Reading Festival 2024

Despite the horrendous weather its sister site was suffering two hours north in Leeds, Reading managed to escape the worst conditions and turned into a weekend that solidified its status as one of the UK's premier summer festivals, with a line-up that brought together a diverse mix of artists.

Viagra Boys were one of the weekend’s highlights headlining the Festival Republic stage with a raucous performance that saw their punk-infused sound and irreverent stage presence make for an electrifying show that had the crowd moshing from the off. Tracks like “Research Chemicals” and “Sports” were highpoints, with frontman Sebastian Murphy's charismatic antics keeping the audience engaged and entertained.

Bleachers brought a different kind of energy to the festival earlier on Saturday on the main stage, with Jack Antonoff leading the band through a set of anthemic, heart-on-sleeve heartland rock. The young crowd was treated to hits like “I Wanna Get Better” and “Stop Making This Hurt,” and the band's tight musicianship and Antonoff's infectious enthusiasm were impossible to resist.

Fontaines D.C. delivered a powerful and intense performance the weekend of their new album release, with the new tracks performed with raw emotion and gritty authenticity, showcasing the band's ability to channel their Irish roots into something truly compelling.

Lana Del Rey’s early Saturday evening performance, meanwhile, was mesmerising with ethereal vocals and cinematic stage presence captivating the massive crowd, who sang along to every word. The lush production and Lana's dreamy delivery was perfectly suited to the festival's evening atmosphere.

Fred Again.. brought his unique blend of electronic music to the main stage afterwards, turning the festival into a massive rave. His ability to mix emotional depth with infectious beats was on full display. His set was a reminder of the transformative power of music, as he skilfully blended genres to create something truly special.

Although his Oasis reunion tease at the end stole the headlines, Liam Gallagher’s performance was a triumphant highlight, showcasing why he remains an enduring icon in British rock. Opening with his signature swagger, Gallagher delivered the album Definitely Maybe in full as he belted out anthems and reminded everyone of his unparalleled ability to command a stage. Catfish and the Bottlemen brought their trademark indie rock energy to the Reading stage earlier in the evening, delivering a set that was both electrifying and emotionally charged despite some sound issues.

Blink-182, and Gerry Cinnamon, meanwhile, both delivered strong performances on the Friday night. Both brought their unique flavour to the festival as Blink’s pop-punk nostalgia, and Cinnamon’s folk-rock charm rounded out an incredible weekend of music.