just another festival appearance; it was a poignant celebration of identity, family, and community, complemented beautifully by an impressive lineup of talented artists who set the tone for an unforgettable day.
As attendees arrived at the festival grounds, they were enveloped in an electrifying atmosphere pulsating with excitement. The diverse crowd, spanning different ages and backgrounds, reflected Carner's widespread appeal. From teenagers vibing to older audience members reminiscing about the golden era of hip-hop, the sense of unity was palpable. As festivalgoers settled in, the air was thick with anticipation, the kind that whispers of breakthroughs in musical expression and heartfelt connection.
The festival was about more than just music; it was also a cultural exchange and celebration of creative engagement in London’s Eastend. In the lead-up to his performance, the event showcased various interactive art installations, food stalls featuring international cuisine that illustrated a commitment to honouring diversity and the vibrant tapestry of London’s cultural landscape. This ambiance set the stage brilliantly for Carner's performance, which would highlight these very themes in profound ways.
Before Loyle Carner graced the stage, the day featured a lineup of astounding artists who created a rich musical tapestry. Kicking off in the afternoon was Navy Blue, a rising star known for blending poetic lyricism with raw emotion. His set introduced the audience to a distinctive East Coast vibe, characterized by a smooth flow and introspective themes. With tracks from his latest project, Navy Blue's performance resonated with fans and newcomers alike, establishing a contemplative mood that perfectly whetted the appetite for the performers to come. Stand out songs were certainly ‘Make Me Wanna’ and ‘Low Threshold’.
Following Navy Blue in the evening was Sainté, delivering a genre-blurring performance that seamlessly mixed elements of R&B and hip-hop. Sainte’s voice, characterized by a haunting yet smooth tone, held the crowd captive. His emotionally charged songs, particularly ‘Round and Round’, drew the audience into his world, resonating deeply with themes of celebration and sensuality. The performance was a masterclass in emotion, keeping the crowd enchanted and engaged.
Joe James, known for his infectious blend of soul and hip-hop, continued to elevate the energy with a high-octane set. His charisma was contagious, and songs like ‘Love Riddim’ seemed to compel even the most reluctant audience members to their feet. The interplay between his soulful vocals and rhythmic beats created a jubilant atmosphere, luring the crowd into dance and revelry—a perfect precursor to what was to come.
Rounding out the lineup before Loyle Carner was the celebrated Ezra Collective, a band renowned for their electrifying live shows and unique fusion of jazz influences with contemporary sounds. The Collective’s vibrant performance sent shockwaves of excitement through the crowd, as they skilfully blended intricate musicianship with infectious rhythms. Their joyful interplay with the audience and their ability to create a community feel—a hallmark of jam sessions—transformed the festival space into a jubilant celebration of sound. Playing fan favourites like ‘God Gave Me Feet For Dancing’, they had the crowd moving in perfect sync, their jazz-inflected sound serving as an exhilarating final act before Carner took to the stage.
Adding to the excitement, the festival had also seen standout performances by hip-hop icons like André 3000 and Nas. André 3000 captivated the audience with his hypnotising flute-ship, while Nas brought a masterclass in storytelling and lyrical prowess that resonated deeply with fans. The combination of these legendary American acts with Ezra Collective’s dynamic sound created an engaging dialogue between London’s rich musical heritage and the broader tapestry of American culture. This fusion was not only reflected in the diverse lineup but also in the festival's atmosphere, where elements of jazz, hip-hop, and soul intertwined seamlessly, celebrating the cross-pollination of influences that defines both parts of the world. This cultural amalgamation set the stage for Loyle Carner to close out the event with his own signature style, further bridging the gap between British and American sounds in a truly unforgettable experience.
As the sun began to set over Victoria Park, casting a golden hue across the stage, anticipation reached a fever pitch. Loyle Carner stepped onto the stage, exuding a blend of cool confidence and genuine warmth. He opened his performance with ‘Hate’, a track that beautifully showcases his lyrical prowess and reflective narratives. Instantly, the crowd was captivated, drawn in by the sincerity that flows through his music. It’s not just the mesmerizing rhythms that resonate; it's the tales of vulnerability, family struggles, and the search for identity that lay beneath Carner’s intricate verses. Each note was infused with authenticity, and his passionate delivery held the audience spellbound.
What sets Loyle Carner apart from many performers is his ability to create a space of intimacy amidst the grandeur of a festival. He took time between tracks to engage with the audience, sharing relatable anecdotes about his upbringing and the importance of mental health—a theme that threads through much of his work. Such moments of connection between artist and audience set the stage for a performance that felt personal rather than a mere showcase.
Theme of community resonated throughout the day. Loyle Carner made it clear that his platform was not just for entertainment; it was also about advocating for mental health awareness and the significance of having a strong support system. In a powerful moment during his set, he encouraged audience members to check in on their friends and loved ones—words that resonated deeply within the crowd. This message, transcending mere performance, echoed the importance of fostering connections and encouraging open conversations about mental wellness.
In touching reflections about his family, particularly his mother and the complexities within those relationships, Carner wove personal narratives into the collective experience. His heartfelt song ‘Angel’ a touching detail of his London upbringing, to serve as a reminder that vulnerability can be a bridge that connects us, turning individual pain into a collective understanding.
Musically, Carner’s range shone through the carefully curated setlist. He deftly transitioned from upbeat tracks that sent the crowd into dance to more sombre, contemplative pieces that inspired a reflective hush. This ability to navigate diverse genres with finesse is one of Carner’s defining attributes. His influences, a marriage of jazz, soul, and classic hip-hop, produced a sound that felt both fresh and authentically his own.
The inclusion of live instrumentation added a rich layer to the performance, allowing Carner to engage with the audience in a way that pre-recorded music often fails to achieve. The synergy between Carner’s band and himself was palpable, creating an atmosphere that felt both electric and intimate—a rare feat in the expansive setting of a large festival.
As the night wore on, moments from Loyle Carner's performance crystallized into memories poised to linger long after the final notes faded into the night. The exhilarating encore performance of ‘Ottolenghi’ left the crowd buzzing with energy, prompting a unified chant that resonated heartily across Victoria Park. This thrilling experience encapsulated the essence of what music truly represents: forging connections, whether with an artist or within a vibrant crowd.
As he concluded his set, Carner's genuine gratitude was evident. His closing remarks reflected appreciation for the communal support he often felt in his home city, underscoring the role of music in nurturing connections and uplifting one another. It was a reminder of the critical nature of authenticity in an industry often dominated by superficiality.
Loyle Carner's performance at All Points East 2024 was more than just a concert; it was a heartfelt celebration of shared experiences, love, and the profound sense of community fostered by music. His ability to weave personal narratives with broader social themes created a resonance that echoed deeply with the audience. Coupled with the brilliant performances from Navy Blue,Sainté, Joe James, and Ezra Collective, the festival morphed into a rich tapestry of sounds and stories, emphasizing the transformative power of music. As the festival closed its doors for another year, it became clear that Loyle Carner had left an indelible mark—an experience of profound connection and emotion that would linger in the hearts of those present long after the final curtain call.
Words by Laura Maxwell
Photo Credits: Sharon Lopez
