Amidst the backdrop of global unrest, London Grammar’s lead singer, Hannah Reid, conveyed a heartfelt message of hope during their recent headline performance at the LIDO Festival in Victoria Park, London. The indie pop trio delivered an electrifying set on a warm Sunday evening, captivating the audience with their immersive sound and poignant lyrics. “I hope music can bring us together,” Reid expressed to the festival-goers, reflecting on the “sad” state of the world as she took the stage.

The band’s performance featured a selection of tracks from their latest album, The Greatest Love, released in September 2024, alongside fan-favourites such as “Hey Now” and a stirring cover of Kavinsky’s “Nightcall.” This particular rendition gained notoriety after its inclusion in the closing ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics, demonstrating the band’s ability to resonate both on and off stage. Reid articulated her internal struggle with the dynamics of performing in such challenging times, acknowledging, “Sometimes I think being a musician can feel a little bit self-indulgent,” yet also recognising the importance of connection through music.

Reid, who has previously discussed her battles with stage fright, presented a commanding presence despite a humorous hiccup that saw her restart a song after forgetting the lyrics. Displaying growth and newfound confidence, she remarked in a recent interview that motherhood has provided her with a fresh perspective on her performances, allowing her to enjoy them more than she did early in her career. “The process of becoming a mum has changed how I view our shows,” she noted during a conversation on BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour.

Interestingly, Reid also shared that for the first time in their 15-year history, band members Dan Rothman and Dominic “Dot” Major switched places on stage, which added a layer of excitement for both the performers and the audience. “I wasn’t sent the memo,” she joked, confirming the band’s strong bond as friends before collaborators.

The event was part of a broader musical offering, with other artists like Charli XCX and Jamie xx featured at LIDO, marking a vibrant celebration of talent. Reid has emphasized the festival’s commitment to uplifting female artists, stating that it would highlight “women being really strong and making themselves vulnerable at the same time.” The festival’s lineup included a range of artists curated by London Grammar, bringing together diverse acts like Celeste, Pip Millett, and Róisín Murphy, showcasing the band’s influence in the music community.

As the night unfolded, audience members like Zoey Axton from San Francisco echoed the sentiment of many, calling the band’s set “moody and electric,” perfectly complementing the laid-back Sunday atmosphere. With their heartfelt performances and genuine interactions, London Grammar not only reaffirmed their place in the music industry but also illustrated the profound connection that music can foster among people, even amidst tumultuous times.

Looking ahead, London Grammar is set to headline LIDO Festival again in 2025, a testament to their growing legacy as compelling live performers. Tickets for this exclusive London event are already on sale, promising to continue their mission of bringing people together through the universal language of music.

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Source: Noah Wire Services