Words by Rachel June
Photos by Olly Bromidge
When I told people I was going to Reading Festival this year, most of them said “Have fun with a bunch of 16-year-olds in bucket hats”, so I didn’t have the highest hopes. What I experienced, however, was a joy-filled time in a safe environment whilst appreciative and creative artists shared their music with people just wanting to have a good time. Smiling strangers, loving energy and people coming together to enjoy summer and music. It was pure bliss.
Just 2 weeks after Boomtown, I didn’t think anything could top it. (See my review of Boomtown here). Reading provided excellent music, safe and loving staff and a wonderful team of organisers – topped off with an unbelievable lineup.
I decided it was a good idea to haul my bags onto a train as it was the cheapest option. I was surprised at the smooth sailing from Brighton – Reading, plus when I arrived a bus awaited me (£1.50 for Transport to the site, a fair and considerate price). Upon arrival, I noticed the excellent organisation of the event; crowd control, accessibility and easy access to water.
It was a joy to see the young people run around from stage to stage, it’s what that age is all about – the first taste of being an adult. Reading provided that space in the best way possible. Thankfully I didn’t feel old amongst the festival goers – with a mix of ages throughout the festival. Reading is not just for kids.
Some musical highlights included:
Headliner Fred Again was unbelievable, emotional and impactful – bursting with talent his entire soul on stage sharing his music with people. In his art, he includes important messages and soundbites sampling poetry and rap amongst other spoken words.
Kingfishr, a folk Irish band lit the Festival Republic stage up with their beautiful combination of instruments and vocals, pouring out their energy and love for what they do onto fans.
Barry Can’t Swim sent sound waves of pure joy onto audiences swaying in the sunshine, the tropical mixture of musical elements; chill beats, piano, electronic, and drums.
Arthur Hill had audiences smiling and grooving to upbeat and lively music with impressive vocals and charismatic stage presence, a party filled with people who just love to dance and enjoy life.
DJs in the Jagertent lit the place up with bucket hats bouncing to the beat whilst elated musicians played their music to the crowd. A highlight was Beyond Chicago a DJ pairing that brings old-school tunes and the best energy. Jamiroquai and 80’s disco mixed with contemporary electronic, the tent was full of golden vibes.
You could dance in the secret JD stage to win prizes, the lilac bucket hat was well worth the 15k steps! Cool DJs like Cam Smith had people racking up the steps in no time to retrieve their prizes and enjoy the music.
Three had you download their app to get free ice cream and coffee, a fair deal I’d say. Pepsi were encouraging recycling to trade for free prizes like bags and bucket hats.
Reading Festival 2024 was an absolute blinder and one that I will (hopefully) be attending every year. See you next year Reading! (and Fred Again, please headline…again).
