Primavera Sound Barcelona has kicked off in spectacular fashion, marking a vibrant celebration of music against the backdrop of the Mediterranean. The festi...
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Primavera Sound Barcelona has kicked off in spectacular fashion, marking a vibrant celebration of music against the backdrop of the Mediterranean. The festival, renowned for its eclectic lineup, saw headliners Charli XCX, Sabrina Carpenter, and Chappell Roan take the stage, each bringing their own flair to the event.
However, not all performances went off without a hitch, with sound issues plaguing Carpenter’s set. As the night unfolded, the atmosphere was electric, showcasing the festival’s commitment to contemporary sounds rather than nostalgia.
Charli XCX ignites the night
Charli XCX opened the festivities on Friday night—well, technically Saturday morning. “Can you believe Brat turns one this year?” she shouted to the crowd, referring to her influential album that became the soundtrack for a pivotal presidential campaign. Her performance launched into the pulsating beats of “365,” embodying the hedonistic spirit of the festival. It was a party for everyone, with Charli leading the charge alongside the now-iconic Chappell Roan, who made an appearance on the jumbo screen to showcase the viral “Apple” dance.
As the night progressed, Charli wasn’t alone on stage. She teamed up with Australian pop sensation Troye Sivan, who matched her energy with a dynamic performance. Celebrating his 30th birthday, Sivan was treated to a giant blue cake, making the occasion memorable. The collaboration sparked excitement, drawing in fans eager to witness the duo’s chemistry.
Sabrina Carpenter faces challenges
Next up was Sabrina Carpenter, a pop princess in her own right. However, her set was marred by sound issues that left many fans unable to hear her playful lyrics or fully appreciate her new country-flavored single, “Manchild.” Despite her dazzling smile and signature rhinestone corset, Carpenter’s set fell short of expectations, especially when compared to her previous tours. Nevertheless, she made an effort to engage the audience, performing an enthusiastic cover of Ginuwine’s “Pony.”
The festival was not solely defined by headliners. Below them, exceptional acts filled the lineup. Just weeks away from releasing their fourth album, Haim took to the stage with their multidimensional So-Cal funk-rock, perfectly complementing the sunset as fans raised their Aperol Spritzes in celebration. New track “Relationships” pulsed with a 90s R&B groove, while the jazzy vibes of “Summer Girl” ushered in the night, showcasing the band’s versatility.
Standout performances steal the show
As the festival continued, 90s alternative icon Kim Deal captivated a Sunday afternoon crowd, while Turnstile’s high-energy set provided the perfect climax to Saturday night. Waxahatchee delivered a hauntingly beautiful Americana sound that resonated with the audience. Yet, it was dance-punk legends LCD Soundsystem who truly shone, their hit “All My Friends” echoing through the crowd as a disco ball spun overhead.
In a twist, Wet Leg took the stage, albeit with a missing member. Lead guitarist Hester Chambers was absent, but Rhian Teasdale held her own, channeling frontwoman energy in her striking green fishnet tights. The band’s dry humor and post-punk sound came alive, especially during the cathartic performance of “Ur Mum.”
Central Cee, the British rapper known as Cench to his fans, brought London vibes to the festival with a set adorned with Tube maps and references to his hometown. Despite performing solo with only a hypeman, he managed to whip the crowd into a frenzy, showcasing his biggest hits, “Doja” and “Band4Band,” culminating in an exhilarating mosh pit.
FKA Twigs and Chappell Roan deliver unique experiences
FKA Twigs, an artist renowned for her elaborate performances, faced challenges in translating her intricate three-act set to the expansive main stage. The crowd’s chatter masked her delicate vocals during “Cellophane,” yet her brilliance still shone through.
As the festival neared its conclusion, Chappell Roan emerged as the perfect closing act. Her stage presence transformed the venue into a whimsical spectacle, adorned with Gaudi-inspired decor. Roan’s theatricality was on full display as she opened with “Super Graphic Ultra Modern Girl,” followed by a glam rock rendition of Heart’s “Barracuda.”
Midway through, she engaged the audience with amusing confessions, reading aloud humorous tales of bad boyfriends from a construction hard hat. It was a moment that connected the crowd and sparked laughter, serving as a perfect segue into her new release, “The Giver.”
This year’s Primavera Sound is a testament to the festival’s reputation as a hedonistic celebration of music and artistry. As the night rolled on, the party continued, shifting to the vibrant and smoke-filled late-night stages. Despite a few logistical hiccups—like the lack of free water stations—the event remains a well-orchestrated affair, with affordable drinks fueling the festivities. Glastonbury may have its roots in nostalgia, but Primavera Sound stands firmly in the present, pushing the boundaries of what a music festival can be.
