June 4th will be the second iteration of the Live at Leeds spin-off, Live at Leeds in the park. The festival maintains the distinctive Live at Leeds charm but takes place on a field at Temple Newsam – freeing the event from the constraints of the city center. History shows that the organisers have a knack for putting together an eclectic lineup, and this year is no different. Attendees can look forward to a wide range of genres from acts at every stage of their career – what could be better?
As always, Live at Leeds has bagged some big names. Indie stalwarts Bombay Bicycle Club are headlining, joined by classics of the genre The Vaccines. Plus, returning to their hometown in what promises to be a standout performance, indie rockers The Pigeon Detectives. The festival can accommodate those who prefer singer-songwriters, too. Fresh from winning the Best Album Mercury Prize in 2021, poet-cum-musician Arlo Parks will be delivering more of her characteristically haunting lyricism.
Perhaps the true beauty of Live at Leeds, though, is found in its unwavering support for new voices. This year sees a wide range of acts in varying degrees of their infancy – notably Lauran Hibberd, whose unique and catchy brand of slacker pop is credited with rejuvenating the guitar music scene in the Isle of Wight. On the other end of the spectrum, there is the heavy, foreboding art-punk coming from Yorkshire teens Lounge Society. Not to mention Gerry Cinnamon’s protege and fellow Glaswegian Dylan John Thomas whose brutally honest lyrics benefit from his slower, more emotive style.
Finally, up-and-coming Dublin-based artist Kynsy is well worth your time. Recognised by NME as ‘one to watch’, her blend of sincere lyrics and a dazzling array of instruments cover topics from overhearing racist remarks whilst out drinking to loneliness and isolation. Her brand of rowdy pop is already making waves.
Tickets are available here and shuttle buses to Temple Newsam are making return journeys all day from Leeds station. Gates open at 12:30, and the first acts take to the stage at 13:30. So get there early and, in the meantime, enjoy their playlist!
Words by Charley Weldrick
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