Strong winds may have made an appearance at Leeds Festival 2024, but that didn’t deter the thousands of music lovers gathered to enjoy some of the UK’s biggest acts. Despite the weather challenges, crowds flocked to the main stage to witness headline performances by Catfish and the Bottlemen and Liam Gallagher on the festival’s first full day of music. The festival, running until Sunday, August 25, promises even more excitement with upcoming headline performances by Lana Del Rey and Fred Again, followed by Blink-182 and Gerry Cinnamon on Saturday, August 24. However, the strong winds led to the closure of three stages – the Chevron, Aux, and BBC Radio 1 stage and tent, prompting a yellow weather warning from the Met Office across parts of the UK. Organizers confirmed that the Aux and BBC Radio 1 stage and tent would remain closed for the rest of the weekend due to “health and safety concerns.”
Despite the adverse weather conditions, festival-goers remained in high spirits and refused to let the wind dampen their experience. Sporting retro football shirts, cowgirl hats, and even platypus onesies, the crowd embraced the unique atmosphere. Catfish and the Bottlemen took to the main stage as the first headliners of the night, treating fans to hits from their three studio albums. Opening their set with ‘Longshot’ followed by ‘Kathleen,’ the Welsh band captivated the audience with their energetic performance. Frontman Van McCann acknowledged the band’s return to the festival as headliners, leading into the crowd-favorite ‘Twice.’ The simplicity of their set, devoid of elaborate effects, allowed the band’s music to shine, culminating in a stellar performance of ‘7’ and ‘Cocoon’ to close their set on a high note.
Next up was Liam Gallagher, the former Oasis frontman, who was set to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Oasis’ ‘Definitely Maybe’ by performing the album in full at Reading and Leeds 2024. Opening with ‘Rock ‘n’ Roll Star,’ Gallagher delighted the crowd with every hit from the iconic album. Joined on stage by former Oasis guitarist Paul Arthurs, known as Bonehead, Gallagher dedicated ‘Shakermaker’ to the owner of Manchester City football club, Sheikh Mansour. In a humorous gesture towards the day’s events, Gallagher dedicated ‘Up in the Sky’ to the Leeds Festival tents, acknowledging the earlier tent mishaps on the campsite. The audience embraced the light-hearted moment as Gallagher continued to deliver Oasis classics like ‘Whatever’ and ‘Half the World Away,’ typically sung by his brother Noel Gallagher. Ending his set with The Beatles’ ‘I am the Walrus,’ Gallagher playfully urged fans not to get “blown away,” as a nod to the windy conditions earlier in the day.
Catfish and the Bottlemen’s Electrifying Performance
Catfish and the Bottlemen’s set at Leeds Festival 2024 was a testament to their musical prowess and stage presence. The band’s dynamic performance, devoid of flashy theatrics, allowed their music to take center stage, captivating the audience from start to finish. Hits like ‘Longshot,’ ‘Kathleen,’ and ‘Twice’ resonated with fans, who eagerly sang along and danced to the infectious beats. The band’s ability to connect with the crowd through their music was evident, as banners and red flares adorned the audience, adding to the electric atmosphere. As they closed their set with ‘7’ and ‘Cocoon,’ the crowd erupted in applause, signaling a successful start to the festival’s headline performances.
Liam Gallagher’s Nostalgic Tribute to Oasis
Liam Gallagher’s performance at Leeds Festival 2024 was a nostalgic journey through the iconic songs of Oasis, culminating in a memorable tribute to the band’s legacy. Gallagher’s rendition of ‘Definitely Maybe’ in its entirety was a treat for fans, who eagerly sang along to every word. The presence of former Oasis guitarist Bonehead added an extra layer of authenticity to the performance, evoking the spirit of the band’s heyday. Gallagher’s playful banter and dedications throughout the set, including a humorous nod to the festival tents, showcased his charismatic stage presence and ability to engage the audience. Ending on a high note with ‘I am the Walrus,’ Gallagher left fans with a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for the timeless music of Oasis.
In conclusion, Leeds Festival 2024 kicked off with a bang, despite the challenges posed by the weather. Catfish and the Bottlemen and Liam Gallagher delivered unforgettable performances that left fans buzzing with excitement. As the festival continues with upcoming headline acts, the spirit of music and camaraderie prevails, reminding attendees that nothing can dampen the magic of live music.